Giving Aging Pools a Second Life
Across Sherman Oaks, you’ll find pools that have anchored family memories for decades. Many were built when the neighborhood was younger, with plaster that has mellowed under the sun, tiles that reflect styles of earlier eras, and coping that tells the story of countless summer afternoons. When these pools begin to show their age—or when your needs evolve—it’s time to consider a remodel that honors the past while introducing comfort, safety, and efficiency for the years ahead. In the hands of skilled pool remodeling contractors who know our local conditions, an aging pool can become the heart of your home all over again.
The first step is a careful assessment. We look for surface wear, hollow spots, tile failures, and the state of grout and expansion joints. Equipment is evaluated for efficiency and reliability, plumbing is pressure-tested, and electrical bonding is confirmed. In older installations, suction safety, barriers, and lighting often need upgrades to align with current standards. Thoughtful planning balances wish-list improvements—like a baja shelf or a raised spa—with the necessary repairs that protect the structure and improve everyday use.
Design Refresh: Respecting Character While Updating Style
Remodeling invites creativity. Perhaps your pool has a timeless shape that suits the yard, but the finishes and deck are dated. New tile can transform the water’s color, while a contemporary interior surface brightens the entire scene. Coping changes can signal a shift in style—a move from brick to limestone, for instance—and deck updates can introduce cooler, slip-resistant surfaces that feel good underfoot. We approach design with sensitivity, keeping what works and evolving what doesn’t so the result feels both fresh and familiar.
Function often drives many remodel decisions. If kids have grown and you now prefer quiet soaks, a new spa with easy access might take center stage. If you host frequently, adding benches at conversational heights or creating a shelf for lounge chairs can change how the space feels without altering the overall footprint. Lighting, too, is an area where small investments deliver big changes; modern LEDs offer clarity and ambiance with minimal energy use.
Structural Integrity and Plumbing Updates
Behind every beautiful remodel is a sound structure. We investigate cracks to determine whether they are cosmetic or structural, addressing them with appropriate methods from epoxy injection to steel reinforcement, as needed. Skimmers, returns, and drains are evaluated and replaced when warranted, ensuring efficient circulation and compliance with anti-entrapment standards. Older return configurations often benefit from rebalancing to eliminate dead zones and improve surface skimming, particularly important in our breezy Valley evenings.
Plumbing upgrades can be transformative. Larger, smoother plumbing runs reduce pump strain and improve filtration. Valving is simplified so everyday operation makes sense at a glance. Equipment pads are reorganized with service access in mind, placing unions in smart locations and raising components off grade where appropriate. These refinements don’t often appear in photos, but you’ll notice them in quieter operation and clearer water.
Hillside, Access, and Protection of Mature Landscapes
Sherman Oaks has its share of hillside pools and mature gardens that deserve protection during construction. Access planning is critical: some remodels call for small demolition equipment or even crane support for material delivery. Site protection becomes a priority, from temporary fencing around plantings to mats that shield driveways and walkways. Because remodeling occurs in established yards, dust control and debris management receive special attention, keeping patios and neighboring properties as tidy as possible while work progresses.
Drainage and runoff are reviewed in detail. We ensure new deck slopes, added structures, or replanted areas won’t introduce water where it doesn’t belong. Subdrains, deck drains, and appropriate waterproofing safeguard not only the pool but also nearby foundations and shared property lines.
Finish Selection for Longevity and Ease of Care
Choosing the right finish transforms daily experience. Polished aggregates deliver a refined feel and longer service life, while pebble textures offer durability and a natural look that complements drought-conscious plantings. Tile choices range from restrained porcelain to artisanal glass that shimmers without overwhelming the design. Grout selection and sealing strategies are tuned to our climate, balancing colorfastness with stain resistance. Coping and decking complete the picture: cooler stones and slip-resistant porcelain are popular choices that pair beautifully with mature shade trees and sunlit patios.
