Building a new pool? Resurfacing an old one? Either way, you’re facing the same tough decision.
PebbleTec or Diamond Brite?
Both are popular. Both are durable. Both look great. But they’re not the same.
Here’s the quick breakdown: PebbleTec costs around $10 per square foot and lasts 15-20 years with a natural, textured finish. Diamond Brite costs about $5 per square foot, lasts 10-15 years, and offers a smoother surface with waterproof properties.
PebbleTec works best for new pools. Diamond Brite is ideal for resurfacing older pools because it resists chemicals and stains better.
This guide compares PebbleTec vs Diamond Brite pool finishes side by side. Cost, durability, appearance, and maintenance. Everything you need to choose wisely.
| PebbleTec | Diamond Brite | |
| Raw Materials | PebbleTec is made of small and large natural pebbles sourced from the earth and black sand beaches, cement, and stone aggregate. | On the other hand, Diamond Brite pool finish is a blend of white Portland polymer-modified cement and natural quartz; this blend increases the bonding and solidity of your swimming pool’s structure. |
| Cost | PebbleTec is one of the more expensive pool surfaces; it is more costly than plaster and Diamond Brite. For example, PebbleTec can cost as high as $10 per square foot, compared to $4 per square foot for white plaster. | Diamond Brite costs more than plaster, but it offers more durability. Diamond Brite pool finish can cost around $5 per square foot, but the price mainly depends on the color. |
| Waterproof | PebbleTec is not waterproof; pool builders often apply plaster mix around the drain lines, return lines, etc. They usually use a waterproofing coat that extends at least 2 inches below the tile. | On the other hand, Diamond Brite is waterproof; the natural quartz used in making Diamond Brite has waterproof properties that make it resistant to degradation and staining that pool chemicals may cause. |
Differences Between PebbleTec and Diamond Brite Pool Finish
Contents
The differences between PebbleTec and Diamond Brite pool finishes lie in the somewhat little things: colors, usage, durability, etc. Diamond Brite and PebbleTec are two of the more favored pool surfaces at the base level.
Durability
PebbleTec and Diamond Brite pool finish are both highly durable pool surfaces, but PebbleTec is the more durable choice. PebbleTec can last between 15 to 20 years or more when properly maintained, while Diamond Brite can last between 10 to 15 years.
Intended Usage
Although PebbleTec and Diamond Brite are both high-quality pool surfaces, pool builders often recommend them for different uses; many recommend using PebbleTec for new swimming pools and Diamond Brite for resurfacing old swimming pools.
Why is Diamond Brite recommended for resurfacing old pools? The materials used in making Diamond Brite pool finish make it resistant to pool chemicals and harsh pool cleaning chemicals, and they resist stains caused by the pool chemicals. Also, you can drain, clean, and refill your pool without damaging the pool. Diamond Brite pool finish colors do not rust, fade, or rub off because the pigments are bonded to the quartz aggregate through ceramics.
Finishes and Colors
PebbleTec and Diamond Brite are available in different finishes and choices, so customers will always have a diverse range of products from which they can choose. Diamond Brite comes in many different colors while maintaining the same features; some colors include Tahoe Blue, Midnight Blue, French Gray, Onyx, Isla Verde, and Cool Blue. On the other hand, PebbleTec does not provide a catalog of colors like Diamond Brite does–but it is available in at least four finishes: PebbleTech, PebbleSheen, PebbleFina, and PebbleBrilliance.
Similarities Between PebbleTec and Diamond Brite Pool Finish
Pool Finishes
The main similarity between PebbleTec and Diamond Brite is that they are both high-quality pool finishes that can serve as substitutes for the other.
Maintenance
Both PebbleTec and Diamond Brite need regular maintenance to last long and give you your money’s worth. If you do not maintain them, they will not last as long as they ought to, e.g., PebbleTec may not even last up to 15 years if it is not maintained correctly. Diamond Brite requires a light acid wash every five years, at the very least.
Conclusion
PebbleTec offers a natural look and texture with its blend of pebbles, small rocks, and cement; it is aesthetically pleasing and incredibly durable. It is pleasing to the eye, durable, and stain-resistant. PebbleTec also happens to be one of the most expensive pool surfaces. Diamond Brite is not as expensive as PebbleTec but it is a good contender.
It is impossible to declare, with absolute certainty, that either of PebbleTec or Diamond Brite is the better of the two options. Both products are great, and they would suit different people based on their individual needs and preferences. You may be looking for a pool finish based on price, color, durability, etc. Another person may not even consider price as a factor and may only consider the aesthetic nature of the pool finish. In choosing between PebbleTec and Diamond Brite, ensure that you outline and consider your preferences, and remember that both finishes require maintenance.
