Materials & Finishes

Southern Nevada’s climate and water affect pool surfaces. The Las Vegas Valley Water District reports hardness of about 280 parts per million, roughly 16 grains per gallon (LVVWD). Evaporation leaves those minerals behind, and summer sun heats deck and coping surfaces. New plaster also needs a careful start-up. The National Plasterers Council publishes start-up guidance, including brushing and keeping heaters off for the first weeks (NPC).

This section compares interior finishes, including standard plaster, quartz and pebble aggregate, alongside waterline tile, coping stone and deck surfaces. It lists published national cost and life-span estimates, and the questions to ask about heat, hard water and start-up. Color counts too. The Southern Nevada pool code amendments set a minimum lightness for pool finishes, with limited exceptions (amendments). Very dark finishes may therefore need to be checked before you choose them.

Our goal is to help you choose with realistic expectations and to ask your builder the right questions about warranties and start-up.