Want To Change Your Pool Color? Here Is How To Make It Last

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Altering the color of your pool can dramatically change the look and feel you're going for with your outdoor escape. Perhaps, when you were first installing it, you picked a default blue color. Now, though, you may have decided there is a better option that matches your home and creates the perfect retreat for you. Whether you have a giant swimming area or a plunge pool that turns your backyard garden into a dreamy oasis, picking the right color can make a world of difference.

Unfortunately, if you want your change to last, the best option is to resurface your entire pool. This costly endeavor is between $6,000 to $15,000 on average, so picking out the right color the first time is ideal. Thankfully, if your pool already needs resurfacing due to leaks, stains, or roughness, it's the perfect time to consider a color change. With the proper maintenance, you can make your refinish last quite a long time. 

The most popular kinds of finishes are a pebble pool or a regular plaster finish. Pebbles tend to be a little costly, but they have a lot more color options. They can be polished smooth or left rough. Plaster can be dyed, it's the most affordable choice, and it has an even finish, but the color options are limited. There are also some less common alternatives like tile, paint, fiberglass gel, or thermal plastic coatings. Of these, pebble finishes tend to last the longest, frequently staying in good shape for over 15 years.

Of course, no matter what option you choose for your finish, you can usually extend the lifespan with the right tips and tricks. Chlorine will always cause your lining and finishes to fade over time. However, if you can keep your levels below 3 parts per million (PPM), you can reduce the speed at which it fades. The less you shock your pool, the better, as this jumps your chlorine levels to 25 PPM or higher. Proper circulation can also help to stop the chemicals from settling at the bottom of the pool and damaging your finishes there. In the same vein, it's always a good idea to take a quick rinse to remove body oils and extra sunscreen from the skin before swimming. 

Strong sun also fades colors. If your pool is in the sun, consider putting up a few solar shades to help block some of the light throughout the day, and make sure you include a UV-resistant coating on the finish. Sun can also ruin finishes on stone, reducing some of the beautiful reflections and shimmers. 

Regular cleaning of your pool, including on the surface and on the bottom and sides, also helps to keep your liner lasting longer. Use soft tools, as harsh bristles and pads can scratch your finishes. However, even with all of these tips, some colors are set to fade faster than others.

There are four main categories of colors: blues, blacks, grays, and naturals. These are the options that tend to look good against the water, both in shade and full sun. Dark blues and blacks are some of the best options to hold up against fading. Grays and medium blue tones are also good. However, you can't just think about the longest-lasting option. The best color for your pool depends partially on how much maintenance you want to do every week. Like with most outdoor features, the lighter the color, the more it shows dirt and debris.

Depth can also play a factor. Darker colors appear richer in deep pools, while lighter shades can make your shallow pool look bigger. So if you have something like a beach entry pool — the swimming pool alternative that turns your yard into a beach escape — you need to find a color to fit a variety of depths, like the classic light blue.

There are other tips to keep your backyard pool ideas on-budget while changing just the water's color. For example, you can add different-colored LED lights into your pool. For a more temporary option, you can change the color of your water itself with dyes. For example, Party Pool LLC on Amazon offers Color Additive Rockin Red to create fun — and slightly eerie — decor for parties or events.