- Categories: Buying Guides, Pool Fixing
The ultimate guide to pool renovation: methods, materials, and tips
Your pool requires regular attention and maintenance to ensure that it looks good and performs well. This can include a range of activities, such as chemical monitoring and filter cleaning. However, over time, the structure can deteriorate, leading to the need for renovation.
There can be a range of reasons why you may need to renovate, such as a damaged deck or cracked and outdated tiles.
Here’s an in-depth look at methods and materials for renovation, and our expert tips.
Table of Contents
Pool deck repair: your options
The deck is one of the most common places to focus pool renovations. Being one of the most exposed areas, it can face wear and weather damage. Gradually, this can lead to structural issues affecting appearance and safety. If deteriorated, it may result in dangerous accidents and even affect the water quality.
There are several possible interventions:
- Repair: the easiest and quickest solution. Cracks or stains can be fixed, improving appearance and cleanliness;
- Resurfacing: another option is to lay tiles and bricks directly over the existing surface, allowing for custom and unique designs without a full rebuild;
- Coating: concrete can be coated or repainted, transforming the look of your pool and reducing heat underfoot. For example, stamped concrete can mimic the appearance of wood or stone with customised colours and patterns.
Commonly used materials include:
- Tiles: glass or ceramic tiles are versatile and practical, though they may require repairs to the existing deck before installation;
- Stone: an elegant option that provides a natural look, although it can be expensive;
- Wood: a fresh solution for a classic appearance. It’s durable but requires regular maintenance.
The importance of tile restoration
Restoring the tiles and finish of your pool is essential for maintaining its overall appearance, ensuring it looks clean and tidy.
Broken or chipped tiles can compromise the structural integrity, damage the plaster, encourage the formation of dirt and algae, and affect water quality. They can also be safety hazard for swimmers.
Choosing the right tiles
If your pool is more than 10-15 years old, it may be time to replace the tiles. Depending on your preference, you can choose to replace them individually or all at once. Either way, this upgrade can significantly improve the appearance and functionality of your pool.
Which types of tiles should you use?
There are many options available on the market, each offering a long-lasting finish once installed.
Let’s take a look at some of your options:
- Ceramic: durable and available in a wide range of designs and colours.
- Porcelain: harder and denser than ceramic, it offers excellent stain resistance.
- Glass: gives a brilliant appearance that reflects light.
- Natural stone: provides an elegant and luxurious look.
- Glazed tiles: offer a glossy finish available in various colours and designs.
Why pool coping maintenance matters
Among the various renovation tasks, replacing the coping is essential. This material caps the edge of the pool wall and comes in different types.
Replacing it ensures:
- Structural integrity
- Safety
- Improved aesthetics
- Better water quality
When it comes to pool coping, there are several different types of materials that you may choose from.
The following materials are commonly used:
- Concrete
- Pavers
- Natural Stones (e.g. fieldstone, limestone, granite, etc.)
- Brick
Pool resurfacing
Pool resurfacing can completely transform the look of your outdoor space, giving it a refreshed appearance. The right coating can also restore and improve the internal surface.
There are a range of indicators to look out for that suggest it’s time for renovation. Some are easy to spot, while others emerge during maintenance.
An example? The constant need to add water or pool chemicals, along with cracks and leaks, are clear signs.
Among the most typical issues are:
- Roughness: the surface feels rough to the touch.
- Loss of pebbles or texture: pebbles or texture start to detach.
- Tears: there are visible tears in the vinyl lining.
- Discolouration: the surface colour fades or changes.
- Bubbling: bubbles appear under the surface.
Revamp your pool: custom remodelling solutions
A swimming pool is a significant investment, so it’s essential to keep it in top condition. If signs of wear are becoming more noticeable, it might be time to consider pool remodelling. That involves a complete restyling, with duration and costs varying depending on the extent of the project.
Remodelling can involve replastering, adding spa or water features, upgrading lighting, and even modifying the shape and size of the pool. Renovation projects are customised to suit various lifestyles: you can transform your swimming pool into an infinity pool, choose a swim spa, or even create a lap pool.
Take your swimming pool to the next level
Keeping your swimming pool well-maintained and updated is crucial for ensuring its safety, functionality, and beauty over the years. And using the right materials and renovation methods can significantly enhance its appearance and extend its lifespan.
But if you need maintenance or upgrades, it’s important to rely on reputable experts. After all, the cost of getting it wrong can get quite expensive!
We’ve created a directory of quality pool shops and service providers all around Aotearoa New Zealand. Find your local expert here.
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Hey! I'm Adrian, founder and pool expert here at Dolphin Pacific. I love spending time with family, fishing, and have been known to brew my own beer.
