How Much Does It Cost to Resurface or Replaster a Pool?

Average Cost to Resurface a Pool

The cost to resurface a 1,000-square-foot pool is $1,000 with a vinyl liner and up to $6,500 for a gunite or fiberglass pool. But depending on the current state of your pool, you might need to completely replace its surface and base, which can cost $35,000 to $65,000. 

Below, we’ll look at the cost estimates when resurfacing a 1,000-square-foot pool. These estimates don’t address the cost of an above-ground pool repair.  

Gunite (Concrete) Pool Resurfacing

The average pool replastering cost for a gunite pool is up to $6,500. However, the type of finish you want for your concrete pool impacts your actual estimated cost. Most homeowners find that paint and plaster finishes are more affordable options, while aggregate, pebble, and tile are more durable but cost more.  

Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools cost up to $6,500 to resurface. Its available finishes include:

• Paint

• Aggregate

• Pebble

• Tile

Paint is the most inexpensive while the others are more durable and attractive yet still relatively costly. 

Vinyl-Lined

The only way to resurface a vinyl-lined pool is to repair or replace it. Repairing your pool will cost $100 to $500 for materials only and depends on the material’s thickness and durability. At the same time, the cost to replace a vinyl liner averages $1,000 to $3,500.

Pool Resurfacing Cost Factors

Pool Material

The material you choose impacts your pool resurfacing cost. It won't be as durable if you want a relatively inexpensive finish, but you’ll save on costs. On the other hand, if you prefer durable, attractive material, it’ll cost you more. However, you can enjoy a better appearance and a pool material with a longer lifespan. 

Pool Finish

The finish you want for your pool also plays a significant role in this project’s cost. If you choose to paint, it’ll cost significantly less overall than a tile finish.

In-Ground vs. Above-Ground

The type of pool you have will also decide your total cost since an in-ground pool costs more to resurface than an above-ground one. In-ground pool resurfacing costs$5,000, on average.

Labor

Labor charges vary from $45 to $65 an hour, depending on the work involved and your location. Most pros can complete the project in five days. However, labor costs for swimming pool resurfacing vary from region to region because the labor fees reflect the cost of living in an area. Additionally, if pools are rare near you, you can also pay more in labor fees and to source material. 

Draining

Not all homeowners will need to drain their pool if they’ve done it themselves. But, if you need to drain your pool, it’ll add $175 to $225 to your total price, depending on its size. 

Cleaning

On average, pool cleaning costs$250. However, if it's been empty or filled, but not cleaned, it may require a more thorough and costly cleaning. 

Refilling

Refilling your pool once it has been resurfaced is likely to cost around $55 per 5000 gallons, though local water prices can vary. 

Potential Repairs

If your pro needs to repair your pool before resurfacing it, you’ll pay more for this project in additional labor and material fees. 

Add-Ons

Extra features and accessories elevate your price. For example, if you want lights, you can expect $900 on average. Or, if you want a total makeover, expect to pay about $9,300 for the cost of pool remodeling.

Resurfacing Costs by Finish

Painting

The cost to paint your fiberglass or gunite pool is $1,500, including labor. While it’s a budget-friendly option, it will wear down and need frequent repainting.

Plaster or Marcite

The labor and material costs to finish a pool with plaster (also called marcite) are $5,500. While this is an inexpensive finish, it cracks, stains, has a rough texture, and wears down quickly.  

Tile

If you only need to touch up your pool’s tile finish by replacing missing or broken tiles, homeowners typically spend $50 for this DIY project. But if you’re looking to resurface your entire pool with tile, expect to pay at least $30,000. However, material type, need, and local labor costs determine your final price estimate.

Epoxy

Epoxy paint is worth considering if you have a fiberglass or concrete pool. It can give your pool a smooth and beautiful surface and typically costs $1,500. But this finish can take up to two weeks to cure and would need a bare shell to adhere correctly. 

Aggregate or Brand Name Finishes

Aggregated finishes are aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting but aren’t the best finish for comfort. It consists of pebbles, beads, stone, marble, or quartz mixed with water. The amount homeowners typically pay for this project depends on the material and brand. For example, Diamond Brite brand’s aggregated finish averages $5,000 while Pebble Tec, PebbleSheen, and BeadCrete are $9,000 to $13,000. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Swimming Pool Resurfacing Pro

While repairing a small crack or bubble in plaster may be feasible as a DIY project, we strongly recommend that you hire a local pool repair service to complete this work. Doing this work alone could take many months, and complications could arise. One of the most common errors is mixing plaster incorrectly or applying it under the wrong conditions.

But if you want to undertake this project, many products will list how much surface area they will cover to help you calculate how much plaster you need. If spot-treating, measure a foot or two out from the crack to ensure a complete seal.

On the other hand, a crew of professionals can have repair work done in days and have the specialized knowledge to apply a new pool lining correctly. Additionally, many installation companies will include warranties of various lengths. These agreements can reduce maintenance costs and remove the stress of finding a repair professional when future problems arise.

FAQs

How much do pool plaster repairs cost?

Depending on the extent of the plaster repair, a DIY fix can range from $30 to $500. Add $45 to $65 per hour for professional replastering.

It is recommended that even for minor repairs, the entire pool be replastered to prevent future problems and reduce other pool repair costs.

How often should I resurface my pool?

Plaster lasts anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Signs that you need to re-plaster include:

• cracks

• blemishes

• discoloration

• algae

• chalky residue

How much does it cost to resurface a pool deck?

Resurfacing concrete costs an average of $10 per square foot. There are many options available to refinish your concrete deck, including:

• Single-color stain: $4 per square foot

• Decorative overlay (multiple colors, polishing, and saw cuts): $10 per square foot

• Stamped (embeds, dividers, stencils, epoxy terrazzo): $15 per square foot