Is It Time to Resurface Your Pool? Signs Your Plaster or Pebble Is Failing
When Mike first bought his home in Rocklin, the backyard pool was the crown jewel of the property. Smooth blue plaster, perfect water clarity, and that satisfying feeling of walking barefoot along the edge without a scratch. But fast-forward six years—and the pool started to show its age. The once-smooth surface had turned rough. A few hairline cracks appeared. Then came the discoloration, and finally, those tiny bits of plaster that began to flake off and collect in the skimmer. Mike tried brushing, chemical balancing, and even “miracle” products he found online. But the truth was clear: it was time to resurface.
Many pool owners across Northern California—whether in Roseville, Granite Bay, or right here in Lincoln—reach this point eventually. Pool plaster and pebble finishes don’t last forever. Sun, chemicals, and time take their toll. Knowing when it’s time to resurface (and what comes next) can save you from bigger headaches later.
How Long Pool Finishes Really Last
A typical plaster pool lasts about 7–10 years before it starts to deteriorate. Pebble finishes can stretch closer to 15–20 years. But just because your pool’s surface isn’t crumbling doesn’t mean it’s healthy. Water chemistry, weather patterns, and maintenance frequency all play a role.
Northern California’s hot summers and occasional cold snaps create a lot of expansion and contraction in pool materials. Combine that with high calcium levels from local water supplies, and your pool surface takes a beating. If your water chemistry has ever been out of balance for too long, that lifespan shortens even more.
The Early Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore
Rough Texture or Sandpaper Feel
When your pool’s surface starts to feel like sandpaper, that’s usually the first clue. The smooth plaster has eroded, exposing the rougher layer beneath. Not only is it uncomfortable on your feet, but it also creates a perfect home for algae and bacteria.
Stains and Discoloration
No matter how much you scrub, those ugly gray or brown stains won’t budge. They can be caused by mineral buildup, chemical imbalance, or even rebar rust bleeding through from beneath the surface. Once stains become permanent, resurfacing is often the only fix.
Cracks and Flaking
Hairline cracks may not seem serious, but they allow water to penetrate the surface and cause deeper damage. When pieces of plaster start flaking off or “popping,” the surface integrity has failed. This can also lead to sharp edges that are dangerous for swimmers.
Disappearing Water
If you’re refilling your pool more often than usual and can’t find an obvious leak, it might be due to micro-cracks in the surface layer. These cracks can allow slow seepage that’s nearly impossible to detect without a professional inspection.
Constant Chemical Imbalance
If your water chemistry feels like it’s fighting you—pH swings, calcium deposits, or chlorine burn-off—it could be your pool surface reacting poorly with the water. Once the plaster or pebble layer becomes compromised, the material starts interacting with your pool chemistry instead of resisting it.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long
Some pool owners try to stretch their resurfacing timeline as long as possible, thinking they’re saving money. But a failing surface can lead to bigger issues—like structural damage, liner leaks, or costly plumbing repairs. Rough plaster and exposed aggregate can even wear out your pool equipment faster, especially your filters and pump impeller.
In short: waiting too long to resurface usually costs more in the end.
What Resurfacing Actually Involves
Resurfacing a pool isn’t just “putting on a new coat.” It’s a multi-step process that transforms your old, rough pool back into something smooth, safe, and beautiful. Here’s what typically happens:
Step 1: Drain and Prep
Your pool is drained, and the old plaster or pebble surface is inspected for damage. Any cracks or delaminated sections are chipped out. This step ensures a clean, solid base for the new finish.
Step 2: Bonding and Repair
Technicians apply a bonding layer that helps the new surface adhere to the existing structure. Any structural cracks are filled or patched with specialized repair material.
Step 3: New Surface Application
This is where your aesthetic choices come in—white plaster, quartz, pebble, mini pebble, or even glass bead blends. The new material is troweled on and smoothed to perfection. The thickness and mix depend on the finish you select.
Step 4: Curing and Fill-Up
After the surface is applied, the pool is refilled and the new finish begins to cure. This stage is crucial. The water chemistry must be carefully monitored to allow the new surface to set properly. It’s not a “fill and swim” situation—professional oversight matters here.
Step 5: Start-Up Chemistry and Brushing
The first week after resurfacing requires daily brushing and close chemical balancing. This prevents calcium buildup and streaking while helping the finish harden evenly. Your pool tech will walk you through this process—or handle it for you.
Choosing Between Plaster and Pebble
When you resurface, you’ll face a key decision: stick with plaster or upgrade to pebble. Here’s how they differ.
Plaster
Plaster remains a budget-friendly and classic choice. It delivers a bright blue hue and smooth feel underfoot. However, it’s more susceptible to staining and typically has a shorter lifespan.
Pebble
Pebble finishes come in various textures and color tones. They last longer, resist staining, and create a natural, lagoon-like look. The feel can range from slightly bumpy to very textured depending on the aggregate size you choose.
If you’re planning to stay in your home for many years or want a low-maintenance finish, pebble is usually the smarter long-term investment.
When Is the Best Time to Resurface?
Fall and spring are ideal for pool resurfacing in Northern California. The temperatures are mild, and your pool won’t be in heavy use. Summer is often too hot, and winter rains can delay curing. Most resurfacing projects take about one to two weeks, depending on the size of your pool and the weather.
What You’ll Need to Do After Resurfacing
Once your pool is filled and balanced again, regular brushing and weekly maintenance are key. For the first 30 days, you’ll want to:
Brush the walls and floor daily
Test water chemistry frequently
Avoid using pool cleaners or vacuums until your service technician gives the go-ahead
After the curing phase, your pool can return to normal operation—and you’ll immediately notice the difference in both appearance and comfort.
Signs You Picked the Right Pros
A professional resurfacing job should leave your pool looking brand new. Here are the signs it was done right:
Even, smooth finish without streaks or patches
Proper waterline blending
Balanced water chemistry after startup
No flaking, spotting, or bubbling as it cures
If a company rushes the start-up phase or skips brushing visits, that’s a red flag. Proper follow-through is what gives your new surface its strength and longevity.
The Reward: A Pool That Feels Brand New
Mike finally decided to resurface his pool with a mini pebble finish. Within two weeks, his backyard looked completely transformed. The new surface shimmered under the California sun, the water felt softer, and the upkeep was easier. He even caught himself bragging about “the new pool”—even though it was the same one he’d always had.
Sometimes, the smartest pool upgrade isn’t new equipment or fancy lighting—it’s simply giving your pool the solid foundation it deserves.
Ready to Bring Your Pool Back to Life?
If your pool surface is showing signs of wear—rough texture, discoloration, or flaking—it may be time to call in the pros. American Dream Pool & Spa Service provides professional pool resurfacing, maintenance, and repair across Northern California, including Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, Sheridan, Loomis, and Penryn. We’ll help you understand your resurfacing options and bring your pool back to its best condition—without any guesswork.
