Many Sacramento homes have pools that were built years ago and no longer match how people live today. Styles change, materials age, and older equipment becomes harder to maintain. This guide breaks down what pool remodeling usually costs, what affects those prices, and why working with a specialized outdoor-living contractor like South Canyon Construction brings long-term value to your home.
What Affects Pool Remodeling Costs?
Pool remodeling in Sacramento has a wide price range because each project is different. The final cost depends on the level of work, materials, and the condition of the pool you already have.
Scope of renovation
Some projects focus on cosmetic updates like new plaster, tile, or coping. Others involve a full redesign with new decking, lighting, and landscaping. More work means more material and labor.
Pool size, shape, and existing condition
Large or uniquely shaped pools take more time to resurface or repair. Issues like cracks, leaks, or outdated plumbing can also increase the overall cost.
Materials and finishes
Standard plaster is the most budget-friendly option. Upgraded finishes like quartz or pebble last longer and give the pool a more modern look. Tile, coping, concrete, and paver choices vary in cost based on style and quality.
Equipment upgrades
Many homeowners choose to upgrade pumps, filters, heaters, automation, and LED lighting during a remodel. These changes improve energy use, water clarity, and ease of operation.
Permits and code requirements
Remodels that involve structural changes, electrical updates, or gas lines require permits in the Sacramento area. These steps make sure the work meets local safety and building standards.
Typical Pool Remodeling Price Ranges in Sacramento
These ranges help homeowners understand where their project might land. Actual quotes come after a design consult and on-site review.
Basic resurfacing and minor repairs
A simple remodel with new plaster or resurfacing, small tile repairs, and basic equipment updates often falls in the roughly $8,000–$20,000 range for many Sacramento inground pools.
Mid-range cosmetic and functional upgrades
A mid-level renovation with a new surface, updated tile and coping, some deck improvements, and upgraded equipment typically lands between about $20,000–$40,000 depending on pool size and finish choices.
Full outdoor living transformation
A comprehensive pool and outdoor living remodel that ties in new decking, hardscaping, lighting, and features like fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, or shade structures often starts around $40,000–$60,000 and can reach $80,000+ for complex, custom designs.
Project level Pricing Snapshot
| Project level | Typical scope | Typical cost characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Basic refresh | Resurfacing, minor tile/coping repair, basic equipment | Often about $8,000–$20,000 for many Sacramento inground pools |
| Mid-range renovation | New surface, tile, coping, some deck work, equipment | Commonly in the $20,000–$40,000 range depending on size and finishes. |
| Full outdoor living upgrade | Pool + hardscape, lighting, features, landscaping | Frequently $40,000–$80,000+ for full-yard transformations. |
Common Pool Remodeling Upgrades Homeowners Choose
South Canyon Construction is known for outdoor-living design, so many projects go beyond basic pool fixes and focus on building a full backyard setting that feels inviting, functional, and custom to the home. These upgrades help improve the style, comfort, and long-term performance of the pool area.
New surfaces and finishes
Quartz and pebble finishes add color, durability, and texture that outlast standard plaster. These upgraded interiors hold up better in Sacramento’s hot summers and create a richer look in the water. Many homeowners choose them for their long lifespan, stain resistance, and ability to match different design styles. They also give more depth and sparkle to the pool, which makes the entire space feel newer.
Updated tile, coping, and decking
Modern tile styles, natural stone coping, and decorative concrete or pavers refresh the pool’s look and improve safety and comfort. Tile updates help prevent staining, while new coping creates a smoother edge and defines the pool visually. Decking upgrades are often one of the biggest transformations, allowing for slip-resistant surfaces, cooler materials underfoot, and layouts that improve how people move through the yard. Together, these updates change the feel of the entire pool area.
Lighting and automation
LED lighting and app-controlled systems make it easier to manage the pool and enjoy it at night. LEDs offer brighter light with lower energy use, while automation lets homeowners control pumps, heaters, lighting, and cleaning systems from a phone. These upgrades make the pool easier to maintain and help keep operating costs down. They also open the door for customized light colors and nighttime scenes.
Integration with landscaping
Plants, drainage work, retaining walls, and outdoor structures help blend the pool area with the rest of the yard for a clean, finished look. Landscaping softens hard edges, improves privacy, and adds shade or color depending on plant choice. Retaining walls can help shape sloped yards and create usable space for seating or pathways. When the pool and landscaping work together, the entire backyard feels bigger and more connected.
Pool Remodeling vs. New Pool: Cost & Value
Homeowners often wonder if remodeling is worth it or if building a new pool is the better long-term choice. Both paths have advantages, but the right option depends on the pool’s structure, layout, and the homeowner’s goals.
When remodeling makes sense
For a structurally sound pool shell with a workable layout, remodels in the $15,000–$40,000 range often deliver new finishes, updated equipment, and refreshed hardscapes for significantly less than the $50,000–$100,000+ many Northern California homeowners invest in brand-new inground pools.
When a full rebuild or major reconfiguration is worth exploring
If major structural changes, new shapes, or depth changes are needed, a full rebuild with new pool construction and integrated outdoor living can climb well past $100,000 depending on design complexity.
Long-term value
A well-planned remodel that includes modern pumps, filters, heaters, and durable surfaces can lower operating costs and maintenance while boosting curb appeal, helping many homeowners recapture a portion of the investment in comfort, usability, and potential resale value.
How South Canyon Construction Approaches Pool Remodeling
South Canyon Construction takes a full-outdoor-living approach, meaning they design the pool and yard as one connected space. This leads to better layouts, smoother transitions, and stronger long-term results.
Custom outdoor living focus
Instead of doing quick patch jobs, South Canyon builds complete outdoor environments. This includes tying the pool into patios, seating areas, outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and pathways. This approach gives the yard a consistent style and function.
One-project-at-a-time quality
South Canyon focuses on projects individually. This helps keep communication clear and maintains the quality of work from start to finish. Homeowners stay updated throughout the process, and details are handled with care.
Licensed, experienced contractor in the Sacramento area
With years of experience working across Sacramento, Roseville, Folsom, Orangevale, Fair Oaks, and nearby communities, South Canyon understands local building codes and permit needs. This helps the remodel move smoothly.
Collaborative design process
The process starts with an on-site visit to review the pool and yard. Homeowners share inspiration photos, and the team helps match ideas to realistic budgets. A custom plan is built based on needs, style, and long-term goals.
Snapshot of benefits:
- Strong background in outdoor living and pool upgrades
- Ability to manage landscaping, hardscaping, lighting, and pool work under one contractor
- Craftsmanship focused on durability and long-term performance
Getting an Accurate Pool Remodeling Quote in Sacramento, CA
A clear picture of the pool and yard helps South Canyon give the most accurate estimate.
What to have ready before you call
Approximate pool size, age, known issues, yard photos, inspiration images, and a rough budget range (for example, aiming for a basic $15,000–$25,000 refresh versus a $40,000–$60,000+ outdoor living transformation) help guide realistic design options.
Typical steps in the process
The process usually begins with a call or online inquiry, followed by an on-site consultation and a detailed estimate with tiered options so you can choose the investment level that fits your goals and budget.
Ready to Remodel Your Pool?
Homeowners across Sacramento turn to South Canyon Construction to update and transform their outdoor spaces. If you want to refresh your pool or create a full outdoor living area, contact us to learn what is possible. South Canyon can help turn an aging pool into a custom backyard centerpiece built for comfort, style, and long-term enjoyment.