How Much Does It Cost to Remodel a Swimming Pool?

In this guide

Pool Remodel Cost by Type of Project

You can remodel a pool in many ways. You can make minor repairs, resurface the interior, add features, or completely change the pool size, shape, and material. Each project has a set of costs. You may choose to do one or several projects at once. Below are the average costs for some of the most common projects.

Pool Repair Cost by Type of Repair

Repairs may not lead to a full pool remodel. However, it may be considered a remodel if the need for repair is extensive enough. Repairs may also be combined with a larger remodel. Average repairs that may be carried out during a pool remodel include fixing leaks, repairing equipment, and making repairs to your deck and surrounding area. Your pool may need many types of repair, but not all may be necessary for your remodel. The most common types of repairs and their costs are below.

Pool Leak Repair Cost

The cost of repairing a pool leak ranges from $100 to $5,000. Pool leaks can be caused by many issues. It may be a faulty seal, minor cracking, or a more substantial crack. You may also have leaks below ground from a faulty pipe or a leak that is difficult to diagnose until the pool has been emptied. Pool repairs for leaks have a wide range of repair costs. Generally, the more invasive the issue, the higher the cost to repair it.

Pool Pump Repair Cost

The cost to repair a pool pump averages $150 to $800. Pool pumps ¹ are necessary to keep the water circulating. The pump moves the water, which passes through filters to clean and prevent stagnation. It is sometimes recommended to replace the pump rather than repair it, depending on the pump’s age, type, and condition. However, if the pump is fairly new and in good overall condition, it can usually be repaired to keep it working longer. Your pool specialist can make that determination.

Pool Steps Repair Price

The cost to repair pool steps is between $150 and $4,500. Pool steps are made of several materials, from plastic to gunite ². There can be many issues with pool steps. Cracks are common in many types, even those that have just been refinished. Minor cracks are often considered normal and do not need repair. However, the crack needs repairing if it is large, deep, or has sharp edges. Depending on the material type, this can mean having to resurface the steps.

Pool Crack Repair Cost

The cost to repair pool cracks ranges from $300 to $5,000. Many pools develop cracks. These can be small spider cracks in a fiberglass pool or more serious cracks in a gunite pool. In some instances, a patch can repair a small crack. However, larger cracks or widespread cracks often require resurfacing to repair. This can be a major undertaking, depending on the pool size. In this case, it is common to undergo a bigger remodel and change the pool’s appearance while repairing the cracks.

Pool Plaster Repair Cost

The cost of repairing pool plaster ³ averages $500 to $5,000. Many concrete pools are plastered when built. Pool chemicals cause the plaster to yellow, spall, crack, and corrode. When this happens, the pool can develop other issues like leaks. Repairing the plaster ranges from patching small sections to complete resurfacing. The larger the pool and the larger the cracked areas, the higher the costs.

Pool Main Drain Repair Cost

The cost to repair a pool main drain is between $800 and $1,000. You might have to empty the pool or substantially lower the water to reach and repair the main drain. The main drain corrodes from the presence of pool chemicals. When this happens, it can crack or begin to leak. Repairing the drain takes several hours, depending on the damage’s extent. The more corrosion present, the higher the costs are to repair.

Underground Pool Pipe Repair Cost

The cost to repair an underground pool pipe averages $800 to $1,000. Leaks in the pipe underground can cause serious issues with your landscaping and the pool’s integrity. The yard may need to be dug up to fix them. In some cases, a trenchless option may be used to run a sleeve into a leaking pipe. However, the most common repair method is to uncover and patch or replace the impacted section. The harder the pipe is to access, the higher the repair cost is. These costs do not include landscaping that may need to be done afterward.

Pool Tile Repair Cost

The cost to repair pool tile ranges from $800 to $5,000. Many pools have tile around the edge below the coping or covering the entirety of the side walls. The chemicals in the pool can cause this to crack or discolor. You can repair this in many ways. You can chip out and replace individual tiles, and then regrout the section. You can also remove and replace larger sections or regrout larger sections to remove cracks. The more tiles involved in the repair process, the higher the total costs.

Pool Screen Repair Cost

The cost of a pool screen repair is $800 and $6,000. Pool screens are a common type of enclosure. They keep out insects and falling leaves. If they rip or warp, they need to be repaired to remain functional. The repair’s location and size can impact the total costs. In some instances, you may need to replace the screen or large sections to make a more substantial repair.

