How to Protect Your Pool’s Finish and Extend Its Life
A well-maintained pool finish not only enhances the beauty of your swimming pool but also ensures water quality, structural integrity, and long-term durability. Precise pool resurfacing is a significant investment, and protecting your pool’s finish can help you avoid premature wear and costly repairs. In this article, we’ll explore practical strategies to safeguard your pool’s surface, maximize its lifespan, and reduce the frequency of resurfacing.
Why Protecting Your Pool’s Finish Matters
Pool finishes—whether plaster, pebble, quartz, or tile—are constantly exposed to harsh elements, including:
- Chemicals (chlorine, pH adjusters, algaecides)
- UV rays from sunlight
- Temperature fluctuations (freezing and thawing in colder climates)
- Debris and dirt from weather and swimmers
Over time, these factors can lead to:
- Staining and discoloration
- Etching and roughness
- Cracks and delamination
- Algae and bacterial growth
By implementing proper maintenance techniques, you can significantly extend the life of your pool’s finish and delay the need for resurfacing.
1. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry
One of the biggest threats to a pool’s finish is imbalanced water chemistry. Improper pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels can cause:
- Etching (if water is too acidic)
- Scale buildup (if water is too alkaline or hard)
- Staining from metals like copper and iron
Key Chemical Balance Targets:
- pH: 7.4–7.6
- Total Alkalinity: 80–120 ppm
- Calcium Hardness: 200–400 ppm (for plaster pools)
- Chlorine: 1–3 ppm
Action Steps:
- Test water at least twice a week in peak season.
- Use a quality test kit or digital tester for accuracy.
- Adjust chemicals gradually to avoid sudden imbalances.
2. Brush and Clean the Pool Regularly
Dirt, algae, and debris can settle into small imperfections in the pool’s surface, leading to staining and deterioration over time.
Recommended Cleaning Routine:
- Brush walls and floor weekly with a nylon brush (for plaster) or stiff brush (for pebble/quartz).
- Vacuum the pool at least once a week.
- Skim leaves and debris daily to prevent staining.
Pro Tip:
- Use an automatic pool cleaner to reduce manual scrubbing.
3. Prevent Algae and Scale Buildup
Algae can embed itself in porous surfaces, while calcium scale forms hard deposits that are difficult to remove.
Prevention Methods:
- Maintain proper sanitizer levels (chlorine or salt system).
- Use algaecide as a preventative measure.
- Control calcium hardness to prevent scaling.
- Shock the pool monthly (or after heavy use).
Warning:
Avoid letting algae grow unchecked—once it penetrates the finish, it may require acid washing or resurfacing.
4. Protect Against Physical Damage
Sharp objects, heavy pool toys, and improper cleaning tools can scratch or chip the pool’s surface.
Best Practices:
- Avoid dragging metal objects (ladders, furniture) across the floor.
- Use soft pool brushes instead of wire brushes (unless specified for your finish).
- Keep pets with sharp nails out of the pool if possible.
5. Winterize Properly (For Cold Climates)
Freezing temperatures can cause cracks in the pool’s finish if water is left standing.
Winterization Steps:
- Balance water chemistry before closing.
- Lower water level below the skimmer.
- Use a quality pool cover to prevent debris buildup.
- Consider antifreeze in plumbing lines if temperatures drop below freezing.
6. Address Minor Repairs Early
Small cracks or chips can worsen over time, leading to costly resurfacing.
What to Watch For:
- Hairline cracks in plaster
- Loose tiles or pebble aggregate
- Discoloration or rough patches
Solution:
- Patch small cracks with pool-grade epoxy.
- Re-grout loose tiles promptly.
- Consult a professional if damage is extensive.
7. Choose the Right Finish for Your Climate
Some pool finishes hold up better in certain environments:
- Plaster: Affordable but requires more maintenance.
- Pebble/Quartz: Durable and stain-resistant.
- Tile: Longest-lasting but higher upfront cost.
Climate Considerations:
- Hot, sunny areas: UV-resistant finishes (quartz or pebble).
- Cold climates: Flexible finishes that resist freeze-thaw damage.
8. Schedule Professional Inspections
Even with proper maintenance, hidden issues can develop. An annual inspection by a pool professional can catch problems before they escalate.
What a Pro Checks:
- Structural integrity
- Leaks or plumbing issues
- Surface wear and tear
When Is It Time for Pool Resurfacing?
Despite your best efforts, all pool finishes eventually wear out. Signs you may need resurfacing include:
- Extensive cracking or flaking
- Rough texture that irritates skin
- Stains that won’t scrub away
- Frequent algae outbreaks
Average Lifespan of Pool Finishes:
- Plaster: 7–10 years
- Pebble/Quartz: 10–20 years
- Tile: 20+ years
Conclusion
Protecting your pool’s finish requires consistent care, but the effort pays off in extended longevity and reduced resurfacing costs. By maintaining proper water chemistry, cleaning regularly, preventing algae and scale, and addressing minor repairs early, you can keep your pool looking pristine for years.
If your pool’s surface is already showing significant wear, consult a pool resurfacing professional about resurfacing options. Investing in a high-quality finish and following these maintenance tips will ensure your pool remains a beautiful and enjoyable retreat for decades.
