The decision to remodel your pool is not a decision you take lightly. Whether your pool has seen better days or you simply want a change, if you’re thinking of remodeling, there’s a lot you should know about the process.
In this article, I will go over everything you need to know about pool remodeling, including reasons to remodel, types of remodeling, the general remodeling process, and more!
Main Takeaways
- Reasons to remodel your pool include freshening things up, improving accessibility, addressing structural concerns, upgrading equipment, improving safety, and more!
- Types of pool remodeling include resurfacing and upgrading the surrounding areas, as well as installing safety features, new features, and energy-efficient upgrades.
- On average, a pool remodel job can cost $10,000 to $20,000, with the price ranging from $200 to $150,000, depending on what you get done.
- The best way to get a reliable, seasoned contractor is to gather referrals and testimonials from previous clients who are happy with their work. You should also ask the right questions.
Reasons to Remodel Your Pool
So, why should you remodel the swimming pool in the first place? Well, there might be a lot of reasons to consider when considering a remodeling job, depending on what you need and want. Here are a few key reasons to remodel your pool.
Freshen Things Up
Does your swimming pool’s design feel outdated? A remodeling job can change things up with modern finishes and features, such as updated pool paving, a fresh deck, built-in seating, waterfalls, a sun shelf, or even a jacuzzi. The sky’s the limit!
Improve Accessibility
It might be worthwhile to improve accessibility to your pool using sloped entries, slip-resistant materials, or pool lifts for folks who are elderly, disabled, or injured. Check out ADA standards for pools for more on this topic!
Address Structural Concerns
If the pool is old and has cracks and leaks, it may need to be replastered, which can help enhance its safety and longevity. As a general rule, you should replaster your pool every 10 years.
Upgrade Equipment
Pool technology has undergone a lot of innovation over the years. If your pool is pretty old, consider upgrading your pool equipment, such as your filters and cleaners, to take advantage of this.
Better Safety
Improve or install safety features, such as automatic covers, better lighting, and fencing (if not installed already), to make the pool a secure space for you and your family.
Increase Property Value
An upgraded, well-designed, and well-maintained pool boosts your property value, making it an attractive investment for potential home buyers.
Environmental Concerns
Pools are energy-intensive and require a lot of energy to run. So, if you’re interested in lowering your energy output (and saving some money in the long run), consider upgrading to energy-efficient equipment such as solar heaters and variable-speed pumps.
Types of Pool Remodeling
As you can see, there are many reasons to undergo pool remodeling. But exactly what types of pool remodeling are there?
Resurfacing
Resurfacing the pool involves redoing the interior surface of the pool to resolve underlying structural problems, such as cracks, flaking, and mottling, to improve the look and durability of the pool. Even if you take super good care of your pool, this must be carried out every 10 years or so.
Safety Features
Safety is a critical aspect of any pool. You might benefit from installing pool alarms, automatic covers, fences, and other features to protect the area from animals and intruders. These features can also help prevent your children and pets from accidentally falling into the pool without supervision.
New Features
Adding new water features, such as a hot tub, fountains, waterfalls, or tanning ledges, can transform the pool area and make it exciting. Lighting and automation are other possible options.
When it comes to automation, there are smart controls that’ll help you manage pool functions remotely, or you can simply invest in an automatic pool vacuum system. In terms of lighting, you could consider energy-efficient LED lights installed underwater or on the pathways for both visual aesthetics and safety.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Implementing energy-efficient solutions can reduce costs and your carbon footprint in the long run. Variable-speed pumps and solar heaters are great energy-efficient choices.
Surrounding Area
Finally, you can remodel the surrounding area instead of remodeling the pool itself. Remodeling the pool area can include the deck. You could look into revamping the paving or tiling with new material or consider expanding or reshaping the deck area. You could also consider revamping the landscaping, which can transform the entire look of your backyard.
General Remodeling Process: What to Expect
A general remodeling process for any pool project, no matter how extensive, will consist of the following stages.
Step One: Assessment and Planning
First, before beginning the project, a professional will inspect the site and assess the current state of the pool to identify any underlying safety concerns and structural issues. This will be followed by a client consultation where you discuss your goals, design preferences, and budget for the project.
