How Does Pool Remodeling Address Cracks, Discoloration, and Surface Deterioration?

Swimming pools are meant to be a refreshing escape, a centerpiece for family gatherings, and a highlight of outdoor living. But over time, even the best-built pools begin to show signs of wear. Cracks start appearing on the floor and walls, the surface begins to discolor, tiles lose their shine, and the overall look becomes tired or outdated. These changes don’t just affect aesthetics — they impact comfort, safety, and long-term structural integrity.

Pool remodeling is the solution that brings a damaged or aging pool back to life. It goes far beyond cosmetic updates. Instead, it tackles the root problems causing cracks, discoloration, and surface deterioration. By the end of the remodeling process, a worn-out pool can look new again and function far better than it did before.

Here’s how pool remodeling professionals restore beauty, durability, and safety to aging pools.

Understanding Why Pool Surfaces Deteriorate

Before diving into the remodeling solutions, it helps to understand the causes. Pools age for several reasons:

• Constant exposure to UV rays

• Harsh pool chemicals

• Water imbalance

• Temperature fluctuations

• Soil movement underneath the pool

• Improper construction in older pools

• Natural wear from years of use

These factors slowly break down plaster, tile, and concrete. Deterioration may start small, but if ignored, it spreads — and eventually leads to leaks, weakened structures, and costly repairs.

Pool remodeling stops the damage early and restores the pool’s original strength.

How Pool Remodeling Repairs Structural Cracks

Cracks are one of the most alarming signs of pool damage. Some are cosmetic, but others indicate more serious structural concerns. During the initial evaluation, Encore Builders carefully examines whether the issue is surface-level plaster cracking or deeper structural cracking caused by shifting ground or aging concrete.

To fix cracks, remodelers typically:

1. Drain the pool and expose the damaged areas

2. Cut out the weakened material

3. Apply structural staples or reinforcements if needed

4. Fill cracks with high-strength repair materials

5. Smooth and prepare the area for resurfacing

This strengthens the foundation and prevents water from seeping into the concrete shell. Proper crack repair ensures the pool will not continue deteriorating beneath the surface.

Restoring Color and Beauty by Replacing Stained Surfaces

Discoloration is extremely common in older pools. It can occur from calcium buildup, chemical imbalance, algae stains, fading paint, or years of sunlight. Unfortunately, brushing or chemical treatments rarely fix severe discoloration.

Pool remodeling solves this by replacing or resurfacing the stained areas. Professionals typically use:

• Quartz finishes

• Pebble finishes

• Polished aggregates

• High-quality modern plaster

These materials offer stronger color retention and better resistance to chemical and UV damage. Once applied, your pool regains a consistent, vibrant appearance that looks clean and new.

Resurfacing to Repair Rough, Damaged, or Flaking Pool Walls

One of the most noticeable signs of pool deterioration is a rough, sandpaper-like surface. This doesn’t just look bad — it feels uncomfortable on hands, feet, and skin. Surface deterioration occurs when plaster ages, chemicals erode the finish, or water chemistry remains imbalanced.

Resurfacing is the most effective way to fix this. During remodeling, the old surface is removed and replaced with a new, smooth finish. Modern resurfacing materials are designed to last longer and stay smoother, even under heavy use.

This step not only restores aesthetics but also improves the swimmer’s comfort and safety.

Replacing Old or Damaged Tiles

Tile deterioration is common in older pools, especially around the waterline. Tiles may:

• Crack

• Fall off

• Fade

• Become stained

• Lose grout

Pool remodeling includes removing and replacing damaged tiles with modern, durable options. Homeowners can choose from:

• Glass tiles

• Porcelain tiles

• Mosaic designs

• Natural stone tiles

• Contemporary colors and patterns

New tiles instantly refresh the pool and create a modern, polished look.

Improving Waterproofing and Preventing Future Deterioration

One of the most important—yet overlooked—parts of remodeling is waterproofing. Cracks and surface damage often allow water to seep behind the surface, which accelerates deterioration.

Professional remodelers:

• Seal vulnerable areas

• Apply waterproofing membranes

• Use modern bonding materials

• Improve drainage and expansion joints

This added protection ensures the pool remains durable and resistant to future damage.

Boosting Long-Term Durability With Modern Materials

Older pool materials simply don’t perform as well as modern alternatives. Today’s surfaces are engineered to last longer, resist damage, and offer better color protection.

Modern remodeling often replaces outdated plaster with:

• PebbleTec or pebble finishes

• Quartz aggregates

• Polished aggregates

These finishes withstand chemicals, weather, and constant water exposure far better than older materials, slowing down the aging process significantly.

Enhancing Overall Appearance and Functionality

While the primary goal of remodeling is to fix cracks and deterioration, most homeowners take the opportunity to upgrade design as well. New finishes, tiles, coping, and lighting can transform the entire space.

Remodeling creates a pool that’s:

• More visually appealing

• Safer for swimmers

• More comfortable to use

• Easier to maintain

• More aligned with modern backyard design trends

The result is an outdoor space that finally feels fresh, inviting, and enjoyable again.

Final Thoughts

Pool deterioration is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to turn your backyard centerpiece into an eyesore or safety hazard. Pool remodeling addresses cracks, discoloration, and surface damage by repairing structural issues, resurfacing with modern materials, replacing worn tiles, and enhancing waterproofing.

The result is a pool that looks brighter, feels smoother, functions better, and lasts longer. Whether your pool is showing early signs of wear or major deterioration, professional remodeling brings it back to life — transforming an outdated structure into a clean, beautiful, and durable outdoor oasis.