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How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

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Our pool has been complete for about 9 months now, so I figured it was time to share our pool finishes with you all! We absolutely LOVE our pool and there really isn't anything we would change almost a year in. When it comes to creating a backyard oasis, the details matter. One of the most impactful choices you'll make in your pool design is selecting the right pool finishes. The finishes you choose will not only define the aesthetics of your pool but also its longevity and ease of maintenance. I'm sharing what we chose for our finishes and why we chose them so you can hopefully make the right choice for your own pool design!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Picking out our pool finishes and creating our pool design was a really stressful process for me. I wanted everything to be perfect, because this was a huge investment for us. We moved to Arizona a little over a year ago and knew we obviously had to have a pool! Once the plaster, tile, stone, and decking is in it is quite difficult (and costly!) to change it once complete. If you're designing or picking out pool finishes, you've come to the right place!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

We wanted a modern style pool with clean, hard lines (vs. a kidney bean or round pool). A lot of the newer pool styles look like this, so I knew what I wanted based on friends pools and pools that I've seen in our neighborhood. We also wanted a more 'colorful' pool but wanted the water to look more tropical blue so we went with more of an aqua colored pool finish.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

I also wanted a fun water line tile that would play off the color of the pool finish. We added in a small stone wall so we could have two fountains and a spot for the girls to jump off of. I also wanted a large baja shelf, and a hot tub inside the pool. We also wanted to use a sand blasted marble for the surrounding pool decking as it has been known to stay a bit cooler in the Arizona heat. I also love the look of the white decking!

Understanding Pool Finishes

Pool finishes are the materials applied to the interior and exterior surface of your pool. They can dramatically affect the look and feel of the water, the durability of the pool, and how much maintenance it requires. Common types of pool finishes include plaster, aggregate, tile, and pebble. Each type has its own set of characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Pebble Finishes: Natural and Slip-Resistant

We decided to go with PebbleTec for our pool finish. We chose PebbleSheen in Irish Mist and are so in love with the way it makes our water look. It's a cool, minty green finish consisting of white, light grey and jade-toned pebbles producing a refreshing, teal water color. Our friends went with French Grey which is darker, but looks so gorgeous too! Another friend went as white as possible and her pool is so beautiful. I feel like you really can't go wrong with PebbleTech/PebbleSheen!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Pebble finishes, such as PebbleTec, are made from small, smooth pebbles embedded in a cement-based mixture. They offer a natural, riverbed-like appearance and are known for their durability. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Pros: Pebble finishes are highly durable, slip-resistant, and can hide minor imperfections better than other finishes. They provide a natural aesthetic that blends seamlessly with outdoor environments.
  • Cons: They can be rough on the feet, especially for children and those with sensitive skin. They are also more expensive than plaster finishes.
How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

here is our pool just before filling it up!

Despite the higher cost, pebble finishes are an excellent investment for those seeking a natural look and long-lasting durability. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, allowing for customization to suit your design preferences.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Plaster Finishes: Classic and Versatile

Plaster is one of the most traditional and widely used pool finishes. It's made from a mixture of white cement, marble dust, and water, and can be tinted to a variety of colors. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Pros: Plaster is cost-effective and provides a smooth, classic look. It's versatile and can be customized with different colors.
  • Cons: It can be prone to staining and requires more frequent maintenance than other finishes. Over time, plaster can become rough and may need resurfacing every 5-10 years.

To keep plaster looking its best, ensure you maintain proper water chemistry and perform routine cleaning. Although it's a bit high-maintenance, the timeless appeal of plaster makes it a popular choice.

Aggregate Finishes: Textured and Durable

Aggregate finishes are made by mixing plaster with small pebbles, glass beads, or quartz crystals. This blend creates a textured surface that is both durable and visually appealing. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Pros: Aggregate finishes are more resistant to stains and etching compared to plaster. They offer a range of color and texture options, from polished to exposed aggregates, creating a unique, sparkling effect in the water.
  • Cons: They can be more expensive than plaster and might feel rougher on the feet, depending on the type of aggregate used.

Polished aggregate finishes, in particular, offer a smooth feel while providing the same durability and aesthetic benefits. They're an excellent choice if you want a finish that adds depth and shimmer to your pool.

Tile Finishes: Luxurious and Low-Maintenance

Tile finishes are the epitome of luxury in pool design. Available in ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone, tiles can be used to create intricate designs and mosaics. Consider the following:

  • Pros: Tiles are highly durable, resistant to chemicals, and easy to clean. They offer endless design possibilities and can last for decades with minimal upkeep.
  • Cons: Tile finishes are typically the most expensive option. The installation process is labor-intensive, which can also drive up costs.

