Pool Renovation: How to Revitalize an Old Pool

Have you recently bought a house, only to find out it has an old, unattended pool in the backyard? Well, instead of building a new pool from scratch, you can revitalize the old pool and make it brand-new. This way, not only will your backyard look appealing, but your home’s value will also increase. So, if you’re ready to uplift your property, read this blog in which we discuss the detailed steps on how to restore the pool and the overall cost estimate to help you plan accordingly.

Assessing Your Pool’s Condition

Before any renovations begin, a pool inspection is the first thing to do. Yes, you can check your pool for damage (cracks, leaks) in the pool that is okay if you would like. You can have a pool repair specialist come to look at wear and tear and give you suggestions on improvement.

Cleaning a Neglected Pool 

Cleaning is the first crucial step in your pool remodeling journey. 

Remove Debris

First of all, remove visible debris like fallen leaves, dirt, or trash using a net or shop vac. You may skim water to remove contamination.

Drain Water

Use a submersible pump to drain stagnant water (if any). You must comply with the local regulations for water disposal and direct water to the permitted drainage area.

Remove Algae

Get rid of stubborn algae or dirt using a pool brush and a mild cleaner like trisodium phosphate.

Take Out Rust

Using specialized cleaners, take out rust and calcium buildup.

Acid Wash Stains

If your pool has embedded algae or deep stains that just won’t go away, acid-wash them thoroughly. You must be careful, as the acid can damage plaster if you aren’t careful. Consult a professional to do this job. 

Repairing and Upgrading Equipment 

If your pool has defunct equipment, here’s what you need to do.

1. Replace Filters: Replace the pool’s sand, cartridge, or DE filter. Run the pump to ensure it’s working. Replace seals or gaskets if the filter leaks.
2. Plumbing: Check for leaks in pipes and fittings. Replace any damaged components.
3. Test Heater and Accessories: Test the heater, chlorinator, or other equipment. Service or replace as needed. Consult a pool technician for repairs or upgrades if the equipment is outdated or non-functional.

Refilling and Balancing the Water  

Once you have replaced the pool equipment, you may refill the water.

Refill the Pool

• Refill the pool with clean water using a garden hose. You may either get municipal water or well water. Just a standard 20,000 gallons can fill up a pool in a period of 12-24 hours, depending on the pressure that the water has. 
• Do not go beyond the filling of the pool. Ensure water is reaching the mid-point of your skimmer. 
• If you are filling the pool from a well, ensure the water does not contain metals that could stain your pool. Get a pre-filter to filter well water.

Balance the Water Chemistry

• After you refill your pool, test the water. Check for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine levels. They should be 7.2-7.6 for pH, 80-120 ppm for alkalinity, 200-400 ppm for calcium hardness, and 1-3 ppm for chlorine levels.
• Add chlorine or shock to sanitize the water. Reduce pH using muriatic acid or raise pH with soda ash. Add an alkalinity increaser or calcium hardness increaser if needed. Stabilize with cyanuric acid (30–50 ppm) to protect chlorine from sunlight.
• Circulate water for 24 to 48 hours to distribute chemicals and clear cloudiness.
• Backwash or clean the filter as needed. 

Resurfacing and Aesthetic Upgrades 

You might want your pool to look a little more creative, though, in which case you're left with the option of resurfacing the old material with plaster, fiberglass, or vinyl. It all depends on your needs. Generally, resurfacing will cost you roughly $5,000 - $20,000. 

You can put new pool tiles or hang a series of lights from above the water for pool restoration. You may choose to add tiles around the pool to transform it into a deck. Place chairs or loungers for a perfect pool party. 

Ongoing Maintenance Tips

So, after you have fully revived your pool, ensure that it's retained. Check for any leaks around your pool or cracks with the utmost scrutiny. Any signs should be acted upon very quickly. 

• Sample the pool water at intervals as one of the required preventive maintenance measures to keep parameters like pH, alkalinity, CYA, and others in check. 
• It is very important to regularly clean your pool. It can help you avoid debris accumulation. A robotic pool cleaner will clean the pool automatically, making it unnecessary for you to do any manual work. You may spend your time doing other things while the robot cleans the pool.
• Follow a weekly maintenance schedule to be proactive with cleaning and avoid future neglect.
• Keep checking your pool filter, clean it, or replace it when it expires. 

The Final Thought

Bringing an old pool back to life is totally doable and so worth it! With a bit of effort—cleaning out the gunk, fixing up the equipment, refilling with fresh water, balancing the chemistry, and adding some stylish touches like new tiles or deck lighting—your pool can go from forgotten to fabulous. Not only will it make your backyard the go-to spot for fun and relaxation, but it’ll also boost your home’s value. Dive into the process, and soon you’ll be enjoying a sparkling pool that’s ready for endless summer memories!