"checklist" for remodeling IG pool

[carlahinkle]

Hi, we just purchased a house with an older (20-30 years) pool. We want to remodel, primarily to incorporate an integrated, electronic cover as our three kids are young (7, 4.5, 1.5). Can anyone recommend a good "checklist" of issues/choices when remodeling an IG pool?

I did find the website www.howIbuiltmyownpool.com, which feels like a good start.

Thanks!

[waste]

Welcome to the Forum!

Can you tell us a little more about the pool and what you want? Where are you located - the part of the country your in will make a big difference on pricing and availability of materials.

To get the cover you want, you'll need to replace the coping to install the cover's track and install the trough that the cover will roll up into.

I've rehabed a fair number of pools in the past and am more than happy to share my knowledge and experience with you so you end up with the pool you want at a reasonable price.

[carlahinkle]

Thanks Ted!

We are in San Diego. So weather pretty consistent all year around; the lowest it ever gets is upper 40s, and rarely that. And not usually much over 80 in the summer.

We want a simple, rectangular pool -- I find the simplicity elegant. I was thinking maybe pebble tek bc I like a darker blue water. Maybe some tiles around the edge? Nothing too flashy. No water features, etc. The pool is relatively large -- 15 x 30, maybe? I haven't actually measured. I think the pool is well located in the yard and the heater is new (5 years, previous owners barely used it). We also wanted to install solar heating.

Any ideas appreciated! I was trying to compile a list of the issues/decisions that will come up during the remodel, since I've never owned a house with a pool before.

Thank you!

[waste]

Sounds to me like you're gonna need to remove the coping, strip the old plaster (you want ~ 3/8" of the Pebble Tek) and you want tile and, as I said, take out a small section of the deck in the deep end so you can install the cover reel and motor. I am assuming that your pool is a rectangle, if not, you'll have to go with a deck mounted auto cover - if you have to go that route, you might not need to replace the coping.

Do you have a ladder or handrail that goes into the pool? If you do, you'll need the ~pricey ladder hinges (I think the hinges cost more than the ladder) - if your handrail mounts in the pool, you'll need a 'figure "4"' rail inastalled (A/K/A dinosaur head rail)

Are you planning on being the general contractor for this project?

Adding solar heat may require some other changes (like a booster pump or a couple new returns) I usually leave those type questions for others, but know enough to point you in the right direction.

Please feel free to ask any questions you have and keep us updated as to your plans and what's being done to the pool.