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When it comes to building or renovating a swimming pool, most people focus on size, shape, and add-ons like water features or pool windows. But as a pool builder with over 30 years in the industry, I’ll tell you this: your pool surface is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.

Why? Because the surface defines the look, feel, durability, maintenance cost, and even safety of your swimming pool. Choose the wrong surface, and you may face cracks, stains, or constant resurfacing bills. Choose wisely, and you’ll enjoy a pool that looks stunning and performs for decades.

So today, I decided to share my knowledge about swimming pool surfaces so that you are well aware when planning your own pool.

Whether you’re building a luxury pool with large underwater windows or resurfacing a backyard plunge pool, knowing your surface options can save you thousands over the long run.

I will try to cover all types of pool surfaces, their pros and cons, cost ranges, and when to use each one.

So let’s begin.

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TL;DR – Quick Takeaways

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• Plaster is still the most affordable pool surface but requires frequent resurfacing (7–10 years).
• Aggregate finishes (pebble, quartz, glass bead) are trending in 2025 for their durability, texture, and visual depth.
• Tile surfaces deliver unmatched luxury and longevity—perfect if you’re investing in a showcase pool with pool windows.
• Fiberglass and vinyl liners remain cost-friendly but limit design flexibility and long-term durability.
• Always consider installation + maintenance cost, not just upfront expense, when choosing your pool surface.
• If you are unsure or confused, consult with experienced pool builders such as Hammerhead pools and avoid any mishaps.
  
  

Pro tip: Often, amateur pool builders will consider proposing the wrong pool surface because you have a lower budget. First of all, do not reveal your budget. Initially, ask for multiple options and quotes, and then discuss your budget. Alternatively, avoid amateurs and consult with people with years of proven track record (such as Hammerhead Pools).

Now, let’s get into the details.

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Your Best Options For Swimming Pool Surfaces In 2025

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Now. Let me be clear about a couple of things before I start.

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I am not your typical pool builder. I have worked on super large projects with luxury pools, complex pool windows, and expensive decorations. And I have worked on very small private pools.

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And sometimes, I find it sad to see when others have pools that could be so much better with a different type of pool surface.

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So, the analysis I will give in terms of Pros, Cons, and when to use, will all be a mix of facts and my own experience. They are genuine, and I hope you will follow my advice for building your pool.

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Now. Let’s discuss 7 types of swimming pool surfaces that you can choose to go for.

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1. Gunite (Concrete Shell Pool Surface)

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Gunite is a form of sprayed concrete applied over a rebar framework, creating a solid, highly durable pool shell. While it’s technically the structure, most homeowners think of it as the “pool surface” since it gets finished with plaster, aggregate, or tile.

Pros:

• Unmatched strength (can last 50–100 years with proper maintenance).
• Total freedom of shape and size.
• Supports custom features like infinity edges and pool windows.
  
  

Cons:

• Highest upfront installation cost.
• Long build time (2–4 months).
• Needs finishing (plaster, aggregate, or tile) for waterproofing and aesthetics.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• Plaster, aggregate, or tile.
  
  

When to Use:

Ideal for custom pools, luxury projects, or structural designs where strength and flexibility matter, especially if you’re installing pool windows.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $50,000 – $100,000+ depending on design and finish.
• Maintenance: Requires finish resurfacing every 7–20 years, depending on the chosen surface.

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2. Plaster (Marcite)

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Plaster, often referred to as marcite, is the most traditional swimming pool surface. It’s a mixture of cement, sand, and water, applied by hand to create a smooth white or colored finish.

Pros:

• Lowest upfront cost.
• Classic, clean look.
• Works with most pool shapes and pool window designs.
  
  

Cons:

• Lifespan: 7–10 years before resurfacing is needed.
• Prone to staining, etching, and rough patches.
• Requires more frequent chemical balancing.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• Standard white plaster.
• Colored plaster for aesthetic variety.
  
  

When to Use:

If you are a budget-conscious homeowner or own a smaller residential pool, and if cost is a major factor, then you may consider plaster.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $5,000 – $8,000 (average residential pool).

Maintenance: Higher over time due to resurfacing cycles.

