If you're a Phoenix homeowner wondering "how much does pool resurfacing cost?" you're not alone. It's one of the most common questions we receive, and the answer depends on several factors including pool size, finish type, and current condition.

In this guide, we'll break down the costs for every type of pool finish available in the Phoenix area so you can budget appropriately for your project.

Quick Cost Summary

Finish Type	Cost per Sq Ft	400 sq ft Pool	Lifespan
Standard Plaster	$4 - $6	$1,600 - $2,400	7-12 years
Quartz Aggregate	$6 - $9	$2,400 - $3,600	10-15 years
Pebble Tec	$8 - $12	$3,200 - $4,800	15-20+ years

Plaster Pool Resurfacing Cost

Standard pool plaster is the most affordable option at $4-6 per square foot. For an average 400 square foot pool, expect to pay $1,600 - $2,400 for a complete plaster resurface.

Plaster provides the classic white pool look and has been the industry standard for decades. In Arizona's harsh climate, plaster typically lasts 7-12 years before needing replacement.

Plaster Pros:

• Lowest upfront cost
• Classic, timeless appearance
• Smooth texture underfoot
• Easy to patch if damaged

Plaster Cons:

• Shortest lifespan in Arizona climate
• More susceptible to staining
• Requires more maintenance
• Surface can become rough over time

Pebble Tec Pool Resurfacing Cost

Pebble Tec is the premium choice for Arizona pools at $8-12 per square foot. For a 400 square foot pool, budget $3,200 - $4,800.

While Pebble Tec costs more upfront, it typically lasts 15-20+ years in Arizona conditions - often twice as long as standard plaster. This makes it a better long-term value for many homeowners.

Pebble Tec Pros:

• Superior durability (15-20+ years)
• Excellent stain resistance
• Wide range of colors available
• Better handles Arizona's hard water
• Lower lifetime cost

Pebble Tec Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Slightly rougher texture than plaster
• More difficult to repair if damaged

Quartz Pool Finish Cost

Quartz finishes offer a middle ground at $6-9 per square foot. For a 400 square foot pool, expect $2,400 - $3,600.

Quartz combines crusite quartz aggregate with white cement, creating a beautiful sparkle effect while providing better durability than standard plaster.

Factors That Affect Pool Resurfacing Cost

• Pool size: Larger pools cost more but have a lower per-square-foot cost
• Current condition: Extensive repairs add to the base cost
• Tile and coping: Replacing waterline tile adds $15-35 per linear foot
• Deck condition: Deck resurfacing is often done simultaneously
• Access: Difficult access can increase labor costs

When to Resurface Your Pool

Signs your pool needs resurfacing include:

• Rough, sandpaper-like texture
• Visible staining that won't clean
• Plaster flaking or peeling
• Consistent water chemistry problems
• Visible cracks or hollow spots

Get a Free Estimate

Every pool is different, and the only way to get an accurate cost is with a professional inspection. We provide free, no-obligation estimates throughout the Phoenix metro area.

When it's time to resurface your Phoenix pool, the most important decision you'll make is choosing the right finish. The two most popular options in Arizona are standard plaster and Pebble Tec (pebble aggregate). Both have loyal supporters, but which one is actually right for your pool?

After resurfacing hundreds of pools in the Phoenix area, we've helped homeowners navigate this exact decision. Here's everything you need to know to make an informed choice.

Quick Comparison

Factor	Plaster	Pebble Tec
Cost	$4-6/sq ft	$8-12/sq ft
Lifespan	7-12 years	15-20+ years
Texture	Smooth	Textured (varies)
Colors	Limited (whites, blues)	50+ options
Stain Resistance	Moderate	Excellent
Chemical Resistance	Moderate	Excellent

Understanding Plaster Pool Finishes

Pool plaster has been the standard finish for decades. It's a mixture of white cement, marble dust (or limestone), and water that creates a smooth, classic look.

