Does your pool sparkle in the summer sun like an oasis? Or do you find yourself cringing when you look at the bottom of the pool. That is, when you can see it. With summer drawing to a close, it may be a good time to take a look at the condition of your backyard pool so you can get it ready in time for next year.
Most in-ground pools in North Texas will need some refurbishing every decade or so. Worn pools begin to require more and more chemicals just to keep the algae at bay. They also begin to show stains, develop leaks, or chips in the plaster. If you’re noticing these tell-tale signs, it may be time to consider giving your pool a facelift.
Fortunately, there are a variety of options when it comes to refreshing the look of the pool. The least expensive option is to drain the pool and use a high-pressure washer to clean the surface of mineral deposits, algae, rust and organic stains. If your pool is in pretty good shape, that might be all you need to return it to its beauty. Before you refill the pool, call your town and let them know of your plans. Many towns in the area offer a substantial break on your water bill if they’re alerted to your plans before you fill. If you do suspect a leak, or if your drain covers are cracked or need replacing, now is the best time to have those addressed.
If a good pressure wash doesn’t quite get rid of all stains, then you can have the surface treated with a muriatic acid wash. An acid wash will work once or twice before you’ll need to consider pricier – and longer-lasting treatments. Some homeowners with plaster pools will choose to repaint the plaster at this stage to change the color or try to extend the life of the surface for a few years. If you choose to repaint, know that a latex or acrylic pool paint is the cheapest and most short-lived of the paint options. Painting the surface with an epoxy or rubber paint can restore the pool quickly and the treatment can last up to 10 years.
If the plaster is in poor shape or if you want to really overhaul the look of the pool, you can opt to have the pool resurfaced. There are several options in pool surfaces besides plaster. You can choose a quartz finish, which is smooth like plaster, but more durable. Another popular choice is to apply an aggregate surface made of small pebbles, glass beads, or a combination of both. This type of finish is touted as having a more natural look. However, reviews of pebbled or glass bottoms indicate that these surfaces can be rough on the feet, depending on the product used, and can be more expensive than other surfaces. The most expensive option is often a marble or marble-aggregate finish. It mimics the look of a pebbled surface somewhat, but is very smooth. Any of these options should reduce maintenance and require fewer chemicals than an pool with a worn surface.
There are plenty of videos online explaining how to refurbish a pool for the do-it-yourself crowd if you want to try some basic fixes. For a complete resurfacing, you’ll want to call in a professional. Ask your friends, neighbors and your MetroTex Realtor for referrals to a reliable pool contractor.
The MetroTex Association of Realtors is comprised of more than 17,000 area Realtors throughout North Texas. For more information about buying, selling, or leasing a home go to dfwrealestate.com or call your MetroTex Realtor.