Pool Deck Repair Cost

The average cost of a pool deck ⁴ repair is $2,000 to $3,000. Pool decks are the area surrounding the pool. They are typically made of concrete but can be made of pavers, stone, or wood. They can be impacted by freeze/thaw cycles, pool chemicals, or wear. When this happens, you can have a wide range of necessary repairs. Repairs are usually fairly invasive because the area beneath the pool deck must be level and in good condition. When the deck has problems, it is usually caused by issues below the deck. Fixing these issues must be done before the repair, accounting for the high cost.

Pool Remodel Cost by Type of Conversion

You may want to do a conversion as part of your remodel if how you use the pool changes. Conversions can be simple, such as changing the way you add chemicals. They can be very invasive, changing the pool’s material or eliminating the pool and installing something new. Below are some of the most common pool conversion types and their average costs.

Cost to Convert a Salt Water Pool to Chlorine

The cost to convert a salt water pool to a chlorine ⁵ pool is $200 to $600. This is the cost to remove the salt water generator, which converts salt into chlorine. If you have a salt water pool and are unhappy with it, you only need to remove the generator. Then, you can go back to treating your pool with chlorine. The ongoing treatment cost of salt is much lower than chlorine after the generator’s initial cost. If you think you may want to test going back to chlorine, you can turn off the generator and treat it with chlorine until you are sure.

Cost to Convert a Pool to Heated

The cost to heat a pool averages $1,500 to $9,000. Installing a pool heater is a great way to make your pool more comfortable. You can extend your swimming season by several weeks with a heated pool and use it more in cooler climates. Pool heaters come in many types and sizes. They can be powered by gas, electricity, or solar power. Their costs depend partly on size, type, and fuel type. For example, a gas heater requires a gas line run to your pool.

Cost to Convert a Pool to Salt Water

The cost to convert a pool to salt water ranges from $1,700 to $2,500. This is for the cost of the salt water generator and its installation. Beyond this, you have ongoing costs for the salt, which is generally cheaper than the cost of chlorine. Salt water pools are an alternative to basic chlorine pools. They convert salt to chlorine, keeping the pool balanced with less maintenance and fewer chemicals. Many prefer the feel of the salt water and the lower cost of yearly chemical maintenance. Converting an existing pool to a salt water pool is fairly straightforward and involves the addition of a salt-chlorine generator.

Pool to Deck Conversion Cost

The cost to convert a pool to a deck is $10,000 to $12,000. This process is frequently called a deckover and essentially turns an existing inground pool into usable deck space. Unlike traditional fill-ins, which remove the pool, add earth, and finally landscape it, deckovers often leave the pool intact. The new material is installed over it, so it has a much lower cost. A deckover can give you a range of looks and options for the finished deck. Most have the pool’s size and shape when you finish.

Cost to Convert a Vinyl Pool to Fiberglass

The cost to convert a vinyl ⁶ pool to a fiberglass ⁷ pool is between $50,000 and $70,000. There is no easy process when it comes to converting from one material to another. Essentially, you need the old vinyl pool completely removed. Then, a new fiberglass shell can be installed in the hole. However, you likely need some backfilling or excavation first because vinyl pools come in more sizes, shapes, and depths than fiberglass pools. This means that the costs of converting from vinyl to fiberglass are similar to the costs of a new fiberglass pool.

Cost to Convert a Fiberglass Pool to Concrete

The cost of converting a fiberglass pool to a concrete pool is $70,000 to $90,000. To convert a fiberglass pool to concrete, you first need to completely remove the fiberglass shell. Then, the concrete frame can be erected and poured. However, since concrete pools give you far more options than fiberglass for shape, size, and depth, you likely have to excavate. This means the cost of converting a pool from fiberglass to concrete is similar to installing a new concrete pool. Keep in mind that you often have to destroy the deck to get out the shell, and the shell may also have disposal costs.

Pool Renovation Cost by Type of Replacement

If an area of the pool cannot be repaired, it may need to be replaced. Replacements can be a minor or major undertaking if they represent a large portion of the pool. It is common for some minor replacements to be done during a larger renovation. At the same time, you may want to make replacements as an upgrade. For example, replacing your deck or tile can give your pool a fresh new look, even if the old materials are not in bad shape. Below are common replacements for pool remodels and their costs.

Pool Motor Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing the motor on a pool pump is $100 to $500. Your pool pump circulates water through your filter. It keeps the water moving, cleaning it and preventing debris build-up. If the motor powering your pump fails, you can sometimes replace it. This is not always the best option for small pumps, but it can be much less expensive for larger multi-stage pumps. The cost to replace the motor depends mostly on the pump’s brand and type.

