Full renovation

When you need it

• Several problems at once: leaks, hollow tiles, a rough finish and tired equipment.
• The pool is being redesigned: steps, finish, lighting or features.
• You have bought a property with a neglected pool.
• Repeated repairs keep failing.

How a specialist does it

A full renovation follows a logical order so each layer is sound before the next goes on:

1. Survey and diagnosis. Leak detection, pressure testing of the pipework, tap testing of tiles, inspection of equipment, and a look at approved drawings where they exist.
2. Strip out. Mapei's guidance for renovating pools says the existing lining, whether ceramic, PVC or another material, must be removed completely so the substrate can be checked.
3. Structural and concrete repairs. Cracks are opened and sealed. Where reinforcement is exposed, deteriorated concrete is removed, the bars are cleaned of rust and protected, and the section rebuilt with repair mortar.
4. Pipework and fittings. Leaking lines are repaired or replaced and penetrations sealed. Mapei stresses that the gap between pipes or fittings and the concrete is as much a weak point in pools under repair as in new builds.
5. Waterproofing. A continuous membrane, detailed at joints and penetrations.
6. Finish. Tile, mosaic, plaster or another finish, with cure times respected before filling.
7. Equipment. Pumps, filters, chiller or heater, lights and controls replaced or upgraded as one matched system.
8. Fill and start up. The pool is filled and the water balanced. For plaster finishes, the National Plasterers Council start-up procedure published by NPT Pool Finishes runs 28 days, with regular testing and brushing at least twice a day.

Overflow and infinity pools add an overflow channel, a balance tank and level controls to the scope. Ask for those to be surveyed and, where needed, repaired as part of the same project, so the renovated pool is not let down by the parts out of sight.

What to ask before you hire

• What did your survey find, and in which order will you fix the problems?
• Will one company handle everything, or which parts go to subcontractors?
• Which waterproofing, adhesive, finish and equipment brands will you use?
• What is the programme, including cure times and start-up?
• Who handles approvals with the municipality, developer or building?
• What written warranties will I get, on which parts, and from whom?

UAE notes

Dubai Municipality's plan approval guidelines prohibit changing the design of a pool, or adding or moving a diving board, bridge or slide, without referring to its Health and Safety Department. A renovation that changes the shape, depth or features may therefore need approval. Check with the contractor and the municipality before the design is final.

In gated communities and towers, the developer, master community or building management usually has its own rules on works, noise hours, access and waste removal. Check with them early, because their approvals can shape the programme.

Summer heat affects curing and the hours outdoor crews can work. Ask how the contractor plans around it.