Top Pool Renovation Ideas to Transform Your Texas Backyard
If you find yourself staring at your backyard pool and imagining something more modern, functional, or luxurious — you’re not alone. Thoughtfully designed pool renovations can completely transform your outdoor space, especially here in Texas, where pools are a central feature of backyard living.
Whether you’re in Houston, Dallas, Austin, or San Antonio, the right swimming pool renovation can turn your current setup into a resort-style retreat — perfect for entertaining guests, unwinding after a long day, or staying cool during the scorching Texas summers. From resurfacing and adding sleek water features to installing LED lighting, upgraded decking, or energy-efficient systems, these popular pool upgrades can boost your home’s value, lower maintenance, and refresh your outdoor aesthetic.
At Maximum Pools, we’ve been helping Texas homeowners build and remodel stunning custom pools for over 8 years. Whether you’re looking for a pool remodel contractor or a pool remodeling service, our team does it all. Let’s dive into these top Texas pool renovation ideas and get inspired to transform your outdoor space today.
Why Consider a Pool Remodel?
Over time, even the best pools can start to show signs of wear — or simply fall out of style. A pool remodel is a smart investment that not only enhances the beauty of your backyard but also increases the functionality, safety, and overall value of your home.
Aiming to modernize an outdated design, improve energy efficiency, or create a more luxurious outdoor experience? Inground pool renovation can deliver both visual and practical upgrades, alongside many other benefits such as:
Increased property value and buyer appeal
A renovated pool doesn’t just benefit your family — it can also boost your home’s market value. Today’s homebuyers are looking for move-in-ready outdoor spaces, and an upgraded pool can be a major selling point. With modern finishes, functional layouts, and energy-efficient systems, a pool remodel makes your property more attractive and competitive in the Texas real estate market.
Upgraded features like LED lighting, waterfalls, or tanning ledges
Modern pool features aren’t just about luxury — they’re about lifestyle. The best pool accessories are also the ones that are the most functional. LED lighting enhances nighttime ambiance and safety, while waterfalls and fountains add movement and a soothing atmosphere. Want a spot to relax without diving in? Tanning ledges or Baja shelves provide a shallow, stylish place to lounge. These popular upgrades make your pool more functional, fun, and inviting for everyone.
Improved energy efficiency with modern pumps and heaters
Outdated pool equipment can drive up energy costs and lead to frequent repairs. A pool remodel gives you the opportunity to install high-efficiency pumps, heaters, and filtration systems that save money and reduce your environmental impact. Many Texas homeowners are choosing variable-speed pumps and solar heating solutions to keep their pools comfortable year-round — without the high utility bills.
Better safety and usability for families
A pool remodel is the perfect time to address safety concerns and improve accessibility for swimmers of all ages. Additions like non-slip decking, safety railings, shallow entry steps, and updated pool fencing can make your backyard more family-friendly. These upgrades not only give you peace of mind but also ensure that your pool can be enjoyed safely by kids, seniors, and guests alike.
Popular Pool Renovation Ideas to Inspire You
Designing your dream pool can feel overwhelming with so many possibilities — but Maximum Pools makes it easier by turning your vision into reality. Let’s take a look at two of Maximum Pools’ custom builds:
The Maximum Pool
One of our standout projects, known as the Maximum Pool, is a prime example of how form and function can come together seamlessly.
For this custom build, our goal was to incorporate every element our client envisioned while working within the specific dimensions of their property. Rather than making the pool the sole focal point, we created a balanced outdoor space that enhances the entire landscape. Thoughtfully placed features like a waterfall and fountain add movement and serenity, while custom lighting sets the perfect mood, day or night.
This luxurious pool includes a gunite structure with a built-in tanning ledge and integrated swim spa. To elevate the design, we added marble coping around the pool’s edge to match the surrounding marble deck — creating a cohesive, high-end finish.
Gunite, a mix of water, sand, and cement, is applied through a high-pressure hose, allowing for greater flexibility in design. This method not only supports more creative shapes and features, but also results in a durable structure capable of withstanding Texas’s environmental pressures for years to come.
Collaborative, custom design process
For the Oasis, our client envisioned a tranquil retreat that evoked the feeling of a hidden paradise nestled within a dry, sun-soaked landscape. The central feature of this design was an inground pool meant to serve as a visual and sensory escape — an inviting, refreshing contrast to its surroundings.
To emphasize the presence and beauty of the water, we incorporated a custom-built waterfall that flows gracefully from an elevated hot tub, creating movement and a soothing soundtrack that enhances the overall ambiance. The hot tub itself, perched just above the pool, offers a luxurious vantage point while seamlessly blending into the overall design.
To elevate the aesthetic even further, we applied a unique tile finish along the side of the hot tub. These carefully selected tiles (featuring layered textures and varying shades of blue) add striking dimension and depth to the space. The rich hues shimmer under the sunlight and stand out boldly against the neutral tones of the landscape, making the entire structure feel like a true oasis.
The Maximum Pools Remodeling Process
At Maximum Pools, we’ve refined our pool remodeling service and process to be as smooth, efficient, and non-disruptive as possible — while delivering exceptional results. Here’s what you can expect when you remodel your pool with us:
Step 1: Consultation and inspection
We start with a detailed consultation to understand your vision, needs, and any issues you’re experiencing with your existing pool. Our experts conduct a thorough inspection to assess the pool’s structure, equipment, and surrounding area.
Step 2: Design and planning
Once we understand your goals, our design team presents options that align with your style and budget. Whether it’s modernizing the look, upgrading tile and plaster, or adding new features, every detail is mapped out before work begins.
Step 3: Drain and prep
We safely drain the pool and begin surface preparation, which may include chipping out old plaster, removing outdated tile or coping, and preparing the surface for new materials. This step is handled efficiently to minimize any impact on your home environment.
Step 4: Structural repairs
If structural improvements are needed, such as fixing cracks or upgrading plumbing, our gunite specialists apply decades of expertise to ensure your pool is strong, safe, and built to last.
Step 5: Surface and tile installation
Next, we install the chosen interior finish as well as any tile, coping, and decking. Every material is applied with an eye for quality and craftsmanship.
Step 6: Equipment and system modernization
We offer upgrades to energy-efficient pumps, filters, heaters, and smart automation systems to improve performance and reduce operational costs.
Step 7: Cleanup and fill
Our crew ensures your property is cleaned up and left in excellent condition. The pool is then filled and chemically balanced, making it ready for you to enjoy.
Step 8: Final walkthrough and ongoing support
Before we wrap up, we will walk you through all the new features and provide maintenance guidance. Our support doesn’t end when the job is done — we’re always available for follow-up questions or service.
Choosing the Right Pool Remodel Contractor
Selecting the right pool remodel contractor can make all the difference in the outcome of your project. A trusted partner brings not only technical skill, but also a commitment to communication, cleanliness, and quality workmanship. Here’s what to look for:
- Specialized expertise in gunite pool construction and remodeling
- Clear, detailed project planning and timelines
- Strong portfolio of completed remodels and customer testimonials
- Licensed, insured, and experienced professionals
- A commitment to minimizing disruption during the project
- Responsive customer service and post-project support
At Maximum Pools, we check all the boxes — and then some. From start to finish, we bring unmatched experience and dedication to every pool remodel. Contact us today and get started!
