Staring at your aging backyard pool and wondering if it’s time for a makeover? You’re not alone. After working with dozens of homeowners through their pool renovation journeys and researching hundreds of projects, I’ve learned that the biggest question everyone asks is: what will this actually cost me?

The honest answer? Pool remodeling costs typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, depending on your goals and the current condition of your pool. But let me break down exactly what you’ll pay for different types of renovations so you can plan with confidence.

Understanding Swimming Pool Remodeling Costs in 2026

What Determines Your Pool Renovation Budget

Your pool remodeling costs depend on several critical factors that I’ve seen make huge differences in final invoices. Pool size matters enormously. A compact 300-square-foot pool requires far less material and labor than an 800-square-foot entertainment pool.

The current condition tells the real story. During consultations, I’ve seen pools that just need aesthetic updates and others with cracked structures, outdated plumbing, or failing equipment. Each scenario creates vastly different budgets.

Your geographic location impacts pricing significantly. Materials and skilled labor cost more in metropolitan areas like Los Angeles or Miami compared to suburban Texas or Arizona. I’ve tracked price variations of 30% to 40% based solely on location.

Material choices create the widest price swings. Standard plaster costs a fraction of premium pebble finishes or imported glass tiles. The difference between basic and luxury materials can add $10,000 to $20,000 to your total.

Real Numbers: What Homeowners Actually Spend

Based on current market data and contractor estimates I’ve gathered, here’s what you can realistically expect:

  • Basic refresh projects involving resurfacing and minor repairs typically cost $5,000 to $12,000. This covers pools that need cosmetic updates but have solid structural and mechanical systems.
  • Standard renovations that address both appearance and functionality run $12,000 to $25,000. This is where most homeowners land when they want meaningful improvements without going overboard.
  • Premium transformations with major upgrades, new features, and complete redesigns start at $25,000 and can exceed $50,000 for elaborate projects. These essentially give you a new pool without starting from scratch.

Breaking Down Your Pool Remodeling Investment

Surface Refinishing: Your Biggest Single Expense

Pool resurfacing typically consumes the largest portion of your budget, ranging from $3,500 to $10,000 for most residential pools. The surface takes constant punishment from chemicals, temperature changes, and UV exposure.

Plaster finishes remain the most economical choice at $3 to $5 per square foot. Standard white plaster lasts 7 to 10 years with proper chemical balance and maintenance. For a typical 400-square-foot pool surface, you’re looking at $1,200 to $2,000 for materials plus labor.

Aggregate finishes using pebbles, quartz, or crushed stone cost $5 to $12 per square foot but deliver 15 to 20 years of durability. These textured surfaces resist staining better and provide that upscale resort aesthetic. Total costs for aggregate resurfacing typically run $5,000 to $8,000.

Tile surfaces represent the premium option at $10 to $35 per square foot depending on material quality. While expensive, tile can last 25 years or longer and offers unlimited design possibilities. Full tile surfacing typically costs $8,000 to $15,000 or more.

Tile and Coping Replacement Costs

  • Waterline tiles and coping (the edge material around your pool) serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. These elements protect your pool structure while creating a polished, finished appearance.
  • Waterline tile replacement costs $2,000 to $5,000 depending on tile quality and pool perimeter size. You can choose from ceramic tiles ($5 to $15 per square foot), porcelain ($8 to $20 per square foot), or premium glass tiles ($25 to $50 per square foot).
  • Coping replacement adds $2,500 to $5,000 to your budget. Material choices include poured concrete ($6 to $12 per linear foot), natural stone like travertine ($12 to $25 per linear foot), or brick ($10 to $18 per linear foot). Each creates a different look and has varying durability characteristics.

Equipment Upgrades That Improve Performance

Pump and Filter System Updates

Replacing outdated equipment improves efficiency and can significantly reduce your monthly operating costs. Modern variable-speed pumps use 70% to 90% less energy than older single-speed models.

  • Pool pumps cost $600 to $2,000 installed. Basic single-speed pumps start around $600, while energy-efficient variable-speed models run $1,200 to $2,000. The higher upfront cost pays back through lower electricity bills within 2 to 3 years.
  • Filter replacements range from $400 to $1,500 installed. Sand filters ($400 to $800) require the least upfront investment but need regular backwashing. Cartridge filters ($600 to $1,200) offer easier maintenance. DE (diatomaceous earth) filters ($800 to $1,500) provide the finest filtration.

Heating System Installation Options

Extending your swimming season requires heating, and you have several options with different cost structures.

  • Gas heaters cost $2,000 to $4,000 installed and heat water quickly, making them ideal for occasional use or spa heating. However, ongoing fuel costs add up significantly.
  • Electric heat pumps run $3,000 to $6,000 installed and work more efficiently in moderate climates. They cost less to operate than gas but take longer to heat your pool initially.
  • Solar heating systems represent the largest upfront investment at $3,500 to $8,000 installed. After installation, the sun provides free heating. In sunny climates, these systems typically pay for themselves within 3 to 7 years through energy savings.

Popular Pool Remodeling Projects With Real Price Tags

Cosmetic Refresh: The Budget-Friendly Option

If your pool’s structure and equipment work fine but everything looks dated, a cosmetic refresh delivers maximum visual impact for $8,000 to $15,000.

This typically includes resurfacing with plaster or basic aggregate, replacing waterline tiles, updating worn coping, and installing new LED pool lights. You might also refinish the surrounding deck and update landscaping.

