Pebble Finish

A pebble finish is a thick, hand-applied coating of small natural stones bound in cement. Homeowners usually call about it when their current plaster is rough, stained, or leaking, or when they want a longer-lasting, more slip-resistant surface than standard plaster. The decision often comes after years of patching or after noticing the pool losing water.

Our crew first drains the pool and pressure-washes the old surface. We chip out any loose or cracked areas, then apply a bonding coat. The pebble mix—select stones and white or gray cement—is troweled on by hand in a single, continuous layer. After it sets slightly, we spray-wash the surface to expose the aggregate, then apply a sealer and fill the pool with fresh water.

Job complexity varies with pool shape, access, and the condition of the existing shell. A simple rectangle with good hose access and sound substrate takes less time than a freeform pool with tight corners, steps, or a raised spa. Weather also matters: the finish needs moderate temperatures and no rain during application and curing. These factors, not the color choice, drive the schedule and the cost.

On application day, we protect decks, coping, and nearby plants with drop cloths and tape. We work through the finish, then clean up all debris, masking, and tools before we leave. The homeowner must keep the water chemistry balanced per our startup instructions—no brushing or swimming for the first 30 days. We leave a written care guide and a contact number for questions.