Photo credit: Patrick Brickman and Charleston Home + Design
Change is in the air, and we don’t just mean the seasons. In the coming months, as winter shifts and the sun begins to warm the air, your attention may turn to the heart of your great outdoors – the pool. Is your pool tile beginning to crack or does it look dated? Is your pool equipment running at optimum efficiency? Is your design in need of an update?
If a pool renovation has crossed your mind, it may be time to transform your space. This guide will provide crucial considerations to help you feel confident before embarking on this new chapter.
Determining the Need for Renovation
Before diving into the renovation process, you must first evaluate the current state of your pool. Begin by looking for signs of aging infrastructure. Your commercial or residential pool may need repair if you spot the following:
- Visible wear and tear: One of the clearest signs of aging pool infrastructure is visible wear and tear. This could include cracks in the pool walls or floor, peeling or chipping paint, rusted metal parts and faded or discolored tiles.
- Outdated equipment: The equipment used to operate your pool, such as pumps and filters, may also show signs of aging. If these components are not functioning correctly or are outdated, it can be less energy efficient and impact the overall integrity of the pool.
- Energy efficiency: Older pools may have outdated technology and equipment that is not up to modern energy-efficient standards. This can result in higher operating costs for maintaining the pool and proper chemical balance.
Consider whether the aesthetics align with your preferences and if enhanced functionality is on your wish list. A professional assessment is invaluable in identifying renovation needs.
Identifying Cosmetic/Aesthetic Updates
Pool renovation also offers an opportunity to redefine your pool’s aesthetics. Create a list or vision board of specific features or design elements you would like to incorporate, such as new tiling, water features or fire elements, pool lighting and more.
A professional pool designer can provide valuable insights and suggestions for changes to enhance the space’s overall look. By clearly identifying your cosmetic desires upfront, you can ensure that your pool renovation project meets your expectations and results in a beautiful, updated space that reflects your style.
Establishing a Budget
Establishing a realistic project budget is crucial for ensuring the project stays on track and within your financial means. This predetermined guideline will allow you to carefully consider each aspect of the renovation and make informed decisions on where to allocate funds.
Potential cost factors can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Materials (tiles, plaster, decking, etc.)
- Labor and installation fees
- Permits and inspections
- Equipment upgrades or replacements
- Landscaping and surrounding area improvements
Additionally, some pool builders offer financing options that can help ease the financial burden of a renovation project. Aqua Blue Pools is proud to partner with Lyon Financial and Home Improvement Loans to aid Lowcountry clients in obtaining a financial path to pool ownership.
Selecting a Pool Building Partner
Choosing the right pool building partner is critical to the success of your renovation. Conduct thorough research by checking online reviews, seeking referrals and verifying licenses and insurance.
Collaboration and communication are key—choose a partner whose vision aligns with yours and prioritize open communication throughout the process.
Timing Your Decision
The timing of your decision is crucial for a seamless renovation experience. Winter brings advantages, with renovation teams more available and quicker scheduling.
Use the late fall and early winter months for initial consultations, finalizing design and budget details, and confirming the project timeline. This strategic timing ensures a well-planned and executed renovation.
Bring Your Dream Pool Back To Life
As the Lowcountry’s premier custom pool builder, Aqua Blue Pools is ready to help you realize the pool renovation of your dreams. Since 1991, our team has renovated and built pools in a range of styles for residential and commercial clients in South Carolina. We are proud to work closely with our clients to create and execute impressive custom projects built to last. Contact us today to begin planning your oasis!