What is pool plaster?

Pool plaster is a cement-based coating sprayed or troweled onto the interior walls and floor of a pool shell to create the finished surface you see and touch. This material bonds to the underlying concrete, shotcrete, or other structural base and serves both functional and cosmetic purposes: it seals the pool against water loss, provides a smooth swimming surface, and gives the pool its color and appearance.

Most pool plaster systems consist of white Portland cement mixed with aggregate and pigments. The plaster cures over several days after application and must be properly maintained during that period to ensure quality. When installed correctly, plaster typically lasts 8 to 15 years depending on water chemistry, usage, climate, and maintenance.

Over time, pool plaster degrades due to acid attack from imbalanced water chemistry, freeze-thaw cycles in colder climates, UV exposure, and general wear. Microscopic cracks and pitting begin to show, algae may stain the surface, and the plaster eventually loses its seal and structural integrity. Once deterioration becomes visible, pool remodeling and resurfacing contractors can remove the old plaster and apply a fresh coat to restore the pool's appearance and functionality.