Is your pool showing its age? Here are 7 clear signs it’s time to resurface your pool and avoid costly repairs:
- Flaking or Peeling Surface: Thin layers of plaster coming off, especially on the pool floor and steps, often caused by imbalanced water chemistry.
- Stubborn Stains: Persistent discoloration that resists cleaning and appears on rough or pitted surfaces.
- Rough Pool Surface: Scratchy textures that cause discomfort, often due to chemical imbalances or aging materials.
- Surface Cracks: Hairline or structural cracks that grow over time, signaling deeper issues.
- Color Changes: Faded, blotchy, or uneven discoloration indicating material breakdown.
- Unexplained Water Loss: Losing more than 1/4 inch of water daily could point to leaks or structural issues.
- Worn Pebble Finish: Loose pebbles, scaling, or discoloration on pebble surfaces, often caused by poor maintenance.
Why it matters: Resurfacing improves safety, prevents structural damage, and keeps your pool looking great. Most pool surfaces last 8–10 years, so spotting these signs early can save you money.
Quick Tip: Test your pool’s water chemistry weekly, inspect for cracks or rough spots monthly, and schedule a professional inspection annually to catch problems early.
10 Signs It’s Time To Resurface Your Pool Plaster
1. Flaking or Peeling Surface
If you notice your pool’s surface flaking or peeling, it’s a clear indicator that resurfacing might be needed. This often shows up as thin layers of plaster coming off, particularly on the pool floor and steps.
Where to Check
Pay close attention to these areas:
- The pool floor, especially the deeper sections
- Steps and entry points
This issue, known as spalling, is usually caused by imbalanced water chemistry. Low pH levels are a common trigger.
Why It Matters
When the surface peels, it exposes the underlying structure, leaving it more susceptible to damage from chemicals and water imbalances. These factors are responsible for nearly half of all premature surface failures .
How to Prevent It
- Test and adjust your pool’s pH and calcium levels every week.
- Inspect the surface monthly, focusing on high-traffic spots.
If you spot flaking or peeling, keep in mind that this damage can’t be undone without resurfacing. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive – and costly – issues.
2. Stubborn Stains
Not every stain means you need to resurface your pool. It’s important to know which marks are harmless and which indicate more serious issues.
Types of Stains
Keep an eye out for stains that:
- Don’t respond to standard cleaning methods
- Reappear shortly after treatment
- Seem to come from beneath the surface
- Are accompanied by rough or pitted textures
Metal Stains vs. Surface Damage
Here’s a quick guide to help you differentiate between metal stains and potential surface damage:
| Metal Source | Appearance | Resurfacing Indicator |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Blue-green to teal | When paired with a rough texture |
| Iron | Dark red/orange, brown | If the stain originates from within the walls |
| Manganese | Pink to black | When it persists after cleaning |
| Calcium | White or gray deposits | If scaling cannot be removed |
Use these clues to decide if cleaning will do the trick or if resurfacing might be necessary.
When Stains Signal Problems
Stains that resist cleaning and show up on rough, pitted surfaces often point to deeper issues.
"Right away if you have staining on your pool plaster you should be asking yourself if this is a result of your plaster being old and worn out. If the plaster is rough to the touch then you have reached the end of the service life of your plaster and you need to explore having the pool resurfaced."
Testing and Treatment
1. Stain Assessment
- Use a professional stain identification kit to pinpoint the cause.
- If stains persist after targeted treatment, resurfacing may be your best option.
2. Surface Examination
- Check for rough or pitted textures, which often indicate worn-out plaster that attracts stubborn stains.
Warning Signs
These signs may suggest it’s time for resurfacing:
- Stains that remain even after acid washing
- Discoloration that matches internal structural elements
- Recurring stains despite maintaining balanced water chemistry
"Generally speaking, pool owners go to acid washing too often, usually as a result of service companies making the recommendation, but as a concrete pool builder I would strongly advise pool owners to avoid acid washing at all costs. A single acid wash of a pool plaster will reduce the smoothness and service life of the plaster by years."
