When you’ve had your pool for several years, it’s normal for parts and equipment to start wearing out and needing to be replaced (see Parts 1 & 2). If you’re considering remodeling your pool and you’re not sure which project to tackle first, take a close look at your pool’s finish. If it’s chipping, cracking, or showing other signs of wear and tear, it may be time for you to think about getting a new one.
Figure Out Which Type of Finish You Want
How often you need to replace your pool finish depends on a couple of different factors. First, you’ll need to consider the type of finish you have in your pool. For example, a plaster or quartz finish should each last anywhere from seven to ten years. A pebble finish (also known as an exposed aggregate finish) can last between 15 and 20 years, but it may require some resealing every so often. Each one of these types of pool finishes has its pros and cons. Quartz finishes tend to be the most low maintenance, but they’re more pricey than plaster. Plaster finishes tend to be the least expensive, but they’re also high maintenance compared to other types of finishes. Pebble finishes tend to be some of the most impressive as far as looks go, but they’re also expensive and can be a bit rough on sensitive bare feet.
Decide if the Time is Right
Along with the type of finish you have in your pool, you’ll need to look at how careful you’ve been about maintaining your pool’s water chemistry. If you’ve been very diligent in this routine maintenance task, you may be able to hold off on replacing your pool finish for the maximum amount of time expected for that type of finish. That is, as long as you’re not noticing any problems with your finish. Once a significant number of cracks and chips become noticeable, it’s time to install a new finish.
Save Up Enough Money in Advance to Resurface Your Pool When Necessary
The larger your pool is, the more you can expect to pay to have it refinished. It’s a good idea to build up a rainy day fund for pool repairs so when the time comes for an expensive task like resurfacing your pool, you’ll be able to afford to do it.
Use Proper Resurfacing Methods
There are several different methods used in resurfacing a pool. Most of the time, it will involve chipping the old finish away, putting the new finish in place, and then performing an acid wash throughout the entire pool.
Don’t Put Resurfacing Off Too Long
You may be tempted to put this job off in favor of some of the more exciting remodeling projects you’ve been considering. But this is one job you really shouldn’t put off. If you wait too long, small cracks will turn into major ones. These can lead to water leaks. Your pool can also sustain damage from algae stains. In the long run, you’ll still need to replace your pool’s finish, and putting it off too long will only make it more of a hassle later.
In our next article in this series, we’ll consider some remodeling jobs that will add a touch of luxury to your pool area.
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