A pool is a centerpiece for family gatherings, summer parties, and everyday relaxation. Over the years, however, pools can lose their luster or no longer fit your vision. Whether it’s due to evolving family needs, wear and tear, or simply wanting a modernized look, pool remodeling offers endless possibilities to revitalize your space.
So how much can you change an existing pool? With an expert pool builder like Anthony & Sylvan, the sky’s the limit. From complete redesigns to small, thoughtful upgrades, remodeling your pool can turn an aging or outdated pool into a stunning, more functional space.
Read on for great swimming pool remodel ideas and more.
Structural Changes for a Refreshed Pool Design
Maybe you built your own pool but are wishing for a change in its general design. OR maybe you bought a house with a pool that doesn’t meet your needs or suit your taste. In either case, a structural renovation can transform an underutilized pool into the star of your backyard.
Change the Shape of Your Pool
To truly transform your outdoor space, change the shape of your pool. Modifying your pool’s footprint can create more space to play or gather. It can also change the look of your yard: a freeform pool provides a natural vibe, while geometric pools can provide a modern aesthetic.
Add a Beach Entry
A beach entry can make it easier to enter and exit your pool while adding aesthetic appeal. Built in the shallow end of your pool, a beach entry slowly slopes into the water, eliminating the need for steps. A beach entry can also make your pool more accessible: it’s great for people with limited mobility as well as kids and pets who love to sit and splash.
Add Vanishing Edges
If you have a backyard with a view, add vanishing edges to your pool to highlight the natural beauty of your property. Vanishing-edge pools, also known as infinity pools, depend on weirs installed just beneath one or more of the pool’s edges. Your pool’s water flows gently over the edge where it is then recirculated back into the pool.
Surface Upgrades to Modernize Your Pool
Even pools that are the perfect shape and size for your backyard can need an occasional facelift. Surface upgrades like new tile, coping and decking can rejuvenate the look and feel of your pool.
Add New Tile
If your pool’s tiles are cracking or falling off, it might be time to install new tile and mosaics. There’s a seemingly infinite array of pool tile options to choose from in every finish, pattern, and color. And tile isn’t just for your pool’s walls and stairs: a mosaic inlay can make your pool one of a kind.
Resurface Your Pool
If your pool is concrete, you may need to resurface your pool every 8-20 years. Without regular resurfacing, exposure to the elements can leave your pool dingy, dated, and rough to the touch. When it’s time to resurface, professionals will remove your pool’s old coating and then hand-apply plaster or aggregate. For fiberglass pools, a gel application can help repair scratches and fading.
Perform Coping, Mastic, or Decking Replacement
A beautiful pool deserves a beautiful frame. Show your pool’s edges some love! Crumbling coping, uneven decking, and peeling mastic are eyesores—and safety hazards.
Upgrading your pool’s coping can transform your pool’s look — consider brick, concrete, or natural stone to complement your tiling. Decking frames the pool and provides it with structural support while giving your family a place to dry off and relax. Mastic repair and replacement are necessary every 5 to 10 years to ensure your pool’s structural integrity.
Aesthetic Upgrades to Enhance Your Pool’s Beauty
Ready to host the best pool parties in the neighborhood? If fun in the sun is on your agenda, consider aesthetic upgrades that will enhance your pool’s wow-factor.
Install New Pool Lighting
If you plan to use your pool at night, good lighting is a must. Illuminated pools aren’t just beautiful; they’re also safer for your backyard visitors. Underwater LED lights can be built into the sides of your pool and controlled with a switch, while fiber-optic lights use a light installed outside your pool that is connected to cables that transmit the light into the water.
Add Water Features
Water features lend your pool drama and excitement. Kids love playing in laminar jets and dunking their heads under waterfalls, and adults relish the relaxing sound of splashing fountains. Water features also keep your pool clean by continuously circulating its water.
Ensure Your Pool Water is Always Crystal Clear
What is a pool without water to swim in? There are several different ways you can change up and upgrade the water in your pool so that it meets your needs and is always crystal clear.