- Surface becoming more porous over time
- Multiple wear indicators appearing simultaneously
- Persistent stains in areas that see a lot of use
3. Rough Pool Surface
A rough pool surface often means it’s time to consider resurfacing. Catching this issue early can save you from expensive repairs.
Run your hand over different parts of your pool, especially:
- Water returns and drains
- Steps and benches
- High-traffic areas
- Shallow end surfaces
If you feel scratchy textures that cause discomfort, it’s a clear sign that the surface is wearing down.
Why Pool Surfaces Become Rough
Roughness usually stems from chemical and environmental factors. Here’s a breakdown:
| Cause | Indicator | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Imbalance | Etched, pitted surface | Speeds up wear and tear |
| Age-Related Wear | General roughness | Reduces comfort and safety |
| Calcium Buildup | Scaling, rough patches | Damages surface integrity |
| Weather Exposure | Uneven texture | May weaken structural stability |
Proper chemical balance plays a big role in keeping your pool surface smooth and durable.
Key Chemical Levels to Watch
To prevent surface damage, aim for a pH level of 7.4–7.6 and total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm. When these levels are off, etching can occur, leading to a rough texture.
"When pH or alkalinity levels are too low, the water becomes corrosive and starts to eat away at plaster or concrete finishes. Over time, this etching effect creates a rough, pitted texture that can be uncomfortable and may lead to further surface deterioration." – Aqua Creations
Surface Lifespan and Material Differences
The type of material your pool is made from affects how long it stays smooth. For instance, plaster surfaces often begin to feel rough after 5–10 years, signaling it’s time for resurfacing before the damage worsens.
Tips to Keep Your Pool Smooth
- Test water chemistry every week
- Correct chemical imbalances as soon as possible
- Use a sequestering agent to manage calcium buildup
- Schedule a professional inspection annually
- Clean surfaces with the right tools
4. Surface Cracks
Cracks in your pool can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious structural problems. Understanding the type of crack you’re dealing with is key when deciding if resurfacing is the right solution. Building on the earlier discussion about surface roughness, let’s dive deeper into cracks and their impact.
Types of Pool Surface Cracks
Each crack type reveals something about the pool’s condition:
| Crack Type | Appearance | Cause | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface (Hairline) | Thin, spider web-like, shallow | Temperature shifts, chemical imbalance | Monitor; resurfacing may be needed |
| Structural | Wide, deep, spans length/width | Ground movement, poor construction | Seek immediate professional help |
| Active | Expanding or changing shape | Ongoing structural issues | Urgent professional repair |
Assessing Crack Severity
You can monitor a crack’s progression with these steps:
- Mark the crack’s ends with a pencil.
- Take photos for reference.
- Revisit in 3-5 days to check for growth.
If the crack extends beyond your marks, it’s classified as "active" and needs immediate attention.
Common Causes
Cracks can form due to several factors, including:
- Concrete shrinking as it cures.
- Significant temperature swings.
- Natural settling of the pool over time.
- Hydrostatic pressure from groundwater.
Prevention and Maintenance
To minimize the risk of cracks:
- Regularly test and balance pool chemicals.
- Properly winterize your pool to protect it during colder months.
- Address structural concerns promptly with a professional.
When Resurfacing Becomes Necessary
Sometimes, cracks persist despite your best efforts. Consider resurfacing if you notice:
- Hairline cracks spreading across the pool surface.
- Cracks reappearing after being patched.
- Signs of water leaking around the cracks.
- Rough, uneven areas forming near crack edges.
Catching these signs early can save you money and prevent more severe damage down the line.
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5. Color Changes
Discoloration in your pool’s surface isn’t just about appearance – it can signal deeper chemical or material issues that may affect its integrity. While some color changes are harmless and temporary, others hint at potential damage.
