Swimming Pool Remodeling: What You Should Know (2022)

May 09, 2022

Your swimming pool should bring you joy as a homeowner. But if you find that you avoid looking at it because it detracts from your backyard, it's time for a pool remodel. And not to worry — the process may sound intimidating, but with the right pool builder, the process is simple. 

Learn more about what you can expect when you hire experts like our team members for a pool makeover. 

The Benefits of a Pool Remodel

f you already have a pool, you may be wondering what the point is of a remodel. If you can swim in it, why bother paying for improvements? 

But the truth is that many benefits come with remodeling and investing in your space outdoors. So, before you put off improvements for another year, discover a few of the top reasons you should call a local pool contractor about a makeover, no matter how small or large it needs to be

Greater Energy Efficiency

Pools aren't natural, and so they use up a lot of energy. If you installed a pump, you may have even noticed the price hike in your energy bills. 

But more modern equipment is designed to feature increased energy efficiency. The update from your pool builder will look great and save you money in the long term, month after month.

Enhance the Beauty of Your Space

Swimming is fun of course, but if your backyard doesn't look appealing, you won't want to spend much time there. How much are you really going to use your pool if it looks decrepit? 

With a little pool construction for a fancy facelift, you, your friends, and your family won't ever want to get out of the water. This investment will pay dividends in memories and good times. 

Increase the Value of Your Home

When you're looking to sell your home, you want to present the greatest possible product to get the most money out of the deal. And if potential buyers are faced with a sorry-looking swimming hole, they're unlikely to want to spend hundreds of dollars in pool maintenance to keep such a sorry spot. 

When you take the time to improve your outdoor space, buyers will notice and look forward to having it for their own. So not only can you enjoy it, but you'll enjoy the price boost when you sell.

How Pool Construction Works

You want to enjoy the benefits that come from a pool remodel, but where do you begin with the process? 

First, it should be noted that the best way to complete any pool remodeling project is to leave it to the professionals. Any mistakes made during the DIY process could ultimately cost you more in repairs than it would have been to hire a pool contractor from the start. So save your time and energy and rely on the experts. 

When you're ready to get the process started, here are the steps you and your pool contractor will follow. 

Finding a Design You Love

When it comes to a remodel, the possibilities are endless. Tiles and aggregate materials come in many colors and designs, so you can get exactly what you're looking for. Your contractor can also help you spot the materials that will best suit your existing setup and what will be the most durable option. 

Financing Your Pool Remodel

Different materials and contractors will come with different price tags. You shopped around for quotes from contractors. Now make sure you're choosing designs that fit your budget. Stay in contact with your contractor as you find financing options to create the space of your dreams.

Choose When to Get the Work Done

When you hire a pool builder should be carefully considered beyond what fits their schedule. Many experts recommend off-season swimming months, like fall and winter, and here's why:

• Avoid wasting precious summer swimming days.
• Get off-season prices. You may get discounts for avoiding the height of when people want to fix up their pools.
• Book your ideal contractor. If you've found a contractor you really want, chances are they have a packed schedule. But ask for the off-season, and you have a higher likelihood of them finding time for you.

The Actual Pool Remodeling Work

You've prepared everything you can. Now it's time for those contractors to do their jobs and create an oasis just outside your home. Here's what that will take. 

Draining

Very little work can be done until the bowl is drained. Pumping the water out of the pool sounds simple enough. However, it will take almost an entire day to get the job done. After that, your contractor may choose to leave it empty to allow weak spots to reveal themselves and ensure everything's dry. 

Of course, you don't want to leave an empty bowl too long. So once it's been pumped, you'll want to stay on schedule to avoid damage to your pool. 

Check for Hollow Spots

Now that the bowl is empty, contractors can take a closer look and discover any potential weak spots that will need to be reinforced. The hollow spots must be removed to ensure the new coating or tiling is correctly installed. This will mean the best results and long-term durability for the materials.

Resurfacing

Everything is now ready to start resurfacing the walls. The resurfacing process will look different depending on the materials you've chosen. Here are the three most common materials:

• Plaster: The most affordable option with the shortest lifespan.
• Tile: A high-quality look that lasts many years, but also comes with the highest price tags for materials and labor.
• Aggregate: Comes in many design options for creating your favorite look. It lasts a long time, but also requires regular maintenance.

Tile, Coping, and Decking

The most visual part of your swimming pool is the waterline tile, coping, and decking surrounding your pool. If you're considering a pool renovation then it is likely your current materials are old, cracked, and simply just not in style anymore.

Finding new finishes for your pool can seem like a hassle but a trained pool designer who understands how to pick the best materials for a given budget should be able to present you with a handful of choices that will make your pool look modern and new.

Start-Up

Now that everything's been remodeled, you may imagine it's just time to dump some water in and go for a swim. However, the start-up process must be correctly completed to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. 

The start-up process requires quickly refilling the bowl to avoid any rings that come from water sitting for long periods. Next, the contractor will start working on the pH balance and running the filtration system until the water is clean and ready for swimming. 

This is not only important for your own health, but is also best for your pool features, further protecting your investments.

Adding Your Personal Touches

Once the pool construction is complete and every contractor has left, don't give up on your backyard space. A few small touches can really elevate your outdoor space. Repainting or replacing old outdoor chairs, stringing up lights, or adding a fire pit can create a truly fantastic entertaining space around your pool. Don't be afraid to make your yard your own beyond the construction process. 

Enjoy Your New Pool

After all this work, you've come to the most important step: taking a dive into your gorgeous remodel. You've taken the time to collaborate with your pool builder to design your dream backyard. Don't let all your time and money go to waste by sitting inside. 

Invite over your friends and family and let them see your gorgeous new swimming pool. Or pour yourself a cocktail, hope on a floatier, and keep your slice of heaven to yourself for a little longer. No matter how you celebrate, it's time to enjoy your pool remodel!