Understanding the Decision: Renovation vs. Replacement

For many Georgia homeowners, the question of renovating or completely replacing a pool eventually becomes unavoidable. With thousands of older pools across metro Atlanta—many built 15–25 years ago—wear and tear is inevitable. Between Georgia’s intense summer heat, occasional freezing winters, and red-clay soil movement, pools in our region age differently than those in other parts of the country. And as backyard lifestyles have evolved, homeowners expect far more from their pools than they did a decade ago.

As one of Georgia’s leading custom design and construction firms, Alison Pools is often called in when homeowners say, “We’re not sure if we should fix what we have—or start over.” The answer depends on structural integrity, long-term costs, and the homeowner’s vision for their outdoor space.

Why Georgia Homeowners Face This Decision More Often?

Because of the state’s climate and soil composition, pools in Georgia face several conditions that accelerate deterioration:

▪ Harsh UV exposure

Long, hot summers can fade plaster faster and strain filtration systems.

▪ Freeze–thaw cycles

Even brief winter freezes can cause micro-cracks in plaster or tile.

▪ Red-clay soil expansion

This is one of the most overlooked structural challenges. Georgia’s soil expands when wet and contracts when dry, creating pressure on pool shells, plumbing, and decking.

▪ Rapidly evolving outdoor living trends

Homeowners upgrading their backyard often find their existing pool is outdated, undersized, or incompatible with new entertainment areas.

As a result, many pools hit a tipping point where repairing the obvious issues won’t solve the underlying ones. That’s when homeowners contact Alison Pools for an expert evaluation.

Major Signs Your Pool Needs More Than a Simple Repair

If your pool shows one or more of these red flags, it may need deeper renovation—or possibly full replacement.

1. Continuing or recurring leaks

Plumbing leaks underground often signal deeper structural movements. Repeated leak-patching is a common sign that the shell or subsurface plumbing is shifting.

2. Widespread cracking

Hairline cracks are normal; structural cracks are not. Georgia’s soil movement often causes:

• Beam cracks

• Step cracks

• Deep etching along the plaster

• Cracks that reappear after patching

If the crack runs vertically or horizontally along the shell, the pool may have foundational instability.

3. Outdated equipment that drives up monthly costs

Many older pools still run single-speed pumps or inefficient chlorination systems. These systems can easily add $600–$1,200 per year in extra energy and chemical costs.

4. Rough, stained, or severely etched plaster

In Georgia’s climate, standard plaster lasts 7–10 years, while high-end aggregates last longer. If the surface is rough enough to scratch skin, renovation is overdue.

5. Sunken decking or uneven coping

Soil movement can cause the deck to pull away from the pool beam—often a deeper structural warning.

6. Poor circulation or dead zones

Older pools weren’t engineered with today’s hydraulic standards. This leads to algae-prone “dead zones” and higher chemical usage.

If you see any of these, our team generally recommends a full structural assessment—including shell integrity, soil interaction, plumbing pressure tests, and overall design potential.

When Renovation Is the Right Call

Many Georgia pools are excellent renovation candidates. If the shell is structurally sound, renovation can modernize aesthetics and functionality without starting from scratch.

Common renovation scenarios include:

▪ Resurfacing the interior

Upgrading from aging plaster to a premium finish, such as:

• Mini-pebble

• Coarse aggregate

• Quartz

• High-end plaster

These stand up better to Georgia’s UV intensity and offer longer lifespans.

▪ Updating tile and coping

Many early-2000s pools still have narrow waterline tile and basic coping. Modern styling favors:

• Larger-format tile

• Premium glass tile

• Stone coping

• Porcelain pavers

▪ Adding new features

Alison Pools often integrates modern upgrades such as:

• Tanning ledges or baja shelves

• Waterfalls and raised walls

• LED lighting

• Integrated spas

• Fire features

These additions elevate older pools into contemporary outdoor-living focal points.

▪ Modernizing technology

Upgrading older pools with:

• Smart automation systems

• Salt generators

• Variable-speed pumps

• Energy-efficient heating

• Safety enhancements

These upgrades dramatically reduce maintenance time and long-term operating costs—vital in Georgia’s long swim season.

If the structure is solid, a renovation can transform a dated pool into a modern luxury space without major excavation.

When Full Replacement Is the Wise Long-Term Decision

There are situations where renovation would be a temporary fix—and replacing the pool delivers better value, safety, and longevity.

