A swimming pool update tends to be something that many of us put on the back burner as long as possible. There comes a day, though, doesn’t there?
That day when you take a good look at your surroundings and realize that your family’s private oasis had grown a bit bedraggled. It would be amazing to rip everything out and start over, wouldn’t it?
Envisioning what that could look like is a “the sky’s the limit” kind of moment, for sure!
Meanwhile, back to reality…
Installing a backyard pool isn’t in the budget for a lot of people right now. Moreover, if you add in the expense of ripping out the old one, we’re looking at a pretty big figure when everything is said and done.
There’s no reason to take off the rose-colored glasses yet, though, my friend. A pool makeover can have the same effect as a brand new one—almost anyway.
We’d like to share some ideas to bring your family’s private getaway spot back to life.
Replace the tile
There’s no question that new deck tile around the pool would produce an instantaneous result—especially if it carried throughout your entire outdoor living area!
Talk about a “wow” factor!
However, it would be an expensive change even if you chose a lower-end tile. Have you considered just switching out the waterline tile though? Since they are most commonly created with a pebble or stone finish, you could go with a pebble tile if yours is currently stone or vise versa.
You may be surprised at what a dramatic difference changing the waterline tile makes. The replacement cost for an average size pool normally starts between $600 and $800 depending on where you live.
Add some lighting
Adding LED lighting to your pool area is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to produce a dramatic effect. It gives your pool an entirely new look—several, actually, because LED systems normally contain a variety of lighting displays.
LED lighting is more energy-efficient than traditional pool lighting. That said, if you already have pool lights installed, you might want to consider switching them out. It can make a dramatic difference in your surroundings and will cost less over time.
Your family and guests are sure to give the new look a big thumbs up—whichever display you choose to use!
Water features
Water features are another pool effect worth considering if you’re looking to change the look and ambiance of your pool area completely.
When we think of water features in combination with swimming pools, waterfalls cascading down a rocky slope may spring to mind. They’re beautiful, aren’t they?
They’re pretty costly, too.
You can create a water wall or bubbling fountain that has the same mesmerizing effect on pool-goers, but it will take a much smaller budget. Subtle water features won’t break the bank and they provide you with that sense of serenity that seems to settle over us when we’re near the sound of running water.
Automation systems
Of course, a pool update doesn’t just include features that are pleasing to the eye…
As technology evolves, there are a lot of new gadgets and equipment that can be retrofitted so owners of older pools aren’t left behind. Rotobic cleaners, automatic pool covers, and all-in-one automation systems that test the water and dispense chemicals as needed are at your disposal.
You may not even have to walk outdoors to turn them on. These days, there’s usually an app for it!
Pumps and heating systems
If you have an older pool, it might be time to consider replacing both the pump and heating systems. Both of them could be costing you more to operate as they age… and they may not be working as efficiently as they have in years gone by either.
Pool pump
Replacing your pool pump with a new one may seem expensive, but when you consider that they slash energy use in half, it makes you want to take another look.
New pumps handle a variety of tasks, such as cleaning, heating, circulating, and even water feature operation. Switching out your old pump with a current-model pump may also bring you into compliance with Florida’s newer energy standards.
Heaters
Replacing your pool’s heater is another “more than meets the eye” remedy for an outdated family pool. New natural gas heaters are ultra-efficient and come with a high thermal efficiency rating for faster heating and low NOx output levels for a healthier environment.
Outdoor living rooms
Another option is to focus on your seating arrangements, thereby, drawing the eye away from your “leaves a little to be desired” swimming pool area. Putting some thought into your layout can create an entirely different outdoor environment.
Do you entertain a lot or is it usually just you and the fam spending time poolside together? Taking these things into consideration and finding a way to add a personal touch here and there will help you come up with the perfect design plan!
Maintaining your oasis
In the end, your backyard pool is where you and your loved ones gather to share good times together.
Creating an environment that adds to the memory-making is something you can do without totally replacing your aging swimming pool. Small changes can make a big difference in the ambiance created in your pool area.
And, remember, it’s the little things in life that mean a lot.