Swimming Pool Renovations 101: Helpful Tips

Do you have an old inground pool that’s seen better days? Did you just buy a home that came with an inground pool that’s a bit of an eyesore? Don’t despair. With some pool renovations or pool remodeling, you can upgrade your backyard into a pool paradise.

Fall and winter are a great time to complete pool renovations, as you’re not actively using the pool, and pool contractors are entering a slower time of year. But the renovations process can be a daunting one. You’ll need to think about several things, from which upgrades are most critical to hiring the right pool contractor.

Keep reading for some tips on how to get the pool renovations you deserve.

Tip #1: Make a List of the Pool Upgrades You Want (And Need)

A good place to start is by making a list of the pool upgrades you want. List them by priority. The changes can include several categories:

Aesthetic Upgrades

The main pool renovations any homeowner wants to make center around aesthetic upgrades. If your pool looks dirty and drab, people won’t want to use it.

Some of the most common aesthetic upgrades include:

• Pool resurfacing (new plaster, pebble finish, etc.)
• New pool tile
• New pool coping
• New pool decking
• Adding pool lighting
• Adding fountains
• Adding a pool waterfall
• Adding sunledge, new steps, etc.

You can turn an old pool into a sparkling pool paradise with some high-end upgrades.

Related Reading: Questions to Ask About Pool Resurfacing

Comfort Upgrades

Adding a pool heater when you’re making pool upgrades is an excellent idea. It will allow you to use your pool earlier in the Maryland spring, as well as longer into September and even October if the weather cooperates.

If you’re redesigning your pool or enlarging it, consider adding entry stairs or a beach entry. Both of these make it easy for everyone to get into and out of the pool – including small children and pets.

Related Reading: What Is a Beach Entry Pool and Is It Right for You?

Safety Upgrades

There are some basic, but critical safety upgrades you need to consider if you have an older inground pool. You may need to change out the drain grate and add railings that are up to current codes.

Tip #2: Set a Budget

Now that you have your wish list, you’ll need to set a realistic budget. You may need to meet with several pool contractors before setting your budget. They should be able to give you some specific dollar figures on what your renovations and remodeling will cost. Ask for a breakdown by feature. This will help you determine which changes make the most sense.

You may decide you don’t really need the most expensive pool tile and pool decking if it means you can get the beach entry you want. There are a range of quality materials you can work with to get the look you want without breaking the bank.

Related Reading: From Dull, Dingy, and Drab to Fresh, Fun and Fabulous: A Case Study

Tip #3: Find the Right Swimming Pool Contractors for the Job

Last, but not least, you need to make sure you hire the right swimming pool contractors for the job. Your average pool installer doesn’t do pool renovations. You need to do your research, just like you did when you built your home or bought a new car.

Ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations, and ask if there is a company to avoid. Check out their websites to see if they do the kind of work that you’re interested in. Resurfacing a pool or adding new tile isn’t complicated. But enlarging a pool or changing the shape of it is.

Make sure a company is licensed, and has been in business at least 5 years – the longer the better. Read their Google and Facebook reviews. Do they have satisfied customers or a bunch of complaints?

Pick out a few contractors to interview, and select the one who listens to your pool renovation ideas and helps you understand all of your options.

Make It Exceptional. Make It Woodfield.

If you have an older inground pool that just isn’t up to your standards, our pool renovations team can help. We’ll guide you through the process of selecting what changes and upgrades you would like to make, and then present you with a design and installation plan that exceeds your expectations. We have more than 30 years of experience, so you can trust our process.

We work with pool owners throughout Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Cecil County, Harford County, and Howard County. Schedule a call today.