For a high-end, custom look, glass tiles offer a stunning, iridescent finish that can transform your pool into a glittering jewel. If budget is a concern, using tiles as an accent or border can provide a touch of elegance without the high cost.

Tips for Selecting the Right Finish

Selecting the right pool finish involves more than just aesthetics. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

  1. Consider Your Budget: Different finishes come with varying price tags. Determine your budget early on to narrow down your options.
  2. Think About Longevity: Some finishes, like tiles and pebbles, offer greater durability and longevity than others. Consider how long you plan to use the pool and factor that into your decision.
  3. Evaluate Maintenance Needs: Plaster may require more frequent maintenance, while tile and aggregate finishes are easier to care for. Choose a finish that aligns with the level of maintenance you're comfortable with.
  4. Aesthetic Preferences: The finish you choose will greatly impact the overall look of your pool. Visit showrooms or look at photos online to get a sense of what appeals to you.
  5. Texture and Comfort: The feel of the pool surface is important, especially if you have children or plan to spend a lot of time in the pool. Visit pools with different finishes to see how they feel underfoot.
  6. Water Color and Effect: Different finishes can affect the color and appearance of the water. Lighter finishes can make the water look blue and bright, while darker finishes can give it a more lagoon-like appearance. You also want to think about how the color will affect the temperature of your water if you're in a hot place like Arizona.

Waterline Tile

Selecting the perfect waterline tile for your pool involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and maintenance. Begin by considering the overall design theme of your outdoor space—whether it's modern, rustic, or tropical—and choose tiles that complement this style. Color and texture play a crucial role, as lighter colors can make the pool appear larger and more inviting, while darker shades offer a sleek, contemporary look. It's important to opt for tiles that are specifically designed for pools; these are typically made of materials like porcelain or glass, which are resistant to water, fading, and harsh chemicals.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Size matters, too, as smaller tiles can create intricate patterns, but larger tiles might be easier to clean and maintain. By considering these factors, you can choose waterline tiles that enhance your pool's beauty while ensuring long-lasting performance.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Our Waterline Tile

We chose this tile and LOVE it!! It's called Enya in Acqua 6×6 porcelain tile. It's such a fun tile and I would totally use it in a bathroom or flooring in your home as well. I do have to use a magic eraser sponge to get it really clean or else a water line does form (since it's white). Our friends did a dark grey tile and it shows a white line so pick your poison haha.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Pool Decking

When selecting pool decking, it's essential to consider several key factors to ensure safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. First, think about the material's slip resistance, especially important when wet, to prevent accidents. Popular options include concrete, wood, stone, and composite materials, each offering unique benefits and styles.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Durability and maintenance are also crucial; some materials like concrete or composite require less upkeep compared to wood, which may need regular sealing. Additionally, consider the color and texture of the decking – lighter colors tend to stay cooler under the sun, making them more comfortable for bare feet. Lastly, ensure the decking complements the overall design of your outdoor space, creating a harmonious and inviting environment for relaxation and entertainment.

Our Pool Decking

We went with QDI Surfaces Lusso Carrara brushed and sand blasted marble for our pool decking. We have absolutely loved it. It stays a bit cooler than other decking I've felt and isn't slippery since it's sand blasted. I would highly recommend it!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Hot Tub Tile

Our hot tub sits flush with our pool, so we have it outlined with Aquabella North Seas Caspian small square tiles. It has a little bit of sparkle and plays well off the aqua color of the pool and the waterline tile. We also use it as a decorative stripe on the baja shelf and stairs. It catches the sun and sparkles which is really pretty!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

here is our hot tub accent tile - it sparkles in the sun!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

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I hope this post helped in making your decision to get started on designing your own pool!

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Selecting the right pool finish is a critical step in creating a beautiful and functional backyard oasis. By considering factors such as budget, durability, maintenance, aesthetics, and comfort, you can find a finish that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor living space. Whether you opt for the classic appeal of plaster, the textured elegance of aggregate, the luxurious look of tile, or the natural beauty of pebble, the right pool finish will provide you with years of enjoyment and relaxation.

How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!

Remember, your pool is a long-term investment, and taking the time to choose the right finish will pay off in the form of a stunning, low-maintenance, and durable pool that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

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How to Select Pool Finishes - Our Pool Design Choices!
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