Pool Remodel Costs: What to Expect and Budget For

Understanding Pool Remodel Costs: A Comprehensive Guide

How much does it cost to remodel a pool? It’s a question many homeowners ask when planning a pool renovation. The cost can vary widely, from minor cosmetic upgrades to full-scale changes. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:

1. Minor updates: $500 – $5,000

   • Decorative repairs, filter upgrades

2. Moderate remodels: $10,000 – $30,000

   • Resurfacing, pump upgrades

3. Major remodels: $30,000 – $70,000+

   Berriz Desing - Unique Design &Build Remodeling Services

   Our landscape design and remodeling company strives to infuse each and every project with luxury, class, and timeless beauty.

   Get A Quote
   • Deck renovations, luxury features

Remodeling a pool can be a significant investment that improves both the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. Whether you’re considering minor updates or a complete overhaul, it’s crucial to plan carefully.

Several factors influence the cost of a pool remodel. These include the type of renovations, choice of materials, labor costs, and the project’s scope. Understanding these elements will help you create an accurate budget, ensuring that the final result aligns with your vision and financial plans.

I’m Bob Berriz, and for over 30 years, I’ve specialized in remodeling pools and outdoor living areas, ensuring high-end results for discerning homeowners. My experience includes a wide range of projects, from simple updates to luxurious changes, helping clients understand how much does it cost to remodel a pool.

How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Pool?

When considering a pool remodel, the question on most homeowners’ minds is, “how much does it cost to remodel a pool?” The cost can vary widely, influenced by the scope of the project, the materials used, and labor costs. Let’s break it down into two main categories: minor updates and major remodels.

Minor Updates

Minor updates are smaller projects that can still significantly improve your pool’s functionality and appearance without breaking the bank. These updates generally cost between $300 and $2,000.

Decorative Repairs: Simple fixes like replacing tiles or repairing small cracks can freshen up your pool’s look. These repairs typically cost between $50 and $5,000, depending on the extent of the work.

Pump Upgrades: Upgrading to a variable-speed pump can be a cost-effective way to save on energy bills. Expect to spend between $500 and $1,200 for this upgrade.

Filter Upgrades: Replacing an old filter with a more efficient model can improve water quality and reduce maintenance. Filter upgrades usually cost between $200 and $1,500.

Major Remodels

Major remodels involve more extensive work and can transform your pool into a luxurious oasis. These projects generally cost between $5,000 and $30,000, but can go as high as $50,000 for more complex jobs.

Resurfacing: One of the most common major remodels is resurfacing the pool. The cost depends on the material:

• Unpolished Aggregate: $3,500 to $20,000
• Polished Aggregate: $5,000 to $30,000
• Tile Resurfacing: $15,000 to $70,000

Deck Renovation: Renovating the pool deck can improve the overall aesthetic and safety. Costs vary based on materials:

• Natural Stone Decking: $15 to $30 per square foot
• Concrete Pavers: $14 to $26 per square foot
• Pressure-Treated Wood Decking: $25 to $40 per square foot
• Composite Wood: $55 to $75 per square foot

Patio Restoration: Updating the patio area around your pool can create a cohesive and inviting outdoor space. This can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the size and materials used.

Factors Affecting Cost

Several factors influence how much does it cost to remodel a pool:

• Pool Size: Larger pools require more materials and labor, increasing costs.
• Pool Type: Inground pools are generally more expensive to remodel than above-ground pools due to accessibility and material costs.
• Materials: The choice of materials, such as concrete, fiberglass, or natural stone, can significantly impact the budget.
• Labor Costs: Labor rates vary by location and the complexity of the project. Skilled labor is crucial for high-quality results.

Understanding these factors will help you plan your pool remodel effectively, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Next, we’ll explore some common pool remodel projects and their benefits.

Common Pool Remodel Projects

Remodeling a pool can be a big project, but it can also bring new life to your backyard oasis. Here are some common pool remodel projects, their costs, and benefits.

Resurfacing

Resurfacing is one of the most common pool remodel projects. It involves replacing the pool’s surface to fix cracks, leaks, or simply to update its look.

• Unpolished Aggregate: This is a budget-friendly option that costs between $3,500 and $20,000. It offers a natural, textured look.
• Polished Aggregate: A bit more expensive, ranging from $5,000 to $30,000. It provides a smoother and more neat finish.
• Tile Resurfacing: The most luxurious option, costing between $15,000 and $70,000. Tile resurfacing can make your pool look stunning but comes at a higher price.

Adding Features

Adding new features to your pool can make it more fun and functional.

• Waterfalls: These can cost between $5,000 and $10,000. High-end options can go up to $30,000. Waterfalls add a natural, relaxing element to your pool.
• Slides: A fun addition for families, slides cost around $1,000 to $10,000.
• Tanning Ledges: These shallow areas cost between $1,500 and $5,000. They are perfect for lounging and add a modern touch.
• Motorized Covers: These range from $10,000 to $20,000. They help keep your pool clean and safe, and reduce evaporation, saving water and energy.

Pool Heating

Having a heated pool can extend your swimming season and make your pool more comfortable.

• Electric Resistance: The most affordable option, costing between $1,700 and $4,000.
• Gas Heaters: A bit more expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $6,000. They heat quickly but can be costly to run.
• Heat Pumps: These cost between $2,500 and $7,500. They are energy-efficient but take longer to heat the pool.
• Solar Heaters: The most expensive initial investment, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000. However, they save on energy costs in the long run.

