It is that time of year again. You step into your backyard, coffee in hand, ready to enjoy the view, but you can’t help but worry about the pool renovation cost. Instead of seeing a sparkling oasis, your eyes go straight to the faded liner, the cracked coping, or that noisy pump that hums a little too loudly. We know the feeling. In Pennsylvania, our swim season is short and sweet—from roughly Memorial Day to Labor Day—so you want every day to count.
If you are reading this, you are probably wondering if bringing your pool back to life is within your budget this year. You will learn exactly what goes into the price of a renovation, from simple facelifts to complete transformations, so you can plan with confidence.
The Reality of pool Renovation Costs in Pennsylvania
When homeowners in Bucks County or Doylestown ask us for a “ballpark” figure, the honest answer is that it varies widely. However, to give you a realistic starting point for 2025, most comprehensive pool renovation projects in our area land between $10,000 and $50,000.
If you are just looking to swap out a vinyl liner, you are on the lower end. If you want to resurface a gunite pool, add new LED lighting, and upgrade your patio to premium pavers, you will be on the higher end.
Here is why the price tag moves so much:
- Size Matters: A 16×32 pool costs significantly less to renovate than a 20×40 diving pool.
- Material Choices: Standard white plaster is affordable; pebble finishes or glass tile are luxury upgrades.
- Scope of Work: Are you just fixing the pool, or are you upgrading the surrounding hardscape too?
Breakdown by Project Type
Let’s dissect the numbers. These ranges reflect current market rates for high-quality workmanship in Pennsylvania.
1. Surface Renovations
The surface is the first thing to go. In our region, the freeze-thaw cycle can be brutal on aging materials.
- Vinyl Liner Replacement: For a standard inground pool, expect to pay between $4,500 and $6,500. This usually includes pumping out the water, minor floor repairs, and the new liner installation.
- Gunite/Concrete Resurfacing: If you have a concrete pool, replastering is necessary every 10–15 years.
- Standard Plaster: $6,000 – $10,000.
- Pebble/Aggregate Finish: $8,000 – $15,000. (These last longer and look more natural).
2. Tile and Coping
That band of tile at the waterline isn’t just for looks; it protects the shell. The “coping” is the cap around the edge of the pool.
- Tile Replacement: $3,000 – $5,000 depending on if you choose ceramic or glass.
- Coping Replacement: $2,500 – $6,000. Natural stone coping (like bluestone) is popular here but costs more than standard brick or concrete.
3. Equipment Upgrades
Old pumps are energy hogs. Swapping them out is a “pool upkeep cost” that pays for itself over time.
- Variable Speed Pump: $1,000 – $1,800. These run quieter and use far less electricity.
- Pool Heater: $2,500 – $4,500. Essential if you want to extend your PA swim season into late September.
- Saltwater Conversion: $1,500 – $3,000. Say goodbye to harsh chemical smells.
4. Decking and Hardscaping
This is where FS Landscaping Contractors truly shines. A pool is only as good as the area surrounding it. If your concrete deck is heaving or cracked, covering it with pavers or natural stone transforms the entire yard.
- Paver Patio Installation: $18 – $35 per square foot.
- Pool Lighting: $800 – $1,500 per fixture for modern, color-changing LEDs.
The Hidden Numbers: Pool Upkeep Cost
Renovation is a one-time check, but maintenance is forever. When budgeting, you must look at the annual picture. In Pennsylvania, our specific climate dictates a lot of these costs.
Annual Maintenance Estimates for PA Homeowners
| Expense Item | Estimated Annual Cost | Why It Is Necessary |
| Opening & Closing | $600 – $1,200 | Professional winterization prevents cracked pipes during freezing PA winters. |
| Chemicals | $500 – $800 | Keeps water sanitary and prevents algae blooms during humid months. |
| Electricity | $300 – $600 | Cost to run the pump (significantly lower with a variable speed pump). |
| Minor Repairs | $200 – $500 | unexpected fixes like O-rings, baskets, or cleaner parts. |
| Total Annual Upkeep | **$1,600 – $3,100** |
Note: Saltwater pools often have lower annual chemical costs but require a salt cell replacement ($500–$800) every 5–7 years.
Smart Upgrades That Save Money Later
If you are already tearing up the yard for a renovation, it is the perfect time to add features that reduce your long-term “pool upkeep cost.”
Automation Systems
Imagine turning on your spa or heater from your phone before you even leave work. Automation systems ($2,000+) save energy by ensuring your equipment only runs when needed.
Safety Covers
If you are still using a tarp and water bags, stop. A mesh safety cover ($1,500 – $3,500) looks better, is safer for kids and pets, and makes opening the pool in spring much faster because it keeps debris out.
Why Hiring a Specialist Matters
You might be tempted to cut corners with a general handyman, but swimming pools are complex systems. A botched plaster job can delaminate in a year, and poor plumbing can lead to underground leaks that cost thousands to find.
At FS Landscaping Contractors, through our Poseidon’s Custom Pools division, we handle the entire scope. We don’t just fix the pool; we look at the drainage, the retaining walls, and the lighting to ensure the whole backyard works together.
Signs You Need a Pro Immediately:
- You lose more than 1/4 inch of water a day (leak).
- Your pool deck has uneven spots (trip hazard).
- You see rust stains on the pool floor (rebar issues).
Conclusion
A pool renovation is an investment in your home and your family’s summer memories. While a basic liner swap might cost around $5,000, a complete transformation with new surfacing, tile, and energy-efficient equipment typically lands in the $20,000 to $50,000 range.
The best approach? Don’t guess. Get a clear assessment of what needs to be done versus what you want to be done.
Ready to transform your backyard before the summer heat hits? Contact FS Landscaping Contractors today for a consultation. Let’s make your pool the envy of the neighborhood.