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3. Aggregate Finishes (Pebble, Quartz, Glass Bead)

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Aggregate finishes combine plaster with materials like pebbles, quartz crystals, or glass beads. The result is a surface that’s textured, highly durable, and visually striking.

Pros:

• Lifespan: 15–20 years.
• Resistant to stains and chemical erosion.
• Offers unique aesthetic effects (sparkling, natural stone look).
• Works beautifully with pool windows, creating a seamless “aquarium” vibe.
  
  

Cons:

• Rougher underfoot (especially pebble).
• Higher upfront cost.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• PebbleTec / PebbleSheen.
• Quartz aggregate (smooth with speckled shine).
• Glass bead finishes (luxury shimmer effect).
  
  

When to Use:

This is ideal for high-end residential pools, hotels, and luxury properties where longevity and aesthetics matter more than initial cost.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $8,000 – $15,000.
• Maintenance: Low; lasts up to two decades with proper care.
  
  

4. Tile (Porcelain, Glass, Stone)

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Tile is the ultimate luxury pool surface. Options include porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, or high-end glass tiles. Tiles can cover the waterline, the interior, or the entire pool.

Pros:

• Lifespan: 30+ years (if installed properly).
• Virtually unlimited design options.
• Easy to clean; resistant to chemicals and UV damage.
• Looks incredible when paired with pool windows, creating a “resort-style” underwater view.
  
  

Cons:

• Highest upfront cost.
• Installation requires skilled professionals (improper installation = costly repairs).
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• Porcelain/ceramic for durability.
• Glass tiles for luxury shimmer.
• Stone tiles for natural elegance.
  
  

When to Use:

If you’re building a luxury or showcase pool, especially one with underwater windows or infinity edges, tile is the surface that delivers long-term value and aesthetics.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $30,000 – $70,000+, depending on materials and pool size.

Maintenance: Very low, occasional re-grouting may be needed.

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5. Fiberglass

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Fiberglass pools come as pre-manufactured shells with a smooth gel-coat surface. While technically not a “resurfacing option,” fiberglass remains a popular pool material.

Pros:

• Smooth, non-porous surface (resists algae).
• Quick installation.
• Low maintenance.
  
  

Cons:

• Limited shapes/sizes.
• Can fade or blister over time.
• Not compatible with large custom windows or complex pool designs.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• Gel-coat in white, blue, or modern shades.
  
  

When to Use:

Best for homeowners who want a quick, cost-effective installation with low ongoing maintenance.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $20,000 – $40,000.
• Maintenance: Very low (no resurfacing needed for decades).
  
  

6. Vinyl Liners

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Vinyl-lined pools feature a steel or polymer frame with a custom vinyl sheet that forms the pool’s interior surface.

Pros:

• Affordable upfront cost.
• Wide variety of colors and patterns.
• Smooth underfoot.
  
  

Cons:

• Lifespan: 7–10 years before liner replacement.
• Easily punctured or torn.
• Not ideal for luxury builds or pools with custom features like windows.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface:

• Standard vinyl sheets with textured patterns.
  
  

When to Use:

Good entry-level option for families or budget pools where aesthetics and durability are secondary.

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Cost Of Installation And Maintenance:

• Installation: $25,000 – $45,000 (including pool build).
• Liner Replacement: $4,000 – $7,000 every 7–10 years.

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7. High-Performance Polymer Coatings (ecoFINISH/AquaBRIGHT, Polyurea, Epoxy)

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Polymer coatings are spray-applied or roll-applied finishes that form a seamless, chemical-resistant skin over the pool shell. The most common are:

• Thermoplastic powder coatings (e.g., ecoFINISH/AquaBRIGHT), flame-sprayed and fused to the substrate.
• Polyurea elastomer coatings, plural-component, fast-cure membranes with excellent crack-bridging.
• High-solids epoxies (budget option), roll-applied paints with good chemical resistance.
  
  

They can go over gunite/concrete (as an alternative to plaster/aggregate/tile) and are often used to rehab fiberglass shells that have a chalking gelcoat.

Pros

• Fast install & cure (often days vs. weeks).
• Seamless, non-porous; resists algae and staining.
• Color-stable options; broad palette including modern grays/blacks.
• Great for renovations where you need to encapsulate a tired surface without a full demo.
• Easier water-chemistry maintenance thanks to low porosity.

