When homeowners choose a PebbleTec® pool finish, they’re not just selecting a surface—they’re investing in a premium, long-lasting, visually stunning pool finish trusted by luxury pool builders across the country. What many homeowners don’t realize is that PebbleTec isn’t a single product. The brand offers several distinct finish lines, each with its own texture, appearance, and performance benefits.

If you’re building or renovating a custom pool in  New Braunfels, TX—or anywhere in Boerne or the greater San Antonio area—understanding the differences between PebbleTec®, PebbleSheen®, PebbleFina®, and PebbleBrilliance® will help you choose the perfect finish for your backyard and lifestyle.

What Makes PebbleTec Pool Finishes Unique?

PebbleTec revolutionized the pool industry by introducing natural river pebbles into swimming pool finishes. Compared to traditional plaster, PebbleTec finishes offer superior durability, beauty, and longevity—making them ideal for Texas pools exposed to heat and heavy use.

All PebbleTec finishes share these core benefits:

• Exceptional durability in Texas climates
• Natural, organic beauty
• Rich and customizable color options
• Long lifespan (often 20+ years)
• Resistance to staining, etching, and chemical imbalance

👉 You can see real-world examples of these finishes in our custom pool gallery featuring projects throughout New Braunfels and the Hill Country.

PebbleTec®: The Original Pebble Pool Finish

PebbleTec is the original exposed pebble finish and remains one of the most durable pool surfaces available. Larger natural pebbles create a textured, resort-style appearance perfect for naturalistic pool designs.

Key Features

• Most natural appearance with visible pebbles
• Exceptional durability and longevity
• Textured surface with excellent slip resistance
• Deep, rich water colors

Best For
Homeowners in New Braunfels who want a lagoon-style pool that blends into the natural Hill Country landscape.

Pros

• Extremely long lifespan
• Organic, luxury appearance
• Ideal for freeform and nature-inspired pools

Cons

• More textured than other PebbleTec options
• Less smooth for sensitive feet

PebbleSheen®: The Most Popular PebbleTec Finish in New Braunfels

PebbleSheen uses smaller pebbles to create a smoother feel while maintaining the timeless pebble look. It’s one of the most popular choices for custom pools in New Braunfels and San Antonio.

Key Features

• Smaller pebbles for a smoother texture
• Elegant, refined appearance
• Wide range of color options
• Shimmering water clarity

Best For
Homeowners seeking a balance of comfort, durability, and luxury design.

Pros

• Smoother than traditional PebbleTec
• Excellent durability
• Beautiful sparkle and water depth
• Works well with modern and traditional pool designs

Cons

• Still slightly textured compared to plaster or PebbleFina
• Higher cost than standard plaster

🔎 Explore finished PebbleSheen pools in our New Braunfels pool gallery.

PebbleFina®: The Smoothest PebbleTec Pool Finish

PebbleFina is PebbleTec’s smoothest finish, using ultra-fine aggregates and pozzolans for added strength. It offers a sleek, modern look similar to polished plaster—but with far greater durability.

Key Features

• Ultra-smooth surface
• Clean, contemporary appearance
• Superior strength over plaster
• Comfortable feel underfoot

Best For
Homeowners who want a modern custom pool with a smooth, minimalist finish.

Pros

• Smoothest PebbleTec option
• Longer lifespan than plaster
• Refined, understated elegance

Cons

• Less natural pebble appearance
• Fewer color options than PebbleSheen

PebbleBrilliance®: A Modern, Sparkling Pool Finish

PebbleBrilliance blends glass beads with fine pebbles to create a striking, light-reflective pool finish. This option is ideal for homeowners looking for a luxury, resort-style pool with bold visual impact.

Key Features

• Glass bead and pebble blend
• High-definition sparkle and depth
• Vibrant, contemporary colors
• Smooth feel similar to PebbleSheen

Best For
Homeowners who want a statement pool design with modern flair.

Pros

• Eye-catching shimmer
• Smooth, comfortable surface
• Upscale, contemporary look

Cons

• Higher investment due to glass bead materials
• Bold appearance may not suit all designs

How to Choose the Right PebbleTec Finish for Your New Braunfels Pool

Choosing the right pool finish depends on how you plan to use your pool, your design preferences, and the look of your outdoor living space.

Choose PebbleTec® if you want:

• A natural, lagoon-style pool
• Maximum durability
• A textured, organic appearance

Choose PebbleSheen® if you want:

• A smoother surface with natural beauty
• Versatile design options
• A popular luxury finish

Choose PebbleFina® if you want:

• The smoothest possible surface
• A modern, polished aesthetic
• A plaster-like feel with better longevity

Choose PebbleBrilliance® if you want:

• A sparkling, high-definition water look
• A bold, modern design
• Visual depth and luxury appeal

Custom PebbleTec Pools in New Braunfels & San Antonio

PebbleTec finishes offer some of the most durable and visually striking pool surfaces available, making them an excellent choice for Texas homeowners. Whether you prefer the natural texture of PebbleTec, the refined elegance of PebbleSheen, the smooth finish of PebbleFina, or the vibrant sparkle of PebbleBrilliance, you’re choosing a finish designed to perform beautifully for decades.

As an Elite PebbleTec Builder, J. Oliver Custom Pools & Design proudly designs and builds custom pools in New Braunfels, Boerne, and San Antonio. Our team helps homeowners select the ideal PebbleTec finish to complement their home, landscape, and lifestyle.

👉 View real projects in our custom pool gallery
👉 Learn more about PebbleTec finishes at https://www.pebbletec.com