When designing or renovating a pool, choosing the right finish is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. The pool finish not only affects the aesthetics but also plays a key role in the pool’s durability, comfort, and maintenance. Two popular pool finishes are Stonescapes and Pebble Tec, both known for their attractive appearance and longevity. In this article, we will compare Stonescapes vs Pebble Tec to help you find the perfect finish for your pool.
Overview of Pool Finishes
Pool finishes provide the outer layer that coats the interior of your pool. While traditional plaster has been a go-to for years, more modern finishes, like Stonescapes and Pebble Tec, offer improved durability, aesthetics, and texture. Both of these finishes use pebbles or aggregates mixed into plaster, but they differ in material, texture, and overall feel.
What is Pebble Tec?
Pebble Tec is a high-quality, pebble-based pool finish known for its natural, elegant look. It uses smooth, naturally tumbled pebbles, which are embedded into a cement-based finish. These pebbles give the pool surface a natural, stone-like texture, mimicking the look of a riverbed or natural lagoon.
Pebble Tec was one of the first brands to introduce pebble finishes to the market, and it remains a top choice due to its durability, beauty, and premium feel.
What is Stonescapes?
Stonescapes is another popular brand that uses pebble-based technology for pool finishes. It combines natural stone aggregates with plaster to create a surface that is durable, visually appealing, and versatile. Stonescapes offers a range of finishes, from small, smooth pebbles to larger, more textured aggregates. The variety of options allows for more customization in terms of texture, color, and feel.
While similar to Pebble Tec, Stonescapes has its unique offerings that cater to different preferences and budgets.
1.Aesthetic Appeal: Stonescapes vs Pebble Tec
When it comes to aesthetics, both Stonescapes and Pebble Tec offer stunning visual effects. However, each has its unique charm.
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Pebble Tec Aesthetic
Pebble Tec is prized for its natural appearance. The finish creates a more organic, natural environment, often resembling bodies of water like lakes or rivers. The pebbles give the pool a shimmering effect, especially in sunlight, as the different pebble colors interact with the water.
The variety of colors and blends available in Pebble Tec allows homeowners to achieve different styles, whether they want a lagoon-like oasis or a tropical paradise.
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Stonescapes Aesthetic
Stonescapes, on the other hand, provides a more customizable finish. While it also uses pebbles, it comes in a range of textures and aggregate sizes, from mini-pebble to larger pebble mixes. The mini-pebble version offers a smoother finish, which some users prefer for its comfort.
With Stonescapes, you also have the flexibility to choose from various colors, including vibrant shades that can make the water appear bluer or more aqua, giving the pool a modern, striking look.
2.Durability: Which Finish Lasts Longer?
Pool finishes must withstand constant water exposure, pool chemicals, and daily use. Both Stonescapes and Pebble Tec are known for their durability, but there are slight differences.
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Pebble Tec Durability
Pebble Tec is renowned for its long-lasting durability. The pebbles used in the finish are incredibly tough, and the cement base is formulated to resist cracks, chips, and wear. Pebble Tec finishes can last up to 15-20 years with proper maintenance, making them a smart investment for long-term pool owners.
The natural stones resist harsh pool chemicals and fluctuating temperatures, which can prolong the life of the finish. Regular cleaning and care will keep the Pebble Tec surface looking great for years.
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Stonescapes Durability
Stonescapes is also very durable, though its longevity depends on the specific finish you choose. Like Pebble Tec, Stonescapes is designed to resist wear and tear from pool chemicals and environmental factors. It provides excellent resistance to etching, cracking, and fading, ensuring the pool looks great for many years.
In some cases, Stonescapes finishes may offer slightly better durability for high-use pools or pools exposed to harsh conditions due to the variety of textures and materials used.
3.Comfort: Pebble Tec vs Stonescapes
Comfort is another key factor when selecting a pool finish. Some finishes feel rougher on the skin, while others provide a smoother, more pleasant surface.
