It's the first question most pool owners ask, and the honest answer is that it depends on the pool. Two pools the same size can get very different quotes because of what's under the old surface, what's being replaced around the edge and how easy it is to get into the yard.
Here's what goes into a quote for a concrete pool in Southwestern Ontario, so you know what you're paying for and how to compare prices.
Typical price ranges
[Add typical price ranges here, e.g. resurface only, resurface with new tile and coping, and a full renovation, for an average-size pool.]
What's included in a resurfacing quote
- Draining, planned around the water table and local drainage rules
- Surface prep: removing loose or failing plaster and preparing the shell so the new coat bonds
- Small repairs found once the pool is empty
- The new finish, usually marbelite, troweled on by hand
- Filling and start-up, including how to brush and balance the water while new plaster cures
Always check what's in and what's out. One quote might include tile and coping while another doesn't, which makes the cheaper one look better than it is.
What changes the price
Pool size and shape
More surface area means more material and more hours. Freeform pools with curves, benches and lots of steps take longer to finish by hand than a simple rectangle.
The condition of the old surface
If the old plaster is sound, it can be prepared and coated. If it's hollow, flaking or has been patched many times, it has to come off, and that's a big part of the labour.
The finish
Classic white marbelite is the most common choice. Tinted finishes change the water colour and can cost more.
Before
AfterTile and coping
New waterline tile and coping stone add to the cost, but they're far cheaper to do while the pool is already empty than as a separate job later.
Plumbing
Replacing old returns, skimmers, drains or lines adds cost up front, but it's the easiest time to do it. See pool plumbing.
Access, draining and disposal
Narrow side yards, steep lots, fences and how far equipment and debris have to travel all affect the labour. So do local rules about where pool water can be drained.
Resurface only, or a full renovation?
If the surface is the only problem, a resurface is all you need. If the tile, coping and plumbing are also near the end of their life, doing them all at once in a full renovation means one drain, one fill and one start-up instead of several.
How to compare quotes
- Is the scope the same? Check tile, coping, plumbing and repairs.
- Is the old surface being removed, or coated over?
- Is start-up and water balancing guidance included?
- Is there a written warranty, and what does it cover?
- When can the work start, and how long will it take?
Getting the most for your money
- Group the work. Tile, coping and plumbing done with the resurface save a second drain later.
- Book early. Spring dates go first, so getting your assessment done in the fall or winter gives you more choice.
- Look after the new finish. Balanced water is the biggest factor in how long marbelite lasts.
The only way to get a real number is to have someone look at your pool. Send the form at the top of this page and we'll pass your request to a contractor who covers your area.