Types of Discoloration
Different color patterns can point to specific problems with your pool surface:
| Color Change | Likely Cause | Action Needed? |
|---|---|---|
| White/Light Film | Mineral scaling on the surface | No |
| Blue/Green/Black | Stains from copper or manganese | Maybe |
| Red/Orange/Black | Stains from iron | Maybe |
| Faded/Blotchy Areas | Material breakdown and pigment loss | Yes |
How to Identify Permanent Damage
To check if discoloration is permanent, try this simple test:
- Brush the affected area thoroughly.
- Wait 24 hours.
- If the discoloration remains, it’s likely due to material breakdown.
Watch for Chemical Imbalance
Chemical imbalances in your pool water can cause irreversible damage. As noted by experts:
"Aggressive water chemistry includes water with low calcium hardness, low pH, low carbonate alkalinity, or a combination of these."
"The resulting color loss is irreversible once bad water chemistry causes pigment leaching – even the leaching of an eighth inch (1/8″) in depth will cause the loss of pigment and ruin the finish!"
Tips to Prevent Discoloration
To keep your pool surface in good condition:
- Test water weekly to check for metals and hardness levels.
- Adjust chemical levels promptly if they are out of range.
- Use chelating agents or sequestrants if your water supply has a high metal content.
Consistent monitoring of your pool’s surface and water chemistry can help you address issues early and avoid costly repairs.
When to Think About Resurfacing
Consider resurfacing your pool if you notice:
- Uneven fading across large areas.
- Persistent blotchy discoloration, even after cleaning.
- White patches indicating complete pigment loss.
- Multiple types of staining appearing at once.
Catching these signs early can save you from more extensive damage. If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, consult a professional to explore resurfacing options.
6. Unexplained Water Loss
If your pool’s water level drops more than usual, it could point to structural issues that may require resurfacing.
Normal vs. Excessive Water Loss
On average, evaporation causes about 1/4 inch of water loss per day. However, if you’re losing an inch or more daily, it could mean there’s a leak.
How to Perform the Bucket Test
The bucket test is a simple way to check for leaks. Here’s how to do it:
-
Set Up the Test
- Fill a 5-gallon bucket about three-quarters full with water.
- Place the bucket on the first or second step of the pool to keep it steady.
- Mark the water level on both the bucket and the pool wall.
- Turn off the pool’s filtration and refill systems.
-
Observe the Results
- After 24 hours, compare the water levels. If the pool’s water level drops more than the bucket’s, there’s likely a leak.
Signs of Surface-Related Leaks
Leaks often leave visible clues. Keep an eye out for these:
| Area to Inspect | What to Look For | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Pool Surface | Cracks or damaged tiles | Water is escaping through these points. |
| Pool Deck | Uneven or sunken sections | Water may be saturating the ground beneath. |
| Surrounding Yard | Wet spots or unusually green grass | Pool water might be seeping into the soil. |
These signs can also disrupt your pool’s water chemistry.
How Water Loss Affects Pool Chemistry
Losing too much water can throw off your pool’s chemical balance. This leads to unstable water quality and drives up maintenance efforts.
Advanced Leak Detection Techniques
If the bucket test suggests a leak, you can narrow down the problem with these steps:
- Use a leak detection dye near cracks or suspected problem areas.
- Temporarily seal return jets and skimmer lines to isolate the source of the leak.
- Compare water levels with the filtration system both on and off.
Excessive water loss is more than a nuisance – it can signal structural damage that might require resurfacing. Acting quickly to identify and address leaks can save your pool from further issues. If you’re unsure, a professional inspection can confirm whether resurfacing is the right solution.
7. Worn Pebble Finish
A worn pebble finish affects both the appearance and functionality of your pool. PebbleTec finishes can last over 20 years with proper care. However, there are clear signs that indicate when maintenance has fallen short and resurfacing is needed.
Signs of Wear to Watch For
| Warning Sign | Description | Severity Level |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Scaling | White, chalky deposits forming on the surface | Moderate to Severe |
| Discoloration | Uneven coloring or fading of the finish | Moderate |
| Spalling | Pebbles becoming loose or falling out | Severe |
| Surface Roughness | Abrasive texture beyond the normal feel | Moderate |
| Structural Cracks | Deep cracks penetrating the finish | Severe |
The Role of Water Chemistry
Imbalanced pool chemistry can speed up the wear and tear on a pebble finish. To slow down this process, keep these chemical levels in check:
- pH: Aim for a level between 7.2 and 7.8.
