FAQ - Remodeling
Can an old gunite pool be converted to a vinyl liner pool?
The answer is absolutely! Secondary market products are readily available for a conversion such as this.
A plastic, resin, or fiberglass track is installed just under the top edge of the coping around the swimming pool. The track is usually attached with some sort of stainless steel screw. Rolled Wall foam can be cut into long sheets and attached to the existing plaster walls--usually with spray adhesive. The foam evens out the surface and also provides a nice "shock absorbent" pad in between the liner and the wall.
Complete measurements of the existing structure need to be taken--and they need to be extremely accurate. Some of these measurements include the height of the wall, angle of slope, depth and step areas.
Can I change the depth in my pool?
Yes, the depth of your pool can be changed. There are pool owners who want to raise their deep end to match the shallow end and there are owners that want the shallow end made deeper. Either one is possible but must be done in conjunction with a new liner or pool finish.
Can I change the shape of my pool?
Yes, you can change the shape of your pool. In most cases, however, the more drastic the change in shape, the more it will cost. Most people choose to add new updated pool options such as new steps instead of a drastic change in the shape.
Can I replace the wood wall panels on my vinyl inground pool at the same time I replace the liner?
Your pool should be evaluated and inspected by a pool professional to determine if any of the walls can be salvaged. Sometimes it may be possible to replace walls on the pool if there is a good footing present behind the pool wall. Other times there isn’t any concrete footing and when the pool is emptied to service the walls there is a good possibility of all the walls caving in.
Can my pump and filter be moved to a different location?
Absolutely, in fact the best time to move a pump and filter system into a different location is when a renovation is being done. A good recommendation is putting the pump and filter in a location where it won’t be seen or heard but is easily accessible. This is often on the side of the house or behind a shed.
How can I enhance the appearance of my pool area at night?
Creative landscape lighting is another feature to highlight and accent your outdoor experience in the evening. Many homeowners like to ease the tensions of the day by relaxing outdoors after the evening meal. A creatively designed lighting system will dramatically accent landscaping and artistic features of your swimming pool area.
Dramatic effects can be achieved that are visible from indoors as well as out. You can create a climate that extends your living area rather than separating it. Lighting options are more flexible than ever. Adjusting the ambiance to suit your mood; from entertaining to romance gives you greater flexibility of feel.
How do I select the best company for my pool renovation?
Interview your prospective renovation company carefully. What is the main focus of their work? Do they have references? Hiring a pool renovation contractor requires careful thought and consideration if you want the job done to perfection within your budget.
Make a list of contractors of who your friends and associates have referred. Get all estimates from each pool renovation contractor separately, with as much details as possible. Ask them to break down each work schedule detailing the labor and material involved with cost for each component of work involved to give you an overall picture of what lies in store.
Ask the contractor about his labor pool and who will be supervising the work on daily basis. This is very important because a professional pool renovation contractor will have an experienced team of labor specializing in different areas of the work, like concrete lining, lighting, and chlorination specialist. If the contractor cannot satisfy you about his labor force, stay clear off him or you will have cost and time overruns.
A supervisor to direct the work is also essential and advisable and you should insist on it. Check whether permits, if required are already built into the estimate or an additional cost to be incurred by you. Also ask whether he will get all the necessary permits on your behalf before the work begins and how much time is required for all these permits. Selecting the right pool renovation contractor will give you peace of mind and a sparkling new pool to be proud of.
How long does a swimming pool remodel take from start to finish?
The length of time to complete your pool remodel project really depends on the scope of work being performed. If you desire to replace coping, tile, and plaster, you can typically expect your swimming pool and hot tub remodel to be complete within two weeks or less. However, if your vision includes remodeling your pool and your entire backyard with new concrete decking, plumbing, and equipment, then the job could take several weeks to complete.
I am considering a pool finish as well as deck and coping remodel. How long will this take?
The length of time a pool will be under construction for renovation is directly related to the extent of the work we are performing. Pools that are being refinished with plaster or National Pool Tile's variety of pool finishes can be operational in ten days or less. Pools that require tile and coping or are being extensively remodeled require additional construction time.
Should I add handrails to my pool during a remodel for safety?
Safety handrails are another pool safety product that homeowners should use in conjunction with a pool barrier. They can be installed in any area around the swimming pool. Most handrails are stainless steel to keep them from rusting or being damaged from constant contact with water and the heat of the sun. Handrails promote proper techniques for getting in and out of the swimming pool and can help children and older swimmers.
What are some ways that I can remodel my pool area to add value to my home?
There are many special touches that a builder can add to your pool that enhance the backyard environment and create a relaxing retreat from the everyday world while adding value to your home. Adding waterfalls, fountains, rock formations (using both natural and realistic faux rocks), lighting, pavers, outdoor kitchens, and spas can make a significant addition to any pool area for both a beautiful visual landscape as well as added home value.
What are some ways that I can remodel my pool area to make it a great place for my family?
There are several additions that you can make to a pool area through a remodel to make your backyard a year-round vacation spot. Update your pool with a walk-in beach entry as a wading area for small children. You can also add water spraying features to the wading area that will make playtime in the pool even more fun!
Also, you can install a bar right at the edge of your pool so that you can enjoy a cool drink without even getting out of the pool. In addition, sunken bar stools add a resort style feel and allow for a comfortable place to have lunch or just sit and enjoy the pool.
And of course, there can be no denying the fun a swimming pool water slide can bring to your swimming pool area. Pool slides are designed specifically with fun in mind, and whether you're young or just young at heart, people of all ages find swimming pool slides to be a great addition to their swimming pool area.
What are some ways that I can update/remodel my pool area to make it current?
Whether you've had your swimming pool from its original installation or if you've just purchased a home with a swimming pool, you may be in the market for a remodel. A swimming pool remodel can encompass updating pool tiles and the surrounding deck and patio area, installing energy saving swimming pool pump systems, refurbishing cracked or stained gunite or adding lighting or a hot tub area.
You also want to be sure that when you remodel, that you complement your home's architectural design to create a beautiful landscape.
What features can I add to my pool area?
Whatever you can imagine can be added to your pool area including custom finishes, tile, decking, coping, lighting, water features, and specialty features such as rock waterfalls, vanishing edges, raised spas with spillways, swim-up bars and underwater bar stools.
When is the best time to remodel my pool and hot tub?
The answer varies depending on your location. A pool remodel is possible year-round in milder climates. If you do live in milder climates, remodeling a swimming pool during the winter has a number of advantages. Obviously, pools are generally not used as much in the winter and your family will not be without the use of the pool during the swim season. Since the pool renovation business is somewhat cyclical it is also easier to obtain desired scheduling when remodelers are not in the summer “busy season”.
Will the renovation process be messy?
A renovation can be a little dusty. We suggest that all decorative items such as plants, furniture, toys, etc. be moved away from the project site until completion. We also recommend that all windows be kept shut to avoid any dust entering your home. Other than that, there should be as little disruption as possible to your everyday activities.