Pebble Tec or other pebble-like finishes are popular choices for pool owners. There are many benefits to using these types of finishes. Their durability is often longer than traditional plaster or cement finish, and they are scratch-resistance and heat-resistance.
With so many finishes to choose from, they can transform your swimming pool into a spa-like retreat. Pebble Tec® surfaces resemble the bottom of a creek or a river because they are largely composed of pebbles.
Due to their resistance to algae and other organic compounds, Pebble Tec pools are easier to clean and maintain than other finishes. However, despite its advantages, this type of surface also has some disadvantages.
The fact is that all of these problems can be easily resolved, such as keeping the water chemistry of your swimming pool balanced. However, on rare occasions, homeowners tend to face some other problems as well.
In this article, I will discuss all these common problems with Pebble Tec pools and how you and your family can solve them to create a nice pool you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
Common Pebble Tec Problems Explained
Pool owners often turn to Pebble Tec finish for their pools, but the products are not without faults. Let’s see some common problems you may encounter.
1. Quite Expensive
There are some issues with this new craze, but people seem to love it. Unfortunately, Pebble finish pools are very expensive, and not everyone can afford them. This may also be why pool owners with Pebble Tec finish become upset quickly when something goes wrong.
2. Pebble Tec Discoloration
There is no erosion or pitting in a properly installed Pebble Tec system. Pebble Tec discoloration is due to the improper use of chemicals. Do not pour acid on the floor, nor do you leave chemicals on the floor for too long.
You will have a 5-year warranty on Pebble Tec products. Request support from Pebble Tec online if your pool builder does not assist you. There is a possibility that you might not get what you thought you would get.
3. Issues With Spalling
In addition, Pebble Tec runs into the problem of spalling, which occurs when a thin layer of plaster is peeled off as if it were fruit skin at the bottom. There can be several causes for this, including over-troweling or making mistakes along the way.
This can also happen when too much water is added whilst troweling. In cases where the spalling has gone too far, the entire affected area may have to be replastered. If the thin spalled area is not replastered, it can be sanded instead.
4. Pebble Tec Coming Off
These light surface cracks are also sometimes referred to as craze cracks. In most cases, shrinkage causes surface cracks or craze cracks. In addition, the plaster in your home may have also developed cracks due to settling.
Pebble Tec has many complications, but one of them is the slight possibility of water leaking through surface cracks. Nevertheless, you should fix the cracks as quickly as possible. Here’s why.
Additionally, if you leave cracked surfaces unattended, you will foster algae and staining, as well as calcium nodules. This requires immediate replastering.
5. Cracks In The Structure
I am not referring to cracks that may appear on the surface of an object. I am talking about cracks in the shell of the pool. Pools crack when they are improperly designed or constructed.
For this reason, it is imperative that your pool is designed and constructed correctly in order to withstand expansive or unstable soil. A pool constructed incorrectly or incorrectly engineered will leak water and fail structurally.
Due to the exposed surface feature, the surface of the Pebble Tec pool is rougher than plaster. Pebble Tec claims this problem is due to the wrong installation of the finish.
There are many complaints about Pebble Tec surfaces being rough to walk on. People are forced to wear water shoes on these surfaces. This is, indeed, true.
In contrast, environmental conditions such as crazing, delamination, and rising pH will generate pitting and calcium nodules, making the surface less pliable.
There are several ways to handle this problem, including sanding, shaving, and acid washing. In addition, a replastering of your pool may be necessary if the roughness returns quickly.
6. Pebble Tec Scaling Issue
Scaling (white haze) on the pool finish surface is due to poor water chemistry and is frequently encountered as a maintenance issue. To prevent scale from building up in your swimming pool or spa, you need to maintain the water’s chemistry.
In addition to attracting dirt and debris, the scale build-up can also deteriorate your finish. Warranty coverage does not apply to scale removal. Chemical treatments are usually used to get rid of the scale.
To remove the scale from your pool, you may have to drain it and/or use chemicals and/or a pressure washer. Authorized application companies typically offer this service.
