Rosie on the House: 6 ways to pour life into your aging pool

A: Current trends in pool updates, according to Michael Sandoval of Above and Beyond Pool Remodeling, include:

Automating pool systems. With the newest technologies, it is possible to control your pool’s valves, pumps, water features, spa heaters, lights, sound system and more from your smartphone. This is great as you can get the spa warm and have the music playing when you walk in the door at the end of the day. It also works well for those who own rental and vacation homes.

Conversion from a diving pool to a play pool.

Installing Baha steps — these are the wide steps in the shallow end that allow sunbathers to be wet and stay cool. They have a great look and give the pool a resort-like feel.

Paver decking has gained popularity as Kool Decks have aged.

Q: What are the common signs that my pool needs to be updated?

A: Here are some common signs of an aging pool:

1. The pool plaster coating starts chipping offPools with thin plaster surfaces that are cracked, discolored and flaking off the concrete surface inside the pool are signs of aging. Once the plaster starts deteriorating, it loses its protective “cream.” This creates endless maintenance as it increases algae growth and creates problems that make it difficult to keep a pool clean. Homeowners find themselves using more chemicals to keep the pool sanitary. And when the plaster chips off, you’ll likely scuff up your toes and heels on the surface. The old surface must be jackhammered off the concrete before the new surface can be installed.

Homeowners can choose to renew plaster or upgrade to tile or pebble finishes.

2. Pool decking is cracked, crumbling or delaminatingDecking around a pool can deteriorate, too. That means you can hurt your feet on the surface, of course. Removing all the decking and replacing it or even enlarging it can be expensive. Concrete pavers or travertine tiles can sometimes be placed on the old deck. If the pool has a salt system, paver decking won’t wear well, and better choices are concrete, Kool Deck, or artistic pavers.

Replacing Kool Deck is still an option. Artistic pavers manufactured in Casa Grande offers some good choices.

3. Pool waterline tiles

develop heavy calcium buildup

or start falling offMost swimming pools have tile around the top edge of the pool for a few inches of depth. Sometimes, there could be 12 inches or more of decorative tile. If your pool is 20 years old or more, and those tiles are in bad shape, pool companies will decline to replace them separately. Tile replacement is included in the cost of replastering the pool. If your pool needs a new surface, it is more efficient to have the tile done at the same time.

4. Your pool cleaning system

no longer keeps the pool cleanPump: If your pool pump needs to be replaced, Arizona Title 44 requires it to be a variable-speed pump. The new pumps can save 70% of the energy cost for your pool. Rosie likes these as they are quieter, as well. They are more expensive than the old-style pump, so you may want to wait to replace a newer pump that is running well.

Sand filters: The original pool filters were sand filters; water was pushed through the sand by backwashing to clean it and remove particles. Sand filters are being phased out and replaced with cartridge filters. The cartridge filters are about the same price and filtrate twice as much as the sand units (down to about six to 10 microns of filtration).

In-floor cleaning systems: These systems move the dirt around and guide it to the filter system. This works well on places that are hard to get to for the automatic vacuum unit, like steps and benches. A brush and automatic vacuum are effective on the rest of the pool. The vacuum is a must if you don’t have teens in the house.

5. You want to improve the ambiance of your backyardWaterfall features can be custom-designed to add beauty and the sound of running water.

Lighting adds extra hours to enjoy your pool. A lighted pool area is a great place to hang out.

6. Outdoor living is in your futureThe addition of an outdoor kitchen and barbecue sets the stage for true outdoor living and entertaining for young and old alike. Cooling off in the pool and dining outside help desert dwellers enjoy the long, hot days of summer.