Situations where replacement is recommended:

1. Structural failure

If the shell has shifted, bowed, or cracked beyond repair, replacing is more cost-effective than repeatedly patching issues.

2. Old or improper engineering

Many older Georgia pools were built without today’s advanced structural standards or hydraulic planning. Rebuilding allows Alison Pools to correct foundational issues.

3. Chronic leaks that reappear

If plumbing lines are failing underground or the shell has lost integrity, replacing the pool ensures long-term reliability.

4. Outdated shape or poor layout

Homeowners wanting a tanning ledge, larger shallow area, integrated spa, or modern geometric design may find renovation too limiting.

5. Backyard redesigns

If you are upgrading your entire outdoor area—pavilion, kitchen, deck—a new pool design may be the best match.

6. Safety/code compliance

Older pools may not meet updated:

• VGB compliance

• Drain regulations

• Barrier requirements

• Electrical standards

• Setback rules

Replacing the pool ensures it meets all current Georgia codes.

Ultimately, replacement becomes the smarter investment when renovation would only delay inevitable structural or functional failure.

Cost Comparison: Renovation vs. Replacement in Georgia

While every project is unique, here’s what Georgia homeowners should expect:

Typical Renovation Investments

• Surface resurfacing: $7,000–$20,000

• Tile & coping update: $6,000–$15,000

• Equipment upgrade package: $5,000–$12,000

• Adding tanning ledge or spa: $12,000–$35,000

Renovations often range from $15,000 to $60,000, depending on the scope.

Typical Replacement Investment

A full custom rebuild typically starts around $90,000–$150,000+, especially for luxury custom designs, tanning ledges, water features, spas, LED lighting, automation, and premium finishes.

Long-term value insight

A poorly renovated pool may demand a full replacement within 5–7 years.
A properly engineered new pool can last 30+ years before needing major work.

Alison Pools guides homeowners toward the option that makes financial and functional sense long-term—not the quick fix.

The Renovation Path: What Georgia Homeowners Can Upgrade

For homeowners across metro Atlanta, Kennesaw, Marietta, and neighboring Georgia suburbs, many pools built 10–20 years ago still have a solid structure — but they look and function far below modern expectations. A renovation allows you to keep the original shell while dramatically upgrading style, comfort, energy efficiency, and safety.

At Alison Pools, every renovation follows the same engineering-first method used in our custom builds: evaluating structure, hydraulics, soil conditions, drainage, and long-term durability. This ensures your renovation does more than update appearances — it enhances lifespan and performance in Georgia’s climate.

1. Modernizing Your Pool Aesthetic

A dated interior finish or old tile instantly ages a backyard. Georgia homeowners now lean toward modern, high-end materials with better UV resistance, texture, and long-term performance.

Premium Interior Finish Upgrades

Older plaster in Georgia is typically worn out by year 7–10 because of:

• Intense UV rays

• Warm water temperatures

• High chemical demand

Upgrading to materials like:

• Mini-pebble

• Aggregate finishes

• Quartz

• Glass bead interiors

…not only increases durability but transforms the water color and overall visual appeal. These finishes pair beautifully with today’s popular Atlanta home designs.

Tile & Coping Transformations

Replacing old waterline tile or coping delivers an instant luxury refresh. Popular choices include:

• Oversized porcelain

• Glass mosaic

• Stone or travertine coping

• Modern square-edge profiles

These elevate a 2000s-era pool into a contemporary luxury space.

See How a Modern Finish Can Transform Your Pool

Explore real Georgia backyard makeovers completed by Alison Pools and get inspiration for your renovation.

View the Portfolio

Enhancing Functionality With High-Impact Upgrades

Aesthetic updates make your pool look new — but functional upgrades make it feel new. Many older Georgia pools simply lack modern usability features.

Tanning Ledges & Baja Shelves

These are now among the most requested upgrades. A tanning ledge is perfect for:

• Lounging in just a few inches of water

• Letting kids play safely

• Setting up Ledge Lounger chairs

• Creating a vibrant shallow relaxation zone

Alison Pools integrates tanning ledges into older shells seamlessly, giving you the same luxury experience as brand-new custom builds.