Pool Filter Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing a filter ranges from $500 to $2,000. Filters are responsible for keeping your pool clean. The pump circulates the water through the filter, removing sediment and debris. There are several filter types, and each works and installs in different ways. This can lead to a range of costs for the filter, its replacement, and installation.

Pool Light Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a pool light averages $650 to $950. Most pool lights are installed on the pool’s sides, along the coping, or part of the water features. This means the lights are not always accessible when the pool is in use. Sometimes, the water level must be drained first so that the lights can be easily accessed. The cost to replace the lights depends on the light type and position. The harder the light is to reach, the higher the cost to replace it.

Pool Pump Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a pool pump is $700 to $1,300. Pool pumps are one of the most important parts of your pool, ensuring the pool stays clean. Without a pump, the water may stagnate. It may also develop large sediment deposits and debris build-up, and the chemicals may not mix properly. Replace your pool pump in a timely way if it fails. Pumps come in several sizes and types. Larger pools typically need larger pumps.

Cost to Replace Pool Plumbing

The cost to replace pool plumbing is between $800 and $1,000. Pool plumbing can mean many things. It can mean the drain at the bottom of the pool, gas lines running to the heater, or connections to pieces of equipment like the pump. While this is plumbing, it is best installed and replaced by a pool specialist and not a plumber. The cost of replacing pool plumbing depends on how accessible that area is. Some places may require draining the pool to reach, raising costs.

Pool Heater Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a pool heater averages $1,250 to $5,450. Pool heaters make your pool more comfortable. They extend the pool season longer into the year. This is particularly true in cooler months. There are several pool heater types, which use different fuels. The cost to replace depends on the heater type and fuel source.

Pool Skimmer Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a pool skimmer ranges from $1,500 to $3,000. Skimmers are an important part of what keeps the pool clean. They sit at the top of your water level and pull in surface water. This cleans the surface water of contaminants, such as sunscreen, debris, and bugs. The skimmer typically has a swinging door that lifts inward. The door swings shut to prevent the contaminants and debris from rushing back out.

Pool Coping Replacement Cost

The cost to replace pool coping is $2,000 to $3,000. The pool coping is the finished edge at the top of your inground pool. In the case of a vinyl pool, the coping holds the vinyl liner. In concrete and fiberglass pools, the coping is the beginning of the pool deck. It is often made of similar material. It can be made of concrete, pavers, tiles, and a range of other materials.

Cost to Retile a Pool

The cost to retile a pool averages $3,000 to $4,000. Tile is used as one of the wall coverings for concrete pools. It can be used as a single decorative strip beneath the coping. It can also be used to cover the entirety of the pool walls. Pool tile comes in many colors, sizes, and materials. It can be laid in sheets of mosaic, or it can be larger tiles. The pool must be drained to replace it, and the old tiles chipped or pried off before the new tile can be installed.

Pool Lining Replacement Cost

The cost to replace a pool lining is $3,000 to $6,000. Pool linings are used in vinyl pools. They must be replaced about every 7 to 10 years. Replacing the lining is a major undertaking. The pool must be drained, and the old coping and liner ⁸ removed. The frame must be inspected before the new liner can be put on. If the frame is in good condition, the vinyl liner can be stretched into place and the coping reinstalled. Issues with the frame must be repaired before the new liner can be installed.

Cost to Replace a Pool Deck

The average cost to replace a pool deck ⁴ ranges from $3,000 to $6,000. The pool deck is the area surrounding your pool. It acts as a patio and provides a non-slip surface around the pool. It also creates a barrier between the pool chemicals and your landscaping. The pool deck averages between 700 and 900 sq.ft. for most installations. It can be made of many materials, impacting the cost.

Cost to Replace All Pool Equipment

The cost to replace all pool equipment is between $3,950 and $11,750. Pools require many pieces of equipment. This includes a pump, filter, skimmer, and heater. Pool equipment comes in many types and sizes. Most are scaled to your pool’s size, with larger pools requiring larger equipment. This can impact the project costs.

Cost to Replace a Lanai Screen

The cost to replace a lanai screen averages $4,000 to $10,000. The screen on a lanai is part of a larger enclosure. This enclosure is typically made of a frame with a screen stretched over it. Several screen types can be used. To replace the screen, the old one must be disconnected at all points. Then, the new screen can be stretched into place. This process takes several hours to a couple of days to complete.

Cost of Regrouting a Swimming Pool

The cost to regrout a swimming pool ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. Grout is the material that is installed between tiles. It is a mixture of Portland cement and aggregates. This material is important for protecting the tiles from damage. If it cracks and begins to come loose, it must be dug out and replaced. This requires the pool to be drained and is extremely time-consuming and labor-intensive.

