Gunite Pool Renovation in New Jersey
Concrete and gunite pools are built to last — but their interior surfaces don’t last forever. Plaster breaks down over time, leaving surfaces rough, stained, and uncomfortable to swim against. Cracks develop. The pool starts looking its age. A gunite pool renovation from Gorlin Pools, part of our full pool renovation services, can address all of this and more, giving your pool a structural refresh and a brand-new appearance.
We’ve been renovating gunite and concrete pools for New Jersey homeowners since 1999. Our team works across Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, and Mercer Counties and understands how NJ’s climate affects concrete pool surfaces over time.
What Is Gunite Pool Renovation?
Gunite is a type of concrete applied pneumatically to form the shell of an inground pool. The interior surface — the part you see and touch — is typically covered with plaster, quartz aggregate, or a pebble finish. These surfaces need to be replaced periodically as they age, roughen, stain, or crack.
A gunite renovation addresses the interior surface and any structural issues: draining the pool, preparing the substrate, repairing cracks and defects, and applying a new interior finish — or, when appropriate, a vinyl liner replacement. The result is a pool that looks, feels, and performs like new.
Signs Your Gunite Pool Needs Renovation
- Rough, scratchy, or abrasive surface that's uncomfortable to touch
- Visible cracks — both cosmetic and structural
- Pitting, flaking, or delamination of the plaster surface
- Staining that doesn't respond to chemical treatment
- Chalky white deposits forming on the surface (calcification)
- Persistent water loss not explained by equipment or plumbing leaks
Most gunite pool interiors need resurfacing every 10–15 years, though this varies based on water chemistry management, usage, and maintenance history. Pools that have had water chemistry issues — particularly acidic water — may also require pool leak detection and resurfacing sooner.
Interior Finish Options
White Plaster
The traditional choice — clean, bright, and timeless. White plaster gives pool water a light blue color that most homeowners associate with classic pools. It’s the most economical surface option and typically lasts 10–15 years with good maintenance.
Quartz Aggregate
Quartz aggregate mixes quartz crystals into the plaster for a harder, more durable surface that resists staining and etching better than plain plaster. Available in a range of colors. Typically lasts 15–20 years. A popular upgrade for NJ homeowners who want better durability and a distinctive look.
Pebble Finishes
Pebble finishes — small rounded stones set in plaster — are the most durable and visually striking option. They’re extremely hard-wearing, available in many color combinations, and give pool water a natural, deep color. Pebble surfaces typically last 20+ years.
Why Gorlin Pools for Gunite Renovation
Gorlin Pools has been serving New Jersey homeowners since 1999. That’s 25+ years of experience right here in Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties.
We’re fully licensed in New Jersey (License #13VH00046300) and proud members of the Better Business Bureau and the Chambers of Commerce in every county we serve. Our team holds itself to 9 non-negotiable standards — including honesty, safety, and long-term relationships — because we believe your pool deserves more than a quick fix.
When you call Gorlin, you get a pool service company that puts your safety and satisfaction first, every single time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to get started? Call us at (732) 323-8200 or fill out our online form to request a renovation quote. We serve homeowners across Ocean, Monmouth, Middlesex, and Mercer Counties, NJ.
How do I know if my gunite pool needs renovation?
Rough or scratchy surfaces, visible cracks, pitting, persistent staining, and unexplained water loss are the key signs. If your plaster is 10+ years old and showing wear, it’s worth an assessment.
How long does a gunite renovation take?
Surface prep and application typically take several days. New finishes require a curing period of 3–4 weeks before regular swimming resumes. We’ll give you a specific timeline upfront.
What's the difference between plaster, quartz, and pebble finishes?
Plaster is the traditional and most economical option. Quartz aggregate is harder and more stain-resistant. Pebble finishes are the most durable and longest-lasting. We’ll help you choose based on your budget and goals.
Can you just repair cracks without doing a full resurfacing?
Minor cracks can sometimes be repaired in isolation. If a pool has widespread plaster deterioration along with cracks, full resurfacing is usually the better investment — repairs to old plaster rarely hold as well as a fresh surface.
How long will the new surface last?
White plaster: 10–15 years. Quartz aggregate: 15–20 years. Pebble finishes: 20+ years. Proper water chemistry maintenance significantly affects longevity.