How Pool Cladding Takes It to a New Level

A swimming pool is more than just a place to swim; it is a central feature of your backyard that reflects your style and enhances the appeal of your home. One often overlooked element that can transform the appearance and functionality of your pool is its lining, i.e., the material that covers the interior surface of the pool. A reputable pool construction company can guide you in selecting the best material based on your pool type and design goals. The choice is vast. From luxurious, expensive tiles to affordable options such as thick reinforced PVC membranes, such as Cefil 60 mil pool liner, pool lining is a small accent with a big impact.

Cladding is important not only in terms of appearance—it affects maintenance, durability, and even water quality. The right choice can reduce cleaning time, ensure durability, and create a stunning visual effect. Whether you are renovating an existing pool or building a new one, choosing the perfect cladding is a crucial factor that strikes a balance between style, cost, and practicality.

Each cladding material has its own unique advantages, suitable for different budgets, climatic conditions, and design preferences. Here are the most popular options in 2025:

• Thick reinforced PVC membrane: This versatile and inexpensive cladding is popular due to its durability and customizability. It is resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and tears, lasts for 20+ years, and requires minimal maintenance thanks to its smooth, algae-resistant surface. Available in bright colors and patterns, it realistically imitates tile or stone. It provides a high-quality look at a lower price. In addition, it is easy to install and repair, making it ideal for both new construction and renovation.
• Ceramic tile: Known for its elegance, ceramic tile provides a smooth, luxurious finish. It is very durable, resistant to fading and staining, and available in countless colors and patterns. Although it is significantly more expensive than PVC liners, it may be the best choice for luxury pools where style is paramount. The downside is the high cost of both the tiles themselves and their installation.

• Glass mosaic tiles: These tiles create a shimmering, reflective effect that is ideal for creating a spa-like atmosphere. They are durable and resistant to chemicals, but they are expensive and require more time to install. They add a dazzling accent, although maintenance can be labor-intensive due to the need to clean the grout lines.
• Pebbles: Natural pebble finishes create a textured, non-slip surface that harmonizes with naturalistic designs. They are durable and require little maintenance. Although it is more affordable than mosaic tiles, it is more expensive than PVC membranes, requires skilled installation, and can crack over time.
• Plaster: A traditional option, plaster is affordable and provides a smooth, classic look. However, it is prone to staining and cracking, requires frequent maintenance, and needs to be resurfaced every 5–10 years. It is still used in budget projects, but is less popular in 2025 due to the emergence of new, more durable options such as PVC membranes.
• Fiberglass: Preformed fiberglass shells are quick to install and smooth to the touch, which reduces algae growth. They are durable and energy efficient, but offer limited design flexibility. Over time, they can crack for a variety of reasons, one of which may be improper installation. Repairing such pools is very labor-intensive and expensive.

Switching to modern facing materials when renovating your pool or building a new one can transform the functionality and appeal of your pool:

• Improved aesthetics: cladding such as glass mosaic or thick reinforced PVC membranes can mimic luxurious finishes, transforming an ordinary pool into a visual masterpiece. Darker cladding can also naturally heat the water, adding a cozy effect.
• Increased durability: Materials such as PVC liners and ceramic tiles are resistant to wear and tear, reducing the need for frequent repairs. 
• Lower maintenance costs: Smooth surfaces, such as PVC membranes or fiberglass, prevent algae growth, reducing the use of chemicals and cleaning time, which saves money and benefits the environment.
• Energy efficiency: Insulating liners, such as thick reinforced PVC liners, help retain water heat, reducing heating costs.

Choosing the best cladding depends on your budget, style, and maintenance preferences. Here’s how to make the right choice:

• Assess your budget: Thick reinforced PVC membranes are ideal for limited budgets, offering durability and style at a lower price than tile or pebble finishes.
• Consider the climate: In sunny regions such as Florida or California, UV-resistant materials such as PVC liner or tile are key. 
• Match your aesthetic preferences: Choose a liner that harmonizes with your backyard. The variety of colors and patterns offered by PVC membrane makes this task easy.
• Plan for maintenance: Choose low-maintenance options such as PVC liner or fiberglass if you want to spend more time in the pool than cleaning it.
• Consult a professional: contact a local swimming pool contractor who has experience working with your chosen lining to ensure a smooth installation and long-term performance.