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What Does a Pool Remodel Cost in Broward County? (2026)

A coordinated pool remodel in Broward County — the pool finish, waterline tile, coping, and some or all of the surrounding deck — commonly runs $20,000 to $80,000. Smaller, single-item work costs far less: Diamond Brite resurfacing on a standard 12-by-26-foot pool, measured by its interior dimensions, runs $4,500 to $6,000. The biggest variable on a coordinated remodel is how much deck is included. Everything below is September 2026 guidance, not a binding quote.

Pool resurfacing cost

Diamond Brite resurfacing — $4,500 to $6,000. This range is based on a standard 12-by-26-foot pool, measured by its interior dimensions, with standard stairs and a standard sky-blue finish. It includes standard surface preparation, new plastic fittings, code-compliant main-drain covers, and a carbon filter tank for the new fill water. It does not include complete removal and disposal of the existing finish, pool startup and water balancing, or permit fees when a permit is required.

Startup and water balancing, commonly called a pool fire-up, generally costs around $500 and is priced separately. A permit is not always required for a standard Diamond Brite resurfacing. When the applicable jurisdiction requires one, the permit cost is additional.

Pebble finish — typically around $14,000 for a standard 12-by-26-foot pool with a light-base finish and standard preparation. Larger pools, attached spas, sun shelves, additional steps, darker colors, upgraded pebble products, repairs, and more extensive preparation increase the price.

The precise scope varies by the pebble product selected and the condition of the existing pool. The written proposal will identify the preparation, fittings, startup, water balancing, and permit costs included in that project.

Both figures move with the shape of the pool, its depth, the number of steps, and whether there is a sun shelf or an attached spa.

Coordinated remodel cost

A coordinated remodel involving the pool finish, waterline tile, coping, and some or all of the surrounding deck commonly ranges from $20,000 to $80,000. A remodel that replaces the finish, tile and coping with limited deck work sits near the bottom of that range. One where the entire deck is removed and replaced sits near the top. Resurfacing on its own is a smaller, separate job — see the resurfacing figures above.

The $20,000 to $80,000 coordinated-remodel range includes demolition and disposal associated with the contracted work, along with required engineering and permits for that scope. The final price still depends on the pool’s condition, the work selected, access, materials, and especially the amount and type of decking. Unrelated property work, and changes requested after the proposal is signed, are priced separately.

The written proposal will also state whether startup and water balancing are included, since that depends on the remodel’s scope.

Adding to an existing pool

  • Spa addition — from $15,000. The starting figure covers the basic spa-addition scope. Depending on the existing plumbing and equipment capacity, the project may also require pump, filter, heating, electrical, automation, or hydraulic upgrades. Those upgrades are priced separately unless specifically included in the written estimate. Code-related modifications may also add cost after the existing pool is inspected.
  • Sun shelf — $7,000 to $9,000. Depends on the space available and on whether the shelf is built inside the existing pool or added outside its current footprint.
  • Saltwater conversion — $1,700 to $2,000, depending on the extent of the installation.
  • LED lights — $1,300 to $1,600 into an existing niche. $1,900 to $2,500 to add a light where there is no niche during a major remodel, depending on the conduit run and the distance. That covers core drilling the wall, running the conduit and the hookup by a licensed electrician.
  • Pumps — $900 to $2,000. Around $900 for a single-speed unit, up to roughly $2,000 for a variable-speed pump.
  • Heaters — $5,100 to $6,500 for a standard swap-out, depending on the size of the unit and whether it is heat-only or a heater/chiller. Many homeowners choose combination heater/chiller units. That assumes the electrical is already in place; if it is not, there is additional cost.

Decking cost per square foot

$9 to $25 per square foot installed, across marble, travertine, porcelain and brick pavers. Porcelain sits at the top of that range and can reach $25 per square foot, depending on the setting method — mud set costs more than sand set — and on the material and tile size selected. Artificial turf runs $6 to $8 per square foot. Deck square footage is the item that moves a remodel budget most, so it is worth measuring early rather than late.