Plaster Advantages

• Lower upfront cost: At $4-6 per square foot, plaster is 40-50% cheaper than Pebble Tec initially
• Smooth texture: Many swimmers prefer the silky feel of plaster underfoot
• Classic appearance: The traditional white pool look that never goes out of style
• Easy repairs: Small cracks and chips can be patched relatively easily
• Proven track record: Decades of reliable performance when properly maintained

Plaster Disadvantages

• Shorter lifespan: Typically needs replacement every 7-12 years in Arizona
• Staining susceptibility: More prone to mineral staining from Arizona's hard water
• Surface degradation: Can become rough and uncomfortable over time
• Color limitations: Primarily available in white and light blue shades
• More maintenance: Requires consistent chemical balance to prevent etching

Understanding Pebble Tec Finishes

Pebble Tec is a brand name that's become synonymous with pebble aggregate finishes. It combines small, smooth pebbles with cement to create a durable, textured surface with a natural appearance.

Pebble Tec Advantages

• Superior durability: Lasts 15-20+ years, often twice as long as plaster
• Excellent stain resistance: The aggregate surface hides and resists staining
• Color variety: Over 50 colors and blends to match any backyard aesthetic
• Handles hard water: Better resistance to Arizona's mineral-heavy water
• Lower lifetime cost: Despite higher upfront cost, longer lifespan = better value
• Unique appearance: Natural, upscale look that enhances home value

Pebble Tec Disadvantages

• Higher initial cost: $8-12 per square foot is a significant investment
• Texture concerns: Some find the surface too rough, especially for children
• Complex repairs: Patches are more visible and difficult to blend
• Break-in period: New Pebble Tec can feel rough until it wears in (2-4 weeks)

Which Finish Wins in Arizona?

Here's the honest truth: Pebble Tec performs better in Arizona's climate. Our intense sun, extreme heat, and notoriously hard water are tough on pool surfaces. Pebble Tec's durability gives it a significant advantage in these conditions.

However, that doesn't mean plaster is a bad choice. Here's when each finish makes sense:

Choose Plaster If:

• You're on a tight budget and need the lowest upfront cost
• You prefer a completely smooth surface for swimming
• You're selling the home within 5-7 years
• You have young children who play on pool steps frequently
• You want the classic white pool aesthetic

Choose Pebble Tec If:

• You plan to stay in your home long-term (10+ years)
• You want minimal maintenance and maximum durability
• You prefer natural, earth-tone aesthetics
• Your pool has persistent staining issues
• You want the best long-term value

The Cost Reality Check

Let's do the math for a typical 400 sq ft pool:

Plaster: $2,000 initial × 2 applications over 20 years = $4,000 total

Pebble Tec: $4,000 initial × 1 application over 20 years = $4,000 total

Over a 20-year period, the costs are nearly identical. But with Pebble Tec, you avoid the hassle, downtime, and potential price increases of a second resurfacing project.

What About Quartz Finishes?

If you're torn between plaster and Pebble Tec, quartz finishes offer a middle ground. At $6-9 per square foot, quartz provides better durability than plaster with a smoother texture than Pebble Tec.

Get Expert Advice

Still not sure which finish is right for your pool? We're happy to assess your specific situation and provide an honest recommendation. Our free estimates include a consultation to help you choose the best option for your budget and needs.

Your pool's surface doesn't fail overnight. It deteriorates gradually, and many homeowners don't realize there's a problem until they're dealing with leaks, injuries, or equipment damage. Knowing the warning signs can save you thousands of dollars and keep your family safe.

Here are the five most common signs that your Phoenix pool needs resurfacing—and why ignoring them can be costly.

1. Rough, Sandpaper-Like Texture

What it looks like: When you run your hand along the pool surface, it feels like sandpaper instead of smooth plaster.

Why it happens: Arizona's hard water and intense UV exposure cause the cement in your pool finish to erode, exposing the rough aggregate underneath.