I’ve seen these projects completely transform a pool’s appearance in 2 to 3 weeks. It’s the smart choice when you want your pool to look modern without addressing mechanical systems that still perform well.

Comprehensive Mid-Range Renovation

Mid-range renovations tackle both aesthetics and functionality for $15,000 to $30,000. This is where you address everything that needs attention in one project.

Typical components include premium aggregate resurfacing, new waterline tiles and coping, complete equipment replacement with energy-efficient models, LED lighting upgrades, and automation systems for easy control. Many homeowners also update the surrounding deck and add safety features.

These projects take 3 to 5 weeks but deliver a pool that looks great and operates efficiently for the next 10 to 15 years.

Complete Pool Transformation

Premium transformations starting at $30,000 and reaching $50,000 to $75,000 essentially give you a designer pool without the full cost of new construction.

These projects might include changing the pool’s shape or depth, adding water features like waterfalls or deck jets, installing an attached spa, converting to saltwater, adding beach entries or sun shelves, installing advanced lighting and automation, and completely redesigning the surrounding landscape.

The result? A backyard resort tailored exactly to your lifestyle and entertainment needs.

Proven Ways to Control Your Pool Remodeling Costs

Strategic Timing Saves Money

Pool contractors experience predictable busy and slow seasons. Schedule your remodel during fall or winter months (September through February in most regions) when demand drops.

During slower periods, contractors often offer 10% to 15% discounts to keep their crews working. You also get more attention to your project and faster completion when they’re not juggling multiple jobs.

Plus, you won’t sacrifice swimming time during peak summer months. Your pool will be ready when warm weather returns.

Smart DIY Decisions

Certain tasks suit homeowner involvement while others absolutely require professional expertise. I’ve seen both successful DIY efforts and costly mistakes.

  • Safe DIY projects include painting pool deck areas, updating landscaping around the pool, removing old deck furniture or planters, and basic cleaning and preparation work. These tasks can save $1,000 to $3,000 in labor costs.
  • Always hire professionals for resurfacing work, plumbing and equipment installation, electrical work including lighting, structural repairs, and tile setting. Mistakes in these areas create safety hazards and often cost double to fix compared to hiring qualified contractors initially.

Material Selection Strategy

You don’t need premium materials everywhere to achieve an impressive result. Strategic choices let you splurge where it matters while saving elsewhere.

Consider premium finishes in highly visible areas like the pool surface and waterline tiles, but use standard materials for less noticeable elements. Prioritize durability for high-wear components like coping and steps.

Mixing material grades can save $3,000 to $7,000 while still delivering a high-quality finished product.

Planning Your Pool Remodeling Budget Effectively

Getting Reliable Contractor Quotes

Never settle for a single estimate. Contact at least three licensed, insured pool contractors with solid references. Request detailed written quotes that itemize materials and labor separately.

During consultations, ask contractors about their experience with similar projects. Request photos of completed work and contact information for recent clients. Check their licensing status and insurance coverage through your state’s contractor licensing board.

The lowest bid isn’t always the best value. I’ve seen cheap estimates that cut corners on materials or skip necessary steps. Focus on finding contractors who provide fair pricing for quality work.

Budget for Unexpected Discoveries

Even with careful planning, surprises happen during renovation projects. Set aside an additional 15% to 20% of your estimated budget for unexpected issues.

Common surprises include hidden structural damage discovered after draining, outdated plumbing that needs replacement, electrical code updates required for new equipment, and soil or drainage issues around the pool.

This contingency fund prevents mid-project stress when unforeseen problems arise. If you don’t need it, great. You have extra money for upgrades or other projects.

Understanding Permit and Ongoing Costs

Most pool remodels require building permits, especially for electrical, plumbing, or structural work. Permit costs vary by location but typically range from $200 to $800.

Factor in the cost of filling your newly resurfaced pool. Depending on your pool size and local water rates, this might cost $100 to $500. In areas with water restrictions, you may need to schedule delivery by water truck, which costs more.

Don’t forget startup chemicals after filling. Budget $100 to $300 for the chemicals needed to properly balance your pool’s water chemistry.

Swimming Pool Remodeling Contractor in North Georgia

When searching for a Swimming Pool Remodeling Contractor in North Georgia, local experience matters tremendously. Avatar Scapes has served the region since 2013, completing countless renovations across Alpharetta, Roswell, Cumming, and surrounding areas. They understand North Georgia’s climate challenges, from scorching summers to occasional freezing temperatures, and select materials accordingly. Their services cover everything from basic resurfacing to complete transformations, including equipment upgrades, tile work, and saltwater conversions. What homeowners value most is their straightforward approach: thorough assessments, detailed written estimates, and crews who respect your property. With proper licensing, insurance, and a decade of proven results, Avatar Scapes delivers quality renovations that last.

Conclusion: Making Your Pool Remodeling Investment Count

Remodeling your swimming pool represents a significant financial commitment, but the return comes in years of enjoyment, improved functionality, and increased property appeal. Whether you invest $8,000 in a cosmetic refresh or $40,000 in a complete transformation, understanding real costs helps you make confident decisions.

The key to success? Plan thoroughly, hire qualified professionals, use quality materials, and don’t rush the process. A well-executed pool remodel should serve your family beautifully for 15 to 20 years before needing another major update.

Your backyard pool can once again become the centerpiece of summer gatherings, family fun, and relaxation. With proper planning and realistic budgeting, you can create the pool you’ve been dreaming about.