Pool resurfacing is a crucial step for homeowners who want to maintain a comfortable and attractive swimming environment. Over time, even a well-maintained surface can develop cracks, rough textures, and discoloration that impact both safety and visual appeal. To learn how experts address these problems, explore our detailed pool resurfacing process for a clearer picture of each stage.
Whether you’ve had your pool for a few years or a few decades, it’s important to know when repairs or resurfacing might be needed. This article highlights why timely resurfacing is beneficial, then reveals eight common warning signs that indicate it’s time to renew your pool’s surface.
Why Resurfacing Matters
Resurfacing does more than upgrade your pool’s look. It can help prevent serious structural issues, improve swimmer comfort, and minimize the need for constant upkeep. In fact, homes with recently resurfaced pools tend to sell for about 7% more than similar properties with older pools, showing just how much a fresh finish can boost value.
Equally important, a high-quality finish stands up to chemical imbalances and seasonal temperature changes. If you’d like to learn about broader renovation aspects such as tile replacement or equipment upgrades, check out our A Homeowner’s Guide to Pool Remodeling for additional insight.
Sign #1: Peeling or Flaking Plaster
Peeling plaster, also called “spalling,” appears when thin layers of the pool’s surface start flaking off. This often shows up on steps or the pool floor and usually stems from low pH or consistently imbalanced water chemistry. Compared to stains or minor roughness, this form of deterioration signals advanced damage that cannot be reversed without new surface material.
Once plaster begins to peel, the underlying structure is more vulnerable to further damage. While a small stain might only be a cosmetic annoyance, peeling plaster indicates significant surface breakdown that calls for prompt attention.
Sign #2: Persistent Stains
Regular scrubbing and minor chemical adjustments can remove many stains. However, if you see discoloration that keeps coming back—often bluish, greenish, or brownish in color—this may indicate that the finish itself is compromised. Mineral deposits, including copper or calcium, sometimes bond deeply with older surfaces and resist standard cleaning techniques.
Though superficial stains might be less severe than a plaster problem, they still disrupt the pool’s overall look. Persistent stains can also hint at underlying factors like unbalanced water, which might damage other areas more rapidly than you’d expect.
Sign #3: Rough Textures
A pool floor or wall that feels abrasive can be a pain for swimmers and a sure sign that resurfacing is on the horizon. Worn plaster or aggregate becomes coarse due to chemical erosion or long-term water friction. In fact, rough areas are found in up to 78% of pools requiring resurfacing (Alan Smith Pools, n.d.).
While roughness might seem less threatening than flaking plaster, it often leads to skin scrapes and accelerates overall surface breakdown. Once abrasive spots begin spreading, a full resurfacing is typically more cost-effective than recurring patch jobs.
Sign #4: Visible Cracks
Cracks in a pool can range from superficial hairline fractures to more serious structural issues. Hairline cracks might only degrade the finish, but deeper cracks risk leaks and shell damage. In many regions with freezing temperatures or ground movement, these cracks can worsen and spread quickly.
Compared to a minor stain or slight roughness, cracks pose a bigger threat since they may allow water to seep behind the pool’s shell. If you discover noticeable cracks, resurfacing combined with professional repair is the safest approach to protect your investment.
Sign #5: Swimmer Discomfort or Injuries
When swimmers complain about scratched feet or small abrasions, your pool surface likely needs attention. Irritations often happen if worn plaster leaves a sandpaper-like texture or if chipped edges appear around cracks. A smooth finish not only feels better but also reduces the chance of water chemistry imbalances, because there are fewer crevices for algae and minerals to settle in.
If injuries have become more frequent—like cuts on toes or elbows—this sign is more pressing than just discoloration. At that point, taking action is vital for both safety and the pool’s structural health.
Sign #6: Significant Leaks
A gradual drop in your water line can indicate normal evaporation or minor splashout. However, if you must constantly refill your pool to stay at the correct level, leaks could be forming through cracks, aged plaster, or deteriorated seals. Untreated leaks often harm the pool’s foundation and can even affect surrounding deck areas.
Leaks tend to be one of the bigger red flags compared to surface stains or mild roughness. Addressing them quickly with certified repairs and new finishes keeps long-term repair expenses down and protects the entire property from water damage.
Sign #7: Outdated or Discolored Finishes
Colors that look faded and finishes that appear decades old can make your pool less inviting. Sun exposure and harsh chemicals cause many surfaces to lose their original luster. In some cases, the finish can become mottled, resulting in uneven color patches.
Though an outdated look might not be as urgent as a structural crack, letting it go often overlaps with more hidden issues. If your surface is old enough that the color is completely worn down, consider selecting a modern finish by visiting our Selecting a Surface: Pool Surfaces resource to find attractive, long-lasting options.
Sign #8: Excessive Chemical Use
Maintaining correct chemical levels plays a major role in your pool’s durability. If you notice you’re using significantly more chemicals than usual to keep the water balanced, it might be because the aging surface is leaching minerals or reacting poorly to standard treatments. According to Cognitive Market Research (2023), improper water chemistry accounts for up to 50% of premature surface failures.
Needing more chlorine, pH balancers, or algaecides over time also implies that cracks and tiny holes exist where algae or bacteria might hide. When chemical adjustments stop being enough, it’s best to consider a new surface that’s less porous and more resistant to water penetration.
Choosing the Right Resurfacing Material
When it’s time to tackle any of these warning signs, selecting the correct finish sets the stage for a longer-lasting pool. Common materials such as plaster, pebble, and quartz differ in both cost and durability. Plaster can be budget-friendly but may require resurfacing more often, whereas pebble or quartz finishes offer a higher initial cost but a significantly extended lifespan.
Environmental conditions matter, too. Areas with frequent temperature shifts may call for surfaces that are resistant to cracking, while sunny climates might benefit from finishes designed to withstand UV rays. Balancing cost, style, and longevity often leads to the best outcome for your backyard retreat.
Wrapping Up
Monitoring your pool for peeling plaster, stains, rough textures, cracks, leaks, and other signs of damage helps you stay ahead of major repairs. Addressing these issues before they spiral into structural failures can save on costs and preserve your investment in the long run. If you’re ready to take the next step, feel free to contact our team for a professional assessment and enjoy a worry-free swimming experience.
With a well-planned resurfacing strategy, your pool can remain a source of relaxation, fun, and pride for many years.
References
Cognitive Market Research. (2023). Swimming Pool Market Report. https://www.cognitivemarketresearch.com/swimming-pool-market-report
Alan Smith Pools. (n.d.). Signs Your Pool Needs Resurfacing & How to Tell It’s Time for an Upgrade. https://alansmithpools.com/signs-your-pool-needs-resurfacing-how-to-tell-its-time-for-an-upgrade/
