How much does Pool plastering cost?

Based on 90 real quotes from businesses in United States.

$665

TYPICAL

$1375

$3880

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Yelp calculates estimated costs by gathering and analyzing real quotes provided to consumers by businesses on Yelp. Actual costs may vary.

Key takeaways

If you have a concrete pool, you’ll need to hire a replastering pro every 8–12 years
The cost of pool plastering depends on your pool’s size and local labor rates
If just a few cracks are showing in newer plaster, repairs are less expensive than replacement

Most inground swimming pools are made of concrete (in the form of shotcrete or gunite), sprayed on and allowed to harden into a solid shell at least 6 inches thick. The inner surface is then finished with plaster—which is both smoother and denser than concrete—to make the pool’s interior watertight. (Because plaster can dry out and crack when it isn’t submerged, a band of tile is usually added around the water line, while the exposed plaster surface remains underwater.)

That plaster finish is durable but not impervious to aging, and needs to be replaced with a fresh layer of plaster every 8–12 years. Because of the work and cost involved—and the fact that the pool must be drained before it can be replastered—pool maintenance costs for inground plaster pools are higher than for other types of pools, including fiberglass pools or those lined with vinyl.

When an old plaster surface is rough enough to make it unpleasant to touch with your hands or feet, it probably needs to be replaced. More obvious signs of wear include discoloration, flaking, or chips and cracks that expose the concrete layer below. If the surface of your concrete pool is showing any of these issues, it’s time to consider a new layer of plaster.

Swimming pool plastering requires the right equipment and expertise, so it’s not typically a DIY task for homeowners. It’s a good idea to consult with 2–3 swimming pool plastering professionals in your area, and get price quotes, before repairing the pool surface or seeking a new pool finish.

This article will cover the costs associated with hiring a pro for pool plastering.

Total pool plastering costs

The average cost of plastering an inground swimming pool falls in the $2,300–5,600 range, including materials and labor. Total pool resurfacing costs will depend largely on the size of your pool and where you live. Pool plastering professionals charge on a per-job basis, after determining the time and effort your pool will require.

The plastering process typically includes these tasks:

Drain the pool (see “Cost factors,” below)
Prep the pool for new plaster; fill any hollows, voids, and cracks
Acid-wash the pool walls (with muriatic acid or other chemicals)
Apply a bond coat (cement, sand, and resin) so the new plaster will adhere better
Apply plaster with trowels, giving it a smooth finish
Refill the pool and add proper chemicals

Pool plaster repair costs

If the plaster has just a few cracks, you may only need concrete pool plaster repair, as opposed to a full replastering. The pool may need to be partially drained, to below the damaged area, then repaired with pool-patching plaster. In some cases, it can be fixed with an underwater epoxy patch. The typical cost to repair small cracks is $110–300.

Cost factors

The following issues will have an impact on the total cost of plastering a pool.

Pool size. The total surface area—in square feet—will have the largest influence on the cost of replastering a concrete or gunite pool. The pool’s size affects both the amount of materials needed and labor involved in installing a new pool surface. The total cost usually works out to about $4–8 per square foot.

Type of plaster. Standard white plaster—or marble dust (marcite) plaster—has been the most common coating material for many years. Newer alternatives to plaster include colored quartz finishes, which cost 20–40% more than standard plaster, and aggregate pebble finishes like Pebble Tec, which can cost 50–150% more.

Draining and refilling pool. Make sure your pool builder or refinishing company advises you about the cost to drain, refill, and treat your pool’s water. The full process of draining and refilling usually costs $225–900, depending on the size of your pool and local water and chemical prices. This service should be included in a price quote for re-plastering or plaster repair, but ask if you aren’t sure.

Geographic location. Pool service rates can fluctuate depending on where you live. When compared to less competitive areas, prices for pool-renovation services can be 50–100% higher in expensive markets like Los Angeles or Houston.

Permits. In some areas, a permit is required for pool repairs, including replastering. The pool owner is responsible for any fees, but ask your plastering pro if they’re included in the price quote.

How to save money

These ideas may reduce your plastering costs.

Keep up maintenance. Taking care of your concrete pool is the best way to get 8–12 years of life from a plaster finish. This involves keeping the pool full of water (so plaster is fully submerged) and maintaining the water’s proper pH (acidity) balance. For ongoing maintenance, consider hiring a professional pool cleaner at an average rate of $20–50 per week. And it’s a good idea to hire a pro if you close your pool for winter.

Avoid plastering in the high season. Spring is when everyone with a pool wants to get it in shape for summer. All pool services, including plastering pros, fill up their calendars with plenty of work. It will be much more difficult to get competitive pricing when pros are busy.

Get more than one bid. Pool plastering can vary considerably in cost from one contractor to another. Talk with 2–3 pool plastering pros to secure the best prices.

FAQs

What does it cost to replaster a pool?

The average cost to replaster a pool ranges from $2,300–5,600 range, depending on the size and shape of your pool and price of services in the area where you live.

How long does pool plaster last?

The average lifespan of a concrete pool’s plaster surface is 8–12 years. After this time, you might notice areas of roughness, flaking, or other damage that indicate it’s time to resurface the pool. Fastidiously maintaining water chemistry can help to extend the plaster’s lifespan, so it’s a good idea to hire a pool cleaner for regular maintenance.

How much does it cost to skim a pool?

It’s a good idea to keep your pool skimmed, because sunken debris can stain the plaster or promote algae growth. Manual skimming is done by pool-cleaning companies, who typically charge $20–50 per week for ongoing maintenance. Your costs will depend on where you live, the size of your pool, and how much debris regularly falls from trees and surrounding shrubbery.

Find a swimming pool plastering professional in your area.

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