Swimming Pool & Backyard Extreme Makeovers

As we enter the coldest month of the year, it is hard to imagine that temperatures will soon heat up and it will be pool season. With that being said, now is the time to begin planning for that time and considering whether it is now time for an extreme makeover of your swimming pool & backyard.

After a number of years, pools can become outdated and in need of a makeover. Some pool owners’ desire minor changes and some desire dramatic overhauls. Due to the availability of new products and materials that weren’t available when many existing pools were constructed, more often than not a renovated pool looks better than it did when it was originally built. Virtually anything is possible when a willing homeowner is paired with a creative designer/craftsman. It can literally transform the entire backyard.

Pool makeovers can include replacement of the tile or coping, resurfacing the interior of the pool with a dark finish, and concrete deck replacement. In addition to these visual improvements (such as tile, coping, interior finish, or concrete decking replacement), it is oftentimes a good idea to make mechanical improvements such as updating the filter, the addition of a heater or automatic cleaner, or the addition of computerized pool and spa control systems. One of the most common upgrades that is recommended is the replacement of the pump with one of the new variable speed energy efficient pumps, which will pay for itself in energy savings.

In addition to the pool, oftentimes other amenities can be added such as:

• arbor
• outdoor kitchen and grill area
• sport court
• putting green
• additional seating areas
• hot tub
• landscaping
• garden area
• lighting
• firepit
• outdoor dining area
• bar
• play structure
• TV/movie theatre area

Following are some tips in selecting a pool renovation contractor and how to finance the project.

Selecting a Contractor

Finding a dependable, experienced contractor is the key to a successful renovation. Pool owners whom have had a pool renovation done are often the best source of advice when trying to select a pool renovation contractor.

When obtaining estimates ask the following of the contractor:

• Do you have completed renovation projects that I can see?
• Can you get me a list of referrals?
• What type and length of warranty will you provide?
• What is covered and more importantly, what is not covered under the warranty?
• Can you provide a copy of your liability and workers compensation insurance?
• Who will supervise the job?
• How long will the project take?
• Who is responsible for cleaning up after the project is complete?

Financing a Renovation

After the contractor has been selected, a pool owner must decide how to fund the project. Few people are in a financial position to pay for a swimming pool renovation project without borrowing money. Therefore, financing