Old Pool Renovation: What to Expect and Where to Start

Old pool renovation is the process of repairing, upgrading, or rebuilding an old swimming pool to make it more attractive, functional, and a better fit for your backyard. This can include liner replacements, concrete repairs, coping upgrades, plumbing repairs, new equipment, deck improvements, and complete backyard pool renovations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Backyard finishing, coping, concrete work, new pool liner and liner replacement, plumbing and equipment work, and pool repairs and cosmetics are all part of pool renovations for older pools.
  • Pool renovation costs vary based on the condition of the pool, the extent of the repair, the materials and equipment used, access to the pool, and whether backyard construction is being done.
  • Pools can be repaired to address a single problem, or the entire pool can be renovated to enhance the structure, function, appearance and usability of the pool.
  • Top pool renovation concepts enhance safety and comfort, maintenance and energy efficiency, and backyard use.
  • Local pool renovation contractors can examine the pool and help you determine whether it should be repaired, renovated, or rebuilt.

What Is Old Pool Renovation?

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Old pool renovation refers to the process of updating a swimming pool that’s outdated, damaged, or no longer provides the homeowner with the benefits they desire. It can include repairing the pool shell, replacing the pool liner, upgrading the coping, fixing plumbing, replacing pool equipment, or enhancing the pool area.

For pool area renovations, the key is to do more than just make your pool look new. Many good renovations should also enhance the pool’s usability, simplify maintenance, and increase the harmony between the pool and the outdoor space.

Old pool renovation is the replacement, improvement, or design of an old pool to make it safer, more beautiful, easier to maintain, and more fun to use.

How Do You Renovate an Old Pool?

When renovating an old pool, you begin with an expert inspection of the pool, including any visible damage, equipment, plumbing, liner, coping, and the pool deck area. The contractor should then be able to suggest what should be fixed first and what can be improved.

A simple renovation process usually includes:

  • Inspecting the pool structure and equipment
  • Checking the liner, concrete, coping, skimmers, returns, and plumbing
  • Discussing pool renovation ideas and backyard goals
  • Setting a realistic budget
  • Deciding what must be repaired and what can be upgraded
  • Planning access, timing, and construction steps
  • Completing the renovation and finishing work

At Cracknell Pools & Backyards, homeowners can get help with pool installation, renovation, liners, maintenance, repairs, and backyard construction, making it easier to manage the full project with one team.

Pool Renovation Cost: What Affects the Price?

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Pool renovation costs depend on the pool’s age, condition, materials, equipment needs, access, and the scope of backyard work included. A small liner replacement will usually cost less than a major renovation involving concrete repairs, plumbing, coping, equipment upgrades, and deck work.

The cost may vary based on:

  • Pool size and type
  • Liner condition
  • Concrete damage
  • Plumbing issues
  • Pump, filter, or chlorinator upgrades
  • Coping and deck repairs
  • Backyard access
  • Patio, fence, shed, or deck work

The best first step is to get a professional inspection. That way, you are not guessing. You can distinguish urgent repairs from optional upgrades and plan the project in stages if needed.

Pool Renovation vs Pool Replacement: Which Makes Sense?

Pool renovation is suitable when the pool can be improved, maintained, and repaired without removing all the items. It may be more appropriate to consider a pool replacement when the structure is in severe condition, the layout is no longer suitable, or the cost of restoration is nearing that of replacement.

A repair typically resolves a single issue, such as a torn liner, a cracked concrete surface, or broken equipment. Swimming Pool Renovation is more extensive. It can enhance the pool’s appearance, operation, equipment, plumbing, and backflow.

A complete replacement or rebuild is a more significant decision. It may be required when the pool has significant structural problems or when the homeowner wishes to change the pool’s entire layout. A professional inspection can help ensure that money isn’t being spent on the wrong thing.

Why Renovate an Old Pool?

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Older pools can become more difficult and costly to maintain, less aesthetically appealing, and less efficient over time, which is why homeowners may want to renovate them. Renovation can enhance safety, comfort, water circulation, appearance, and enjoyment. Safety should be a priority in any pool renovation plan. Statistics Canada reported 308 deaths in Canada from accidental drowning and submersion in 2022.