Switch From Saltwater to Chlorine (or Vice Versa)
If you are sensitive to the smell of chlorine or want to limit the use of harsh chemicals in your pool, changing your chlorine pool to a saltwater system, which converts plain salt to chlorine, is a great alternative.
Alternatively, some pool owners change from saltwater to chlorine because chlorine systems are less expensive and easier to maintain. These traditional chlorine pool systems release and circulate chlorine through your pool’s water to kill pathogens.
Install Water Purifiers
Depending on the sanitation method you use, you may want to upgrade your water purifiers. If you use a saltwater system, you need a sanitizer that uses an electrolytic cell to convert salt to chlorine. If you have a chlorine pool, you can upgrade from a floating chlorinator to an automatic chlorinator that works with your pool’s pump.
Equipment Upgrades for Convenience and Efficiency
The more comfortable and convenient your pool is, the more likely you are to use it. But that doesn’t mean you want to spend all your spare time tinkering with your pool’s systems. If you’re ready to let the pool run itself for a change, consider upgrading your pool equipment.
Add Automatic Controls
Imagine managing all your pool’s functions—water temperature, lights, water features—with a touch of a button. Adding automatic controls to your pool can also give you peace of mind while monitoring your pool equipment from afar.
Install Heaters and Chillers
Heaters and chillers help you get more out of your pool. A pool heater can get you into your pool earlier in the summer and keep you comfortable later in the fall. Alternatively, chillers can keep small, shallow pools refreshing in the heat—perfect for areas with unrelenting summers. The latest digital pool heaters and chillers are fast, quiet, and energy-efficient, so you can enjoy your soak without worrying about breaking the bank.
Incorporate Automatic Cleaning Systems
Cleaning a pool takes significant time and effort. Anthony & Sylvan offers professional pool maintenance services, but automatic cleaning systems can keep your pool cleaner and fresher for longer in between maintenance visits.
Whether you add a robotic cleaner, a pressure-side or suction-side system that works with your pump, or an in-floor system that continually circulates clean, heated water through your pool, you’ll be glad you leveled up.
Accessibility and Environmental Features that Improve Functionality
Swimming pool remodeling isn’t just about upgrading your backyard’s appearance. It’s about making fun in the sun accessible—and sustainable—for everyone.
Add Accessibility Features
Accessibility features can make it possible for the entire family to enjoy the pool. Whether you or someone you love is disabled, elderly, injured, or would otherwise benefit from accessibility features, there’s a solution that’s perfect for your pool. You’ll want to speak with your chosen pool renovation company to see what solutions they can provide and install.
Install Environmentally Efficient Features
Swimming pools were once considered bad for the environment, but environmental efficiency features like LED lighting, intelligent filtration and sanitation systems, and energy-efficient pumps have changed the game. These upgrades will help reduce your pool’s carbon footprint and your electric bills.
Backyard Features to Complete Your Outdoor Oasis
Your pool is your backyard’s focal point, so it only stands to reason that once you perfect it, you may want to change your backyard features, as well.
- Add Artificial Turf: Artificial turf is pet-friendly, durable, and resistant to pool chemicals. It also helps prevent poolside slip-and-falls.
- Install an Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit: Fireplaces and fire pits enhance late-night pool parties and allow you to enjoy your pool area even when it’s cold outside.
- Build an Outdoor Kitchen: If you love to host, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, smoker, or pizza oven can transform your patio into a second dining room.
- Add Outdoor Structures: From pergolas and gazebos to cabanas and pavilions, outdoor structures give your backyard space a whole new dimension. A pergola is the perfect place to host a dinner party, while a cabana provides a secluded retreat.
- Upgrade Pool Fencing: Fencing keeps your pool and backyard safe from prying eyes and protects your pool guests. Upgrading pool fencing with wood, PVC, and aluminum fences are all great options that can help overhaul the aesthetic of your yard.
- Create a Pool Patio: It’s just as fun to relax in a lounge chair by the pool as it is to take a dip. A well-designed patio gives your family a great place to play and relax.
