Learn best strategies for renovating pool areas and extending pool longevity with Kayla Kreilein, the marketing director at Natare Pools.
For community recreation centers, YMCAs and JCCs, maintaining a well-functioning aquatics facility is essential to providing safe, enjoyable experiences for patrons. Over time, aging pools require renovations to remain compliant, efficient and user-friendly. Understanding key renovation priorities helps facility managers make informed decisions that extend pool longevity while optimizing maintenance and operational costs.
Prioritizing Safety and Structural Integrity
Safety should always be the top priority in any pool renovation. Ensuring compliance with health and safety codes, addressing structural wear and upgrading critical components all contribute to a safe swimming environment.
Cracks, leaks and deteriorating pool surfaces should be properly repaired and then lined with durable materials like reinforced PVC membranes. Unlike painting, plastering or other traditional coating methods, these are completely watertight and help reinforce aging structures.
Replacing outdated concrete gutters with stainless steel perimeter pool gutters is another essential upgrade. Concrete gutters can deteriorate over time, leading to increased maintenance. Stainless steel gutters offer superior durability, corrosion resistance and better water circulation, improving sanitation and skimming efficiency while reducing long-term repair costs.
Improving Efficiency and Sustainability
Operational costs for community pools can be substantial but upgrading to energy-efficient systems significantly reduces expenses. Modern filtration systems — such as vacuum sand filters — use less water and energy while maintaining high sanitation standards. Upgrading to variable speed pumps, LED lighting, and solar heating options further improves efficiency, lowering energy consumption and operational costs.
Water conservation measures, such as improved backwashing systems and high-efficiency chemical feeders, ensure long-term sustainability. These upgrades align with green initiatives while reducing the facility’s environmental footprint.
Maximizing Program Offerings with Flexible Pool Design
Renovations should also focus on enhancing programming capabilities. One way to do so is by installing a moving pool bulkhead that allows facilities to divide the pool into separate sections, enabling multiple programs to run simultaneously. This increases the ability to offer diverse activities, such as swim lessons, water aerobics and lap swimming, maximizing community engagement and facility usage.
Choosing Low-Maintenance, High-Performance Materials
Selecting durable, low-maintenance materials minimizes upkeep while maintaining functional integrity. Non-porous, slip-resistant pool surfaces enhance safety and reduce the need for frequent deep cleaning. Similarly, stainless steel gutter systems, pool walls and durable deck materials withstand heavy use while requiring minimal maintenance, ultimately extending the facility’s lifespan.
Planning for the Future
Proactive renovations address current needs while preparing for future growth. Investing in low maintenance, sustainable technologies and flexible programming solutions ensures centers remain financially viable and operationally effective for years to come.
By prioritizing safety, efficiency and program expansion, community pools can continue to provide valuable aquatics activities while reducing maintenance costs. Thoughtful renovations incorporating durable materials and smart technologies will help YMCAs, JCCs and recreation centers maintain pool longevity and vibrant, welcoming aquatics spaces for years to come.
