With Australia’s climate, swimming pools get a lot of use. From summer pool parties to the daily wear and tear of constant swimming, a pool can start to deteriorate quickly. Older homes may have outdated bathing areas that need resurfacing, new filtration or electrical systems, or additional water features to update the appearance of the pool. Here are some ideas to help you refinish your existing pool to get it ready for summer:

Resurfacing existing shell

Most of the renovation is resurfacing the existing shell. Many concrete pools will need updating after 25 to 30 years (although some need it much sooner if the pool hasn’t been well maintained). Resurfacing your pool is easier than ripping out the existing shell and starting over, and since designers can build a new pool inside an existing concrete shell, resurfacing saves you money.

You can work with a designer to create the ideal pool for your backyard. A variety of tile colors and designs not only modernize your pool but complement your exterior décor. Recessed lighting and waterfall features take your pool from mundane to fabulous and add to the wow factor of night swimming.

Add a spa to your pool

A renovation is the perfect time to add a spa to your existing bathroom area. You can choose to add a wading spa that doubles as a hot tub and kiddie pool, or add a fully equipped jet spa with custom tiling and lighting. It’s easiest to add a spa during construction, but if you’re doing a major renovation, a good pool builder can easily add a spa.

Renew the Filtration System

Even the most beautiful pools can look outdated if the electrical and filtration systems are not renewed. The pump and filtration system are the most important part of keeping your pool area sparkling clean. A pool builder can look at your current plumbing and filtration system and recommend the best upgrade.

Many pool owners are switching to salt systems that use automatic injection systems to keep pH levels balanced and water clean. There are also automatic injection systems for chlorinated pools. A mineral sanitizer is another option to keep your water clean and clear. Installed in the return line, a sanitizer automatically kills bacteria that make the water cloudy.

Once you’ve upgraded your filtration system, consider upgrading from a manual system to a remote-controlled pool system. This allows you to monitor and control all your pool functions at the touch of a button. Automatic controls even let you set the pump and other maintenance features so your swim area is maintained even when you’re not home. No matter how big of a pool renovation you want to do, a reputable and reliable pool company can help you visualize and redesign your current pool area.