- Calcium Hardness: Regularly monitor to avoid scaling or etching.
- Alkalinity: Test frequently for stability.
When to Call a Professional
A professional inspection is the best way to get an accurate assessment of your pool’s condition. Certain changes in texture or color can point to deeper issues that need attention.
Check for Rough Patches
- Run your hand along the pool walls to feel for areas that are unusually rough.
Inspect for Color Changes
- Look for discoloration, fading, or dark spots, which could signal delamination or other damage.
Maintenance or Resurfacing?
Not all surface issues require resurfacing. Some can be managed with regular maintenance, but knowing the difference is key.
What You Can Do:
- Brush your pool regularly with a nylon brush and maintain proper water chemistry to prevent scaling.
- If you notice loose pebbles, widespread discoloration, or structural cracks, resurfacing is likely needed.
- Bring in a professional to inspect and address both surface and structural concerns.
Poor installation can make these problems worse over time, so a professional evaluation is essential to determine the right course of action.
Conclusion
A well-maintained pool surface not only enhances property value but also ensures the safety of your family. Since most pools need resurfacing every 8–10 years, spotting potential issues early can save you from costly, extensive repairs later. This guide highlights the importance of addressing problems promptly and making informed decisions.
Making the Right Decision
Identifying surface problems early is crucial. As detailed in the guide, the lifespan of pool surfaces varies: vinyl liners typically last 5–9 years, tile and stone surfaces 8–12 years, and fiberglass should be inspected after about 10 years.
"The quicker you discover damage and make plans to resurface a fiberglass pool, the easier (and cheaper) the process is likely to be." – California Pools
Professional Assessment
Scheduling regular professional inspections can help maintain your pool’s condition by catching issues early and avoiding expensive repairs. Professionals can pinpoint problems, determine the right time for resurfacing, and ensure the surface is prepared correctly.
"…homeowners should consider pool resurfacing as part of a long-term investment that adds both intrinsic and real-world value to the property." – California Pools
FAQs
What are the signs that my pool needs resurfacing, and how can I tell them apart from normal wear and tear?
It’s common for pools to show signs of aging over time, but certain issues indicate it’s time for resurfacing rather than just routine maintenance. Here are the key signs to watch for:
- Persistent stains: If stains don’t come off with regular cleaning, they may be embedded in the surface.
- Cracks or leaks: A growing number of cracks or a consistently dropping water level could mean the surface needs repair.
- Rough textures: If the pool surface feels rough or is flaking, it’s a sign the plaster or finish is breaking down.
- Pebble loss: For pebble-finished pools, losing pebbles is a clear indication that resurfacing is needed.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s worth consulting a professional to assess whether resurfacing is necessary to restore your pool’s appearance and functionality.
What happens if I put off resurfacing my pool after noticing signs of damage?
Delaying pool resurfacing can lead to serious and costly problems. Minor issues like cracks or rough surfaces can worsen over time, potentially causing structural damage, water leaks, or even safety hazards for swimmers.
Addressing these signs early not only helps maintain your pool’s functionality and appearance but also prevents the need for more expensive and time-consuming repairs down the line. Taking action sooner rather than later can save you money and extend the life of your pool.
How often should I have my pool inspected to keep the surface in good condition?
It’s a good idea to schedule a professional pool inspection at least once a year to ensure the surface and overall structure remain in top condition. Regular inspections can help identify early signs of wear, such as cracks, discoloration, rough patches, or water leaks, which might require resurfacing sooner than expected.
While most pools typically need resurfacing every 8–10 years, factors like sunlight exposure, chemical use, and maintenance habits can impact this timeline. Staying proactive with annual inspections can save you money in the long run and help maintain your pool’s functionality and appearance.