Legacy Construction

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Know the Difference

Should I Paint or Plaster My Pool?

If you feel like your pool needs a bit of a refresh after being used all summer, you are probably deciding between plastering and painting. Both of these pool maintenance methods improve the aesthetic and functionality of a poolside, but offer different benefits. Legacy Pools in Richmond, VA are the experts in pool maintenance and can help you take the next steps. This guide discusses the benefits of each, helping you narrow down your poolside needs so it’s ready for summertime. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Lifespan Factor

When you are taking on any pool project, you obviously want to consider the longevity of your investment. Plastering typically offers a longer lifespan, as plaster professionally installed lasts 10-20 years. Painting your pool is a quicker aesthetic fix, but usually only lasts around 2-5 years. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Durability Factor

As with lifespan, plaster takes the lead when it comes to durability. Plaster can withstand wear and tear from the environment and stays secure even with heavy use. Swimming pool replastering offers a long term solution that requires very little maintenance. The best pool paint, unfortunately, tends to chip, peel or fade because of environmental factors and the chemicals within the pool itself. Hiring pool deck painters is a quicker fix and will remain through a few pool seasons, but its durability is not as strong as plaster. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting:  Preparation Work Factor

When weighing your options, the prep may play a big part as it can adjust your timeline for reopening your pool. Plastering takes quite a bit of preparation, involving draining the pool, taking out the old plaster, and then cleaning the new surface to make sure the material is primed for the longest plaster longevity. Painting, on the other hand, is relatively quick and easy to prepare for. You’ll have to drain the area needing paint, seal up cracks and finish with a primer before starting the paint job. If looking for a faster preparation time, painting might be your answer. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Appearance

Appearance is really up to the pool owners discretion! Both create a visually attractive poolside with varying styles. When pool contractors plaster they create a smooth surface that can be customized to have different textures and colors, like quartz, pebbles or glass beads. Painting also offers a smooth finish and homeowners can choose to add vibrant colors finished up with a glossy shine. Plastering tends to appear more natural as the years go on, while painting may begin to chip away. Each, though, offers the pool owner flexibility to create the poolside of their dreams.

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Cost Factor

As with any home project, pricing is a very important consideration. Pool replaster costs will be more expensive on the front end of a project, as it requires more prep work and more extensive materials and labor to create the finish you need. Plastering pays off, though, since its durability lengthens its lifespan. Painting is a more cost effective option, as it requires less prep work, materials, and extensive labor. Although cheaper at the beginning, it does require more frequent maintenance which could increase costs. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting: Failure Factor

Failure factors are an unfortunate consideration you have to take on when deciding on how to fix your pool. Plaster in general is very durable, but can crack, scale or etch over time, especially if the plaster was not mixed and applied properly. But, these problems are less common. Paint tends to chip, fade or peel quickly, especially in areas with severe weather and in pools with harsh chemicals. Because of this, the homeowner may take on more frequent maintenance projects to keep the paint looking fresh. If you choose any of the swimming pool repair services offered at Legacy Pools, we work with you to mitigate these failure factors and offer maintenance for whatever project you choose.

Let Legacy Pools Help You with Your Pool Project

Still having a hard time deciding between Pools Remodeling vs Pools Repairing? Let us help you! We are renowned for our quality work and our commitment to our customers from start to finish. Our professionals will work with you to figure out whether plastering or painting is right for you and help you find a price that meets your needs and your budget. Since we repair and install new pools, we have all the highest quality products to make sure your poolside is top notch. Give us a call to chat about your pool project today. 

Pool Plastering vs Pool Painting FAQs

How long does pool plaster paint last?

Swimming pool paint typically lasts 2-5 years, where plaster itself can last 10-20 years. 

Is it worth painting a pool?

That is up to you! Painting a pool is a less expensive option that can be customized to fit your poolside needs. 

Is there an alternative to replastering a pool?

One option that is less expensive is painting a pool. Other options you can choose are resurfacing your pool with fiberglass or vinyl liners.

How many times can you replaster a pool?

As long as the structure of your pool is stable, you can replaster as many times as you’d like! 

How do I know if my pool needs replastering?

You may need to replaster if you see certain signs of wear, such as rough surfaces, random staining, or gunite beginning to show. 

Do you have to remove the old plaster to replaster a pool?

To ensure that the new plaster stays on for as long as possible it is generally recommended that you chip away all the old plaster. At Legacy Pools, we tackle this process for you and ensure you have a durable new poolside. Stop your search for a swimming pool replastering near me and give us a call! 

What is the difference between replastering and resurfacing a pool?

Replastering means exactly that- applying new plaster. Resurfacing can be done using products other than plaster, such as fiberglass or tile. 

What happens if you don't replaster a pool?

Waiting too long to replaster a pool can lead to more extensive damage to the overall pool structure and create surface degradation. 

What time of year is best to replaster a pool?

You will most likely want to handle a replaster during the off season in mild weather. We recommended fall or spring. 

How much does it cost to replaster a pool?

Replastering a pool tends to range from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on the size of the pool. Are you searching for pool painting near me? At Legacy, our pool contractors in Richmond VA work with you to find the services that meet your needs at a fair price.