Sometimes, a little upgrade is all your pool needs. Maybe it’s feeling a bit cramped during summer pool parties, or you envision your backyard water feature making an even bigger splash. Big pools are a luxury worth enjoying, and expanding your current pool can be the perfect solution to avoid starting from scratch.
But how difficult is it to increase the size of your backyard pool, and what does such a project entail? Let’s take a deep dive into the process, essential factors, and why hiring experienced professionals is crucial.
Increasing the Size of Your Pool—the Process
It’s not quite as simple as adding a few extra feet of water to your backyard pool. Turning small pools into big pools is a remodeling project that requires careful planning, expertise, and attention to structural details. Here’s what the process generally looks like:
Step 1: Initial Assessment
Before jumping into the project, it’s important to assess your current pool and the surrounding space. Is your yard’s layout suitable for expansion? What are your local zoning regulations for pool sizes? An expert contractor will evaluate these factors to ensure your vision is feasible.
Step 2: Design and Planning
Once you’ve determined that the project is viable, the design phase begins. This is where you can collaborate with a pool contractor to define the new dimensions, shape, and any additional features you want. Big pools can incorporate luxury elements like tanning ledges or built-in seating for added functionality.
Step 3: Permits and Excavation
After finalizing the design, your contractor will handle the necessary permits and begin excavation. During this phase, the existing pool structure is prepared for expansion, and additional digging is conducted to accommodate big pools. This step requires precision to ensure the existing pool walls can integrate successfully with the new section.
Step 4: Expansion and Reinforcement
This is where the magic happens. Contractors extend your pool’s structure using materials that complement the existing design. Reinforcement, like rebar or concrete, is often necessary for big pools to ensure the expanded structure can handle regular use and water pressure without compromising its durability.
Step 5: Updating Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Expanding a pool also means updating the plumbing and electrical systems to accommodate the larger water volume. From extending skimmers and drains to enhancing filtration systems, this step ensures your big pool operates efficiently.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Finally, you’ll add finishing touches such as tiling, resurfacing, and installing any extra features like lighting or cascading waterfalls. This is where your backyard pool truly transforms into the oasis you envisioned.
When a Remodel Is This Complex, Hiring a Pro Is Essential
Big pools, when handled by the right professionals, can become the centerpiece of your backyard oasis—but pool expansion projects are no small feat. They require expertise in excavation, structural engineering, and design to ensure a safe and lasting outcome. Here’s why working with experienced professionals, like the team at Pool Icons, is key:
- Precision Work: Pool expansion demands accuracy to align the new sections perfectly with the existing structure. An error during excavation or reinforcement could lead to uneven walls or leaking issues.
- Familiarity with Regulations: Local zoning laws and permit requirements can be daunting for an individual to handle. Pro contractors ensure all paperwork is handled properly, avoiding project delays.
- Better Aesthetic Matching: It’s not just about size—it’s about maintaining a cohesive look. An experienced contractor will match materials, textures, and finishes to give your big pool a seamless appearance.
- Cost Efficiency: While DIY might sound tempting, costly mistakes can quickly add up. Professionals save you money in the long run by getting everything right the first time.
- Innovative Features Offered by Experts: Pool Icons, for example, can incorporate luxury elements like fire features, natural rock formations, or tanning ledges to elevate your pool from functional to fabulous.
A trusted contractor can take the stress out of expanding your pool, ensuring the result is both safe and stunning.
Pool Icons Makes Pools Bigger—And Better
Thinking about upgrading your backyard pool? Pool Icons has over 36 years of experience remodeling pools across Southern California. Our team specializes in creating modern, luxury pool designs customized to fit your dream outdoor space.
Visit Pool Icons to get a free estimate and start your expansion project today.