Common signs your pool may need renovation include:

  • Torn or faded liner
  • Cracked concrete
  • Worn coping
  • Leaks
  • Old plumbing lines
  • Damaged skimmers or returns
  • Outdated pumps, filters, or chlorinators
  • A pool area that no longer suits your backyard lifestyle

For many families, backyard pool renovations are not just about the pool. They are about making the whole outdoor space easier to enjoy.

Best Pool Renovation Ideas for Old Pools

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The best pool renovation ideas for old pools are upgrades that enhance both appearance and function. Good ideas include a new liner, repaired concrete, updated coping, modern equipment, improved lighting, better decking, and a cleaner backyard layout. 

Equipment upgrades can also improve efficiency. Natural Resources Canada reports that ENERGY STAR-certified in-ground pool pumps use up to 65% less energy, on average, than standard models.

Practical ideas include:

  • Replace an old vinyl liner.
  • Repair or refresh concrete.
  • Upgrade coping around the pool.
  • Replace old plumbing lines.
  • Update pumps, filters, or chlorinators.
  • Add automated controls.
  • Improve the pool deck or patio.
  • Add a fence, shed, sitting area, or outdoor structure.
  • Redesign the backyard around the pool.

An excellent swimming pool improvement business should help you choose enhancements that suit your pool, budget, and actual backyard use.

Backyard Pool Renovation and Construction, London, Ontario: What Homeowners Should Know

The following factors should be considered when planning a backyard pool renovation or construction in London, Ontario: local climate; backyard access; pool condition; safety; and use of the outdoor space. You can plan the pool and backyard construction with the help of a local team.

When evaluating pool renovation companies, check for experience in pool repair, construction, concrete, equipment, outdoor finishing, and liners. In addition to asking whether the contractor can perform an in-ground pool renovation, homeowners should also ask whether the contractor can do patio, deck, fence, shed, and other backyard work.

Cracknell Pools & Backyards provides pool repair, pool maintenance, pool safety covers, pool renovation, pool installation, pool liners, and backyard construction in London, Strathroy, St. Thomas, and surrounding areas.

Conclusion

A pool renovation can transform your backyard by enhancing the pool’s look, functionality, safety, and enjoyment. If you are considering a new liner, concrete repair, coping, plumbing, equipment replacement, or a complete backyard pool renovation, the first step is a professional inspection. Contact us today to discuss pool renovations, pool renovation contractors, and inground pool renovation options in London, Ontario.

FAQs:

Can an old pool be renovated?

Yes, if the pool structure is still sound or repairable, many old pools can be renovated. Renovation can include installing a new liner, concrete repairs, coping, plumbing, equipment replacement, or modifications to the deck and backyard. It’s important to have a pool inspection by a pool contractor first.

How much does pool renovation cost?

Pool renovation costs vary based on the pool’s condition, the type of repair required, the materials chosen, the equipment to be replaced, and the surrounding backyard construction project. Minor repairs are more budget-friendly, whereas substantial renovations, such as concrete, plumbing, coping, or equipment, will require a larger budget.

How long does it take to renovate a pool?

The timeline depends on the scope of work. Some repairs, such as simple updates, may take less time, while others may take longer if the swimming pool repair is more extensive, such as concrete work, plumbing, equipment, decks, patios, or structural changes. Timing can also be affected by weather, material availability, and backyard access.

Is it worth renovating an old pool?

If the pool retains its usable structure and the improvements are primarily for safety, appearance, comfort, and maintenance, then the old pool might be a worthwhile project to renovate. It can also help you savour your backyard again without having to start from scratch.

Should I renovate my pool or build a new one?

If the existing pool can be repaired and updated at a reasonable cost, it is advisable to renovate it. If there are extensive structural problems, its dimensions no longer match your needs, or you want to renovate it but the cost is nearly equal to the cost of replacement, you need to rebuild or build a new pool.