What is the difference between Replastering and resurfacing a pool?

 Understanding the Difference: Replastering vs. Resurfacing a Pool

Sprucing up your swimming pool not only uplifts its look but also extends its lifespan. If you have noticed discoloration, cracks, or rough texture in your pool, it might be time for replastering or resurfacing. A reputable swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV can guide you through these restorative processes.

Determining whether to replaster or resurface depends on your pool's condition and your budget. Keep reading to explore the pivotal differences between replastering and resurfacing, what each entails, and how to decide which one suits your pool's needs best.

Why Replastering or Resurfacing Your Pool Is Essential

The shimmering blue oasis in your backyard begs attention – Whether it is replastering or resurfacing, maintaining your swimming pool is a crucial element of home ownership. A well-kept pool not only elevates the aesthetics, it also ensures a safe and inviting swimming environment. Maintaining a swimming pool is more than just regular cleaning and pH balancing. Over the years, the surface of a pool can become rough, discolored, or develop stains and cracks, which makes the experience less enjoyable.


As a responsible homeowner and to avoid exorbitant repair costs, hiring a professional swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV for replastering or resurfacing is wise. Your swimming pool deserves experts who can keep it at its best for years to come. While both replastering and resurfacing involve repairing the pool’s surface, they're not interchangeable. It's essential to understand the difference to determine the best method for you. The gist of it is, replastering is the process of adding a new layer of plaster, whereas resurfacing involves completely removing the old surface before applying a new one.

Key Differences Between Replastering and Resurfacing a Pool


While both processes give your pool a facelift, the key difference lies in the degree of work involved and the costs incurred. Think of replastering like painting an old room - it’s about adding a fresh coat over the existing layer. On the other hand, resurfacing can be compared to tearing down the wallpaper before re-plastering the entire room. In terms of cost, replastering is usually the less expensive route. It involves applying a new layer of plaster over the existing one, generally improving its appearance and extending lifespan. Yet, it just conceals the issues and the existing problems could resurface sooner.


Resurfacing, though pricier, is a more lasting solution. It requires a swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV to strip the old surface and replace it entirely, rectifying any underlying problems. It might be costly now, but in the long run, it could save you from recurring maintenance issues and costs. Last but not least, the choice between the two also depends on the current condition of your pool. A relatively new pool with minor cosmetic damage could benefit from replastering, while a pool with more significant damage might need a complete resurfacing. Consult a professional before you decide which route to take.

Crucial Steps in the Pool Replastering Process

The pool replastering process, while seemingly simple, involves a few crucial steps to ensure a superb finish. The very first step is draining the pool. Just removing the water isn’t enough; every nook and corner needs to be dried out thoroughly before proceeding to the next stage.

The second step is chipping out the old plaster layers. It demands an efficient swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV, careful to avoid causing any damage to the underlying structure. This step determines the smoothness of your new plaster layer, so it’s not one to be rushed. Upon completing these steps, next is efflorescence removal. Water in the pool causes calcium salts to accumulate over time, causing what’s referred to as efflorescence. This needs to be eradicated with a strong acid wash to ensure the new plaster layer adheres properly and provides an excellent finishing.

Understanding the Technique of Pool Resurfacing

Contrary to replastering, resurfacing a pool is a more intensive process. It starts much the same way: draining the pool and letting it dry completely. The next step, however, is where things take a different route. A professional swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV then proceeds to remove the existing surface entirely. It's not an easy task and requires skilled workers to complete safely without harming the structure of the pool. Attention must be paid to every inch to ensure no imperfections remain that could cause problems later on.


After the old surface has been totally stripped away, any damage to the pool's foundational structure is repaired. It's an important step, as ignoring these issues could lead to severe problems down the line. Once everything is ready, the new surface material is applied. The final step in the pool resurfacing process is applying the finish. It can be a standard plaster, an aggregate, or a color quartz finish, depending on the homeowner's preference and budget. After it's been applied and allowed to dry, the results speak for themselves: a pool that's sparkling, smooth, and ready for its next chapter of use.

Factors Impacting the Cost: Replaster vs Resurface

One of the main factors influencing the decision between replastering and resurfacing a pool is cost. As a general rule, replastering is cheaper than resurfacing, owing to the less intensive process and lesser use of materials.


A second factor contributing to the price is the severity of the damage to be repaired. A pool with minor imperfections may merely require replastering, whereas a pool requiring significant structural repair may cost more due to the additional labor and materials needed for resurfacing. The third factor impacting the cost is the size and shape of the pool. Large pools or those with complex designs may require more labor and resources, driving up costs. A swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV will also take this into consideration while providing an estimate.


Lastly, the type of material chosen for the new surface also impacts the final cost. Standard plaster is the most affordable option, while more luxury materials such as quartz or pebble finishes increase the cost, but add an upgraded aesthetic appeal to your pool.


Choosing the Right Option: When to Replaster or Resurface?

Deciding between replastering and resurfacing depends heavily on your pool's current condition. If the pool has minor wear and tear, like slight discolouration or patchy spots, replastering can effectively refresh its look without going overboard on the budget. For pools showing symptoms of more significant damage, such as cracks, flaking, or widespread discoloration, a full resurfacing would be the recommended option. Not only will it address these immediate cosmetic issues, but it also repairs any underlying structural problems.


Consider the age of your pool. A newer pool may not yet warrant a full resurfacing, unless significant damage has occurred. Older pools, however, could greatly benefit from full resurfacing, rejuvenating their appearance and extending their lifespan.

Choosing between these options is a decision that must be made in consultation with a skilled swimming pool contractor in Las Vegas NV. They can assist in evaluating the pool's condition and help weigh the cost considerations to determine the most appropriate course of action.


Knowing the difference between replastering and resurfacing your pool is an invaluable tool in proper pool maintenance. It allows you to understand the limitations and advantages of each method, enabling informed decisions when it comes to pool repair. Resurfacing, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive renovation essential for addressing significant damage.

Getting the help of a qualified swimming pool builder in Las Vegas NV may make the process simpler and ensure that your outdoor haven always looks its best. Keep in mind that a knowledgeable homeowner ensures a longer lifespan for their beloved pool and saves money, time, and both.

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