Surface damage can also be a warning sign. Things like:

• Cracks in the plaster that keep coming back  

• Hollow spots when you tap on the surface  

• Rust stains that will not scrub away  

These may point to leaks, corroded rebar, or parts of the shell pulling away. Simply re-plastering over problems like that is more like putting a bandage over a broken pipe.

Drainage is another big one that homeowners skip. Pools sit in yards that get heat, sudden rain, and regular irrigation. If deck slopes, area drains, and overflow paths are not planned correctly, water can collect against the pool shell or nearby hardscapes. Over time, that can cause:

• Settling or lifting of concrete decks  

• Washouts under pavers or steps  

• Moisture around the pool structure  

A good remodel should start with a careful look at the bones of the pool and how water moves across the whole yard.

Design Mistakes That Make Your Pool Harder to Enjoy

Once the structure is handled, the next big risk is design that looks nice but does not fit your life. A lot of people only think about how the pool will look in a photo, not how it will work on a busy weekend or a quiet evening.

Instead, it helps to ask simple questions like:

• Who uses the pool most: kids, adults, guests, or all of the above?  

• Do you want space to play, relax, or swim laps?  

• Do you use the spa often, or just once in a while?  

Small layout changes can make a huge difference. For example, adding or reshaping steps and benches, creating a tanning ledge, or shifting where the spa connects to the pool can change how comfortable and social the space feels. Many homeowners are surprised by how much can be reconfigured in an existing pool.

Sun, shade, and wind matter too. In the Inland Empire, midday sun can be intense, and certain yards get steady breezes that blow leaves and dust. Ignoring these can lead to a pool that is too hot to enjoy during peak hours or always filled with debris on one side. During a remodel, it is smart to consider:

• Shallow sun shelves in the right spot  

• Shade from pergolas, umbrellas, or nearby structures  

• Wind breaks using walls, hedges, or screens  

The pool also should not feel like an island by itself. When you think ahead about outdoor kitchens, fire features, lounge areas, and paths, even if they come later, the finished yard feels like one resort-style space instead of random pieces.

Overlooked Energy Efficiency and Maintenance Savings

Another area homeowners skip is the equipment pad. You see the pretty pool every day, but the pump, filter, and heater quietly control your monthly bills and how much time you spend maintaining the water.

Older single-speed pumps, dated heaters, and small or worn filters can:

• Draw more electricity and gas than needed  

• Struggle to keep water clear and comfortable  

• Run loudly and need frequent attention  

During a remodel, it is the perfect time to upgrade to more efficient gear, like variable-speed pumps, modern heaters, and filters sized for how you really use the pool. These changes are behind the scenes, but they can pay you back in lower bills and less hassle over time.

Smart systems and automation are often overlooked too. Modern controls let you manage:

• Pool and spa temperatures  

• Water features and lighting  

• Schedules for filtration and cleaning  

All from a simple control panel or app, depending on the system. Adding this while other remodeling work is already happening usually means cleaner wiring, better placement of equipment, and less disruption.

Surface and finish choices also affect long-term care. Some interior finishes are made to handle staining, scaling, and daily chemical use better than basic plaster. Thoughtful design can also reduce manual cleaning by using:

• In-floor cleaning systems  

• Return jets placed to move debris toward the skimmer  

• Improved circulation patterns in tricky corners  

You might spend a bit more upfront on these details, but many homeowners find that they save time and money over the life of the pool.

Safety, Codes, and Resale Value Many Owners Miss

When remodeling, safety and codes can feel less exciting than glass tile or a new spa, but they matter a lot for families and guests. City and county rules for gates, fences, barriers, and alarms can change over time. Remodeling gives you a chance to bring the pool area in line with current local expectations.

Lighting is another simple upgrade that gets skipped. Modern LED lights give:

• Better brightness with lower energy use  

• Color options for evening mood  

• Longer life than many older fixtures  

Good lighting is not just about looks. Step, bench, and perimeter lights help people see edges and levels at night, which can reduce trips and slips around raised walls, spillways, and transitions in the deck.

If you ever decide to sell your home, a remodeled pool that looks current, feels safe, and is easy to maintain is a big plus. Buyers tend to like:

• Updated, efficient equipment  

• Clear, comfortable access in and out of the pool  

• Modern interior finishes and clean lines  

• A backyard where pool, hardscapes, and seating all connect  

Balancing your family’s style with broader appeal can keep your backyard fun now and attractive to future owners later.

Start Your Pool Remodel Now, Enjoy It All Summer

When you step back, the most common pool remodeling oversights fall into a few groups: hidden structural issues, design that does not match how you live, old equipment that wastes energy, safety and code gaps, and lack of planning for future features. Addressing all of these together leads to a backyard that looks great, feels comfortable, and is easier to own.

Timing matters too. Starting in February gives space for thoughtful design, inspections, and permits before schedules fill up and days start to center around the pool again. Working with experienced pool remodeling contractors early also helps you plan phases if you want to split upgrades over time, like doing the shell and equipment first, then adding outdoor living features later.

At Xtreme Pools & Hardscapes, we focus on turning Inland Empire backyards into true retreats, not just updated pools. When you look at your own space, pay attention to cracks, worn finishes, high energy bills, tricky layouts, or areas that never seem to get used. Each of those is a clue that a smart remodel can do more than refresh the look; it can remake how your whole backyard feels for many summers to come.

Get Started With Your Project Today

If your existing pool is dated, damaged, or no longer fits your lifestyle, we are ready to help you transform it into a space you truly enjoy. As experienced pool remodeling contractors, we listen carefully to your vision and guide you through materials, layout, and design options that make sense for your home. Reach out to contact us and schedule a consultation so Xtreme Pools & Hardscapes can bring your new backyard experience to life.