What are the Different Types of Best Pool Finishes?

A well-designed swimming pool can be the centrepiece of your backyard oasis, a place where you can unwind, entertain, and make lasting memories with family and friends. With so many aspects to consider when planning your dream pool, from size and shape to decking and landscaping, it’s easy to overlook one of the most critical elements – the pool finish. The pool finish affects your overall appearance and aesthetic appeal and plays a vital role in its durability, maintenance requirements, and long-term performance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore ten of the best pool finishes, discussing their unique features, benefits, and considerations to help you make the most informed decision when selecting the perfect finish for your swimming pool.

Understanding the importance of pool finishes goes beyond the initial visual appeal. The right finish can significantly impact the lifespan of your pool, the level of maintenance required, and even the safety and comfort of swimmers. Additionally, choosing a pool finish that complements your home’s style, surrounding landscape, and personal preferences will undoubtedly enhance the overall appeal of your backyard retreat.

1. Plaster Finishes

Plaster is the most traditional and commonly used pool finish, primarily due to its affordability and relatively easy installation process. As mentioned earlier, plaster finishes are made from a combination of cement, sand, and water. They are available in a range of colours, from classic white to various shades of blue and grey, allowing you to customize the appearance of your pool. While plaster finishes are budget-friendly and can last 10-15 years with proper maintenance, they come with some drawbacks. For one, plaster finishes are porous, making them more susceptible to staining, discolouration, and algae growth. 

2. Quartz Aggregate Finishes

Quartz aggregate finishes are considered one of the most commonly used, and best pool finishes offer an attractive and durable alternative to traditional plaster finishes. By combining plaster with crushed quartz, these finishes provide a more resilient surface that is resistant to staining, etching, and general wear and tear. This increased durability often means a longer lifespan than traditional plaster finishes. The addition of crushed quartz also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your pool, creating a sparkling, shimmering effect as sunlight reflects off the quartz particles. 

3. Pebble Finishes

Pebble finishes have gained popularity recently due to their natural, organic appearance and impressive durability. To create a pebble finish, small, smooth pebbles are embedded in a cement mixer and then exposed by washing away the top layer of cement. This process results in a textured, slip-resistant surface that can last up to 20 years or more, making pebble finishes one of the most long-lasting options on the market. In addition to their durability, pebble finishes offer a unique, visually appealing aesthetic that can transform your pool into a natural-looking lagoon or tropical oasis. With various pebble sizes, colours, and blends available, you can customize your pool’s appearance to achieve the desired look.

4. Glass Bead Finishes

For those seeking a luxurious and eye-catching pool finish, glass bead finishes are an exceptional choice. These finishes combine small glass beads with a durable cement material, creating a stunning, shimmering effect as sunlight filters through the water and reflects off the glass beads. This captivating appearance sets glass bead finishes apart from other options, making them popular for high-end, custom pools. Glass bead finishes are not just about visual appeal. They also provide a resilient, long-lasting surface resistant to stains, chemicals, and algae growth. This resistance can reduce maintenance requirements compared to other finish types, such as plaster. 

5. Polished Marble Finishes

Polished marble finishes are an elegant and sophisticated option for pool owners who want a high-end, luxurious appearance. These finishes use crushed marble mixed with cement to create a smooth, polished surface. Marble finishes are visually appealing and highly resistant to stains, chemicals, and algae growth, making them one of the best pool finishes for durability and low maintenance.

6. Tile Finishes

Tile finishes offer a wide range of options for pool owners looking for a customizable and unique appearance. With an extensive selection of materials, colours, and designs, tile finishes allow you to create a truly one-of-a-kind swimming pool. Ceramic, porcelain, and glass tiles are common choices for pool finishes, each offering its own set of benefits and drawbacks. While tile finishes tend to be more expensive and time-consuming to install, they are among the best pool finishes for longevity, lasting 20 years or more with proper care and maintenance.

7. Vinyl Liner Finishes

Vinyl liner finishes are an affordable and versatile option for pool owners. These finishes consist of a custom-made vinyl sheet attached to the pool’s walls and floor, creating a smooth and seamless surface. Vinyl liners are available in various colours, patterns, and thicknesses, allowing for a high level of customization. While vinyl liners can be prone to punctures and tears, they are relatively easy and inexpensive to repair or replace, making them one of the best pool finishes for budget-conscious homeowners.

8. Fibreglass Finishes

Fibreglass finishes are popular for quick installation and low maintenance requirements. These finishes consist of a pre-made fibreglass shell installed directly into the pool excavation. Fibreglass pools are nonporous, which means they resist algae growth and require fewer chemicals to maintain water quality. Although the initial cost of a fibreglass pool can be higher than other options, their durability and low maintenance make them one of the best pool finishes for long-term value.

9. Eco-Finishes

For environmentally-conscious pool owners, eco-finishes provide a sustainable and eco-friendly option. These finishes are made from recycled materials, such as glass, stone, or even rubber, and are designed to have a low environmental impact. Eco-finishes are eco-friendly and offer exceptional durability, stain resistance, and slip resistance, making them one of the best pool finishes for those looking to minimize their environmental footprint.

10. Hybrid Finishes

Hybrid finishes combine the benefits of two or more pool finish types, offering unique advantages to pool owners. For example, a hybrid finish may combine the durability and stain resistance of quartz aggregate with the natural, organic appearance of pebble finishes. Hybrid finishes allow for a high level of customization, as you can mix and match different finish types and materials to create the perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and functionality for your pool.

In conclusion, selecting the right pool finish depends on your personal preferences, budget, and desired level of maintenance. Each of these best pool finishes has its own advantages and drawbacks, so it’s essential to carefully weigh your options before deciding. With a wide range of finishes available, you will surely find the perfect finish to complement your pool design and enhance your swimming experience.