Pools have been the backdrop for lifelong memories among millions of people across the country, with fond memories of intense Marco-Polo games, to the unmatched feeling of leaping into cool water on the hottest day of the year.
They’re high-value additions to many homes, and when it comes time for renovations, you’ll want to be prepared.
Swimming pool renovations occur for a number of reasons. Whether it be outdated systems, structural damage, or a backyard reno to amp up your property, there’s bound to come a time when a renovation is due.
Whatever your reason, this article will help you check off every step to leave you with a final product you can’t wait to show off next summer!
What’s Included in Swimming Pool Renovations
Renovating your pool is more than simply replacing your existing one. It can entail much more, ranging from minor repairs or installing modern systems to completely changing the shape and size.
Here are some of the most common steps included in a well-planned swimming pool renovation.
Making Repairs
No matter how well you take care of your pool, there is always the risk of damage occurring from general use over the years.
Whether it’s from being exposed to chemicals for long periods of time or having the sun’s rays amplified as they hit the water, your pool will need repairs at some point in its lifetime.
These repairs could be as minor as patching a small hole in your liner to something more substantial, like a large crack forming along the edge of your concrete pool.
Whether you’re beginning your swimming pool renovation or are prepping it for the season, inspecting the surface of your pool is a vital aspect of your pool care.
Resurfacing
Essentially, resurfacing your pool is replacing or refurbishing its existing surface, usually made of:
- Concrete
- Plaster
- Fiberglass
Concrete
Concrete pools have begun rising in popularity once again, with many people looking for unique ways to create a custom pool that makes an impact.
These pools offer impressive durability, being able to withstand drastic temperature changes, the harsh UV rays from the sun, and water treatment chemicals.
There are many concrete coatings to choose from, making it a versatile option that can give you a significant selection of choices when designing your pool, including:
- Stamped
- Colored
- Decorative elements
- High-gloss finishes
Resurfacing your pool with concrete is easily one of the best options with the largest amount of customization.
Plaster
Plaster is a popular choice among many pool owners mainly due to its durability and long life expectancy.
Not only does plaster offer a smooth surface that both feels good and looks appealing, but it also easily maintains its quality over time.
Plaster is able to withstand the heavy pool chemicals you’ll be adding to your pool and handles temperature fluctuations well. This makes it a common option for people who live in climates that experience bitter winters and humid summers.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass pools are catching the attention of many people looking for pools with longer lifespans.
While this refinishing option can come with a hefty price tag, it has a higher resistance to the natural wear and tear your pool will experience, resulting in much less frequent resurfacing needs in the future.
Another benefit of fiberglass pools is their resistance to staining. This material doesn’t absorb anything that it comes in contact with, ensuring your pool will look fresh and clean much longer than plaster or concrete finishes.
Vinyl Liners
You may also decide to add a vinyl liner to your pool or replace your existing one. Vinyl liners can be added to both in-ground and above-ground pools and often include wall panels and a compacted base under the liner.
These liners are an additional surfacing option and can provide a smooth surface that leaves your pool looking bright and welcoming.
Updating Systems
Your pool relies on a number of systems to maintain its crystal-clear water. Over the years, technology will advance those systems, making them more user-friendly and powerful than their previous versions.
This means that when it comes time to renovate your pool, you’ll want to browse the updated systems and consider which ones would be a helpful addition to your pool.
This could be:
- New water pumps
- Updated filters
- Water heaters
- Fresh insulation for your system
- Switching your water system (for example, from chlorine to salt)
These systems can help reduce your energy costs, and as they become outdated, you may be left with rising maintenance costs or expensive bills.
Adding Exciting New Features
Your pool features are nearly endless, and a renovation provides the perfect opportunity to add new ones to yours.
Whether you’ve always dreamed of having an infinity pool design or simply want to add a slide to maximize the excitement of your kid’s next pool party, your swimming pool renovation is the best time to make that happen.
When planning your pool renovation, consider features like:
- A hot tub
- Underwater lighting
- Waterfalls
- A shallow lounge area
- Diving boards
The features you include alongside your pool can have a profound impact on your overall enjoyment, so take time to consider your options.
6 Best Practices for Swimming Pool Renovations
Before you begin your swimming pool renovation, there are some vital steps you’ll need to take to ensure the process goes smoothly and you end up with results you love.
1. Agree on a Budget
Swimming pool renovations can become costly, and it’s essential you decide on a budget before beginning the process.
Your budget will determine what materials are affordable, if you can add additional luxury features, and what system upgrades you can make.
2. Set Clear Goals
Every renovation is different, and the vision you have for your pool will help shape the goals you should be focusing on achieving.
When setting your goals, consider these questions:
- Which of your existing pool systems needs to be updated?
- What is a non-negotiable in your pool’s new design?
- Is there any aspect of your existing pool that doesn’t require updating?
- What’s your timeline look like?
- What is your climate?
- Do you want to change your water system?
Answering these questions will help you get a better understanding of what you want to achieve with this renovation and help you set realistic goals for your updated pool.
3. Choose Your Surface Material
Generally, concrete and plaster pools last five to seven years before needing to be resurfaced, whereas fiberglass pools have a total lifespan of up to 25 years.
The material you use for your pool will not only determine how often you’ll need to perform repairs and resurfacing, but it also has a significant impact on the estimated cost of your renovation.
Choosing your surface material is an important part of your renovation process and should be carefully considered before you begin planning your design.
4. Design Your Pool
Renovating your pool is a fun experience, and creating the design is one of the aspects that people get most excited about.
When designing your pool, you’ll need to keep your budget in mind, along with the goals you’ve set for this project.
For example, if you want to minimize costs by working within your pool’s existing shape, you may have a large focus on refinishing and adding new features.
On the other hand, if your goal is to completely revamp your pool and redesign it, you may enjoy exploring different shapes and styles that would complement your backyard.
5. Plan Each Step
Before you begin work on your swimming pool renovation, you should have a very clear idea of how you’re going to achieve your goals.
You’ll need to break each one down into actionable steps to follow throughout the entire process.
This will help ensure you are able to stick to your budget and successfully bring your vision to life.
6. Hire Professionals
Hiring a professional pool renovation team can make achieving your dream backyard even easier.
Not only will professionals be up to date on current regulations, but they can help you design a pool that is within your budget and suitable for your backyard.
Professionals not only help design pools, but they can provide guidance where necessary based on their expertise. This might be regarding new systems that could benefit your updated pool or inspecting your existing systems to determine if they’re still in good condition.
This can help you stick to your budget without compromising on your needs.
Working with a professional pool renovation team can make the process simple, highlighting problem areas and making expert suggestions to renovate your pool in the best way possible.
Professional Swimming Pool Renovations in Salisbury
By following these best practices for swimming pool renovations, you can ensure yours will go smoothly and successfully.
When you work with the pool renovation experts at Pool Tech in Salisbury, MD, you’ll be left with a stunning pool design that meets all your needs and that you can enjoy with your friends and family for years to come.
Contact us to get started, or visit us in-store today to learn more. Let’s make your pool dreams a reality!