Pools are great investments that can bring a lot of enjoyment to your life. However, they also require some maintenance to keep them looking their best. Swimming pool finishes are one area where you have several choices, and each has its own pros and cons. Quartz is a type of pool finish that is gaining popularity due to its durability and beauty. But is quartz a good pool finish?
To better understand if quartz is a good pool finish, it’s essential to know the pros and cons of this type of pool finish.
The Pros Of Quartz Pool Finish
1. Quartz Pool Finishes Do Not Erode
One of the first benefits is that quartz pool finishes do not erode. This is a significant advantage over other pool finishes, such as plaster, which can be eroded by the chemical imbalances that pool water may have.
Quartz pool finishes are also more effective at fighting erosion caused by poor water circulation and high calcium levels in the water. This is important because erosion can cause your pool to lose its smooth finish and become rough to the touch.
2. Quartz Pool Finishes Do Not Etch, Scratch, Or Chip
Another significant advantage of quartz pool finishes is that they are resistant to etching, scratching, and chipping. This is because quartz is on the higher end of the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
This means that it’s more difficult for objects to make a mark on the surface of quartz than on other types of pool finishes. This is important because it can help your pool keep its finish for longer.
It’s also worth noting that quartz pool finishes are less likely to chip than other types of pool finishes, like plaster. However, chips in plaster can still happen even with good trowelling during the installation process.
3. Quartz Pool Finishes Are Stain Resistant
Quartz pool finishes are also stain-resistant. This is because quartz is non-porous, so it does not absorb stains the way other materials do.
This is an important benefit because it means that you won’t have to worry about your pool developing ugly stains. This is the last thing you would want for your pool because it can be difficult to remove stains from pool finishes.
Due to quartz being non-porous, it’s also worth noting that quartz is less likely to develop mold and mildew than other materials.
But, again, this is because mold and mildew need something to grow on, and the non-porous surface of quartz does not provide this.
4. Quartz Pool Finishes Last Long
Another thing that makes quartz pool finishes good is that they last long. If you properly take care of your pool and maintain it, then a quartz pool finish can last over a decade.
It can even last longer if you do proper care and maintenance on the finish. This is important because it means that you won’t have to replace your pool finish as often, saving you money in the long run.
This is much longer than other pool finishes, like plaster, which typically needs to be replaced every five to seven years. The long lifespan of quartz pool finishes also means that they have a lower lifetime cost than other pool finishes.
5. Quartz Pool Finish Are Perfect For Hard Water
If you live in an area with hard water, then quartz pool finishes are perfect for you. This is because quartz is resistant to calcium deposits, which can build up in your pool and cause problems if you have hard water.
Calcium deposits can make it difficult for your filter to work properly and can also lead to staining. But with a quartz pool finish, you won’t have to worry about this.
Quartz finishes will typically last longer in hard water than other types of pool finishes. This is another advantage that makes quartz a good choice for those living in hard water areas.
6. Quartz Pool Finish Is Perfect For Both New And Old Pools
One of the best things about quartz pool finishes is that they can be used on both new and old pools. This is because quartz is a non-reactive material, so it will not react with the plaster or gunite that your pool is made of.
This is important because it means that you can get a quartz pool finish even if you have an older pool. It also means that you won’t have to worry about the finish damaging your pool in any way.
7. Adds To The Overal Aesthetic Of The Pool
Another great thing about quartz pool finishes is that they can add to the overall aesthetic of your pool. Quartz is available in various hues, including blues, whites, greys, tans, and teals.
This means that you can find a quartz finish that will match your pool’s overall look and feel. This is important because it can help your pool look its best and make it more inviting to swim in.
Quartz finishes can also be used to create unique and exciting looks for your pool. For example, if you want something different from the typical blue or white finish, you can use a quartz finish to create a one-of-a-kind look for your pool.
8. Quartz Pool Finishes Are Easy To Repair
It is easy to do if you ever need to repair your quartz pool finish. This is because quartz is a non-porous material, so it does not absorb stains the way other materials do.
This means that you can simply sand down the area that needs to be repaired and then reapply the finish. This is much easier than trying to repair other types of pool finishes.
Also, quartz pool finishes are available in various pre-packaged, factory-mixed colors. For this reason, the colors are consistent, and if a repair is ever needed, achieving a nearly perfect color match is simpler.
9. Quartz Gives The Pool A Smooth Finish
One of the reasons quartz pool finishes are so popular is that they give your pool a smooth, consistent finish. Quartz has a smooth surface with a sand-like feel making it perfect for pools.
This increased traction is important because it can help prevent slips and falls, which can be dangerous. It also means that your pool will be more comfortable to swim in because you won’t have to worry about the finish being too slippery.
The smooth surface of quartz also makes it easier to clean because there are no pores.
10. Quartz Gives The Pool A Waterproof Finish
The best part of quartz pool finishes is that they give your pool a waterproof finish. So you won’t have to worry about the finish being damaged by water.
Water can cause other types of finishes to degrade over time, but this is not an issue with quartz. In fact, quartz is so resistant to water damage that it is often used in pools with a lot of heavy use.
Quartz is also resistant to chlorine, so you won’t have to worry about the finish being damaged by this either.
11. Quartz Finishes Have A Speckled Pattern
Quartz finishes have a speckled pattern that is very attractive. This is because quartz is made up of small pieces of glass that are fused together.
The glass creates a shimmering effect that is very pretty. It also means that the finish will last longer because it is more resistant to wear and tear.
Because of the speckled patterns of the quartz finish, blemishes, even if they occur, are not visible.
12. Quartz Pool Finishes Is Popular Among Pool Builders
Quartz pool finishes have become very popular among pool builders in recent years. This is because they are easy to apply and require less labor than other types of finishes.
They are also available in various colors, so you can find one that will match your pool perfectly.
Possible Downsides Of Quartz Pool Finishes
You should be aware of a few possible downsides of quartz pool finishes.
1. Quartz Pool Finishes Cost More Upfront
Quartz pool finishes will cost more upfront than other types of finishes. Generally, you will be looking at paying up to 30-45% more than alternatives like plain marcite.
This is because quartz pool finishes are made of marcite base with silica and an aggregate of natural quartz blended with resins and pigments. The quartz is what makes the finish more durable and gives it its unique look.
However, because of the increased durability, you will save money in the long run because you won’t have to replace the finish as often.
2. Quartz Pool Finishes Fades Over Time
Another potential issue with quartz pool finishes is that they will fade over time. This doesn’t happen to all quartz pool finishes but it is still possible.
Fading can occur for a number of reasons. One reason is that the sun’s UV rays can break down the resins that are used to bind the quartz together.
Another reason is that chemicals like chlorine can also cause fading. To avoid this, you should make sure to use a high-quality quartz pool finish and have it applied by a professional.
3. Quartz Tend To Develop A Blotchy Appearance
Quartz pool finishes can also develop a blotchy appearance over time. This is because the pigments that are used to color the quartz can settle unevenly.
To avoid this, you should make sure to use a high-quality quartz pool finish and have a professional take a look as soon as you notice any unevenness in the color.
Conclusion
Quartz pool finishes are a great option for your pool. They are durable, attractive, and easy to maintain. While they do cost more upfront, you will save money in the long run because you won’t have to replace the finish as often.
Just be aware that fading can occur over time and that the finish can develop a blotchy appearance. If you take care of your quartz pool finish, it will last for many years to come. Have a great day!