Step Two: Design
The contractor will then work to draft a few conceptual designs that reflect your preferences. You will get an idea of what materials, finishes, features, and other elements are going to be used. If you haven’t yet, you should also get a rough quote from the contractor by this point.
Step Three: Permits
Once the design is approved, the project will proceed to the next stage: verifying building codes and securing the permits necessary for the proposed remodel. You might need permits from multiple municipal authorities, but your contractor should do the bulk of the work. So, you can lay back and relax while they get the work done!
Step Four: Demolition and Repair
The project might require the demolition of existing structures or features. Of course, if this is the case, the contractor will also properly dispose of the debris in line with environmental regulations, as well as repair work of any structural issues and prepare the site for the next step.
Step Five: Installing Features
The main project occurs at this stage, whether it is resurfacing, replastering, installing new features, upgrading new equipment and systems, or a combination of these.
Step Six: Final Inspection
Once the project has been completed, there will be a round of quality checks. Officials might visit the site to ensure everything is in compliance with safety standards and local regulations. The contractor will also perform a walkthrough with you to ensure you’re satisfied with what’s been done. Once you sign off on the work, you’ll also be given any documentation, such as permit records and warranties.
Pool Remodeling Costs
It is hard to offer a one-size-fits-all answer to what pool remodeling can cost you, as it really depends on what kind of pool remodeling project you are undertaking. However, as a general rule, they can be pricey. On average, a pool remodel job can cost $5,000 to $20,000. But the price can range from $200 on the low end to $150,000 on the high end!
Factors that influence the final cost will depend on the type of pool, the scope of the project, the size and complexity of the pool, the quality and type of materials and finishes used in the pool, the cost of labor, and permit fees.
Here are a few examples of common pool remodeling costs:
- Resurfacing/replastering: $1,000 to $100,000
- Replacing the vinyl liner: $1,000 to $7,500
- Converting a pool to a saltwater system: $500 to $2,500
- Lighting features: $450 to $1,700
- Water features: $800 to $10,000
- Pool automation system: $900 to $20,000
Tips for Hiring a Contractor
Not all contractors are created equal. It’s incredibly important that you pick the right contractor to handle your pool remodeling project. Here are my top tips for hiring the best contractor for the job!
Do Some Research
Tap into your network. Ask your family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations of reliable contractors. Follow this up by researching the contractor online. Visit their website, go through their completed projects, and read up on testimonials. You should also verify their credentials and double-check that they are licensed and insured in your state.
Request a Quote
Talk to at least three contractors—this will allow you to objectively compare services, prices, and qualifications. Request a site visit and quote from each one. They should outline expected costs, materials, labor charges, warranty details, an estimated project timeline, and more.
Ask the Right Questions
Here are a few questions you can ask the contractor to get a feel of their work ethic, communication style, approach to design, etc:
- How many similar remodels have you completed?
- Do you have experience handling renovation on this specific type of pool and/or the features I want installed?
- How will you keep me updated throughout the project? What’s your preferred communication method?
- What’s your expected timeline for finishing this work?
- What warranties do you offer on materials and workmanship?
You can note down their responses for further research later and even discuss them with an independent pool expert who might be able to spot potential issues. Check out my article on questions to ask a pool construction company for more.
Remember, walking away is okay! If you’re not feeling it, don’t hesitate to trust your gut and move on. Take your time in finding another contractor who feels like a better fit.
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How Long Does It Take to Renovate a Pool?
The time it takes to renovate a pool can vary greatly depending on the extent of the project. Naturally, the timeline will depend on how extensive the work is, permit approvals, weather conditions, the contractor’s schedule, and so on. But on average, it’s safe to set aside around 2 to 4 weeks for the overall work. For a better idea, you should always ask your contractor for an expected timeline before you make the commitment.
Remember that a well-organized plan and a seasoned contractor who runs a tight ship will go a long way in streamlining the project and minimizing unforeseen delays.
Pool Remodeling: Crafting Your Dream Space
From useful safety features to beautiful lighting systems, pool remodeling can breathe fresh life into your property. The final result? A renewed backyard oasis designed beautifully according to your preferences, ready for you to enjoy and show off!
Do you have more questions about pool remodeling or anything else pool-related? Shoot a message across; I’ll be happy to help!
