When most people think of remodeling, they immediately think about resurfacing. However, when it comes to pools, there is a lot more that can be done than just resurfacing. Depending on how the homeowner would like to use their pool and what they currently have, there are a number of other remodeling projects that should be considered.

Adding a Spa or Hot Tub

One very popular addition to a pool remodeling project is the addition of a spa. Many homeowners who did not add a spa to their initial pool construction choose to add a spa several years later as a means of upgrading their backyard enjoyment. This can take a variety of forms, ranging from a separate spa that is connected to the main pool to an integrated spillover spa that shares a heater and water features with the main pool. The spa additions typically require new plumbing, a separate heater, and controls so that the spa can be heated to a different temperature than the main pool and operated independently. Spa additions are especially popular in the state of Florida, where the cooler winter evenings make for an ideal time to enjoy the spa's benefits.

Sun Shelves or Tanning Ledges

Sun shelves (also called tanning ledges) have become one of the most popular additions to any pool remodeling project. These are shallow shelves, typically only a few inches deep, that allow for the placement of lounge chairs along the edge of the pool. Sun shelves are also popular with families that have toddlers, due to the extra shallow water depth. The addition of this feature typically involves modifying the shallow end of an existing pool, making this a more involved project than a simple resurfacing.

Water Features

Water features are another very popular way to upgrade an existing pool. There are a variety of different water features that can be added, including sheer descent waterfalls, bubblers (typically found in sun shelves), deck jets, and rock or stone waterfalls. The necessary modifications would largely depend on the selected features, but additional plumbing lines and potentially an additional pump are typically needed.

Lighting Upgrades

Upgrading an existing pool's lighting can range from simple fixture replacements to a complete conversion to LED lighting capable of displaying a variety of colors through the use of an app-controlled lighting system. Older lighting typically consists of either incandescent or halogen lighting, which tends to be less energy efficient and less bright than the options available today. Lighting upgrades tend to be one of the largest remodeling projects, since they do not typically involve significant structural modifications but do require working with the pool's bonding and electrical systems.

Deck and Coping Renovations

Modifications to the areas surrounding the pool, such as the decking, are another popular type of remodeling project. Cracked or pitted decking is typically an indicator that it might be time to consider a decking replacement. This can range from simply an upgrade from concrete to pavers or another material to a complete renovation that includes updated coping. Deck and coping renovations are often done simultaneously in order to achieve an upgraded appearance that has a degree of uniformity. Drainage modifications may also be necessary if the deck was improperly built or maintained, which can be an especially important consideration in the state of Florida, due to the high amounts of rainfall the region receives annually.

Automation and Equipment Upgrades

The various pieces of equipment that keep a pool operating properly can also be an important consideration when discussing pool remodeling. Equipment upgrades may include updates to the various automation systems that monitor and control different aspects of the pool, such as lighting, temperature, and cleaning schedules. Modifying or replacing the pump, or replacing existing chlorine equipment with a saltwater chlorination system, are a few of the other ways that equipment can be upgraded. These types of modifications generally have little effect on the overall appearance of the pool, but they can have a significant effect on the operation and maintenance of the pool.

Other Safety and Accessibility Improvements

Remodeling projects can also include changes that focus on the safety and accessibility of the pool. This can include additions such as new safety fencing, safety covers, or modifications to the entry to the pool, such as the addition of new steps or a shallow ramp. Many of these modifications are particularly desirable for families with young children or elderly family members.

Determining the Scope of the Project

Since the scope of a remodeling project can range from a simple addition of a sun shelf to a complete and total renovation, the homeowner needs to determine the parts of their existing pool that they wish to change or modify. Doing this will allow them to create a list of desired modifications and will assist them in determining when the modifications should be made as far as the timeline is concerned.

Planning a Remodel

Most people who wish to explore their remodeling options will research a pool remodeling company Florida homeowners have hired for similar projects, since that sort of information can be invaluable when trying to compare the services of different companies. Romance Pools has been hired for many of these types of projects, and we have seen firsthand just how much variety there can be for a single backyard pool.