Cost to Replaster a Pool

Replastering or remarciting a pool costs between $10,000 and $20,000. Many concrete pools are given a plaster finish on the walls. This creates a range of looks and finishes for the pool. Over time, the chemicals in the pool can damage the plaster, which must be replaced. If the damage is isolated, you could patch the plaster and put a protective coating over it, preventing future damage. However, this changes the pool’s appearance and is not always recommended for hand finishes.

Swimming Pool Renovation Cost by Type of Addition

You may want to add many things to your pool during a renovation. Most of these items are purely optional and do not impact the pool’s function. However, they can improve the pool’s appearance and often your enjoyment. Each item has a set of costs to consider. Below are popular additions installed during pool remodels.

Add a Fountain to an Existing Pool

The cost to add a fountain to an existing pool is $450 to $2,000. Fountains are a popular water feature for modern pools. They add the sound of moving water, which can be tranquil and appealing. They come in multiple shapes and sizes. Fountains can be installed at one end of the pool, sending water straight up. They can also be smaller, installed on the sides of the pool, and send water in arching lines into the pool.

Diving Board Installation Cost

The cost to install a diving board on a pool averages $500 to $2,000. Diving boards can make a fun addition to many pools. Your pool should be a minimum of 12’ deep in one spot to safely install one. Ideally, it should be deeper than this. You cannot install a diving board on a fiberglass pool because fiberglass pools cannot reach these depths. Diving boards come in several heights, lengths, and styles.

Cost to Install a Pool Light

The cost to install a pool light ranges from $650 to $900. Pool lights enhance your use of the pool in the evening and night hours. They can be installed in several areas in and around the pool. Some can be installed on the pool’s wall. Others may be installed beneath the coping on the sides. In any case, your pool should be drained before installation. This can add to costs if you are only installing the lights and not draining for other work.

Cost to Add a Waterfall to a Pool

The cost to add a waterfall to a pool is $1,000 to $3,000. Waterfalls make very attractive water features for many pools. They can be installed on any pool type in any area. They are frequently installed as part of a larger landscaping project but do not have to be. They can add the sound of running water and the appearance of a natural rock formation. Some waterfalls can also act as water pumps, circulating water through the pool.

Pool Slide Cost

The cost of adding a pool slide ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. Pool slides can add a lot of fun to your pool. They come in many heights and configurations. This includes straight slides and twisting slides. Some slides can also be installed as part of a grotto or waterfall installation, with the slide on the side of the water feature. Slides should be installed at the deeper end of the pool for safety. However, they do not have the same depth recommendations as diving boards, meaning they can be installed in more areas and pools.

Pool Fence Installation Cost

The cost of a pool fence installation is between $3,000 and $10,000. Pool fences are an important part of any pool installation. They keep your pool safe so that neighborhood kids and pets do not accidentally fall in. Some pool fences can also keep out small creatures. Fences come in all sizes, shapes, and materials. They have certain requirements regarding height in most areas. They also often require locking gates for added safety.

Cost of Pool Fire Bowls

The cost of a pool fire bowl averages $5,000 to $8,000. Fire bowls can make beautiful features for a pool. They are typically installed on pillars on the sides of the pool. They may also include water features below the fire bowl, such as fountains or small waterfalls. The fire bowls are typically fueled by gas. This means you need to run a gas line to each fire bowl you install. This accounts for a large part of your costs, combined with the fire bowl, other materials, and pillar or pedestal construction.

Pool Grotto Cost

The cost of a pool grotto is $5,000 to $10,000. Pool grottos are unique features that enhance the pool’s appearance. They usually include some type of rock formation and waterfall as part of the feature. The simplest grottos can be a waterfall with a space behind them. More elaborate grottos have fully formed caves you may enter and pass beneath. Some grottos also include a slide along one side and lights. Many also incorporate landscaping to the pool’s sides so that they appear more natural.

Adding a Spa Area to the Pool

The cost to add a spa area to a pool ranges from $6,500 to $10,000. Spa areas enhance your use and enjoyment of the pool. You can create them in several ways. You can add a shallow section on one end of the pool with seating and “bubbles.” You can also create a separate hot tub area in the pool deck or have a sunken hot tub or spa attached to the pool’s side with a small coping between the two. In most cases, the spa area should be made of the same materials as the pool for the most cohesive look.

Pool Enclosure Cost

The cost of a pool enclosure ⁹ is $10,000 to $30,000. Pool enclosures protect your pool. They add shade, allow you to use the pool in bad weather, and keep out debris. They can also take the place of a pool fence to keep out children and pets. Pool enclosures come in many styles and materials. Some may be attached to your home, while others may be freestanding directly over the pool.

