Pebble Tec Vs. Pebble Sheen: What Are The Major Differences?

When it comes to finishing and waterproofing the inside of your new or remodeled swimming pool, you have a number of different options to choose from. While standard plaster – which consists of cement, sand, and additives – is the most popular, Pebble Technology International (PTI) offers several distinct textures of pool finishes.

Developed over 25 years ago, Pebble Tec is the original pebble pool finish. Since then, PTI has developed three additional superior quality pool finishes, including Pebble Sheen, Pebble Fina, and Pebble Brilliance. If you’re stuck between choosing Pebble Tec or Pebble Sheen for your pool finish, you’ve come to the right place. The chief difference between the two products is the size of the pebbles. Pebble Sheen uses the exact same technology as Pebble Tec, but incorporates smaller pebbles to yield a slicker finish. Both Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen are available in 16 brilliant color variations to achieve the look you want.

Let’s take a look at both of these products from Pebble Technology International in detail, along with some of their additional offerings, and why you should consider a pebble finish for your pool over a conventional plaster finish.

Pebble Tec is the original aggregate pool finish, created over 25 years ago. The company invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into research and technology, which yielded the most durable and reliable pebble pool finish on the market. Pebble Tec is a combination of cement, sand, and aggregate (stones, pebbles) that have been collected from beaches and riverbeds around the world, in addition to pigment and various additives.

The product is mixed onsite and pressure pumped through a hose. Then, the technician smooths out the Pebble Tec over the walls and floor of the pool using a trowel. Once the material is even, the topmost layer of cement is hosed off to expose the pebbles and the pool is left to cure for roughly 24 hours. After it has cured, the surface of the pool is acid rinsed and treated to enhance the brightness of the pebbles.

This particular offering from PTI has a very earthy texture that consists of the largest pebbles of all their products. It is the ideal choice for anyone who wants a more natural ambiance for their pool or spa. Though Pebble Tec is more expensive than its other aggregate competitors, it is a superior product that can last three times longer than traditional plaster finishes.

The cost to have Pebble Tec installed is approximately $92 to $105 per linear foot. Though, the price varies based on region, labor, and the specific products you select.

The most popular pool finish from PTI, Pebble Sheen delivers the same natural beauty, technology, and inherent features as the original Pebble Tec with a more refined texture. Like Pebble Tec, Pebble Sheen comes in 16 gorgeous color options, though some feature small seashells (called Shimmering Sea) for added brilliance. The only major difference between Pebble Tec and Pebble Sheen is that the latter incorporates smaller pebbles to achieve a smoother finish. It also costs slightly more to have Pebble Sheen installed than Pebble Tec.

The product that you select for the interior surface of your pool is one of the biggest decisions you’ll have to make, whether you’re building a new pool or remodeling an existing one. Plaster and Pebble Tec are the two most popular options for pool surfaces. Most older pools feature a traditional plaster finish, which is roughly ¼ inch to ½ inch thick of white cement, water, and white sand or marble aggregate.

Plaster has been used as a swimming pool surface coating since the 1960s, and has stood the test of time. Although plaster is much more affordable than Pebble Tec, it has a number of drawbacks that lead homeowners to consider an alternative. For starters, since plaster is porous it is highly susceptible to staining, discoloring, cracking, scaling, and collecting bacteria.

As a result, more chemicals are needed to properly balance the water chemistry in a plaster pool. Plaster is also the least durable of all the interior finish options, lasting only between five and 10 years before it needs to be re-plastered. Though, plaster comes in a wide variety of colors, allowing you to achieve the specific appearance you desire.

Pebble Tec, on the other hand, has gained popularity over the last several decades, and for good reason. While it’s more expensive than traditional plaster finishing, it is the highest quality pool finish available because of its durability and ability to hide chemical residue.

With the proper maintenance and care, Pebble Tec can last you over 25 years. It’s also available in countless color shades to fit your aesthetic desires. Although Pebble Tec may be slightly rougher on the feet, Pebble Sheen uses smaller aggregate to yield a smoother appearance.

Check Out Our Guide: Pebble Tec vs. Plaster Pool: What Are The Major Differences?