Color plays a role in comfort and aesthetics. Slightly deeper interior hues can hold warmth during shoulder seasons, while lighter tones keep the water bright in peak summer. These choices, combined with thoughtful lighting, allow the pool to feel inviting at dawn’s first light and equally welcoming long after sunset.
Equipment Modernization and Automation
Many remodeling projects focus on updating older equipment with quiet, efficient, and user-friendly systems. Variable-speed pumps dramatically reduce energy draw while moving water more effectively. Cartridges simplify filtration and limit water loss from backwashing. Heaters are chosen for their reliability and speed, paired with automation that makes temperature control easy. With smart scheduling and remote access, you can warm the spa while setting the table or dial in soft lighting for a late swim without stepping outside.
Water quality benefits from improved circulation and thoughtful return placement. If you prefer saltwater chlorine generation, remodel time is ideal for integrating it, along with corrosion-aware material choices. The overarching goal is a system that fades into the background, delivering comfort without fuss so you can focus on enjoying your refreshed backyard.
Phasing, Budget Priorities, and Living Through the Work
Remodels are often completed in phases to maintain livability and respect seasonal goals. We might begin with structural repairs and shell modifications, then move to equipment and hardscape upgrades, and finally finish with tile and interior surfaces. Clear communication keeps you informed of noisy or messy days, and we align major milestones with your calendar when possible. Protecting existing features—like outdoor kitchens or treasured trees—guides staging and pathways so you can continue to enjoy parts of the yard even as work progresses.
As decisions surface, experienced pool remodeling contractors provide context to help you prioritize. Often, the greatest long-term value comes from structural and equipment upgrades, with aesthetic transformations layered on top. This balanced approach ensures beauty that’s built on lasting fundamentals.
Compliance, Safety, and Peace of Mind
Bringing an older pool up to current standards adds peace of mind along with better performance. Updated barriers and gates, compliant suction systems, and modern lighting improve safety for families and guests. Inspections at key stages confirm quality and code adherence, and documentation at the end provides a clear record of the improvements for future reference or home sales. Knowing that the pool meets today’s expectations lets you relax and enjoy the water with confidence.
Startup after a remodel is a chance to learn new systems and develop routines. We provide gentle guidance through the first weeks, when brushing and chemical balance are especially important for new finishes. Follow-up visits address questions, fine-tune automation, and ensure everything is settled as intended.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my pool needs structural repairs or just cosmetic updates?
A thorough assessment identifies the difference. Surface staining or minor etching can be cosmetic, while persistent cracking, rapid water loss, or hollow-sounding spots often signal deeper issues. Pressure tests and visual inspections guide the scope of work.
Can I add a baja shelf or spa during a remodel?
Yes. Structural modifications are common in remodels. Engineering determines reinforcement, plumbing is expanded, and the shell is reshaped to integrate shelves, benches, or a new spa. The result can dramatically improve usability without expanding the pool’s footprint.
Will a remodel disrupt my landscaping?
Access and protection plans are designed to minimize impact. Temporary barriers, careful routing, and a clean staging strategy help preserve mature plantings. Any disturbed areas are restored once heavy work concludes.
How long does a typical remodel take?
Timelines depend on scope and access. Projects involving structural changes, deck replacement, and equipment modernization take longer than simple resurfacing. Clear schedules and steady communication make living through the process manageable.
Is it worth upgrading old equipment?
In most cases, yes. Modern pumps, heaters, and automation improve efficiency, quiet operation, and ease of use. Even if finishes are your primary focus, equipment upgrades can elevate daily enjoyment and reduce maintenance effort.
Will updated lighting make a noticeable difference?
Absolutely. LED fixtures offer clear, even illumination and flexible ambiance. Combined with subtle landscape lighting, they transform evening experiences while enhancing safety around steps and edges.
Revitalize Your Sherman Oaks Pool
If your pool is showing its age or your lifestyle has evolved, a thoughtful remodel can bring it back to the center of your home. Partner with experienced pool contractors who understand the nuances of Sherman Oaks, and rediscover the joy of a backyard that feels refreshed, comfortable, and ready for the next chapter.