Signs Your Pool Needs a Renovation (And How to Fix Them)

Signs Your Pool Needs a Renovation

1. Cracks, Stains, or Rough Surfaces

Over time, your pool’s surface can develop cracks, stains, or rough patches that aren’t just unsightly. They can be dangerous.

• Cracks in concrete or gunite pools may indicate structural issues
• Rough surfaces from old plaster can cause scratches and cuts on swimmers’ feet
• Stains from minerals, algae, or chemicals make your pool look dirty
  
  

Solution: Resurfacing

• Resurface with plaster, pebble, or quartz finishes to restore smoothness
• Choose a durable material that resists stains and algae buildup
  
  

2. Water Level Dropping Faster Than Normal

If you’re refilling your pool more often than usual, you might have a leak. Pool leaks are costly and wasteful, leading to higher water bills and damage to your pool structure.

• Leaks can occur in the pool shell, plumbing, equipment, or skimmer
• Ignoring leaks could cause soil erosion and weaken your pool’s foundation
  
  

Solution: Professional Leak Detection & Repair

• Use a bucket test to check for leaks (place a bucket on the pool step, mark the water level, and compare after 24 hours)
• Hire a professional leak detection service if you suspect a plumbing issue
  
  

3. Outdated or Inefficient Pool Equipment

Older pool equipment can be costly to maintain and inefficient, leading to higher energy bills. If your pool pump, filter, or heater is more than 10 years old, it’s time for an upgrade.

• Single-speed pumps consume unnecessary energy
• Old heaters struggle to maintain consistent temperatures or not working
• Inefficient filters require more cleanings throughout the year just to keep water clean
  
  

Solution: Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Pool Equipment

• Install a variable-speed pool pump to cut energy use by up to 80%
• Upgrade your heater for cost-effective heating
• Switch to a larger cartridge or DE filter for better water quality
  
  

4. Your Pool Looks Outdated

If your pool design hasn’t changed in decades, it may not match your current style or backyard aesthetics.

• Old tile and deteriorating finishes can make your pool look dull
• Basic designs may lack features like tanning ledges or waterfalls
• Homeowners are finding deep diving pools go unused and lose recreational space in their pools

Solution: Aesthetic Upgrades

• Update with new vibrant tiles, new stone coping, or a pebble finish for a fresh look
• Add water features, LED lighting, or a tanning ledge for a modern touch
• Raise the depth of your pool to give more recreational space
  
  

5. Frequent Repairs & Maintenance Issues

Are you constantly fixing broken parts or dealing with ongoing maintenance problems? If you’re spending more money on repairs than upgrades, a renovation may be the smarter choice.

• Leaks, pump failures, and filter issues are common in aging pools
• Plumbing and electrical issues can become expensive if left unchecked
  
  

Solution: Full Pool Renovation

• Evaluate whether the cost of repairs is higher than a renovation
• Consider a complete upgrade of the pool structure and equipment
  
  

6. Poor Energy Efficiency & High Utility Bills

Older pools are not built with energy efficiency in mind, leading to high water, electricity, and chemical costs.

• Traditional pumps use excessive electricity
• Older pump system doesn’t move water very efficiently. 
  
  

Solution: Make Your Pool Energy-Efficient

• Install up-to-date equipment that is energy-efficient
• Add an automation system that allows you to vary the pump speed and cleaning times
  
  

7. Your Pool No Longer Fits Your Needs

A pool that was perfect 10 years ago may not fit your lifestyle today. Maybe you need a shallower area for kids, a spa addition, or a larger deck for entertaining.

• Families with young children may need safety features like fencing
• Entertainers may want a swim-up bar, fire pit, or expanded patio
• Aging homeowners may prefer a built-in spa for hydrotherapy
  
  

Solution: Custom Pool Remodeling

• Add steps, benches, or a tanning ledge for more functionality
• Increase your pool deck for more entertainment space
• Incorporate a spa for year-round enjoyment
  
  

8. Wasted Potential in Your Backyard

Without a functional kitchen and patio in your backyard, you may be stuck indoors more than you would like. Maybe you have a grill or a picnic table, but it’s not a true extension of your home.

• Outdoor amenities are a major selling point in North Texas. If your backyard does not offer an outdoor living space, you’re leaving potential resale value on the table.
• Hosting a party without an outdoor patio and kitchen means juggling coolers, disposable serving trays, and constant trips inside.
  
  

Solution: Building an Outdoor Kitchen and Patio

• Building an outdoor patio offers an extension to your home’s usable living space and is perfect for parties and family gatherings
• Adding an outdoor kitchen allows you to fully entertain poolside without multiple trips indoors
  
  

Adding an outdoor patio and kitchen allows you to enjoy more of the outdoors beyond just swim season