Lighting Upgrades

Switching from halogen to LED lighting dramatically improves nighttime ambience. New systems offer:

• Color-changing modes

• Programmable scenes

• Lower energy use

• Better clarity and visibility

New Water Features

Popular additions include:

• Raised walls with sheet waterfalls

• Spa spillways

• Natural rock features

• LED bubblers on tanning ledge

These elements not only enhance beauty but also create movement and sound for a resort-caliber feel.

Ready to Add Modern Features to Your Existing Pool?

From tanning ledges to LED lighting and waterfalls, Alison Pools specializes in high-end upgrades for Georgia homeowners.

Request a Renovation Quote

Technology Upgrades That Extend Your Pool’s Lifespan

Georgia’s long swim season makes energy efficiency and smart controls a game-changer.

Smart Automation

Operate your entire pool from your phone:

• Pumps

• Lighting

• Spa heat

• Water features

• Sanitization

Automation keeps water balanced during Atlanta’s heat spikes and heavy rainfall.

Salt Chlorination Systems

Salt systems are popular among Georgia homeowners because they:

• Produce softer, gentler water

• Reduce harsh chemical odor

• Improve long-term sanitation consistency

• Lower maintenance time

Variable-Speed Pumps

Older single-speed pumps often cost 3–4× more to operate. New pumps lower monthly bills significantly — often paying for themselves within 1–2 years.

Safety Enhancements

Renovation is the perfect time to add:

• Safety covers

• Handrails

• Auto-fill systems

• Anti-entrapment drain upgrades

Safety compliance is especially important for families and home resale

Want advice on which upgrades will give you the best long-term results? Learn more about Alison Pools’ engineering-driven approach to Georgia pool renovations.

What Renovation Looks Like With Alison Pools

Homeowners are often surprised by how comprehensive our renovation process is. While many contractors simply resurface and re-tile, Alison Pools evaluates your pool as if it were a new custom build.

Step 1 — Structural Evaluation

We check:

• Soil stability

• Deck movement

• Plumbing flow and pressure

• Circulation inconsistencies

• Beam cracks

• Equipment age and performance

Step 2 — 3D Visualization

Clients love seeing their renovated pool in full 3D before work begins. We design:

• Water features

• New finishes

• Spa additions

• Seating zones

• Lighting layout

• Decking upgrades

Step 3 — Construction & Installation

This includes:

• Demolition of old finishes

• Installing tile and coping

• Updating plumbing and electrical

• Integrating water features

• Resurfacing interior finishes

Step 4 — Detailed Startup

We fill the pool, balance chemicals, test every system, and walk you through all features — especially automation.

When Renovation Is the Right Call

Renovation is ideal when:

• The shell is structurally sound

• Plumbing is intact

• You want modern upgrades without a full rebuild

• You’re preparing to sell your home

• You want a 10–15 year lifespan extension

• You want a luxury look without starting from scratch

If any of these apply, renovation is the best move before considering full replacement.

Full Replacement Path: When to Start Fresh & How It Works

Some Georgia pools reach a point where renovation isn’t enough — the structure has aged out, the plumbing is failing, or the shape no longer suits how your family lives today. In these cases, starting fresh with a custom-built pool from Alison Pools becomes the best long-term investment. A full replacement opens up design possibilities that older shells simply can’t support: modern geometric layouts, expanded shallow zones, built-in spas, tanning ledges, raised walls, premium water features, and advanced smart automation from day one.

For homeowners in metro Atlanta seeking a luxury outdoor environment designed to last 30+ years, a new pool is often the most reliable path forward.

Thinking About Starting Fresh?

See how Alison Pools transforms aging backyards into true luxury outdoor spaces with fully custom designs.

Explore Recent Projects

What a New Custom Build Looks Like with Alison Pools

A full pool replacement with Alison Pools isn’t demolition — it’s reinvention. Our engineering-led process includes structural design, hydraulics planning, soil evaluation, and 3D visualization tailored to Georgia’s terrain and climate.

■ Engineering & Design Process

Every project begins with a site evaluation that assesses:

• Lot grading

• Sun exposure

• Drainage patterns

• Soil conditions

• Home architecture

• HOA and county requirements

This ensures the new design integrates perfectly with your property.

■ 3D Design Visualization

We create a fully rendered 3D model showing:

• Pool shape and depth profiles

• Tanning ledges

• Spa placement

• Lighting concepts

• Water features

• Deck layout

• Material choices

• Landscaping flow

Georgia homeowners love seeing their future backyard before any construction begins.