Factors to Consider When Renovating
Working With a Professional Pool Remodeling Company
If you’re thinking of remodeling your pool, you’ll want to work with a reputable pool remodeling company like Anthony & Sylvan. We are fast, knowledgeable, and ready to make your pool remodeling ideas a reality. If Anthony & Sylvan does not service your area, choose a pool remodeling company with thousands of stellar reviews and decades of experience to make your remodel more seamless.
How To Choose the Right Renovation for Your Pool
Choosing the right renovation for your pool requires knowing how you want to use your backyard. This guide can help you imagine the possibilities, but scheduling a consultation with a trusted pool remodeling company will help you turn your vision into a reality.
How Much Will a Pool Remodel Cost?
Pool remodeling costs vary depending on the size and current condition of your pool, the extent of the changes you wish to make, the materials you select for your upgrade, and more. To get a general sense of a project’s price tag, check Anthony & Sylvan’s pricing by region page. Anthony & Sylvan accepts a variety of payment types and offers financing for both new pools and remodeling.
How Long Does a Typical Pool Renovation Take?
All pool renovations are different. Your project may take anywhere from one day to more than six weeks, depending on its scope. During your on-site consultation, an Anthony & Sylvan representative will provide you with a projected timeline and pricing for your project.
More Pool Remodeling FAQs
Can I Change the Shape of My Existing Pool?
Yes, a professional pool remodeling company can change the shape of most pools. In fact, changing a pool’s shape is one of the most common types of pool renovations.
What Are the Most Popular Pool Remodeling Trends Right Now?
Many homeowners today want to make their pools more environmentally friendly. Sustainable upgrades like high-efficiency pumps and saltwater conversion are increasingly popular choices. Other pool remodeling trends include adding beach entries and tiling with darker tones, like emerald and dark gray.
Are there Benefits to Switching From Chlorine to Saltwater?
Many people enjoy the convenience of chlorinated pools, but saltwater systems are great for eco-conscious pool owners who want to limit the chemicals they put into their pools. Saltwater pools do not emit a strong chlorine odor, and their water can be gentler on skin.
How Can I Make My Pool More Energy-Efficient?
To save money on your energy bills, consider swapping your pool’s current pump for a more energy-efficient model. If you have old pool lights in need of replacement, consider upgrading to LED bulbs.
What Permits Are Needed for a Pool Renovation?
Even minor pool renovations typically require a permit from your local building department. Any work that requires a licensed electrician or plumber may require more than one. You may also need to submit detailed plans for your renovation to ensure that you are following local building codes. Call an Anthony & Sylvan location near you to connect with an expert who knows your community’s permitting process inside and out.
What Is the Best Time Of Year to Remodel My Pool?
Fall and winter are the best times of year to remodel your pool. Most pool renovations require you to stay out of the water, so upgrading your pool during the off-season just makes sense. There may also be fewer construction delays during the slower time of year—as long as the weather cooperates.
When Should I Remodel vs. Redo My Pool?
If you use your pool regularly and are satisfied with its general appearance, resurfacing or repairing tiles and coping might be all you need to do to give your backyard oasis a new lease on life.
If you avoid your pool because it is unsafe, in poor repair, or doesn’t meet your current needs, a more extensive remodel might be warranted. A consultation with a pool professional will help you review and understand your options.
Transform Your Pool with America’s Most Trusted Pool Builder
Whether your pool needs a few small tweaks or a complete makeover, you can trust the professionals at Anthony & Sylvan to bring your pool remodeling ideas to life. Contact your local Anthony & Sylvan office to see which services are available in your area.
Anthony & Sylvan has been in the pool business for over 75 years and boasts a coveted 5-star rating on Google. We’ve won “Best Of” awards in multiple regional markets, and Forbes Home recently named us the nation’s best pool installation company for custom pool design.
Don’t settle for less than the best: contact an Anthony & Sylvan location near you to start building the pool of your dreams today.
