Types of Swimming Pool Finishes

Fiberglass

• A fiberglass pool finish differs from most swimming pool finishes because it goes on at the manufacturing plant. The fiberglass layer laminates to the pool's structure as part of the manufacturing process. The entire pool structure is then set into place on site during installation. Fiberglass pool finishes are available in a variety of shades of blue, gray or white and are nonslip. The surface is durable and the cost is reasonable. Pools exposed to extreme cold may delaminate over time, but generally surface repairs are quick and easy to do.

Gunite

• Gunite is a concrete mixture used to coat a reinforced concrete pool substructure using a special spray gun. The materials in gunite allow it to be more flexible than traditionally-poured concrete pool finishes, which means its a good choice for irregularly-shaped pools. Gunite pools are less likely to crack during the freezing and thawing processes of the winter months. The surface may be smooth, or it's possible to create special textures on the pool's interior finish.

Aggregate

• Aggregate pool finish options are almost limitless. This type of finish combines cement with marble pebbles to form a roughed surface. Common color choices include shades of blues and greens. Some companies offer black aggregate pebbles, which makes the filled swimming pool look like a lagoon. The method of application varies by installer. Some opt to leave a large percentage of the marble pebbles exposed, while others use more cement and have smaller exposed pebbles.

Tile

• Ceramic tile is a traditional swimming pool finish option. Many sizes and colors of tile are available, and it's possible to arrange tiles in many different ways. While tile costs more initially and takes longer to install, it often outlasts other less expensive finishes. With routine pool maintenance, the only long-term repair work necessary for a tile finish is to clean the grout and replace it when necessary. If individual tiles loosen or crack due to weathering, it's a simple matter to replace them.