New pool construction cost

  • Entry-level new pool — starting around $60,000. Based on a standard 12-by-26-foot pool, measured by its interior dimensions, this starting figure includes design, engineering, excavation, a standard interior finish, standard electrical work, startup, a variable-speed pump, filter, two LED lights, a salt system, and approximately 500 square feet of standard decking.
  • Typical build with a spa — around $80,000. Moves with finishes and deck square footage.
  • High-end estate build — $100,000 and up. These run from around $100,000 into the $300,000 range depending on size and finishes. Typically an oversized pool, a large deck, and an upgraded spa such as a champagne-style spa rather than a standard or flush spa.

The starting figure includes an allowance of up to $1,000 toward permit fees. Permit fees above that allowance are additional.

What drives the price up

Final pricing changes with the size and depth of the pool, site access, the finishes and equipment selected, the features added — automation, additional lights, a sun shelf, LED bubblers — the quantity of decking, and the conditions found on site. The biggest single driver is the square footage of decking. Two pools of identical size can differ by tens of thousands of dollars purely on how much deck surrounds them.

What is not included

Unless specifically listed in your written proposal, these items are generally outside the pool-construction scope:

  • Landscaping and sod. Any planting or re-sodding after the work is separate.
  • Fence work. Pool projects must satisfy applicable barrier and safety requirements. Fence removal, replacement, or installation is priced separately unless included in the proposal.
  • Irrigation. If there are existing irrigation lines in the yard they will need rerouting, and that sits outside the pool contract.

Do you take small jobs?

Yes. Equipment replacements and automation upgrades are both work we take on — a project does not have to be a coordinated remodel.

Getting a real number

Every figure here is a range, not a quote. The only way to get an accurate price is to look at the actual pool, the actual deck and the actual access. Call (954) 637-3075 or email info@customwatershapes.com and we will come out, walk the yard and put a written scope and price together.

Pricing is September 2026 guidance and is not a binding quote. Material and supplier costs change, and these ranges will change with them. Custom Watershapes Inc. — Florida license CPC1458973, serving Broward and Palm Beach County.

How much does it cost to resurface a pool in Broward County?

Diamond Brite resurfacing on a standard 12-by-26-foot pool, measured by its interior dimensions, runs $4,500 to $6,000. That includes standard surface preparation, new plastic fittings, code-compliant main-drain covers, and a carbon filter tank for the new fill water. It does not include complete removal and disposal of the existing finish, pool startup and water balancing, or permit fees when a permit is required. Startup and water balancing, commonly called a pool fire-up, generally costs around $500 and is priced separately. A pebble finish is typically around $14,000.

Why is the range on a coordinated remodel so wide?

Because a coordinated remodel bundles several jobs together, and the decking is the swing factor. The finish, tile and coping fall in a fairly predictable band. Replacing 800 square feet of deck does not. At $9 to $25 per square foot installed, the deck alone can be a larger line item than the pool finish. The range already includes demolition and disposal for the contracted work, along with required engineering and permits for that scope, so the movement is in the work selected rather than in hidden extras.

Is it cheaper to remodel or to build new?

When the existing shell is structurally suitable and the desired layout can be achieved without major structural changes, remodeling commonly costs less than building a new pool. Extensive structural work can narrow that difference, so the existing shell must be evaluated first.

Do you take small jobs, or only coordinated remodels?

We take small jobs. Equipment replacements and automation upgrades are both work we take on. Call (954) 637-3075 and we will tell you honestly whether it is worth doing.

Why Boca Raton Homeowners Are Asking About Saltwater Conversion

If you’ve owned a chlorine pool in Boca Raton for more than a few years, you’ve probably had the saltwater conversation — with a neighbor, a pool tech, or your own itchy eyes after a swim. Saltwater systems have become the default choice for new construction in South Florida, and a large share of our conversion inquiries come from homeowners who built or bought a traditional chlorine pool and now want the softer water and lower day-to-day chemical handling that a salt chlorine generator provides.

Before you commit, though, it’s worth understanding what conversion actually involves in a coastal Palm Beach County environment — because “just add a salt cell” oversimplifies it.