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Pebble Tec Comfort
Pebble Tec’s standard finish can feel slightly rough underfoot, especially for swimmers sensitive to texture. However, Pebble Tec also offers a Pebble Sheen finish, which uses smaller pebbles for a smoother feel. This makes the surface more comfortable while still maintaining the natural look and durability.
Overall, Pebble Tec is considered comfortable for regular use, though it might feel rougher compared to other options like smooth plaster finishes.
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Stonescapes Comfort
Stonescapes offers multiple options for comfort. Its mini-pebble finish is popular for being smoother than traditional pebble surfaces, making it more comfortable for walking and lounging. If comfort is a top priority, the mini-pebble or smoother aggregate blends from Stonescapes may be the better choice.
The range of textures offered by Stonescapes gives homeowners more flexibility in choosing a finish that feels comfortable while maintaining an attractive appearance.
4.Installation: Ease and Time
Proper installation is crucial to ensure the longevity and appearance of your pool finish. Both Pebble Tec and Stonescapes should be installed by professionals familiar with these finishes.
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Pebble Tec Installation
Pebble Tec requires specialized installation by licensed installers who are trained by the manufacturer. This ensures that the finish is applied correctly, with proper pebble distribution and surface smoothing. The process is relatively straightforward but must be done with care to ensure an even, long-lasting finish. Once installed, the curing process can take a few days to a week, depending on weather conditions.
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Stonescapes Installation
Stonescapes also requires professional installation, though it may offer more flexibility in terms of contractor selection. Like Pebble Tec, the application process involves mixing pebbles or aggregates with plaster and applying it evenly to the pool’s surface. The curing time for Stonescapes is similar to Pebble Tec, but the exact duration may vary depending on the specific finish chosen.
5.Cost: Pebble Tec vs Stonescapes
Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing between two high-quality finishes. Both Pebble Tec and Stonescapes are premium options, but they come at different price points.
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Pebble Tec Cost
Pebble Tec is generally considered a luxury pool finish, with prices higher than standard plaster finishes. The cost can vary depending on the specific blend, size of the pool, and installer fees. While it may be more expensive upfront, Pebble Tec’s durability and longevity often justify the higher price. Homeowners who choose Pebble Tec are investing in a finish that can last for decades with minimal upkeep.
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Stonescapes Cost
Stonescapes is often seen as a more affordable alternative to Pebble Tec. The variety of finishes allows for flexibility in pricing, with some options being closer in cost to standard plaster finishes. While still more expensive than basic plaster, Stonescapes can be more budget-friendly while still offering excellent durability and aesthetic appeal. For homeowners seeking a balance between cost and quality, Stonescapes provides a strong value.
6.Maintenance: Keeping Your Pool Looking Great
Both Stonescapes and Pebble Tec require regular maintenance to stay in top condition, but neither is particularly high-maintenance compared to traditional plaster finishes.
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Pebble Tec Maintenance
Pebble Tec requires minimal maintenance, thanks to its durable, non-porous surface. Regular brushing and cleaning help prevent algae buildup and maintain the pool’s appearance. The smooth pebbles resist stains and discoloration, making it easier to keep the pool looking clean. Over time, the pool may require resurfacing, but this is typically not necessary for 15-20 years.
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Stonescapes Maintenance
Stonescapes is similarly low-maintenance. The durable aggregates resist staining and fading, and regular cleaning will keep the surface looking fresh. Like Pebble Tec, brushing the pool walls and vacuuming debris is essential to prevent any buildup. Stonescapes finishes are designed to resist common pool issues like etching and scaling, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing between Stonescapes and Pebble Tec comes down to your personal preferences and budget. If you want a luxurious, natural look and are willing to invest in a premium product, Pebble Tec might be your ideal choice. Its durability, beauty, and smooth Pebble Sheen option make it a long-lasting, high-quality finish.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more customizable and cost-effective option, Stonescapes provides a variety of finishes and textures to suit different needs. The mini-pebble version offers a smoother feel, making it a strong contender for homeowners prioritizing comfort and affordability.