Pool News
A Second Life Beneath the Surface: Pool Remodeling Trends Homeowners Are Investing In

Swimming Pool Remodels Are Making Waves in 2026
They say what’s old can be made new again—and in 2026, nowhere is that idea more evident than in America’s backyards. With an estimated 10.7 million residential swimming pools across the United States, the swimming pool industry is leaning into a powerful truth: while new pool construction has cooled, the appetite for pool remodeling has never been stronger.
Rather than breaking ground, today’s homeowners are reimagining what they already have. Aging pools are being transformed into modern retreats through thoughtful upgrades that blend functionality, design, and sustainability. From sleek new tile and coping to dramatic waterfalls and complete resurfacing, pool remodels are giving existing installations a long‑awaited refresh.
Remodeling Over New Construction
Roughly 8 percent of American households already own a swimming pool, making renovation a practical and cost‑effective alternative to new construction. A remodel often requires less time, less disruption, and a smaller investment—while still delivering dramatic results. In an era where homeowners are prioritizing efficiency and value, remodeling has emerged as the smarter path forward.
The average American pool is now about twenty years old, placing many firmly in need of structural, cosmetic, or mechanical updates. For homeowners, this moment represents both necessity and opportunity: an essential renovation that also breathes new life into an existing asset. A well‑executed remodel doesn’t just enhance day‑to‑day enjoyment; it can also increase the value of the home itself.
With typical pool remodel costs ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, many homeowners view renovation as an investment—one that pays dividends in lifestyle, aesthetics, and long‑term property appeal. It’s leisure and logic working hand in hand.

Most Popular Pool Remodeling Projects in 2026
While some homeowners opt for a simple cosmetic refresh, others undertake major renovations that completely transform how their backyard looks and functions. In 2026, several remodeling trends continue to dominate the market as homeowners prioritize comfort, entertainment, wellness, and modern outdoor living.
Add an Integrated Spa
Integrated spas continue to rank among the most popular pool remodeling projects of 2026. Many older pools were originally built without attached spas, leading homeowners to add raised spillover spas, perimeter overflow spas, and integrated hot tubs that improve year-round usability while creating a more luxurious backyard experience.
Resurface The Pool Interior
Pool resurfacing remains one of the most common renovation projects overall. Aging plaster interiors eventually discolor, crack, stain, or become rough over time, prompting many homeowners to upgrade to premium aggregate finishes, polished interiors, quartz surfaces, and more modern pool textures that improve both appearance and durability.
Replace Waterline Tile
Waterline tile replacement continues to trend heavily alongside resurfacing projects. Many homeowners are replacing outdated tile with larger-format porcelain, glass mosaic, or modern linear styles that dramatically refresh the visual appearance of the pool.
Upgrade Coping
New coping installations are also becoming a major focus during remodels. Updated coping materials such as travertine, porcelain, limestone, and modern precast options help modernize the pool edge while improving durability and heat resistance.
Renovate The Deck
Deck renovations remain one of the fastest-growing areas of pool remodeling. Older broom-finished concrete decks are increasingly being replaced with pavers, travertine, stamped concrete, porcelain tile, and upgraded hardscape materials that better unify the overall outdoor living environment.
Add Functional Features
Functional pool upgrades are also reshaping renovation trends in 2026. Baja shelves, tanning ledges, expanded entry steps, bench seating, swim-up bars, and shallow lounging areas are common add-ons that align pools with modern entertaining and family lifestyles.
Upgrade Pool Lighting
Pool lighting upgrades continue gaining momentum as older incandescent fixtures are replaced with color-changing LED lighting systems. These modern lighting upgrades improve energy efficiency while dramatically enhancing nighttime aesthetics and backyard ambiance.
Modernize Pool Equipment
Equipment upgrades have also become a major priority for homeowners looking to improve efficiency and reliability. Variable-speed pumps, upgraded filtration systems, energy-efficient heaters, and newer circulation equipment are replacing aging equipment pads throughout the country.
Add Smart Automation
Smart automation systems are becoming increasingly common during remodels as homeowners seek greater control and convenience. App-based automation now allows users to manage lighting, heating, pumps, water features, and cleaning systems directly from their smartphones or tablets.
Upgrade Heating Systems
Heating system upgrades are another popular improvement project in 2026. Homeowners are increasingly adding high-efficiency gas heaters and electric heat pumps to extend their swimming season and improve overall energy performance.
Improve Safety Features
Safety improvements are also playing a larger role in many renovation projects. Updated fencing, slip-resistant decking, handrails, alarms, automatic covers, and safer entry points are frequently incorporated into remodels to improve both usability and peace of mind.

Pool Remodeling By The Numbers
The business case for pool remodeling is just as compelling. According to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance’s Q3 2025 Quarterly Pulse Survey, nearly 42 percent of pool companies reported increased renovation and remodel work, while only 21 percent experienced a decline. Remodel backlogs are averaging about two and a half weeks, offering contractors consistent demand and quicker project turnover.
In contrast, new pool builds often require two to four months, from permitting to completion. Remodels provide homeowners with faster gratification and give industry professionals a reliable workflow—making renovations a win for both sides.
Remodeling Momentum Continues Into 2026
For many homeowners, remodeling has become the preferred alternative to building a new pool from the ground up. Renovations allow families to modernize aging pools, improve efficiency, add new features, and create a more current outdoor living experience without the cost, permitting delays, and extended construction timelines often associated with new pool projects.
In a more challenging economic environment, many homeowners are also choosing to stay in their current homes longer as the real estate market continues to cool.
Instead of taking on the uncertainty and expense of moving, more families are investing in improving the homes they already own. Pool remodeling has increasingly become part of that strategy, allowing homeowners to upgrade their backyard experience now while also improving the long-term resale appeal of the property later.
For many, projects like resurfacing, updated decking, integrated spas, lighting, automation, and new outdoor living features represent improvements they can enjoy immediately while potentially adding value when it eventually comes time to sell.
Pool News
Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide

Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.
Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.
“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”
“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”
Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”
About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.
About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com.
Pool News
Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction

Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role
- Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
- Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
- Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team
SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.
Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.
Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”
Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.
Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.
In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.
A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”
Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.
ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.
ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.
ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.
ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.
Pool News
NTCA Welcomes Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith to the Team

Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.
“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”
Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager
Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.
At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.
Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager
Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.
At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.
Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.
“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”
About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.
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