What does Pebble Tec cost in Phoenix?

Surface area, not footprint

These ranges are for interior surface area, not your pool's footprint. A contractor measures the walls, floor, steps and benches. Shasta Pools lists pebble finishes overall at $6,000 to $15,000.

PebbleTec, PebbleSheen, PebbleFina: what's the difference?

Pebble Tec is a brand. Pebble Technology International has made it since 1987 and is based in Scottsdale. Its lines differ mainly in pebble size and feel. HomeGuide ranks the four main lines from lowest to highest price as PebbleTec, PebbleSheen, PebbleFina and PebbleBrilliance, but neither HomeGuide nor the maker publishes a dollar figure per line, so ask for each line by name on the same quote.

1. PebbleTec. The original, with the largest pebbles and the most natural, textured feel.
2. PebbleSheen. Slightly smaller pebbles for a smoother touch. The company calls it its most popular line.
3. PebbleFina. The smallest natural pebbles, described as velvety smooth.
4. PebbleBrilliance. Pebbles blended with smooth glass beads for more sparkle.
5. Other lines. The company also sells PebbleEssence, PebbleBreeze, PebbleQuartz and PebbleCrystal, its entry-level finish.

Is pebble worth it over plaster in Phoenix?

Pebble costs more up front: HomeGuide puts plaster at about $6 to $8 per square foot and Pebble Tec at $10 to $20. The case for pebble is lifespan. HomeGuide gives 15 to 20+ years for pebble against 7 to 12 for standard plaster, and Shasta Pools says plaster typically lasts 7 to 10 years in Arizona because heat, sun and hard water wear it faster. Pebble also hides stains better. Regular pebble can feel a bit rough on feet, and the smaller-pebble lines are smoother, so see them in person before you choose.

Work out the cost per year

The warranty, in plain terms

1. Materials. Covered for at least 5 years from installation, by Pebble Technology International.
2. Workmanship. Covered for at least 5 years by the authorized installer who did the job.
3. Authorized installers only. The warranty applies only if a PTI authorized installer applied the finish.
4. Original buyer only. It does not transfer if you sell the house.
5. Keep your records. Claims need your water chemistry records, so keep your test results.
6. PebbleQuartz is different. 1 year as standard, extended to 2 years workmanship and 5 years materials if you register within 30 days.

How to make sure you get real Pebble Tec

1. Name it in the contract. Ask for the finish by its line and color name, and get both written in.
2. Use an authorized applicator. The maker lists certified builders and authorized applicators on its own site.
3. Check the color. Compare the contract's finish and color with the maker's approved list.
4. Check the bags. On install day, the bags should carry the Pebble Technology International logo and the finish you chose.

See all finish costs

After it's done: the first month

The maker's start-up steps matter for the warranty. Brush the whole pool three times a day for the first 3 days, then twice a day for the next 10 days, then about weekly. Don't fill with softened water. Wait at least 14 days before running a heater and at least 28 days before adding salt to a salt system, and give the color about 28 days to settle before you judge it.

Check the contractor's license on the Arizona Registrar of Contractors' lookup before you sign. Pool Resurfacing AZ is a referral service, not a contractor: your request goes to up to three licensed local contractors who fit the job, so you can compare written quotes.

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