Why the pool finish matters so much
The finish is not just about looks: it protects the shell structure from direct contact with water and chemicals, and it determines how much maintenance your pool will need in the years ahead. The three most common options on the Costa Blanca are gresite (glass mosaic tile), ceramic tiling and pool paint.
Gresite
- Maximum durability against chlorine and sun
- Huge range of colours and mosaic patterns
- More labour-intensive to lay (small pieces)
- Higher up-front investment
Ceramic
- Larger format pieces, quicker to install
- Attractive finish and plenty of designs
- The grout must be sealed extremely well
- Mid-range investment
Pool paint
- The fastest and most affordable option
- Needs repainting every few years
- Less durable in the long run
- Ideal for a refresh without major building work
At a glance
| Finish | Durability | Upkeep | Installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gresite | Very high (decades) | Low | Slower, small pieces |
| Ceramic | High | Low to medium | Fast, large format |
| Paint | Medium (repaint every 3-6 years) | Medium to high | Very fast |
Which option makes most sense for your pool?
If you want something long-lasting and do not mind a higher up-front spend, gresite usually offers the best balance of lifespan and low upkeep, particularly for communal pools that see heavy use.
Ceramic is a strong alternative when you want a smart finish with a somewhat faster installation than gresite, thanks to its larger format pieces.
Pool paint makes sense when you want to freshen up the shell without major building work, or as a stopgap while you plan a fuller renovation. Its weak point is that it needs repainting periodically to keep looking good.
If your pool already has gresite that has started coming away in places, a localised re-bedding may be all you need before considering a change of finish. We will advise you with no obligation on which option best fits the real condition of your pool.