What Conversion Really Changes

A saltwater pool isn’t chlorine-free — it still uses chlorine for sanitation. The difference is that a salt cell electrolyzes dissolved salt (at a much lower concentration than ocean water) to generate that chlorine continuously, instead of you adding it by hand or through a feeder. For most homeowners, the appeal is consistency: fewer chlorine spikes and crashes, softer-feeling water, and less time spent handling chemicals.

Converting an existing pool typically means installing a salt chlorine generator (cell plus control unit) in-line with your existing pump and filtration equipment, then dissolving the appropriate amount of salt into the water — usually in the 3,000–3,400 ppm range depending on the manufacturer, far below ocean salinity. The plumbing and equipment pad changes are usually modest. The bigger questions are about what the salt will touch over the following years.

The Coastal Corrosion Question

This is the part that gets skipped in generic conversion articles but matters a lot in a city like Boca Raton, where homes are already fighting salt-laden coastal air. Adding dissolved salt to the pool water itself compounds that exposure for anything metal near the pool: deck railings, pool cages/screen enclosures, light fixture housings, ladder anchors, and any exposed rebar or metal lath behind aging plaster or pavers. Marine-grade or powder-coated hardware holds up; older mild-steel fixtures often don’t. Before converting, it’s worth having your equipment pad and pool-adjacent metal inspected so you know what you’re working with, rather than discovering corrosion two summers in.

Plaster and tile are the other consideration. Salt systems run at a fairly consistent, moderate chlorine output, which is generally gentler on plaster than manual over-dosing — but pools with aging or already-porous plaster, or grout lines that have started to erode, can see that wear accelerate slightly faster with continuous salt exposure. If your surface is more than 12–15 years old, it’s often worth timing a resurfacing and a saltwater conversion together rather than converting first and resurfacing again soon after.

Sizing the System Correctly

Salt cells are rated by pool volume and bather load, and undersizing is the most common mistake in DIY or discount conversions. A cell that’s too small for your pool’s gallons will run at a higher duty cycle to keep up, shortening its own lifespan and struggling during peak summer bather loads and heavy South Florida rain dilution. Getting an accurate volume calculation — accounting for spas, sun shelves, and any planned expansions — before selecting equipment saves a premature equipment replacement down the line.

Timing the Work

Late summer and early fall, once the heaviest rain season starts to taper, tends to be a practical window for conversion work in Boca Raton — pool usage is still high, but scheduling is generally more flexible than the spring rush. It’s also a reasonable time to bundle in an equipment inspection if your pump or heater is approaching the end of its service life, since much of that same equipment pad work overlaps with a conversion.

Getting It Done Right

A conversion is a relatively contained project, but the details — cell sizing, bonding and grounding of new equipment, and compatibility with existing plaster, tile, and metal fixtures — are where a rushed job shows up as a problem a year or two later. Custom Watershapes Inc. is a licensed (CPC1458973), owner-involved pool contractor serving Boca Raton and the surrounding Broward and Palm Beach County communities, and we walk homeowners through equipment sizing and surface condition before any conversion begins. If you’re weighing a saltwater switch, or a resurfacing project alongside it, you can reach us at (954) 637-3075.

Natural Stone Pool Decking in Lighthouse Point, FL

Why Decking Material Matters More in Lighthouse Point Than Almost Anywhere Else in Broward

Lighthouse Point sits differently than most of the cities we build in. With finger canals running through nearly every neighborhood and much of the housing stock oriented around direct water access, a huge share of the pools we’re asked to design or renovate here sit within a few dozen feet of saltwater canals or the Intracoastal. That proximity changes the calculus on decking in a way that doesn’t apply to an inland Plantation or Davie backyard.

Salt air corrodes, stains, and accelerates wear on decking materials at a noticeably faster rate near open water. So when a Lighthouse Point homeowner asks us “what should we deck the pool in,” the honest answer starts with “how close are you to the canal” before it gets to aesthetics.