Pool Cover Installation Cost

The cost to add an automatic pool cover averages $12,000 to $22,000. An automatic pool cover is a permanent addition to the pool. It is installed at one end of the pool and rolled there when not in use. It may be tucked out of sight or stored in a roll at the pool’s end. When in use, it stretches across the pool, covering it securely. This prevents people and pets from falling in when not in use. It can also protect the pool from falling leaves and other debris.

Cost to Paint a Pool

If you have a concrete pool, one way to finish the interior is with paint. Most pools use epoxy-based paint and at least one coat of primer ¹⁰. This can be expensive because a single gallon of epoxy ¹¹ paint is $100. Most pools need up to 10 gallons, making the cost of paint $1,000. The labor cost is another $400 to $800 for a total cost to paint a pool of $1,400 to $1,800. Costs can be higher if your pool is not already drained. Costs can also be higher if the walls need to be repaired before they can be painted.

Pool Resurfacing Cost

The cost to resurface your pool ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. Resurfacing can take on many meanings, depending on your pool’s surface material. This is also frequently called refinishing the pool’s surface. Many concrete pools may be given a plaster surface, some are tiled, and others given an aggregate surface. Many of these surfaces age. This means they can crack, yellow, or begin to develop other issues. They must be removed and replaced when this happens to give your pool its best appearance and longest-lasting lifespan.

Cost to Expand a Pool

The cost to expand a pool averages $30,000 to $70,000. Expanding a pool is a serious project. If the pool is concrete, a large part of it must be destroyed first. Then, the new area is dug before the new walls can be poured.

If the pool is fiberglass, you need a new shell and more excavation. Vinyl pools also need a new liner, although part of the old frame may still be used, with a new section added onto the additional area. This means expansions sometimes cost as much as a new pool installation.

Cost to Reshape a Pool

The cost to reshape a pool is between $50,000 to $70,000. Reshaping a pool is another major project. If the pool is fiberglass, you need a new shell and new excavation and backfilling. Vinyl pools require at least a partial new frame and a new liner. Concrete pools often need to be destroyed or partially destroyed before the new shape can be constructed. This means reshaping a pool costs about as much as a new pool in many instances.

In-Ground vs Above-Ground Pool Remodel

In general, if you have an above-ground pool, the remodels are much easier and less expensive. Many things you can do to an inground pool cannot necessarily be done to most standard above-ground pools. For example, water features, fire bowls, and in-pool lighting are very difficult to add to most hard and metal-framed above-ground pools.

The things that you can do to an above-ground pool is add or change a deck. You can also replace the pool with a new one of a different size, shape, or material. This makes inground pool remodels more common and costly.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Cost to Remove a Diving Board

If you have an old diving board that is not used, removing it can free up space on your pool deck. Diving boards can be installed in a few ways, so they may also come up differently. Some require you to repair the deck when you are done. The average cost to remove a board ranges from $100 to $200 without repairs.

Pool Maintenance Cost

One way to keep your pool in good condition and avoid future repairs is to maintain it properly. Many homeowners do the maintenance themselves, but you can contract with pool companies to take on some or all the work. The average cost of pool maintenance is $90 to $270.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Pumps: A device used to move air, liquid, or gas by mechanical means

² Gunite: A type of concrete used for building concrete pools, lining tunnels, and structural repair. It is applied by being sprayed through a pressure hose, and produces a dense, hard layer of concrete

³ Plaster: A paste composed of sand, water, and either lime, gypsum, or cement, which forms a smooth hard surface on walls, ceilings, and other structures upon drying

⁴ Pool deck: Decorative border or edging around a swimming pool, often including a fence

⁶ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

⁷ Fiberglass: Plastic that is reinforced with glass fibers. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric

⁸ Liner: A covering, usually made of vinyl, for the walls and floor of a swimming pool, used to keep the water in and protect the pool's surface.

⁹ Pool enclosure: Artificial barrier that completely encircles a pool, protecting it from dirt, dust, insects, leaves, and other debris and also serving as a safety feature preventing those outside of it from falling in and possibly drowning

¹⁰ Primer: Preparatory coat applied to materials (drywall, wood, metal, etc.) before painting to ensure paint adhesion, extend paint durability, and help seal and protect the surface to be painted

¹¹ Epoxy: An adhesive, plastic, paint, or other material made from polymers containing epoxide groups. Epoxy is best used for bonding or for creating a protective coating