One of the most common questions Phoenix pool owners ask is "how long will I be without my pool?" The good news: most pool resurfacing projects take just 5-7 days from drain to swim-ready.
Pool Resurfacing Timeline Overview
| Phase | Duration | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 4-8 hours | Drain pool completely |
| Day 2 | Full day | Surface preparation & repairs |
| Day 3 | Full day | Bond coat application |
| Day 4 | Full day | Finish coat application |
| Days 5-6 | 24-48 hours | Fill pool & start curing |
| Day 7+ | Varies | Chemical balance & final curing |
Day 1: Draining the Pool
We begin by draining your pool completely using submersible pumps. For an average-sized pool (15,000-20,000 gallons), this takes 4-8 hours depending on your drainage situation.
Important: In Arizona's climate, we never leave a pool empty for extended periods as ground pressure can cause structural issues.
Day 2: Surface Preparation
This is the most critical phase for a lasting finish. Our team:
- Removes all loose or delaminated plaster
- Repairs any cracks or structural issues
- Acid washes to ensure proper bonding
- Pressure washes the entire surface
Proper prep work is what separates a 7-year finish from a 15-year finish.
Days 3-4: Application
The new surface is applied in layers. For Pebble Tec and aggregate finishes, this involves:
- Bond coat application (Day 3)
- Finish coat application and hand troweling (Day 4)
- Exposure process for aggregate finishes
Days 5-7: Fill and Cure
Once applied, we begin filling the pool immediately. The curing process is critical:
- Pool must fill continuously without stopping
- Initial chemical treatment begins
- Brushing schedule starts (twice daily for 2 weeks)
- Swimming typically allowed after 7-14 days
Factors That Can Extend Timeline
- Pool size: Larger pools take longer to drain and fill
- Extensive repairs: Crack repair or structural work adds 1-2 days
- Tile & coping: Adding tile work extends project 2-3 days
- Weather: Rain or extreme heat can delay application
When Can You Swim?
For most finishes, light swimming is safe after 7 days. Full use typically begins at 14 days. We'll provide specific instructions based on your finish type and Phoenix's water conditions.
