Combination aggregate finishes are stronger and just as smooth if applied correctly. 1 part white cement and 2 parts marble dust is generaly a good marcite finish.On exposed aggregate finishes such as "diamond brite" exposing it by acid washing takes 2 years off of the lifespan. Wait until it needs washing and then do it.
If it is applied correctly it can be smooth. Very seldom that this happens. Any pool finish that has larger aggregate in it is always stronger. This is the same for any masonry by-product. The larger the aggregate the better and stronger it becomes. As pebbletec wears the rougher the surface may become due to the size of the aggregate.
The finish plaster is normally white all the way through. It sounds like you are dealing with a pool that has been replastered by the method of putting a "brown coat"/"scratch coat" (the gray plaster you noted) over the original finish plaster surface, and a new finish coat of white plaster on top of that. The scratch coat more like a thin concrete than plaster (doesn't have the white marble dust in it) and is used to get a better bond to the old surface.
My husband is a plasterer by trade. Lime helps the plaster to cure, reduces the amount of spider cracks and helps it stick better, I believe.
It makes very little difference
Plaster is usually applied onto Plasterboard to give it a smooth finish which can then be painted. There are other techniques, taping & jointing is one, though Plaster gives a better finish.
there is a product called "pebble tec" that is great. better than both products you mentioned. it is a little more expensive, but looks and lasts much better. other wise i would stay with plaster. from what i understand it adhears better to the gunite.
It is not necessarily better, just different. The pebble finish can come in mini pebble and regular pebble. The mini pebble is pretty close to the quartz aggregate finish(diamond brite) as far as texture, feeling. The regular is much rougher on your feet( kids and sensitive soles can vouch for that). As a contractor I hear this question all the time , and the answer is: if you use your pool frequently, go with quartz aggregate, if you care about the way your pool looks, then go with pebble. Pebble will be around 30% more than quartz aggregate. It is really a matter of preference. Premium Pool and Pavers, Odessa , Florida 727 271 5975.
Traditional wall anchors can pull out of plaster walls when attempting to hang curtains. A better option is to use toggle bolts and brackets.
Plaster cine string
it is better to use plaster of paris
The rough surface is better than the smooth surface for the frictional force to act.
which is a better reflector of light-a black surface or a white surface