Deciding Between Pebble and Quartz Pool Finishes

It can be difficult to choose between popular choices like pebble and quartz. Both offer beautiful, shimmering surfaces that can enhance your backyard oasis. But they each have unique benefits and drawbacks to consider before making a final decision.

Read on for an in-depth look at the pros and cons of each finish so you can determine which is best for your pool project.

What is Pebble Pool Finish?

Pebble finish, also called pebbletec, is made up of natural pebbles set in either plaster or polymer-modified plaster. The pebbles come in a wide variety of sizes, usually from 1/16 to 3/8 inches across. Shapes can range from rounded to angular. This variety in pebble size and form provides an organic, customizable look.

Pebble aggregates are available in virtually any color imaginable. Popular hues include blues, greens, browns, tans, reds, grays and white. Vibrant mixes with multiple colors blended together are also an option. This broad color palette allows for stunning artistic designs.

Pros of Pebble Finish

• Natural, customizable pebblestone appearance
• Available in wide variety of colors and styles
• Less expensive than many other pool finishes
• Long lifespan of up to 20 years

Cons of Pebble Finish

• Rough texture can be difficult to clean thoroughly
• Prone to chipping, cracking and fading
• Not as durable or stain resistant as quartz

What is Quartz Pool Finish?

Quartz pool finish contains factory-blended quartz aggregates, cement and admixtures that create a smooth, glass-like surface. Standard quartz finish uses white or light-colored quartz blended with white cement. This provides a bright, clean backdrop for colored quartz aggregates and other accents.

Colored quartz finishes feature colored quartz blended with white or grey cement. Pigments can also be added to the cement to complement the quartz colors. There are a wide selection of rich tones to choose from like blues, greens, browns and tans.

Glass beads and seashells are sometimes combined with colored quartz for extra sparkle and interest. Quartz finishes can also incorporate custom designs, logos and lettering using quartz color blends.

Pros of Quartz Finish

• Extremely durable and resistant to stains
• Slip-resistant, smooth finish
• Requires less maintenance than pebble
• Available in wide selection of colors

Cons of Quartz Finish

• More expensive than pebble finish
• Shorter lifespan of around 10 years
• Limited color options compared to pebble

Comparing Durability of Pebble vs Quartz

When it comes to durability, quartz pool finish is the clear winner. The smooth quartz surface resists scratches, etching and stains better than the porous, natural pebbles. The uniform quartz blend creates a tougher, more cohesive surface compared to dispersed pebbles.

Quartz is less prone to chipping and cracking as well. Pebble finishes can develop "bald spots" where pebbles fall out over time. And exposure to pool chemicals slowly eats away at pebble surfaces.

However, pebble finish still offers decent durability when properly cared for. Handled with care, it can last up to 20 years. But the rough pebble texture shows wear and tear faster than quartz. Plus chemical imbalances degrade pebble rapidly.

Aesthetic Differences Between Pebble and Quartz

For homeowners seeking a natural stone look, pebble finish is often the preferred choice. The multi-sized and shaped pebbles offer tons of style options, from subtle earthy hues to vibrant colors and aggregates. It's easy to match pebble finishes to surrounding landscapes.

The organic variations in the pebbles provide more visual depth and dimension than uniform quartz. And light dances off the pebbles' contours for shimmering water effects. Quartz's smooth surface can appear one-dimensional by comparison.

On the other hand, quartz finish highlights dazzling colors and designs. Without rough pebble edges, the patterns and colors are more defined. And the glassy quartz surface seamlessly integrates custom logos and lettering.

Cost Comparison of Pebble vs Quartz Finishes

Across the board, quartz pool finishes tend to be more expensive than pebble finishes. Exact pricing depends on factors like:

• Type of quartz or pebble used
• Special color options
• Overall pool size
• Contractor rates in your area

But generally, you'll spend $1-3 more per square foot for quartz. Factory-blended quartz finishes cost $8-12 per square foot installed. Pebble runs $5-10 per square foot depending on aggregate and color choices.

Higher-end glass or seashell blended quartz can reach $15 per square foot. Unique quartz color designs also boost costs. Pebble offers greater color and style variety at a lower price point.

Keep in mind lifespan plays a role in long-term costs too. Pebble may need a $3-5k resurface 5-10 years before quartz. Calculate total 15-20 year costs for the most accurate comparison.

Maintenance Requirements for Pebble and Quartz

Overall, quartz finish requires less routine maintenance work than pebble. The glassy quartz surface prevents debris buildup and resists etching better than rough pebble textures.

With quartz, brushing is easier due to the smooth surface that won't harbor contaminants. And quartz's resistance to chemical staining means less frequent acid washing is required.

Pebble finish takes more work to keep clean since the varied texture traps dirt, oils, suntan lotions and other contaminants. The peaks and valleys provide ample harborage for algae and bacteria too. Staying on top of chemical balances and frequent brushing is key for sanitary pebble pools.

Is Pebble or Quartz More Slip Resistant?

Many factors beyond texture affect slip resistance, like surface porosity, aggregate size and chemical levels. But pebble's rougher overall texture provides more grip than quartz's smoothness.

However, specific quartz blends using larger aggregates can offer comparable traction. Barefoot-friendly quartz with a gently abrasive texture is also available. Talk to your contractor about quartz options that provide adequate slip resistance.

For children's areas, pebble may be the safer choice. The pebbles' irregular surface provides sure footing. Just note larger pebbles can be uncomfortable on small feet.

Both quartz and pebble hold up well to pool water's temperature fluctuations. However, light-colored quartz and pebble finishes tend to show more obvious temperature-related color changes.

As water heats up, lighter quartz and pebble surfaces take on a greenish blue tint in places. In colder water, the surfaces acquire a milky appearance. These variations in shading are more noticeable compared to darker aggregates.

Quartz color blends can also shift from their original tones when illuminated underwater. Variations in lighting conditions above the waterline impact color as well. It's smart to preview quartz samples in multiple settings.