Blog Header Logo

The Ultimate Guide to Pool Renovations

Are you ready to turn your backyard into a breathtaking oasis? With a backyard and pool renovation, you can transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat that will be the envy of the neighborhood. Whether you're looking to upgrade your pool, enhance your landscaping, or simply redecorate your patio, this comprehensive guide provides you with everything you need to know about backyard and pool renovations. 

Benefits of Pool Renovations

Pool renovations offer multiple benefits that go beyond functionality and safety. By revamping your pool, you can transform your backyard into a luxurious oasis. A renovated pool can also significantly increase the value of your property, making it a wise investment for homeowners looking to sell in the future.

Additionally, a pool renovation allows you to customize your outdoor space to suit your preferences and lifestyle. Whether you desire a sleek and modern pool design or a tropical paradise-inspired oasis, the possibilities are endless. By incorporating new and functional features, you can create a personalized retreat that reflects your unique style!

Before You Begin — Assess the Condition of Your Pool

Before you embark on a pool renovation project, it's important to assess the current condition of your pool and equipment. This will help you identify any issues that need to be addressed, and provide you with a clear understanding of what needs to be done. It’s also a good idea to plan ahead and think of what else can be done while the main renovation is happening. Say for example, you’re planning to replace the vinyl liner in your pool. Since you'll need to drain the pool to replace the liner, why not also upgrade the pool light? Two birds, one stone! Thinking ahead will help you be as efficient as possible, and potentially save you unnecessary additional renovations later on.

When looking at the condition of your pool, here are some key factors to consider:

Structural Integrity

Assess the structural integrity of your pool before the renovation

Aesthetic Concerns

You can address aesthetic concerns during the renovation

Safety Measures

Consider adding safety features during a pool renovation

Structural Integrity:

Start by inspecting your pool's structure for any cracks, leaks, or signs of wear. It's crucial to find these issues before you start the renovation, so you don't end up with a surprise later on that derails your entire plan. Then, address the issues during the renovation process, to ensure the longevity and safety of your pool.

Aesthetic Concerns:

Take a close look at the visual appeal of your pool, including the deck, pool walls and floor, and surrounding features. Are there areas that require an upgrade to achieve a more modern or luxurious look? Just remember that some upgrades are easier than others. Giving your pool deck a fresh coat of paint is much less expensive and labor-intensive than completely resurfacing it.

Safety Measures:

Evaluate the safety features of your pool, such as fencing, gates, and safety covers, to ensure they are functioning correctly and in compliance with local regulations.

Professional vs. DIY Pool Renovations

While DIY projects can be rewarding, there are certain pool renovations that are best left to the professionals. Complex tasks, such as replacing pool equipment, installing new plumbing systems, or redesigning the pool layout, require expertise and specialized knowledge. Hiring a professional pool contractor ensures that the renovation is done safely, efficiently, and up to code.

DIY Pool Renovation Ideas

Thankfully, however, there are numerous upgrades you can make to your pool and backyard without the help of professional contractors! Here are a few projects you — and maybe a few friends — can tackle on your own:

DIY pool light renovations

  1. Painting the pool deck: Rather than fully resurfacing the deck, painting it provides a cost-effective way to refresh the look of your entire backyard. The process involves preparing the surface, priming with an epoxy, applying paint, and sealing the surface
  2. Upgrading to LED lights: Adding LED lighting to your pool is one of the fastest and most affordable options to give your pool a new look. LEDs are energy-efficient and can create light shows in your pool, enhancing the ambiance during night swims.
  3. Enhancing automation: Automation systems can make pool maintenance easier and more efficient. From pool lights to robotic pool cleaners, there are many types of pool equipment equipped with hands-free automation. These systems allow you to control various pool features right from your smartphone!
  4. Adding a fire pit: Nothing adds ambiance, entertainment, and warmth — literally— to a backyard quite like a fire pit. Whether you're a fan of roasting marshmallows, or simply enjoy the warm, welcoming glow of the flames, adding a fire pit is an easy way to take your backyard
  5. Updating patio furniture: If your budget allows, consider upgrading your patio and backyard furniture. From comfy couches to stylish umbrellas, updating your backyard furniture is the cherry on top of a pool renovation.

Landscaping to Complement Your Pool Renovation

update the landscaping to complement the pool renovation

To complete the transformation of your backyard escape, consider incorporating landscaping elements that complement your pool renovation. Strategic placement of plants, trees, and shrubs can provide privacy, shade, and a lush backdrop for your pool. Choose low-maintenance plants that thrive in your climate and require minimal watering to ensure long-term beauty and enjoyment.

In addition to greenery, consider adding hardscaping features, such as a pergola, gazebo, or outdoor kitchen. These structures not only provide functional spaces for relaxation and entertainment, but also add a touch of elegance to your pool area. Don't forget to include comfortable seating and outdoor lighting to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.


Renovating your pool is a worthwhile investment that can transform your backyard into a luxurious escape. From enhancing functionality and safety to creating a personalized oasis, the benefits of pool renovations are numerous. Whether you choose to tackle DIY projects or hire professionals, there are endless ways to enhance your backyard oasis.


In The Swim makes every effort to provide accurate recommendations based upon current ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 (R2022) standards, but codes and regulations change, and In The Swim assumes no liability for any omissions or errors in this article or the outcome of any project. You must always exercise reasonable caution, carefully read the label on all products, follow all product directions, follow any current codes and regulations that may apply, and consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. In The Swim assumes no legal responsibility for your reliance or interpretation of the data contained herein, and makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning the quality, safety, or suitability of the information, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.