How Much Does It Cost to Refinish the Inside of a Pool? A 2025 Guide for Aussie Homeowners G’day, fellow pool lovers! As we hit the tail end of another scorching Aussie spring in October 2025, there’s no better time to eyeball that backyard oasis. Your pool’s been your go-to for cooling off through endless summers, but let’s face it: the inside – that once-smooth, inviting surface – might be looking more like a rugged outback track than a tropical lagoon. Cracks, stains, and rough patches aren’t just unsightly; they’re a safety hazard and a drain on your maintenance budget.
Enter pool refinishing (or resurfacing, as it’s often called): the process of stripping back the old interior and applying a fresh, durable finish. But the million-dollar question (or should we say, the $10,000 one?) is: How much does it actually cost? Spoiler: It’s not one-size-fits-all, but with costs ranging from $5,000 to $25,000+ in 2025, understanding the breakdown can save you from sticker shock. In this guide, we’ll unpack the averages, what drives the price tag, and pro tips to keep your splash zone sparkling without breaking the bank. Let’s cannonball in!
What Is Pool Refinishing, Anyway?
Pool refinishing involves removing the worn-out interior surface (like plaster, pebble, or aggregate) and replacing it with a new layer for a seamless, watertight seal. It’s not just a cosmetic tweak – it seals cracks, prevents leaks, and boosts slip resistance for safer swims. Popular finishes include classic white plaster, textured pebblecrete for that natural vibe, or sleek quartz aggregates for added bling. In Australia, where UV rays and hard water are relentless foes, pros recommend refinishing every 7-15 years depending on your setup. For Perth locals, outfits like All Star Pools Refurbishing – family-run since 2005 – specialize in fibreglass and concrete revamps using tough Duraguard coatings that laugh in the face of coastal corrosion.
Key Factors That Drive Up (or Down) the Cost
No two pools – or budgets – are identical, so expect quotes to vary. Here’s what influences the final figure in 2025:
- Pool Size and Shape: Bigger pools (over 40m²) mean more material and labour. A compact 25m² fibreglasser? Under $10k. A sprawling 60m² resort-style? Easily $20k+.
- Finish Type: Basic plaster is wallet-friendly; premium pebble or eco-resins add luxury (and dollars).
- Pool Material: Concrete/gunite pools often cost more to prep than fibreglass, which might just need a gelcoat refresh.
- Location: Sydney or Melbourne? Higher labour rates push costs up 20-30%. Perth or Brisbane? More competitive at the lower end.
- Condition and Add-Ons: Extensive damage (leaks, structural fixes) hikes the bill. Toss in tiles, LED lights, or jets? That’s extra.
- Labour and Timing: Off-peak (autumn/winter) might snag discounts; peak summer? Pay a premium.
Pro move: Get 3-4 quotes. Factors like these can swing your total by thousands.
2025 Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
Based on current Aussie market rates, refinishing a standard inground pool (30-40m²) averages $8,000-$15,000. But let’s get granular with a table of typical costs by finish type – pulled from trusted sources across Sydney, Perth, and beyond. These are ballpark figures; your quote will factor in the specifics above.
| Finish Type | Average Cost (AUD) | Best For | Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Plaster | $5,000 – $10,000 | Budget-conscious families | 7-10 years | Smooth and classic, but cracks in hard-water areas. |
| Pebblecrete | $7,000 – $12,000 | Natural, low-maintenance look | 10-15 years | Textured grip; great for kids’ pools. Popular in Perth. |
| Quartz Aggregate | $8,000 – $14,000 | Sparkly, durable upgrade | 12-15 years | UV-resistant sparkle; adds resale value. |
| Fibreglass Overlay | $6,000 – $11,000 | Quick fibreglass refreshes | 10-20 years | Seamless and leak-proof; ideal for shell pools. |
| Premium Resins/Eco-Coats | $12,000 – $25,000+ | Luxury, eco-friendly vibes | 15+ years | Custom colors; includes advanced sealing like Duraguard. |
Sources: Hi pages (2025 averages), Superior Pools Sydney, and Eco Style Perth. For above-ground pools, you’re looking at a steal: $500-$3,000 for a simple liner swap or paint job. Add-ons like tiling steps ($2,000-$5,000) or new lighting ($500-$1,500) can bump things up, but they’re optional glow-ups.
In Perth, where salt air is a surface’s nemesis, local experts like All Star Pools often bundle resurfacing with protective topcoats for under $15k on mid-sized jobs – a smart hedge against 2025’s rising material costs (up 5-10% from inflation).
Warning Signs: When to Budget for a Refinish
Don’t let small issues snowball into a six-figure reno. Refinance now if you spot:
- Cracks or Etching: Hairline fissures that worsen with each freeze-thaw cycle.
- Stains That Stick: Rust, algae, or chemical burns no scrub can banish.
- Rough Texture: Feels like wading through gravel? Safety first.
- Water Weirdness: Unexplained leaks or cloudy chemistry.
Catching these early? You could halve the cost versus a full gut job.
The Payoff: Why Refinishing Is Worth Every Cent
Sure, the upfront hit stings, but think long-game:
- Savings on Maintenance: New surfaces cut chemical use by 20-30% and fend off algae invasions.
- Safety Boost: Slip-resistant finishes mean fewer ER visits (and insurance claims).
- Home Value Pop: A pristine pool can add 5-10% to your property’s appeal in hot markets like Queensland.
- Eco Edge: Modern finishes like low-VOC pebblecrete align with 2025’s green building trends.
Plus, imagine hosting those Christmas barbecues on a pool that looks brand-spanking new – priceless.
Smart Tips to Trim the Bill in 2025
Refinishing doesn’t have to drain your super:
- Shop Off-Season: Book in May for winter rates – up to 15% off.
- Stick to Basics: Skip the bling if budget’s tight; plaster delivers 80% of the wow for half the price.
- Bundle Services: Pair resurfacing with a filter upgrade for combo deals.
- DIY Prep: Power-wash and acid-etch yourself (safely!) to shave $500-$1,000 off labour.
- Hunt Incentives: Check for gov rebates on water-efficient upgrades in drought-prone states.
And always vet your crew: Look for licensed pros with warranties – All Star Pools offers lifetime guarantees on select finishes.
Splash Into Savings: Your Next Steps
In 2025, refinishing your pool’s interior runs $5k-$25k, but it’s the ticket to decades of hassle-free fun under the Aussie sun. The real cost? Putting it off and watching minor wear turn major.
Ready to dive in? Perth’s own All Star Pools Refurbishing is your local legend for fibreglass facelifts and concrete comebacks. Hit them up for a free on-site quote – no obligation, all expertise.What’s your pool’s biggest gripe? Cracks, colors, or costs? Drop it in the comments, and let’s chat splash solutions. Here’s to clearer waters ahead!