Cons

• Surface prep is everything; poor prep = adhesion failures.
• Polyurea requires specialized equipment/crew.
• Epoxy is the most affordable but shortest-lived in this class.
• Substrate movement/active cracks must be addressed first.
  
  

Pool Finishes For This Type Of Pool Surface

• Thermoplastic powder systems (e.g., AquaBRIGHT lines).
• Polyurea membranes with UV-stable topcoats.
• 2-part epoxy systems (premium formulas recommended for longevity).
  
  

When to Use / Why It Matters

• Speed + uptime: commercial pools, hospitality, or homeowners wanting minimal downtime.
• Renovations: excellent over stable but cosmetically tired plaster or fiberglass.
• Harsh water (salt/chlorine) or demanding climates where porosity is a pain.
• Pool windows: smooth, stable interface around window frames/gaskets helps maintain watertightness and a clean sightline.
  
  

Cost Of Installation And Maintenance

• Thermoplastic/polyurea: typically $10–$18 per sq ft installed (mid-to-high depending on prep/repairs).
• Epoxy systems: $4–$8 per sq ft (lower upfront, shorter service life).
• Service life: epoxy ~3–5 years; thermoplastic/polyurea commonly 7–12+ years with good water balance.
• Maintenance: low; periodic visual checks and touch-ups at high-wear areas (steps, waterline).

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Final Thoughts

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Choosing the right swimming pool surface in 2025 is not something to take lightly. But, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each option has its place depending on budget, design goals, and how long you want the surface to last:

• Gunite gives you unmatched structural freedom and longevity—especially if you’re planning complex designs or incorporating features like pool windows.
  
  
• Plaster remains the entry-level choice, affordable upfront but higher in long-term upkeep.
  
  
• Aggregate finishes (pebble, quartz, glass bead) are the sweet spot for durability and visual appeal, and they continue to be one of the fastest-growing trends.
  
  
• Tile stands in a class of its own, combining luxury and 30+ years of service life, making it ideal for showcase or resort-style pools.
  
  
• Fiberglass and vinyl liners are cost-friendly options, best for homeowners who prioritize quick installation or lower upfront investment.
  
  
• High-performance polymer coatings are the innovative newcomer, giving homeowners and commercial facilities a fast, low-maintenance alternative for new pools and renovations.
  
  

At the end of the day, your choice comes down to how you want your pool to perform and look over the next 10–30 years. If you’re building a pool that needs to impress, last, and integrate seamlessly with advanced features like underwater windows, investing in aggregate or tile finishes on a solid gunite shell will deliver both beauty and endurance.

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Expert Pool Window Design & Installation

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At the end of the day, no pool surface choice is complete without considering the overall design. If you’re planning on incorporating custom pool windows, whether for a home, resort, or commercial property, surface and glass integration must be engineered together.

With the right finish and precision installation, your pool window transforms from a structural necessity into a luxury feature that enhances aesthetics, safety, and long-term performance.

And you can consider consulting with Hammerhead Pools, which has been in the business for over 3 decades. You may request a free quote before moving forward. [Get a free quote]

If you have any questions about the details here or want to share your experience with your current pool's surface, do leave a comment. I will be more than excited to respond.

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FAQs

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1. What is the most durable pool surface in 2025?

Tile remains the most durable option, lasting over 30 years with minimal maintenance. Aggregate finishes (pebble, quartz) also provide 15–20 years of life.

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2. How often should I resurface a plaster pool?

Every 7–10 years, depending on water chemistry and climate. Regular chemical balancing extends plaster life.

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3. Are glass bead aggregate finishes slippery?

Not if applied properly. Modern aggregate surfaces balance texture and traction, making them safe while still visually striking.

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4. Can pool windows work with vinyl or fiberglass pools?

Technically possible, but not ideal. Vinyl and fiberglass don’t integrate well with structural glass; plaster, aggregate, or tile provide stronger, longer-lasting window integration.

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5. What’s the best pool surface for saltwater pools?

Aggregate finishes (especially quartz) and tile are the most salt-resistant. Plaster can wear down faster in saltwater environments.

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6. Is resurfacing worth it compared to building a new pool?

Absolutely. In most cases, resurfacing costs 30–50% less than a new build and can extend your pool’s lifespan by decades.