One of our main characteristics is that we strive to design and create spaces based on location, client needs, wants and functionality with our magic touch of quality and experience. With all the customization available nowadays there will be a lot of important decisions to make including the color of the pool interior and its finish. Whether smooth plaster finish or aggregate pebble finish, there’s a lot of colors and combinations that you can achieve if using a matching tile trim, glass tile, decorative tiles and stone to give each pool a unique appearance and look. I put together a list of things you should consider before making your final choice and achieve your perfect pool water color. Talk to your builder and request samples to make a more informed decision. Please note that water color and finish samples shown may differ from actual results due to environmental variations in time of day, season, shade, lighting and the inherent variation found in stone products and other factors.

Smooth Plaster Vs Pebble Aggregate Finish?

Why do people lean towards traditional white plaster rather than pebble sheen finish? Price and texture simple as that. White plaster finish will be your most economical option that feels smooth on your feet while pebble finishes are more expensive and rougher on your feet. Clear your doubts about the differences between these two products and CLICK HERE to read our article “Plaster vs Pebble” to learn more.

Your Pool Water Color

Plaster or Pebble whatever you choose, the first aspect to consider should be, what color water do you like the most. The two primary colors for your pool water are green and blue and shades are determined by numerous factors. The key factor for the color of your pool water is, the background dye color of the pool finish. If you want a green water color you should select a green, brown or tan pool finish. For blue water, the finish should be white, blue, black or grey. Ocean deep blue or dark aqua green? Start by thinking of the color palette of the rest of the elements.

Factors that Impact Your Pool Water Color

WEATHER. Pool water looks considerably different on bright, sunny days than it does on an overcast days. Since this is just a temporary change, it shouldn’t be a huge factor on making your final decision. However, think about other environmental factors that are more constant, like yards that are heavily shaded by existing structures or trees. In yards such as these, the pool water color selected is going to appear darker. The colors surrounding the pool can also affect the water color as these will, at times, reflect off the surface of the water. Selecting a finish that coordinates with the natural colors and surroundings of your backyard will ensure your pool will blend and become part of the natural landscape.

DEPTH. The deeper the pool the deeper the color. If you select a white plaster finish, you’ll notice that the blue is deeper in color over the deepest part of the pool, while it appears very light blue over the shallow steps or ledges. Spas built inside pool shell will also sometimes look lighter than the pool as well, even though they have the same finish.

WATER MOVEMENT. Pools with natural waterfalls, sheer descents built in a raise spa or raise walls will appear more vivid due to the light prisms created by the moving water. This won’t totally change the color of the water, rather it adds depth and color variation as the water moves around the pool.

WATER CHEMISTRY AND BALANCING. If your pool water has algae or is cloudy, this will change the color of the pool. Cloudy water does not reflect light the way clear water does; therefore you’ll lose its usual vibrancy and depth. Algae growth causes pool water to become green and high iron levels will show as yellow, both of which can dramatically affect the color of your pool depending upon their severity. Proper water treatment and filtration is essential to keeping your pool finish and water color bright and vibrant, just the way you envisioned it.

So, to recap:

• Background dye of the finish (white, blue, black, gray, green, brown and tan)
• The environment surrounding your pool (fencing, lawn decor, home exterior color, and landscaping)
• Sun exposure (existing structures or trees causing heavy shade)
• Depth of the pool (the deeper the pool the darker the water)
• Water movement (water features and wind)
• Water condition (algae growth, iron levels)

I hope you find article helpful, I had an absolute fantastic time putting it together and I’m sure you will have too while reading it (and a headache or two!). Please reach out if any additional questions or suggestions.