Quartz pool finishes in Palm Coast, FL

The middle ground between plaster and pebble

A quartz finish is plaster with crushed, colored quartz aggregate mixed in. The quartz is harder than the cement around it, so the surface resists etching, staining and wear better than plain white plaster. It still feels smooth underfoot, which is the main reason many Palm Coast families choose it over pebble.

Quartz is a popular upgrade for homeowners resurfacing for the second or third time. If your last plaster job roughened up sooner than you hoped, quartz is usually the first alternative a contractor will suggest.

Color options

Because the quartz is colored, these finishes can change the look of your water quite a bit. Common choices include:

• Light blues and whites for bright, Caribbean-style water.
• Mid blues and turquoise, which suit the screened lanais common across Palm Coast.
• Gray, charcoal and dark blue for deeper, more dramatic water that also warms up a little faster in the sun.

Darker colors can show some natural variation, often called mottling, as they cure. Many people like that look because it reads as natural. If you want a very even color, ask the contractor how the blend you're considering tends to cure.

How long does quartz last?

With balanced water and normal use, quartz typically lasts longer than plain plaster, though not usually as long as pebble. The biggest factor is water chemistry. A finish that sits in aggressive, low-pH water will wear faster no matter what it's made of, so it's worth having a reliable weekly service or test kit routine.

The resurfacing process

Quartz goes on much like standard plaster. The pool is drained, damaged finish is removed, the shell is prepped and repaired, and the quartz mix is troweled on. Some quartz finishes are then lightly acid-washed or polished to bring out the color. After refilling, a brushing and chemistry start-up keeps the new surface even.

Planning your project

When you talk to a contractor, ask to see a sample board and photos of filled pools in the colors you're considering. Ask how they handle the transition at steps, benches and light niches, and whether they recommend new waterline tile to match the new color.

Call (386) 291-5262 to be connected with a local quartz finish contractor for a free estimate.