Pool resurfacing is one of the most important investments you can make to extend the life of your swimming pool and improve its appearance. Over time, pool plaster can become rough, stained, faded, or develop cosmetic issues such as pool mottling.
Whether you’re planning a complete pool remodel or simply need professional pool plastering, understanding your resurfacing options can help you choose the right finish for your pool and budget. In this guide, we’ll explain what pool mottling is, why it happens, how it affects your pool, and when it’s time to consider pool resurfacing or remodeling.
A professional pool resurfacing project not only improves the appearance of your pool but also protects the underlying structure, extends its lifespan, and creates a smoother, safer swimming surface.
Each pool finish and deck will have some level of pool mottling. This is due to a variety of issues including hydration and the troweling process.
Mottling is more apparent in darker plaster and quartz finishes. But it can also show up in lighter shades of plaster, as well.
Very little can be done to remedy the effects of mottling on cement decks and plaster finishes. This is due to how muriatic acid affects the plaster itself. Sometimes, depending on severity, the appearance can be improved by an in-pool acid wash. Extreme cases may require the pool to be drained and acid applied directly on the finish.
For quartz pool finishes, an acid wash might be able to reduce the appearance of mottling. Mottling of some form can be found among the poolscapes of nearly every pool. If it is a concern, there are higher-end pool finish options such as Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen which experience little to no mottling or simply select a white plaster or quartz finish to minimize mottling.
Many homeowners use the terms interchangeably, but they are slightly different.
Pool plastering refers specifically to applying a new plaster finish to the interior of the pool.
Pool resurfacing is a broader process that may include new plaster, quartz finishes, PebbleTec®, tile replacement, coping repairs, and other upgrades as part of a complete pool renovation.
When it comes to protecting your investment, the pool remodeling experts at Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling have your best interest in mind. Contact us today to learn more about all of our remodeling services and how we can help keep your pool healthy and functioning at its maximum efficiency.
Pool mottling is usually caused by natural variations during the plaster curing process. While it changes the appearance of the finish, it typically does not affect the structural integrity of the swimming pool.
Most plaster pools require resurfacing every 10 to 15 years, while quartz and pebble finishes often last longer depending on maintenance, water chemistry, and usage.
No. Pool resurfacing focuses on replacing the interior finish, while pool remodeling may also include new tile, coping, decking, lighting, water features, and equipment upgrades.
The best finish depends on your budget and goals. White plaster is affordable, quartz offers improved durability, and pebble finishes provide the longest lifespan with a premium appearance.
Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling has been serving the Southern California area since 1969. As one of only 50 licensed PebbleTec® applicators in the entire United States and the exclusive SoCal referral partner of Leslie’s Pool Supplies, Gardner Remodeling is the premier pool contractor in San Diego County, LA County, Orange County, and Palm Springs.
Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling completes over 1,600 projects each year and has completed over 44,000 projects in the Southern California area. They focus solely on swimming pools and the surrounding landscaping and specialize in all aspects of pool remodeling, including pool finishes, pool tile, pool coping, pool mosaics, plumbing and electrical work, and both commercial and residential swimming pools.
As the only pool remodeling company with three showrooms to serve you – in El Cajon, Orange, and Indio – Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling has over 170 employees and has three levels of management to ensure the quality of every project. Gardner Remodeling maintains an A+ rating with the BBB and is certified by the ASPS, IPSA, and National Plasterers Council. Take a look at their gallery for inspiration and contact them to get started on your pool remodeling project.
Whether you need professional pool resurfacing, pool plastering, or a complete pool remodeling project, the experienced team at Gardner Outdoor & Pool Remodeling can help restore your swimming pool with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the best resurfacing options for your pool.
