When it comes to concrete or gunite pools, the finishing options have expanded significantly in recent years. While traditional plaster remains a classic choice, newer finishes like pebble (aggregate) and tile offer added durability, smoother textures, and more flexibility in design.
The right choice can impact everything from maintenance to longevity. Here’s how they compare.
Plaster Finish
What’s is it?
Plaster is made from a mixture of white cement, sand or marble dust, and water, then hand-applied to the pool surface with a flat, round-edged trowel.
Most plaster pools have that clean, classic white look, though color can be added if you want something a bit different.
What to expect
Plaster is popular largely because it’s the most budget-friendly option, and for many folks, it delivers the simple, timeless look they’re after.
White plaster on a concrete pool
That said, it does come with trade-offs.
The surface tends to be a bit rough on your feet and hands, and because it’s more porous than other finishes, it’s more prone to algae growth. That means weekly surface maintenance and acid washing about every 3-5 years.
Over time, plaster can show wear in the form of staining, etching, scaling, discoloration—and in some cases, visible trowel marks from the original application—especially if water chemistry or maintenance slips even a little.
In terms of longevity, plaster is the least durable of the concrete pool finishes, typically lasting around 7–12 years.
Pebble (Aggregate) Finish
What is it?
Pebble finishes, also known as aggregate finishes, are made by mixing materials like pebbles, quartz, or glass beads into the cement, rather than using finer materials like sand or marble dust.
After it’s applied to the pool surface, the top layer is lightly washed or polished to reveal the aggregate underneath.
From there, it’s typically finished in one of two ways:
- Exposed aggregate: the material is left more natural, creating a more textured, bumpy surface.
- Polished aggregate: the surface is smoothed down for a more refined, comfortable feel.
For example, look at the difference between an exposed aggregate finish and a polished aggregate finish from National Pool Tile.
Exposed vs polished aggregate
What to expect
Compared to standard plaster, pebble finishes tend to last longer, typically 15-20 years, depending on the material. Many homeowners also like the added visual depth and color variation.
However, texture is something to think about.
Exposed pebble surfaces can feel rough underfoot, especially with larger stones. Polished finishes are smoother but still not as soft as some homeowners expect.
Some pool owners have reported issues with glass bead finishes fading and discoloring, sometimes within just 6 years of installation. These problems appear to be linked to the early materials used when this finish option was first introduced to the market.
While manufacturers have likely improved their products to increase fade resistance, it's important to note that all pool surfaces, including glass bead finishes, will eventually require refinishing.
Tile Finish
What is it?
Tile is typically made of porcelain (standard), ceramic, stone, or glass. If you like, you can even mix the types together within the same pool.
Porcelain tile can be glazed, textured, or hand-painted for a fancier look. People typically use porcelain for waterline tile.
The colors and textures of stone options like limestone, sandstone, and granite work well with a natural aesthetic.
 Porcelain tile along concrete pool waterline |
 Stone tile in concrete pool |
 Glass tile on a concrete pool |
What to expect
Tile offers the longest lifespan of any concrete pool finish—often lasting 20+ years and sometimes much longer when properly installed.
It’s also less porous than plaster or pebble, which makes it easier to clean and more resistant to algae buildup.
From a design standpoint, tile gives you the most flexibility. Whether you want something sleek and modern or more natural and textured, there are nearly endless options.
But here’s the trade-off: cost.
Tile is significantly more expensive than plaster or pebble, and the material you choose plays a big role in that price. Porcelain is typically the most budget-friendly option, while natural stone comes at a higher price point. Glass tile sits at the top end of the spectrum and can get expensive quickly.
It’s also worth noting that tile requires precise installation. If not done correctly, you could run into issues like chipping or cracking over time—and with glass tile, improperly installed edges can even feel sharp.
How much does a concrete pool finish cost?
The cost of resurfacing a concrete pool can vary depending on your location, pool size, and material choice, but here are realistic ranges:
- Plaster: ~$6–$10 per square foot
- Pebble (aggregate): ~$10–$18 per square foot
- Tile: ~$30–$60+ per square foot
In general:
- Plaster is the most affordable upfront
- Pebble costs more but lasts longer
- Tile is a premium investment with the highest durability
For most homeowners, it comes down to balancing initial cost vs. long-term maintenance and lifespan.
Plaster vs. Pebble vs. Tile
| Plaster | Pebble | Tile | |
|
Cost |
Lowest | Medium | Highest |
| Lifespan | 7-12 years | 15-20+ years | 20+ years |
| Texture | Rough | Varies (textured to semi-smooth) | Smooth (varies by material) |
| Maintenance | High | Moderate | Lower |
| Appearance | Classic | Natural/upscale | High-end/customizable |
| Durability | Lowest | Higher | Highest |
Which pool finish is right for you?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here.
If you’re looking for the most affordable option and don’t mind a bit more maintenance, plaster may be a solid fit. If you want something more durable with a bit more visual appeal, pebble finishes are often a good middle ground. And if you’re after a high-end look with maximum longevity, tile is hard to beat—assuming it fits your budget.
The right choice comes down to how you want your pool to look, feel, and hold up over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common concrete pool finishes?
The three most common concrete (gunite) pool finishes are plaster, pebble (aggregate), and tile. Plaster is the traditional and most affordable option, pebble offers more durability and a textured look, and tile provides the longest lifespan along with the most design flexibility.
How much does a concrete pool finish cost?
The cost of a concrete pool finish depends on the material and your location, but typical ranges are:
-
Plaster: about $6–$10 per square foot
-
Pebble (aggregate): about $10–$18 per square foot
-
Tile: about $30–$60+ per square foot
Plaster is the most budget-friendly upfront, while tile is the most expensive but also the longest-lasting.
Which pool finish requires the least maintenance?
Tile generally requires the least maintenance because it’s less porous and more resistant to algae buildup. Pebble finishes fall in the middle, while plaster typically requires the most upkeep and more frequent resurfacing.
How long does each concrete pool finish last?
Plaster typically lasts 7–12 years, pebble finishes last around 15–20+ years, and tile can last 20+ years or more when properly installed. Longevity often depends on water chemistry and how well the pool is maintained.
From the Author
Pool finishes are one of the most visible parts of a concrete pool, and for many homeowners, it’s where the decision process starts to feel a bit overwhelming.
I’m Cristian Shirilla, Marketing Manager at River Pools and co-owner of a fiberglass pool installation company in Virginia. A big part of my role is helping break down choices like this so they’re easier to understand and compare without all the noise.
I put this guide together to give you a clear, side-by-side look at plaster, pebble, and tile so you can quickly understand what sets each one apart and decide which direction makes the most sense for your project.
From the Manufacturer
At River Pools, we manufacture fiberglass pool shells and work closely with independent installers across the country. Through that perspective, we see how different pool types and interior finishes, perform in real-world applications.
Those differences often show up in how surfaces wear, how they’re maintained, and how they age over time.
If you’re evaluating pool options for your backyard, the next step is connecting with a trusted independent installer in your area. They can help you assess your space and move forward with a plan that fits your project.
Ready to start the conversation?
Topics:
