Pool resurfacing cost is between $6,000 and $15,000. This will vary depending on your pool size, materials and location. In this article we will break it down for you so you can budget for your pool resurfacing.
Pool Resurfacing Cost Guide
Pool resurfacing cost is from $6,000 to $15,000, with location specific costs like Perth being $9,000 to $15,000. Several key factors affect these costs, pool size, material used for resurfacing and finish. Understanding these factors will help you budget and avoid unexpected costs.
Pool resurfacing also known as pool refinishing involves:
- Removing and replacing the top surface layer of the pool to restore its original appearance or as close to it as possible
- Making the pool look good
- Applying a new sealant to extend its life and structure
Your swimming pool’s overall health and beauty depends on regular resurfacing. It brings new life to an old worn out pool, making it look fresh and clean again. Above all resurfacing is crucial to the pool’s structure by preventing:
- leaks
- crack repairs
- stains
- rough surfaces
- algae growth
and other problems caused by a deteriorating surface.
Pool Resurfacing Cost Breakdown
Pool resurfacing cost is between $6,000 to $15,000 depending on the pool size, type and finish. The process involves removing and replacing the top layer of the pool surface to restore its original appearance and apply a new sealant. This will make the pool look good and extend its life.
Understanding the specifics that affect resurfacing cost is key. Pool size, type of pool and finish type are the main factors. These factors affect the materials and labour required and in turn the overall cost.
Pool Size
In pool resurfacing, pool size is a major factor. Larger pools require more materials and labour to resurface. Size and condition of the pool affects the overall resurfacing cost as more extensive repairs may be required for bigger pools.
Pool shape can also affect costs. Irregular shaped pools or those with steps or water features will require more work and therefore more expensive.
Pool Type
The type of pool you have also contributes to the resurfacing cost. Concrete pools are the most expensive to resurface, ranging from $6,000 to $15,000. This is because of the extensive labour and materials required to restore a concrete surface.
Vinyl pools are generally less expensive to resurface. But they can’t be resurfaced like fiberglass or concrete pools, often require a full liner replacement. So vinyl pools are the cheapest option to resurface.
Finish
Your choice of finish affects both the cost and lifespan of the resurfacing job. Paint is the cheapest option, $1 to $2 per square foot but has the shortest lifespan. Plaster is a mid range option, $6,000 to $8,000 per 1,000 square feet and lasts up to 10 years.
If you want a luxurious finish aggregate finishes like pebble or quartz is a good option, although it’s more expensive ranging from $6,000 to $15,000. Tile is the most expensive option, $30,000 per 1,000 square feet but has unmatched durability and aesthetics.
Material Breakdown
In a pool resurfacing project, material cost is a big chunk of the overall cost. Different materials have different costs and durability which will affect your decision. Vinyl pool liner replacement for example costs between $3,000 to $7,500 for an in-ground pool.
EcoFinish coating is another popular resurfacing material, costing between $10,000 to $15,000 for a medium sized pool.
Understanding these material costs will help you make an informed decision on what’s best for your pool.
Fiberglass Pool Resurfacing Cost
Fibreglass pool resurfacing costs between $5 to $10 per square meter, with the average cost for fibreglass pool resurfacing is around $6,500 per 1,000 square feet. Popular materials for resurfacing fibreglass pools are EcoFinish and PebbleTec and thermoplastic polymer coatings.
A new gel coat with a painted topcoat costs between $1,000 to $1,200 for fibreglass pools.
Professional resurfacing service for a 6 x 2.5 meter fibreglass pool ranges from $2,100 to $3,200. The original gelcoat in a fibreglass pool degrades over time due to chemical and UV exposure and needs resurfacing.
Concrete Pool Resurfacing Cost
For a 9 x 4 meter concrete pool, professional concrete pool resurfacing costs range from $6,000 to $9,000. Costs may vary depending on the type of concrete finish and extent of repairs.
Vinyl Pool Resurfacing Cost
Resurfacing a vinyl pool costs between $1,000 to $3,500 per 1,000 square feet. The smallest vinyl pool liner replacement costs around $8,500, larger ones with multiple extras can cost up to $15,000. Sometimes minor repairs for leaks can be done instead of full replacement which can be a cost effective option.
Other Cost Factors
Other factors can also affect the cost of resurfacing. Geographical location for example affects supply and demand which affects material and labour cost. Location of the pool on the property can also affect the cost especially if there are obstacles that will make it difficult to transport materials and machinery.
Job complexity such as custom design and older concrete condition can cause variations in the final cost. All pool surface finishes can be affected by unbalanced water which can cause damage over time.
Labour Cost
Labour cost for pool resurfacing varies depending on geographical location and job complexity between $45 to $65 per hour. In warmer climates where pool usage is more frequent, labor cost may be higher. Complex jobs that requires more detailed work can further increase the cost.
Draining, Cleaning and Refilling
The preparation stage including draining and cleaning the pool is often the noisiest and dustiest part of the resurfacing process. Homeowners can save cost by doing this themselves, average cost to drain and clean a pool is between $600 to $650.
Refilling a pool after resurfacing costs around $55 per 5,000 gallons.
Customisations and Add-Ons
While add-ons like pool heaters, lighting and waterfalls can enhance the look and functionality of a resurfaced pool, they also add to the cost. Here are some examples of additional features and their cost:
- Installing LED pool lights: around $625 per light
- New pool heater installation: $1,700 to $4,000
- Custom features like steps and ledges: add to labour time and cost
Please take note of these additional cost when planning your inground pool renovation.
Cost Comparison of Different Finishes
When choosing a finish for your pool resurfacing project, cost and lifespan varies. Here are your options:
- Painting a pool is the cheapest option, $1 to $2 per square foot, but only lasts 5 to 7 years.
- Plaster is a mid-range option, $4 per square foot and lasts up to 10 years.
- Pebble tec is the high-end option, $10 per square foot and lasts up to 20 years.
Aggregate finishes like pebble gives a luxurious look and long lifespan, $7,000 to $15,000 and 15 to 20+ years. Tile finish is the most expensive, $8,000 to $30,000+ but also the most durable, 30+ years.
Paint
Pool paint is the cheapest material, around $1 per square foot. However it requires the most maintenance to prevent fading, chipping and peeling which can be affordable but time consuming for repairs.
Epoxy paint is an option for fiberglass pool, $1 to $2 per square foot.
Plaster
Plaster is a mid-range cost material for pool resurfacing, $4 per square foot. It gives a smooth finish and can last up to 10 years with proper maintenance.
Plaster is a good option for those who wants balance between cost and durability, that’s why it’s a popular choice among pool owners.
Aggregate Finishes
Aggregate finishes like pebble is a popular choice for those who wants luxurious look and long lasting durability. Cost of pebble pool resurfacing is around $8,000. These finishes has a lifespan of 15 to 20+ years, so it’s a cost effective in the long run.
Pebble Tec is more expensive but more durable and resistant to staining and chemicals.
Tile
Tile finish is the most expensive but also the most durable option for pool resurfacing. Cost range for tile finish for concrete/gunite and fiberglass pools is $4 to $30 per square foot. A fully tiled pool cost around $18,000. Fully tiled pool is the most durable and long lasting, 30+ years.
Tiles makes water maintenance easier and cheaper because of its smooth surface.
DIY vs. Professional Pool Resurfacing
The choice between DIY and professional pool resurfacing requires weighing the pros and cons. DIY pool resurfacing can save on labour cost but requires time, effort and expertise. Without proper training, DIY projects can cause more damage and cost more to fix the problems.
On the other hand, professional resurfacing has the following advantages:
- High quality results
- Workmanship guarantee
- Use of specialized tools
- Experience in handling complex resurfacing tasks
These factors makes professional resurfacing a more reliable option despite the higher upfront cost.
DIY Pool Resurfacing Costs
DIY pool resurfacing can save around $45 to $60 per hour on labor cost. Homeowners can save cost by using basic material like paint or plaster, DIY resurfacing kit cost from $300 to $1,000 depending on the pool size and material. But if the job is botched, you might end up paying more to fix the problem and complete the refinish than if you had hired a professional from the start.
Professional Pool Resurfacing Costs
Professional pool resurfacing services use specialized tools that homeowners don’t have, that’s why the finish is higher quality. Average cost for professional pool resurfacing is around $3,300, labor cost is between $45 to $110 per hour.
Hiring professionals may be more expensive upfront but it can prevent further cost from DIY mistakes.
Tips to Save Money on Pool Resurfacing
You can save on pool resurfacing by:
- Choosing a more affordable finish like Ecofinish
- Scheduling your project during off-peak season to save money because of lower demand
- Bundling services to get a better deal
These will help you save on pool resurfacing.
Bundling pool resurfacing with other maintenance tasks like lighting or decking can get you discounted rates from contractors. Consider all these to make your pool resurfacing project more affordable.
Cost Effective Materials
Choosing cost effective materials can greatly reduce your pool resurfacing cost. Plaster is one of the most affordable option, it’s smooth finish at a lower cost.
Thicker and more durable vinyl liners have higher upfront cost but can extend the pool’s life and save you money in the long run. Consider the long term maintenance cost of different materials to make a wise decision.
Timing Your Project
Timing your pool resurfacing project during off-peak season, like fall and winter can save you money because of lower demand. Contractors may offer discounts during these cooler months and off-season projects gets more attention. Scheduling your resurfacing during these times can get you lower contractor rates.
Bundling Services
Bundling your pool resurfacing with other maintenance tasks is a smart way to save. Combining resurfacing with acid washing or additional feature installation can get you discounted rates from contractors.
For example, while resurfacing you can also acid wash to clean surface stains, address severe stains that need replastering.
Signs Your Pool Needs Resurfacing
Knowing the signs your pool needs resurfacing helps you address the issue before it becomes a big problem. Here are common signs:
- Surface stains from copper, calcium or salt that can discolour the pool
- Rough texture
- Visible cracks that means wear and tear needs attention
Loss of pebbles in pebble finish or flaking plaster are also signs that resurfacing is needed. By addressing these issues early on you can maintain the pool’s structure and visual appeal.
Surface Stains and Discoloration
Discoloration and stains on pool surface can be big signs that resurfacing is needed. Pebble pools for example can trap calcium, stains and algae that can cause discoloration. Tiled pools are more prone to algae and calcium deposits in the grout that causes discoloration.
Topical stains and inorganic stains from metals like iron and copper can also cause discoloration that means resurfacing is needed.
Rough Texture and Cracks
Rough texture and visible cracks are common signs of wear and tear that means it’s time to resurface your pool. One downside of tiled pools is that tiles can fall off as the pool ages and can cause rough texture that’s uncomfortable and dangerous for swimmers.
Spider web-like cracks, called craze cracks, become more visible when the pool is drained and exposed to the sun that means structural wear needs attention.
Water Leaks
Frequent refilling of the pool means unseen structural cracks and water leaks. Persistent water leaks is a big concern and may require pool resurfacing to maintain the pool’s structure.
Addressing these leaks early on can prevent more costly repairs later on.
How Long Does Pool Resurfacing Take?
Pool resurfacing takes about 5 to 7 days depending on the scope of work and materials used. But if pool tiles and fittings are selected ahead of time, the resurfacing work can take 7 to 14 days. Weather can also extend the timeline up to 14 days.
The process of resurfacing your pool involves several steps including the initial water treatment and surface curing process. Here’s what to expect:
- Monitoring the pool for 7 days after resurfacing to ensure curing.
- Refill the pool with water once the resurfacing and curing process is done.
- Enjoy your newly resurfaced pool.
Get Accurate Quotes from Contractors
Getting quotes from contractors is crucial to get the best deal for your pool resurfacing project. Here’s how:
- Get at least 3 quotes with the same finishing materials.
- Choose a company that resurfaces pools not just cleans.
- Look for APSP members.
- Select only licensed, bonded and insured pool companies.
Getting multiple quotes helps to get a competitive price for pool resurfacing. Here’s how:
- Contact pool renovation companies.
- Ask for a free, detailed quote from each company.
- Compare the quotes to get a more accurate estimate for your project.
Questions to Ask Contractors
When you interview contractors, ask if they are licensed and insured so they meet local regulations and liability. Ask about their APSP membership as it means they follow industry standards.
How long have they been in business and ask for references from recent resurfacing projects to check their track record and customer satisfaction.
Comparing Quotes
Make sure each quote has a detailed breakdown of costs including materials, labour and any additional fees for easy comparison. Check how each contractor accounts for changes in material costs or project scope in their quotes so you can make an informed decision and choose the best value.
Conclusion
In short, pool resurfacing is essential for maintaining your pool’s appearance and structural integrity. Pool size, type, and finish affect the total resurfacing cost. Understanding these factors, along with labor and material costs, can help you budget effectively and avoid surprise expenses.
By following the tips in this guide, such as choosing cost-effective materials, timing your project well, and bundling services, you can save on your pool resurfacing project. Whether you DIY or hire professionals, the key is to make smart decisions to keep your pool looking great.
To ensure you get the best results and value for your money, get a detailed quote from Eco Style Pools. Contact us today and take the first step towards a beautifully resurfaced pool.
FAQs
What affects pool resurfacing cost?
Pool size, type, finish type, location, labour cost and job complexity are the primary factors that affect pool resurfacing cost.
How often should I resurface my pool?
You should resurface your pool every 10 to 15 years to keep it intact and looking great. That way you can avoid leaks and structural issues.
Can I save by resurfacing my pool myself?
Yes, DIY pool resurfacing can save on labor cost but it requires time, effort and expertise. You should consider the risk of mistakes that can cost more to fix.
What is the most cost effective material for pool resurfacing?
For cost effective pool resurfacing use paint as it’s the cheapest at around $1 to $2 per sq ft. But it has the shortest lifespan among other materials.
How long does pool resurfacing take?
5-7 days but can be up to 14 days. Depends on the project and weather.
