We recommend going with a marcite plaster-type finish, which is also available with embedded pebbles or granite. Maybe if you are getting ready to sell your home soon, paint might be an option. It costs half as much as plaster, but also lasts half as long; however, the 5 to 7 year estimated life of an epoxy paint finish—compared to the 10 to 15 year life expectancy of marcite or one of the newer exposed aggregate finishes—is based on surface prep and application of the paint by an experienced professional. If you try to tackle the project yourself, inadequate surface prep or incorrect application will lead to powdering or peeling within just a couple of years. 

   Also, once you paint your pool the first time, you have to continue with paint each resurfacing, or get stuck paying to have the paint layers sandblasted off for a new plaster finish to be adhere properly. “Paint can start powdering after just a few years,” according to Dean Muggeo, of Dino’s Pool Service in Gainesville, Florida. “And if you have to scrub the pool to clear an algae buildup, the powder clogs the filter. We don’t recommend it.” 

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Here’s links to a collection of our blog posts about POOL AND SPA:

• Does an above-ground pool require a building permit? 

• Does an above-ground pool have to comply with code requirements for a swimming pool barrier?

• What are the pros and cons of vinyl liner vs fiberglas vs concrete in-ground pools? 

• Can a pool with green, cloudy water be inspected?

• Why are pool pumps now required to be variable speed? 

• What are the clearance requirements for an overhead electric service drop that is directly over or near a swimming pool?

    Visit our POOL AND SPA page for other related blog posts on this subject, or go to the INDEX for a complete listing of all our articles.