Renovate your pool with care

It’s difficult to determine a precise timeline as many factors influence the duration of a pool renovation: the nature of the work, access challenges, weather conditions, and more.

For a simple waterproofing change (replacing a liner or reinforced PVC without touching the masonry), 1 to 2 days are sufficient. If a coating is required to repair the walls, add another day or two.

However, if your project involves reconfiguring your pool with a comprehensive redesign, it could take up to 3 weeks.

Your pool specialist will be able to provide you with an estimated timeline based on the specific work being planned.

Your filtration system endures a lot of wear and tear. Constantly in use, it’s subject to external forces that affect its durability (ground settling or shifting, heavy equipment passing nearby, glue deterioration, equipment aging, etc.).

A renovation project might involve replacing the filtration equipment: pump, filter, allowing you to install state-of-the-art, more energy-efficient, and higher-performing systems. Your pool water will then be better filtered with fewer constraints. If you opt for cartridge filters, you’ll not only enjoy easier maintenance but also a more eco-friendly solution with significantly lower water consumption.

A pool can be renovated using various materials. Tiles can also be used, although fewer and fewer pools are built with this type of finish. Depending on the design, tile grout can age prematurely, leading to a risk of leaks.

The liner is the simplest, most economical, and quickest solution to implement, but a qualified team is necessary to ensure proper installation. A poorly installed liner may crease, causing premature wear.

Reinforced PVC and 3D Touch are very thick waterproofing liners. Welded on-site, they perfectly fit the shape of the pool. These types of linings are highly durable, making your renovation last. A wide range of colors and textures allows you to give your pool a unique aesthetic.

It’s important to prioritize energy efficiency when planning a pool renovation. This is beneficial both for the environment and for saving money.
Here are some steps to consider:

• Install a high-efficiency heat pump: Modern heat pumps have significantly better energy performance than older models. They use less energy to heat the water by harnessing ambient air to generate heat.

• Use a pool cover: Pool covers help retain heat and reduce water evaporation. They keep the water warm during cool nights and minimize water loss due to evaporation, thereby reducing energy and water consumption. Some models, particularly those with polycarbonate slats, can increase the water temperature by 5 to 7°C for free.

• Opt for LED lighting: LED lights consume much less energy than traditional bulbs and have a longer lifespan. The variety of colors and intensities allows for a modern and festive atmosphere.

• Install a next-generation filtration system: Modern filtration systems are designed to be more energy-efficient. Choosing cartridge filters can reduce energy and water consumption while ensuring clean, healthy water.

• Automate pool management systems: Automated management systems can optimize the use of the pump, heating, and filtration according to actual demand, reducing energy waste. These systems can be programmed to operate during off-peak hours or based on weather conditions.

• Regularly maintain the pool: Regular maintenance ensures that all equipment operates at optimal efficiency. Clean filters and well-maintained pumps work more efficiently, consuming less energy.

By adopting these measures during your pool renovation, you can significantly improve its energy efficiency and achieve substantial savings. This not only reduces your energy bills but also contributes to more sustainable and responsible use of natural resources.

A renovation project is an opportunity to completely rethink the shape and dimensions of your pool. Indeed, about forty years ago, it was common to build very large pools, with 12×6 meters being a standard size. Nowadays, the trend has shifted towards smaller pools, with standard sizes being 8×4 meters or even 7×3 meters.

Modern pools tend to be more rectangular and thus smaller, but they still offer plenty of enjoyment, often being better equipped. Renovating your pool allows you to rethink the layout, such as modifying the stairs, creating resting benches, or integrating wellness features like whirlpool jets.

Altering the size and shape of your pool is entirely possible and can breathe new life into your outdoor space. However, this type of project is not trivial, and it’s essential to work with qualified professionals to ensure long-lasting and well-executed work.

Incorporating safety features during a pool renovation is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all users, especially children. Here are some steps and tips for adding safety devices such as barriers, automatic covers, and other measures:

• Assessing Safety Needs: Before starting renovation work, assess the specific safety needs of your pool. Consider the primary users, local safety regulations, and the characteristics of your property.
• Choosing Safety Devices: There are several safety devices available depending on your preferences, technical constraints, and environment.
• Safety Barriers: These should prevent access by children under 5 years old and be able to withstand their attempts to breach them. They must be at least 1.22 meters high and include a locking mechanism. The ground clearance should be less than 25 mm to prevent a small child, toy, or other object from passing underneath. If your barrier has bars, ensure the spacing between each bar is between 45mm and 102mm. Your safety barrier should comply with the AFNOR NF P90-306 standard.
• Safety Covers: These can be electric or manual. They must be sturdy and comply with safety standards to support the weight of an adult. Whether it’s bar covers or submerged or above-ground covers, these products meet safety standards. You can request a certification from your pool specialist when purchasing the cover, as this document is sometimes required by insurance companies. Ensure that your cover complies with the NF P90-308 standard.
• Alarms: An alarm system can be used alone or in conjunction with a cover. If you choose the latter, ask your pool specialist for a compatible alarm so that you can close the cover without removing the alarm from the pool. A pool alarm will alert you to any falls into the water, but it is not a substitute for drowning prevention. Immediate intervention is necessary once the alarm sounds. The alarm must comply with the NF P90-307 standard.
• Pool Enclosures: These are considered safety elements, just like covers, alarms, and barriers. A pool enclosure offers several advantages: it secures the pool and its surroundings, protects against debris, and allows swimming even in less favorable weather. A pool enclosure is a costly safety feature that will require a construction declaration before installation. It tends to obscure the pool from view, so if you enjoy seeing your pool in your garden, consider whether an enclosure is the right solution. In any case, ensure the enclosure is locked to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. The enclosure must comply with the NF P 90-309 standard.

Consult with an experienced pool professional who can guide you toward the most suitable safety solution.