The Three Natural Stone Options We Recommend Most

Travertine. Still the most requested material for South Florida pool decks, and for good reason — it’s naturally porous, which keeps it cool underfoot even in direct August sun, and it takes a tumbled or brushed finish that stays slip-resistant when wet. In a canal-front application, we specify a sealed, filled travertine (rather than unfilled/tumbled) because the sealed surface resists salt intrusion into the stone’s pores better over time. Unsealed travertine can pit and discolor faster within a few hundred feet of brackish water.

Coral stone (keystone). A Florida-native quarried stone with genuine local character — visible fossilized coral and shell texture that reads as authentic rather than manufactured. It’s naturally slip-resistant and holds up extremely well to salt exposure, which is exactly why you’ll see it on a lot of older waterfront estates in this part of Broward. The tradeoff is cost and lead time; coral stone runs meaningfully higher than travertine and isn’t always readily available in large format pavers.

Shellstone. A lighter-toned, more budget-conscious cousin to coral stone, with similar durability characteristics but a smoother, more uniform look. It’s a strong middle-ground choice for homeowners who want genuine stone performance near the water without coral stone’s premium price point.

The Question We Get Asked Most: “Will Salt Air Ruin My Deck?”

Not if the material and sealing schedule match the site. The real risk isn’t the stone itself — it’s skipping resealing. In a standard inland pool, we typically recommend resealing natural stone decking every 2–3 years. On a Lighthouse Point canal-front property, we tighten that to closer to 18–24 months, because salt aerosol accelerates the breakdown of sealer film. Homeowners who skip this step are the ones who come back to us five years later asking why their coral stone looks chalky or their travertine has developed dark mineral staining at the joints.

If you’re doing a saltwater pool conversion at the same time as a decking project — a common pairing we see in this market — it’s worth having that conversation with your contractor up front, since the pool’s own salt chlorination adds a second, closer source of salt exposure beyond the canal air.

A Lot Consideration Specific to This City

Because so many Lighthouse Point lots are narrower and canal-oriented, decking layout often has to work around dock access, seawalls, and setback requirements from the canal easement — not just the pool shell itself. We frequently design decking in an L-shape or wraparound configuration that preserves a clear walking path to the dock while still giving the pool area enough usable hardscape for lounging and entertaining. This is a different planning exercise than a typical inland rectangular lot, and it’s worth discussing early, before stone selection, since paver size and layout pattern both affect how well the deck reads on an irregular footprint.

Timing Your Project

Late summer and early fall — where we are right now — is a reasonable time to plan a decking replacement or a full pool remodel, since permitting and material lead times mean a project started now often lands construction in the cooler, drier months, which is generally the more comfortable build season in South Florida.

Custom Watershapes Inc. is a licensed, family-owned pool construction and remodeling contractor (License #CPC1458973) serving Lighthouse Point and the surrounding Broward and Palm Beach County waterfront communities. If you’re weighing decking materials for a canal-front property, we’re happy to walk the site and talk through what actually holds up in your specific location — reach us at (954) 637-3075.

Connected pool spa

Should your pool and spa be connected or separate?

When you and your family decided it is time to turn your backyard into a new oasis and add a pool and spa, there are a lot of considerations to keep in mind. One being should your spa be connected to your pool or should you keep the two separate?

There are a variety of reasons why you should connect the two. Here is a brief list:

First and foremost, a spa will enhance he design of your pool and more than likely immediately increase your property value.

By connecting the two extends your pools functionality for socialization purposes. While one person is in the spa you can speak to another person cooling off in the pool.

When your pool is connected to your spa it will help with orthopedic issues that you and your family maybe experiencing. Your body and muscles can now easily and quickly go from the cooler water to the warmer water.

In contrast, here are a few reasons why you may want to keep them separate.

One reason why you may want to keep them separate is so spa water doesn’t get into the pool and vicar-versa.

If both share the same pump and the pump breaks and/or malfunctions both the pool and spa will stop working properly. If though, you keep them separate, should one go down, you still have access to the other.

At Custom WaterShapes, we will help you and your family makes the right decision for you and your home. That means us being with you during not just the installation part of the job but also all the planning and preparation. This way all visions and goals are met

To learn all about our services and for more information call or browse our website.

