What to Know About Pool Resurfacing: A Pool Owner's Guide
iStock / Getty Images Plus
No matter how excellent your pool care is, eventually it will need to be resurfaced. Resurfacing is the process of replacing the old top layer of the pool and with a new layer. Generally, a pool will have to be resurfaced every 5 to 20 years depending on the type of surface and pool. Certain pools, such as fiberglass ones, will only need a new gelcoat sprayed onto the existing surface layer.
Resurfacing should not be confused with replastering, which involves completely removing the existing surface layer before installing a new layer.
Before you assume you need (or don’t need!) to replaster your pool, read our guide to pool replastering. We’ve detailed all the options for each type of pool to help you decide if your pool needs resurfacing, and how to pick the best finish for your specific application.
What Is Pool Resurfacing?
Pool resurfacing is when the existing surface layer of a pool is replaced with a new surface. The exact process will vary depending on the type of surface. For example, to recoat a plaster pool is a different process than spraying a gelcoat onto a fiberglass pool.
Vinyl pool resurfacing: To resurface a vinyl pool, the pool must be partially disassembled to remove the existing vinyl liner and to install the new liner in its place.
Fiberglass pool resurfacing: For resurfacing a fiberglass pool, a new gelcoat is sprayed onto the existing surface layer after properly prepping the surface.
Concrete/gunite pool resurfacing: Resurfacing a concrete or gunite pool involves roughing up the surface layer of plaster and replacing it with a new layer.
Signs Your Pool Needs Resurfacing
There are several clear signs that it’s time to resurface your pool, some of which are visible and others that will appear in the care, such as having to constantly add water or needing to add more chemicals to maintain proper chemistry. Both of these issues could also be attributed to a leak, so if you are seeing those signs, try to diagnose a leak before plunging into a pool resurfacing project.
The two most common signs your pool needs replastering are visible cracking and noticeable water loss, but other common signs include:
Roughness (concrete pool)
Discoloration
Bubbling (fiberglass pool)
Loss of pebbles or texture (concrete pool)
Tears (vinyl pool)
Pool Resurfacing Material Options
Resurfacing a pool gives the owner the opportunity to pick the type of surface finish and color of the pool. Some examples of types of pool finishes are vinyl, fiberglass, plaster, and tile, with several options for each type, such as color and/or texture.
Here are some of the most common options for new finishes.
Vinyl: Vinyl is a more affordable option for resurfacing a pool, and it comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is an excellent finish for a pool and it will outlast most other finishes. However, resurfacing a fiberglass pool is tricky and repairs are expensive and difficult.
Plaster: Plaster offers a variety of colors and textures to choose from and can be repaired easily over time to extend its usable life.
Tile: Although not as common as other types of surface finishes, tile is a pool surface option for a unique look. Over time, though, the tiles can dislodge due to pool water, and repairs are difficult in a filled pool.
Paint: The least durable of all pool finish options, paint is the most economical finish for a pool once it has been repaired of all cracks to prevent leaking.
Resurfacing vs. Replastering a Pool
Resurfacing and replastering a pool are both similar in that they involve modifying the existing surface layer but differ in the method and level of involvment.
To resurface a pool, the entire surface would be covered with a new layer — vinyl, plaster, fiberglass, tile, etc. — that is set on top of the existing surface layer. Replastering a pool involves removing the existing surface layer completely and replacing it with a new layer of plaster. This is why replastering a pool costs more and takes longer to do.
Tip
When tackling any resurfacing or re-plastering project, you should simultaneously address any other needed repairs, such as fixing piping, main drains, skimmer mouths, and any other opening or penetration in the pool. Although this will increase the overall cost of the project, it will save money in the long term as you are handling multiple issues at once.
How to Resurface a Pool
Generally, the following steps are necessary to resurface a pool:
Pick what type of pool finish to resurface with based on existing pool type and condition.
Disassemble the pool if necessary to install and/or remove the existing surface layer.
Prep the existing surface of the pool based on the surface type, usually either by roughing it up or removing it.
Install the new surface (the exact process will vary based on surface type).
Reassemble the pool, refill it with water, and balance the chemicals.
Cost of Resurfacing a Pool
The cost of resurfacing a pool varies widely based on the type of pool and surface material chosen. For example, resurfacing a 1,000-square-foot tile pool can cost $30,000, while repainting a pool of similar size would cost about $1,500. Comparatively, replastering a pool can cost around $5,500 per 1,000 square feet and can increase to around $6,500 if aggregate type plaster is desired.
These prices are for a standard-shaped 1,000-square-foot pool but can increase or decrease based on size, shape, and location of the pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth it to resurface a pool?
Yes, it is worth it to resurface a pool if your pool is actually in need of resurfacing. Knowing when to resurface a pool can save money by using fewer chemicals to constantly balance new pool water being added to compensate for cracking and leaking. The two most common signs a pool needs resurfacing is visible cracking and leaking.
How long does it take to resurface a pool?
Depending on the type of finish and size of the pool, it could take anywhere from 2 to 7 days to complete a pool resurfacing project.
Can you paint a pool instead of resurfacing it?
Yes, you can paint a pool instead of resurfacing it, but the pool must be carefully inspected and have all cracks repaired and the surface properly prepped to accept paint. However, a painted pool has the shortest longevity of all pool surfaces.
What material is best for resurfacing a pool?
If possible, plaster is a good middle ground for a durable, cost effective pool surface. It comes in a variety of colors and textures.
Read the original article on The Spruce.
