Deciding Pool Finish? Get the Facts on Pebble vs Quartz

If your pool needs resurfacing, choosing between a pebble or quartz finish can be a tough decision. Both provide benefits over traditional plaster, but picking the right option for your needs takes some research.

We'll summarize the pros and cons of each material to help you make an informed decision for your pool project.

Durability: Pebble vs Quartz Lifespan

When researching pool finishes, longevity is a major consideration. You want your investment to last. Pebble and quartz are both seen as durable and long-lasting options compared to regular plaster.

Pebble finishes are projected to last 10-15 years on average. The pebble aggregates are bonded to the underlying plaster layer. The larger size of the aggregates provides strong bonding properties. This helps reduce the risk of delamination or visible wear over time.

Quartz finishes are extremely hard and resistant to damage thanks to the quartz particles used. Quartz surfaces typically last between 15-20 years before needing resurfacing. The smooth quartz makes for a very durable pool finish.

While quartz finishes have a slight edge in overall lifespan, both pebble and quartz provide a dramatic improvement over the 5-7 year average of traditional plaster. Either resurfacing option is a good long-term investment.

Impact of Cracks and Chemicals

An important durability consideration is resistance to cracks. Quartz surfaces tend to be more prone to cracking than pebble finishes over the long-term. The smaller quartz aggregates make the finish somewhat more brittle. Pebble's larger aggregates flex better against cracking.

Quartz also needs precise water chemistry balance to prevent damage. If pH or alkalinity fluctuate outside ideal ranges, quartz can rapidly deteriorate. Pebble finishes are less sensitive to chemical variations in the water.

Maintenance Requirements

Keeping your pool finish looking like new requires regular upkeep. Pebble and quartz have slightly different maintenance needs.

Pebble finishes should have a thorough pressure wash after installation. This helps remove residual plaster and prevents staining. After that, consistent brushing, vacuuming, and ideal water balance are important. Some pebble applications may benefit from annual re-sealing as well.

Quartz finishes are more prone to chemical staining and etching. Meticulous water chemistry is vital. Quartz also needs frequent brushing and vacuuming to prevent dirt buildup. The slick surface tends to show debris more readily compared to pebble's textured aggregates.

Overall, quartz finishes require more vigilant maintenance to retain their pristine appearance over time. Pebble's textured surface helps mask small marks and blemishes with less upkeep.

Ease of Repair

If damage does occur, both finishes can be repaired by a qualified pool contractor. But pebble may have a maintenance advantage when it comes to repairs.

With quartz, the uniform smooth surface means any damage stands out vividly. Repairing often requires resurfacing the entire pool. Pebble repairs can be more seamless since the varied aggregate colors blend together. Targeted repairs may be possible in some cases.

The pebble surface also lends itself to easier do-it-yourself spot repairs using patching compound. Blending repairs into the quartz surface is extremely difficult without professional help.

Aggregate Size and Texture

A big difference between these finishes comes down to the size and texture of the aggregates used.

Pebble finishes incorporate larger, multi-colored natural pebbles bonded into the plaster coat. This gives pebble surfaces an organic, variegated appearance. You can see and feel the texture of the pebble aggregates underfoot.

Quartz particles used in quartz pool surfaces are much finer. The uniform quartz specks create a smooth, consistent look. Quartz finishes feel slick and glassy compared to the grittiness of pebble.

Impact on Appearance

The aggregate characteristics impact the overall aesthetics of each finish.

The varied pebble blends can better disguise small scratches and flaws in the plaster layer. Their mottled look helps hide subtle imperfections. The consistent smoothness of quartz, on the other hand, tends to highlight even minor marks.

Larger pebble aggregates also reduce the likelihood of streaking or uneven distribution of colors. The small quartz specks mixed into the plaster increase the possibility of uneven spots in the finish.

Appearance and Color Options

Choosing a pool finish color is one of the most exciting parts of the process. But pebble and quartz offer different aesthetics.

The speckled pebble aggregates come in a vast array of natural colors. Pebble mixtures create unique, multi-dimensional surfaces patterned like bodies of water or natural stone. Any hue can be customized by blending colored pebbles.

Quartz particles themselves are translucent, so quartz pool finishes feature more uniform, solid colors. The underlying plaster provides the color. Color choices are dependent on the hues available from the plaster manufacturer.

Those seeking a lively, multi-colored finish with unlimited customization possibilities will likely gravitate to pebble. For a smooth, consistent colored surface, quartz has the advantage.

Design Flexibility

Both finishes allow creative designs like row patterns, logos, curves, and tile inlays. Pebble and quartz can be installed on floors, walls, steps, benches and more. The core plaster layer bonds to any area.

One limitation is quartz's color uniformity. Complex designs over a large area may be more seamless with pebble's inherent variations. But vibrant quartz hues have their own allure when combined in eye-catching designs.

Cost Comparison

Budget plays a significant role in choosing a pool finish. Pebble and quartz carry different upfront and long-term costs.

Pebble finishes are one of the more expensive surface options. The cost per square foot ranges from $6-10 on average. This accounts for the specialized pebble blend materials and detailed installation process.

Quartz finishes cost $2-4 per square foot on average. The glass quartz materials have become more affordable and widespread in recent years. The overall price tag remains lower than pebble finishes.

But the longer lifespan of quartz may balance out costs over time. When factoring in multiple plaster resurfacings, quartz's durability provides better value despite higher initial pricing.

Those on a tighter budget may favor quartz's lower upfront cost. For a premium finish with striking aesthetics, pebble presents a worthwhile splurge for many homeowners.

Making the Choice: Pebble vs Quartz

With an understanding of the finer points of durability, maintenance, and appearance, you can zero in on the best pool finish option for your needs.

Consider your pool's environment, usage and whether longevity or aesthetics are more important. Seek guidance from experienced pool builders and technicians in your area, as they can provide personalized recommendations.

Browsing photos of completed installations with each finish may help narrow your preference. Ultimately the look and feel you find most appealing for your backyard oasis should drive the decision.

By learning the key facts about pebble and quartz pool finishes, you can make a choice you'll be happy with for years to come.

With proper care, either a pebble or quartz pool finish can provide lasting beauty, but understanding their differences helps match expectations.

Quartz offers superior durability and chemical resistance but requires vigilant maintenance. For a natural, textured look with more color variety, pebble is hard to beat.

Evaluating your priorities and budget for longevity, appearance and maintenance will lead you to the ideal resurfacing solution. With some research, you can select the perfect finish to enhance your poolscape for years of enjoyment.