■ Structural Steel & Hydraulic Precision

The Alison Pools team designs your new pool with:

• Proper steel reinforcement

• Oversized plumbing

• Balanced return placement

• Energy-efficient equipment

• Smart automation integration

This level of engineering prevents many common issues we see in older Georgia pools.

■ Outdoor Living Integration

Many clients add:

• Pavilion

• Pergolas

• Outdoor kitchens

• Fire features

• Expanded patios

• Stone retaining walls

This creates a complete outdoor-living experience, not just a pool.

Want a Backyard Designed Around Your Lifestyle?

Alison Pools specializes in high-end custom pool design with engineering precision for Georgia homes.

Request a Custom Design Consultation

Safety & Code Requirements in Georgia

When replacing a pool, you’re not just getting a modern design — you’re ensuring your pool meets today’s safety, electrical, and hydraulic standards.

Georgia code considerations include:

■ VGB Drain Compliance

Older pools often have outdated drain covers or unsafe configurations.

■ Fencing & Barrier Requirements

Updated county rules may require:

• Self-closing gates

• Specific fence heights

• Safety barriers around spas

■ Setbacks & Lot Requirements

Especially important in counties like Cobb, Cherokee, Fulton, and Paulding.

■ Electrical & Bonding Standards

New bonding grids ensure safety around wet surfaces and lighting.

■ Updated Plumbing & Return Requirements

To reduce entrapment risk and increase circulation.

A replacement ensures full compliance and peace of mind.

Not sure whether your pool meets today’s Georgia safety standards? Learn how Alison Pools evaluates safety and compliance in every project.

Replacement Timeline: What Georgia Homeowners Should Expect

A full pool replacement is more involved than a renovation, but the process is smooth, structured, and well-defined.

■ Step 1 — Design & Permitting (2–5 weeks)

Includes:

• 3D design

• Engineering plans

• County permits

• HOA approvals

■ Step 2 — Demolition & Excavation (3–7 days)

Old pool removal and site preparation.

■ Step 3 — Steel, Plumbing & Electrical (1–2 weeks)

The “skeleton and arteries” of your new pool.

■ Step 4 — Shotcrete Application (1 day + curing)

Creates a permanent, durable shell.

■ Step 5 — Tile, Coping & Decking (2–4 weeks)

This determines much of the luxury aesthetic.

■ Step 6 — Interior Finish & Startup (1 week)

Applying the chosen finish, filling, balancing, and system checks.

Georgia Climate Note

Fall and early spring are the smoothest building seasons — summer builds move fast but may require more water management during storms.

Making the Right Decision: Renovation vs. Replacement

Here’s a simplified decision guide for Georgia homeowners:

Renovation is ideal when:

• Shell is structurally sound

• Plumbing is mostly intact

• You want cosmetic & functional upgrades

• Budget is focused under $60K

• You want 10–15 more years out of the pool
  
  

Replacement is ideal when:

• Structural cracks return

• Plumbing leaks persist

• Shape/layout no longer fits your needs

• You want modern features the old shell can’t support

• You’re building a full outdoor-living environment

• You want a luxury pool designed for the next 30+ years

Alison Pools provides unbiased evaluations so homeowners clearly understand which path offers the best long-term value.

Not Sure Which Direction Is Right for You?

Schedule a professional evaluation from Alison Pools. We assess structural integrity, costs, long-term performance, and design possibilities to give you clear answers.

Book Your Evaluation

6. FAQ Section 

• Q1: How do I know if my pool is structurally failing?

  Recurring cracks, leaks, sunken decking, or shifting coping are strong signs your shell or soil base is compromised.

• Q2: Is replacement always more expensive than renovation?

  In the short term, yes — but structurally failing pools often cost more to maintain over time. A new shell eliminates recurring problems permanently.

• Q3: What’s the average lifespan of a new pool built by Alison Pools?

  With proper care and modern finishes, a new custom pool can last 30+ years before major renovations.

• Q4: Can I keep my existing patio or deck?

  It depends on grading, soil conditions, and how the new design integrates with your outdoor space. Many homeowners take the opportunity to upgrade the entire environment.

• Q5: What’s the best time to replace a pool in Georgia?

  Fall and early spring are ideal, but Alison Pools builds year-round with proper planning.