What to Know About Brothers Pool Plastering Inc. for Your Pool Renovation

Brothers Pool Plastering Inc. specializes in pool resurfacing and plaster repair across South Carolina

Brothers Pool Plastering Inc. handles the concrete shell work that keeps your pool watertight and looking new. The company focuses on plaster application, acid washing, and pool renovation—the kind of work that extends a pool's life by a decade or more when done well. If your pool's surface is cracking, staining, or leaking, or if you want to change its color or finish, this is the type of contractor you need.

Pool plaster is not a DIY project. It requires specific equipment, knowledge of water chemistry during application, and experience with curing times and weather conditions. Brothers Pool Plastering Inc. handles the technical side so your pool stays structurally sound and holds water properly.

Key Takeaways

• Pool plaster resurfacing typically takes one to two weeks from start to finish, including draining, prep work, application, and refilling.
• The cost of replastering depends on pool size, existing damage, and the type of finish you choose—standard plaster, aggregate, or specialty finishes each have different price points.
• Acid washing removes stains and algae buildup without full replastering, making it a lower-cost option if your plaster is structurally sound.
• Timing matters: plaster work is weather-dependent, and South Carolina's humidity and temperature swings affect curing, so spring and fall are often ideal seasons.

What plaster resurfacing involves and why pools need it

Pool plaster is a cement-based coating applied over the concrete shell. Over time—typically 10 to 15 years—it cracks, stains, and becomes porous. Water seeps through, the pool loses water faster, and algae takes hold in the damaged areas. Replastering strips the old surface, repairs the concrete underneath if needed, and applies fresh plaster.

The process starts with draining the pool completely. The old plaster is removed by grinding or chipping. Any cracks or damage in the concrete shell are sealed and patched. Then new plaster is mixed and applied by hand in layers, smoothed to the right thickness, and left to cure. During curing—usually 7 to 14 days depending on weather—the pool stays empty and the plaster hardens. Only then is it refilled and chemically balanced.

South Carolina's heat and humidity speed up some parts of the process but can also cause uneven curing if conditions shift during application. That is why experience with local weather patterns matters.

Plaster finishes and what they cost

Standard white plaster is the baseline option and the most affordable. It is durable and easy to maintain, though it can show algae and staining more visibly than other finishes.

Aggregate finishes—plaster mixed with small stones or glass—cost more but offer better traction, a textured feel, and more visual interest. Pebble finishes and glass bead finishes fall into this category and are popular for pools in the Lowcountry and Midlands where homeowners want a resort-like appearance.

Specialty finishes like colored plaster or designer aggregates cost the most but let you customize the pool's look entirely. Some homeowners choose these when they are already investing in a full renovation.

Exact pricing varies by pool size, depth, and the condition of the concrete underneath. A small residential pool might cost less to resurface than a larger one, and a pool with structural damage will cost more than one with surface wear alone. Contact Brothers Pool Plastering Inc. directly for a quote based on your specific pool.

Acid washing as an alternative to full replastering

If your plaster is structurally sound but stained or discolored, acid washing may be enough. The process uses diluted acid to dissolve the top layer of plaster, removing stains, algae, and mineral deposits without removing the plaster itself.

Acid washing is faster and cheaper than replastering—usually a day or two of work instead of two weeks. It is a good choice if your pool is 5 to 10 years old and the damage is cosmetic rather than structural. However, it does thin the plaster slightly, so it is not a permanent solution. Most pools that are acid-washed will eventually need replastering.

Timing and weather considerations for plaster work in South Carolina

Plaster cures best in moderate temperatures and low humidity. South Carolina's summers are hot and humid, which can cause uneven curing and surface defects. Winter brings cooler temperatures but also rain and unpredictable cold snaps that interrupt the curing process.

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are typically the best windows for plaster work in South Carolina. Temperatures are mild, humidity is lower, and rain is less frequent. If you need work done outside these seasons, discuss timing with your contractor—they may recommend waiting or adjusting the schedule to work around weather forecasts.

The pool must stay empty during curing, so plan for a two- to three-week window when you will not be using it. Families often schedule replastering in late spring so the pool is ready by early summer, or in early fall to avoid the peak heat.

What to expect during the replastering process

Day one involves draining the pool and setting up equipment. The old plaster is removed over the next few days depending on pool size. Once the concrete is exposed and inspected, any repairs are made—cracks are sealed, weak spots are reinforced, and the surface is cleaned thoroughly.

Application typically takes one to two days. The plaster is mixed to the right consistency and applied by hand in thin, even layers. The surface is smoothed and finished to your specifications. Then the waiting begins: the plaster cures for 7 to 14 days before the pool is refilled.

After refilling, the water must be chemically balanced before anyone swims. This takes another few days of testing and adjustment. Your contractor may handle this or refer you to a pool service company.

Choosing a plaster contractor and what to ask

Look for a contractor with experience in South Carolina's climate and with pools similar to yours in size and condition. Ask for references from recent jobs and ask to see photos of finished work. A good contractor will explain the condition of your pool's concrete, recommend the right finish for your needs, and give you a clear timeline.

Before hiring, confirm what is included in the quote: Does it cover draining and refilling? Concrete repair? Chemical balancing after refilling? Some contractors include these; others charge separately. Ask about warranty on the plaster work and what happens if curing is interrupted by weather.

Get the estimate in writing with a start date and expected completion date. Understand the payment terms—some contractors ask for a deposit upfront, others bill upon completion. Clarify what happens if the project takes longer than expected due to weather or unexpected concrete damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does pool plaster last?

Standard plaster typically lasts 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Aggregate and specialty finishes may last slightly longer. The lifespan depends on water chemistry, how often the pool is used, and whether the concrete shell underneath stays in good condition. Regular brushing and balanced water chemistry extend the life of any plaster finish.

Can I use my pool while the plaster is curing?

No. The pool must stay empty and undisturbed for 7 to 14 days while the plaster hardens. Walking on it, refilling it early, or exposing it to heavy rain during curing can damage the finish and create weak spots. Plan for the pool to be out of use for at least two to three weeks total, including draining, work, curing, and refilling.

What causes plaster to crack?

Cracks usually come from movement in the concrete shell underneath, freeze-thaw cycles, or poor water chemistry that eats away at the plaster from inside. In South Carolina, temperature swings between seasons and heavy rain can stress the concrete. Imbalanced water—too acidic or too alkaline—also weakens plaster over time. Regular maintenance and chemical testing slow this process.

Is acid washing worth it if my plaster is old?

If your plaster is more than 12 years old or has structural cracks, acid washing is a temporary fix. It removes stains but does not repair underlying damage. If the plaster is 5 to 10 years old and the damage is mainly cosmetic, acid washing can extend its life by a few years at a fraction of the cost of replastering.

What is the difference between plaster and aggregate finishes?

Plaster is smooth and affordable but shows stains easily. Aggregate finishes have small stones or glass mixed in, offering better traction, a textured feel, and better stain resistance. Aggregate costs more upfront but may last longer and requires less frequent cleaning. The choice depends on your budget, how much you use the pool, and the look you want.