Pool Conversions

Converting your pool can meet new needs or preferences.

• Chlorine to Saltwater: This conversion costs between $1,000 and $5,000. Saltwater pools are easier to maintain and gentler on the skin.
• Chlorine to Natural: Creating a natural pool with plants that filter the water can cost between $50,000 and $100,000. It offers a more eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing option.
• Pool to Pond: Converting your pool into a koi pond can cost around $10,000 to $20,000. This is a great option if you no longer want a swimming pool but love the idea of a water feature.

Each of these projects can improve the look, feel, and functionality of your pool. Next, we’ll look at the factors that influence the costs of these remodels.

Factors Influencing Pool Remodel Costs

When planning a pool remodel, understanding the factors that influence costs is essential. Here are the key elements to consider:

Pool Size

Larger pools naturally require more materials and labor, which increases costs. Remodeling a small pool might cost between $5,347 and $14,813, but larger pools, especially those with complex designs, will be on the higher end of that range or beyond.

For example, reshaping a vinyl pool can cost $30,000, while a concrete pool might cost up to $60,000. The size and complexity of the project dictate the final price.

Pool Type

The type of pool you have—above-ground or in-ground—affects the cost. In-ground pools are more expensive to remodel due to their construction and the materials involved. Remodeling an in-ground pool can range from $6,000 to $30,000, while above-ground pools are more budget-friendly, costing $500 to $3,000.

Accessibility also plays a role. In-ground pools often require more extensive excavation and structural work, which adds to the cost. Above-ground pools, being more straightforward in design, are usually cheaper to modify.

Materials

The choice of materials significantly impacts the cost of a pool remodel. Here’s a breakdown:

• Concrete: Durable but expensive, concrete pools offer flexibility in design but require skilled labor to install and maintain.
• Fiberglass: Easier to install and maintain, fiberglass pools are less customizable but more cost-effective over time.
• Vinyl: The most affordable option, vinyl liners are easy to replace but may need more frequent upkeep.
• Natural Stone: Adds a luxurious look but comes at a premium price due to the cost of the materials and the labor required to install them.

Materials typically account for about 55% of your total budget, so choosing the right ones can help manage costs.

Labor Costs

Labor is another major component of pool remodel costs, making up about 45% of the total budget. The cost of labor can vary based on several factors:

• Hourly Rates: Skilled labor is essential for a quality remodel. Rates can vary widely depending on the contractor’s experience and the project’s complexity.
• Location: Labor costs can be higher in urban areas compared to rural ones due to the cost of living and demand for services.
• Seasonality: Pool remodeling is often more expensive in the peak summer months due to higher demand. Scheduling your remodel in the off-season can save you money.

Understanding these factors can help you better plan and budget for your pool remodel. Next, we’ll dive into some frequently asked questions about pool remodel costs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pool Remodel Costs

Can you reshape a concrete pool?

Yes, you can reshape a concrete pool. This type of remodel is complex and involves significant structural work. Contractors will need to demo part of the existing pool, excavate, and then pour new walls to achieve the desired shape.

Reshaping a pool can cost between $50,000 to $100,000. The final price depends on the complexity of the design and the amount of structural changes required.

“Changing from one pool shape to another is a complex project, involving much of the same work as expanding,” notes the Sublime Pools Blog.

How much does it cost to reduce the size of a pool?

Reducing the size of a pool is another significant project. The cost typically ranges from $20,000 to $70,000. This involves draining the pool, removing the extra sections, and reshaping the remaining structure.

Several factors influence the cost:

• Pool Type: Concrete pools are more expensive to modify than vinyl or fiberglass pools.
• Excavation and Removal: Costs can vary depending on how much material needs to be removed and disposed of.
• New Materials: You’ll need new materials to finish the smaller pool, which can add to the cost.

How long does a pool remodel take?

The duration of a pool remodel can vary widely based on the scope of the project.

• Minor Updates: Simple updates like resurfacing or adding new tiles can be completed in as little as a week.
• Major Remodels: More extensive projects, such as reshaping the pool or adding new features, can take 4 to 8 weeks.

Several factors can affect the timeline:

• Project Complexity: More complex projects take longer to complete.
• Material Availability: Delays in getting materials can extend the timeline.
• Weather Conditions: Bad weather can disrupt the schedule and add days or even weeks to the project.
• Contractor’s Schedule: The availability of your pool contractor can also impact how quickly the work gets done.

“Planning and obtaining necessary approvals can also add to the timeline, so it’s wise to start discussions with your contractor early on,” advises Berriz Design Build.

Knowing these factors can help you better plan and budget for your pool remodel. Up next, we’ll explore some common pool remodel projects and their benefits.

Conclusion

Remodeling your pool is a significant investment that can transform your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis. Whether you’re considering minor updates or a major overhaul, understand the costs and factors involved.

At Berriz Design Build, we specialize in creating stunning, timeless pool designs that improve both the beauty and functionality of your backyard. Our team of experts is committed to delivering exceptional customer service, guiding you through every step of the remodeling process.

From initial consultation to project completion, we ensure your experience is seamless and enjoyable. We take pride in our craftsmanship and use only the highest quality materials to bring your vision to life.

Ready to transform your pool? Visit our pool renovation services page to learn more and get started on your project today. Let’s create the backyard oasis you’ve always dreamed of.