Why you shouldn't ignore it:

• Swimmers can scrape their feet, knees, and hands
• Bathing suits snag and wear out faster
• Algae finds more places to hide, making cleaning harder
• The rough texture indicates ongoing deterioration

Urgency level: Medium. You have time to plan, but don't wait more than 1-2 seasons.

2. Persistent Staining That Won't Clean

What it looks like: Brown, blue, green, or rust-colored stains that don't respond to normal cleaning, acid washing, or stain treatments.

Why it happens: As pool plaster ages, it becomes more porous. Minerals from Phoenix's hard water (copper, iron, manganese) penetrate deep into the surface where they can't be removed.

Why you shouldn't ignore it:

• Staining will only get worse over time
• Repeated acid washing thins the surface faster
• Deep stains indicate a compromised surface
• Your pool looks dirty even when it's clean

Urgency level: Low to medium. Primarily cosmetic, but indicates surface degradation.

3. Plaster Flaking, Peeling, or Delaminating

What it looks like: Chunks of plaster coming off in your hand, white flakes floating in the water, or sections where the surface is visibly separating from the shell.

Why it happens: This is called delamination, and it occurs when the bond between the plaster and the concrete shell fails. In Arizona, this is often caused by improper initial application, chemical imbalances, or simply age.

Why you shouldn't ignore it:

• This is the most serious sign—delamination accelerates rapidly
• Loose plaster can clog your filter and damage pumps
• Exposed concrete is vulnerable to water damage
• Structural damage becomes possible if ignored
• Repair costs increase significantly the longer you wait

Urgency level: HIGH. Address this within weeks, not months. Get a professional assessment immediately.

4. Visible Cracks (Beyond Hairline)

What it looks like: Cracks wider than a hairline, cracks that have expanded over time, or cracks you can feel with your fingernail.

Why it happens: All pools develop some hairline cracks due to ground movement and temperature changes. However, larger cracks often indicate structural movement or a failing surface.

Why you shouldn't ignore it:

• Cracks can allow water to reach the concrete shell
• Freeze-thaw cycles (yes, even in Phoenix) can expand cracks
• Algae and bacteria thrive in cracks
• Cracks wider than 1/8" may indicate structural issues

Urgency level: Medium to high, depending on crack size and location. Cracks near fittings or on the floor are more concerning.

5. Consistent Water Chemistry Problems

What it looks like: You're constantly battling pH levels, adding excessive chemicals, or your water just never seems balanced despite your best efforts.

Why it happens: As pool plaster deteriorates, it releases calcium and other minerals into the water, throwing off your chemistry. The porous surface also absorbs chemicals unevenly.

Why you shouldn't ignore it:

• You're wasting money on excess chemicals
• Unbalanced water accelerates surface deterioration
• Equipment (heaters, pumps, salt cells) gets damaged
• Swimmer comfort and safety are affected

Urgency level: Medium. Often overlooked, but a clear sign your surface is compromised.

How Old Is Your Pool Surface?

Age alone can indicate when resurfacing is needed:

Surface Type	Expected Lifespan	Time to Plan
Plaster	7-12 years	Start planning at year 6
Quartz	10-15 years	Start planning at year 9
Pebble Tec	15-20+ years	Start planning at year 14

What Happens If You Wait Too Long?

Delaying necessary resurfacing doesn't just affect aesthetics. Here's what's at stake:

• Higher costs: A surface that's completely failed may require bond coat repairs, adding $500-1,500 to your project
• Equipment damage: Loose plaster and unbalanced water destroy pumps, heaters, and filters
• Structural damage: Water penetrating the concrete shell can cause serious problems
• Safety hazards: Rough surfaces cause injuries; loose plaster is a slip hazard
• Pool closure: Severe deterioration may require draining—risky in Arizona's expansive soils

Get a Professional Assessment

If you've noticed any of these signs, it's worth getting a professional opinion. We provide free inspections throughout the Phoenix metro area. We'll assess your pool's condition, explain your options, and give you an honest timeline—even if that means telling you to wait another year.