Want a fresh, modern pool without the cost of a full renovation? These 8 small upgrades can completely transform your pool’s look, feel and functionality
Not every pool needs a full makeover. In fact, some of the biggest transformations come from simple, affordable upgrades that instantly refresh the entire space.
Here are 8 small fixes that can make your pool look brand new — without the big renovation budget.
Replace Your Waterline Tiles
Old, chipped pool tiles are one of the most obvious signs of an aging pool.
Swapping them for modern glass, ceramic or stone instantly brightens the entire pool and gives the water a fresh, vibrant colour. It’s one of the quickest and most dramatic upgrades you can make.
2. Update the Coping (Pool Edge)
Coping is the border around your pool — and it sets the tone for your entire outdoor area.
Replacing old brick or concrete coping with new stone, porcelain, or sleek modern materials instantly transforms the style and immediately lifts your pool’s appearance.
3. Replace Old Grout & Re-Seal Surfaces
Sometimes the smallest detail makes the pool look the oldest.
Fresh grout, re-sealed tiles and revived stone can give your surrounds a crisp, polished finish. It’s one of the most affordable ways to modernise your pool area.
4. Modernise the Steps, Ledges or Swim-Outs
Small structural adjustments can make a big visual impact.
Redefining the entry steps, reshaping a ledge, or updating a swim-out area can enhance both the look and functionality of your pool — without starting from scratch.
5. Resurface the Pool Interior – a fresh interior changes everything.
If your pool surface is rough, stained or patchy, resurfacing is one of the fastest ways to brighten it up. New plaster, pebble or advanced coatings make your water sparkle and feel smoother underfoot.
Whether it’s a new pebble interior, Quartzon finish, glass bead blend, or render, resurfacing removes stains, rough patches and discoloration — leaving your pool looking crisp, clean and inviting.
6. Add Modern LED Pool Lighting (Renovation-Safe)
LED lighting is a small upgrade with massive impact. It makes night swimming magical, boosts safety, and gives your backyard a warm, inviting glow – especially when paired with a modern interior colour.
7. Refresh the Pool Area With New Landscaping Touches
You don’t need a full backyard redesign.
Small renovation-friendly landscaping additions — screening panels, feature plants, pots, garden edging, or updated fencing — can transform the entire space around the pool, making it feel cleaner and more contemporary.
8. Add Fresh Paving or Surround Finishes
Renovating the space around your pool is just as important as the pool itself.
Updated pavers, concrete resurfacing, decking, or large-format tiles can take your pool from tired to resort-inspired in a single upgrade.