Our recommendation is to test and balance your pool water at least once a week. Even if the pool is being cared for by a pool service company, it is recommended to regularly test the water at a retail pool supply store.
Incorrect water chemistry is also responsible for concerns such as etching, discoloring, algae formation, and staining. Therefore, maintaining the correct water chemistry is of the utmost importance.
Your pool finish will be more durable and beautiful if you do. Maintaining a clean filter and ensuring that all return outlets circulate the water in a clockwise direction will result in less staining and scaling of the finish.
7. Pebble Tec Discoloration Issue
A pool with this problem becomes unattractive much sooner than you expect. Pool surfaces are typically porous, so they will strain much more quickly than you think.
Additionally, improper water chemistry is at fault, but frequent straining may also indicate faulty installation.
Any discoloration on your pool surface can be removed with an acid wash. Water testing and treatment should be performed regularly to prevent any discoloration.
If water is found to be imbalanced, testing it weekly is essential, and making the necessary adjustments should also be done if necessary.
8. Scaling Problem aka White Haze
The most common cause of this on pool finish surfaces is improper water chemistry (poor pH, calcium, alkalinity, etc.) of the pool. Additional problems will result from the build-up of scale.
The finish can become discolored if debris is trapped beneath it. They do not offer any scale removal service in their warranty, which makes it worse. Maintaining your pool regularly, such as brushing the walls, will prevent the problem for a long time.
Pebble Tec Pool Repairs
It is not uncommon for pebble finishes to have some loose stones during settlement. It may not matter if there is a small number of missing stones, but if a large area becomes loose, it can become unsightly.
Repairs to Pebble Tec pools are traditionally done after the pool has been drained. However, further damage can result if the hot sun shines directly down on the finish.
Structural cracks are always a concern if you drain a swimming pool entirely. Contact a professional for concrete pebble repair for safety’s sake.
1. Is Pebble Tec rough on the feet?
Pebble pool surfaces are often criticized because of their texture, not because of their design, but because of their comfort. Pebble size can contribute to the roughness. Smaller, high-quality pebbles will have a smoother surface.
In spite of this, however, pebble pool finishes have a particular texture that adds to their appeal. Additionally, pebble surfaces are non-slip, durable, reliable, and long-lasting.
2. Is Pebble Tec worth the money?
The Pebble Tec finish creates a modern, natural, and clean look, along with creative design work. The pebbles of the pool are seen through the water, and they further accentuate the pool’s color.
The cost of this material is higher than the cost of plaster, but it is considered the highest quality available.
3. How long does a Pebble Tec pool last?
Taking proper care and maintaining a Pebble Tec surface should extend its useful life by 20+ years. Plaster pools require replastering approximately once every five years. So, in the long run, Pebble Tec is worth applying.
Diamond Brite and Florida Stucco Gem surfaces lack the durability of Pebble Tec when exposed to chemicals like chlorine that is used to maintain sanitized water. Florida customers also have a lifetime warranty with Pebble Tec.
4. Why does Pebble Tec fall off?
As time passes, a smaller amount of pebbles will be lost. It’s natural that some pebbles will come loose during the curing process.
5. What is the cost of repairing Pebble Tec?
Pebble Tec pool cost varies on a lot of factors. To keep it short, the cost of a simple resurfacing project will be somewhere between $6000 and $8000.
6. What is the best way to remove calcium deposits from Pebble Tec pools?
You can use any stain remover or scale remover to remove calcium deposits. In contrast, a pumice stone can be used to scrub the deposit off a tile or concrete pool surface.
7. Is Pebble Tec repairable underwater?
A simple repair can be done underwater if it’s just a small one. The majority of the time, however, you must temporarily drain your pool to make repairs.
Final Words
During the past decade, pebble pool surfaces have become more and more popular. Pool surfaces made of pebbles can have many advantages over plaster surfaces, although the surface has its own set of special considerations.
There are a variety of unique finishes available for these surfaces, including texture, color, and pattern. Providing excellent customer service and quality work has always been Pebble Tec’s goal and the reason for the lower number of Pebble Tec problems.
