Pool Tiling vs Interior Coatings — Which Suits Your Pool
Concrete pools need an interior finish. The three main options in Adelaide are pebblecrete (pebble + cement aggregate), quartzon (quartz aggregate), and tiled finish (full glass tile or large-format porcelain). This guide compares the three on look, cost, durability, and resale impact.
Pebblecrete
The Australian default. Crushed natural stone aggregate (granite, quartz, slate) bonded into a cement matrix and exposed via wash-back. Durable (15–25 year lifecycle), natural look, broad colour range. Slightly textured underfoot. Cost: included in the standard concrete pool quote.
Quartzon and quartz aggregate
A finer-grain, lighter-coloured aggregate finish. Smoother feel than pebblecrete, more uniform colour. Premium look — common on tropical-style and resort builds. Lifecycle 15–20 years. Cost: $4,000–$10,000 over standard pebblecrete.
Glass-bead
Tiny round glass beads in the cement matrix produce a sparkle-effect interior. Hybrid between aggregate and tile. Premium look, smooth feel. Cost: $8,000–$18,000 over standard pebblecrete.
Full glass tile
Full small-format glass mosaic interior. Stunning look, best resale photo, smoothest finish. Substantial cost: $25,000–$70,000 over standard pebblecrete depending on size and tile choice. 25–35 year lifecycle when properly grouted.
Large-format porcelain
Newer option — large porcelain pool tiles. Modern look, fast install, narrower grout lines. Cost: $18,000–$45,000 over standard pebblecrete.
Resale impact
Glass tile and large-format porcelain interiors lift resale photo quality the most — they read as architectural rather than backyard pool. Pebblecrete is functionally fine but doesn’t add the same premium. For premium Adelaide markets (Eastern Suburbs, Hills, premium coastal), the upgrade pays back; for standard family blocks, pebblecrete is the smart-money choice.
Get options on quote
Three quotes can include three different interior options at three price points so you can compare like-for-like.
Pool and Spa Quotes is operated by JR Digital Services Pty Ltd (ABN 15 677 761 787). We connect Adelaide homeowners with a trusted local pool and spa operator who returns three priced quotes for every enquiry — no obligation, no deposit at the quote stage.