Pool owners typically pay a broad range to pebble-tec a pool, driven by pool size, surface prep, color choices, and regional labor costs. This article covers the typical cost, pricing ranges, and factors that influence the final price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pebble Tec finish (surface) | $7,000 | $12,000 | $22,000 | Includes material and application for typical residential pool |
| Surface prep & demolition | $1,500 | $3,500 | $6,000 | Remove old plaster, tiles, decking prep |
| Labor (installation crew) | $2,500 | $5,000 | $8,000 | Based on crew size and hours |
| Permits, codes & inspections | $0 | $500 | $2,000 | Depends on city requirements |
| Delivery & disposal | $200 | $800 | $2,000 | Includes disposal of old materials |
| Warranty & additives | $0 | $800 | $2,000 | Coatings warranty & sealers |
| Consumables & extras | $300 | $1,200 | $3,000 | Sealants, brushes, masking, etc. |
| Taxes & overhead | $0 | $1,000 | $2,000 | Regional tax and shop overhead |
Assumptions: region, pool size, finish color, prep depth, and crew hours.
Overview Of Costs
Typical total project ranges reflect both small to medium pools and common prep work. A compact residential pool often falls in the lower tier, while large or heavily prepped pools reach the higher end. For most homes, expect a total range of $8,000-$25,000. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Per-unit ranges help compare costs by area. Pebble Tec is commonly priced around $8-$18 per square foot for finished surface, with additional prep and disposal costs on top. Assumptions: pool shape, surface area, color selection.
Cost Breakdown
Key cost categories explain how the total is built. The following table summarizes major components and typical dollar bands, with a focus on Pebble Tec finishes for concrete pools.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes | Typical Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $7,000 | $12,000 | $22,000 | Pebble mix, color, control joints | Finish type, color, texture |
| Labor | $2,500 | $5,000 | $8,000 | Crew hours and skill | Crew size, job duration |
| Equipment | $500 | $1,500 | $3,000 | Scaffold, mixers, grinders | Equipment rental length |
| Permits | $0 | $500 | $2,000 | Local building or safety permits | Jurisdiction |
| Delivery/Disposal | $200 | $800 | $2,000 | Material transport, debris removal | Pool size, location |
| Warranty | $0 | $800 | $2,000 | Coating warranty options | Manufacturer terms |
| Taxes/Overhead | $0 | $1,000 | $2,000 | State and local taxes | Project scope |
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What Drives Price
Price is shaped by surface area, prep needs, and finish quality. Larger or irregular-shaped pools raise both material and labor totals. Key numeric thresholds include pool surface area in square feet and the number of water features requiring protection or removal.
- Pool surface area: larger pools push both material and labor up.
- Prep complexity: old plaster removal, tile grit, and damaged shells raise costs.
- Pebble texture and color: premium blends cost more.
- Sealing and cure time: longer cure cycles can extend labor windows.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor markets and material availability. In the Northeast, higher labor rates may push totals up by 10-20% relative to the Midwest. The West often sees premium finishes as a price driver, while the South may benefit from milder climates and longer dry times.
| Region | Low | Average | High | Delta vs U.S. Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coast (West/East) | $9,500 | $16,500 | $28,000 | +5% to +15% |
| Midwest | $7,500 | $12,500 | $20,000 | Base |
| Southeast | $8,000 | $13,500 | $22,000 | −5% to +5% |
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours and rates significantly impact total cost. A standard install may require 2-6 days depending on pool size and prep. Larger projects with stucco, decking, or waterline tile removal extend timelines and labor costs. Local wage standards and union presence can influence rates.
Typical crew mobilization might include a foreman, two to four finishers, and a helper. The cited ranges assume a mid-size residential gunite or concrete pool.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate common project scales.
- Basic: 250 sq ft pool, minor prep, standard color. Total: $8,000-$12,000. Labor ~15-25 hours; per sq ft ~$32-$48. Assumptions: flat yard, accessible entry, no major curb repairs.
- Mid-Range: 350-450 sq ft pool, moderate prep, premium color. Total: $12,000-$18,000. Labor ~25-45 hours; per sq ft ~$40-$60. Assumptions: standard surrounding area, average repairs.
- Premium: 500+ sq ft pool, extensive prep, luxury finish. Total: $18,000-$25,000. Labor ~60-100 hours; per sq ft ~$60-$80. Assumptions: complex shapes, additional features, or large resurfacing needs.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Spotting extras helps prevent budget shocks. Hidden charges may include extended curing time, access issues, extra surface patching, or color-match surprises. Some contractors bill for temporary water removal or fencing protection during work.
- Access constraints or ladder rental
- Color upgrade or special texture
- Extra drainage or backfill work
- Emergency scheduling or weekend rates
Ways To Save
Smart planning reduces total outlay without sacrificing quality. Consider off-season scheduling, compare multiple bids, and combine refinishing with minor repairs when feasible. A solid prep plan minimizes material waste and drift in color consistency.
- Get at least 3 bids and check references
- Ask about bundled items (sealer, color, warranty)
- Negotiate phased work if needed
- Choose standard finishes before premium upgrades