Choose pool builder

How to Choose the Right Pool Builder in South Florida

Living in South Florida is like living in perpetual summer and what better way to cool off and enjoy this paradise than to go swimming in a pool. If you don’t have a pool, you probably think: who will I hire to make and create my dream pool?

It is safe to say when you think pools in South Florida, outdoor events with friends and family come to mind. However, before you send out the invitations, you must do your research and select the right pool builder for the job.

First, you must decide on what kind of pool you want. Consider the following factors: geographic location, personal taste and budget.
You can start the design process on your own or in consultation with a pool builder. The benefits of including the pool contractor at this stage are that the contractor can provide a comprehensive design and save time. However, independent research on all aspects of the pool building process will make you a better consumer and that will make you more confident about your ultimate decision.

Second, when selecting a pool builder, you need to create a list of pool contractors servicing your area. To find great contractors, ask around for recommendations. A quality pool builder will have a list of satisfied customers and examples of their best work.

You should also thoroughly research pool builders to ensure they have credibility and a track record for customer satisfaction. Read reviews online and check to make sure they are licensed and insured.

The Better Business Bureau can provide an in-depth summary of builders and complaints to help you further make a decision. If there are unresolved complaints, it is better to stay away.

Other red flags to look out for:

1. Pressuring you to make an impulse decision.
2. Asking for cash payment or a large upfront deposit.
3. Lack of professionalism.
4. Offering an unrealistic low estimate for the job itself.

Third, make appointments with the remaining pool builders on your list and visit their place of business. One of the most important questions to ask during the interview is about service and warranty. A good pool contractor will give you a thorough presentation on all aspect of the pool building process that will include detailed information on services, warranty and price.

The process of installing a luxury swimming pool is a big project and it is essential to hire a pool builder that can be trusted.

Custom Watershapes is licensed and insured with 25 years of pool building experience and is a member of the FSPA and Genesis University and is committed to a higher standard of service.

The team at Custom Watershapes continuously seeks out training on new products and higher education to provide the latest products and services to customers.

Choosing the right pool builder is an important decision, and when you select Custom Watershapes, you will ensure that you and your family enjoy your new pool for many years to come.

What are 5 Things to Consider Before Starting a New Pool Construction in South Florida?

Adding a new luxury swimming pool to your home may seem like a daunting project, but it doesn’t need to be. Check out our tips for planning your new pool construction.

1. Planning
Proper planning will help your new pool construction go smoothly.

Start with your homeowners’ association. Take the necessary steps to get approval for your new pool construction first, and be sure to review any restrictions or requirements from your HOA. This will help narrow down your design options.

Assess your space to get a complete picture of the work that will need to be done. It’s rare to have an open backyard that’s immediately ready for a new pool install. Are there trees that need to be removed or relocated? What about your irrigation system? Hiring an expert to handle your irrigation system is important, particularly if the entire system needs to be shut down or redone.

2. Design
Designing your new luxury pool is the fun part. If you’re not sure where to start, consider the purpose of your pool. Is it for leisure? Entertaining? Exercise? Visual enhancement?

Narrowing down the perfect style and shape for your pool is easier once you’ve figured out its function. If you live for luxury, a lagoon design can give you your own personal backyard paradise. If you love entertaining, adding a spa creates a great outdoor hub for your friends and family. If young children or pets are your number one concern, think about investing in a sunshield or beach entry.

You don’t have to limit yourself to when it comes to the shape of your pool. Choose a traditional rectangular shape or a more modern freeform design. Infinity edges, spa additions, glass tile and water features offer custom options to personalize your pool to fit your tastes.

3. Cost
Costs for your new pool construction can vary from builder to builder and can depend on a variety of factors including location, soil conditions and construction materials. Remember, if a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. You get what you pay for and paying upfront for a credible builder will save you money in the long run.

You should budget for additional features that will take your luxury pool to the next level. Don’t overlook the price of details like energy efficient equipment and automated controls.

Also important is the cost of continued maintenance. Keeping your brand new pool beautiful year-round means paying for the upkeep. Regular maintenance and repairs will cost between $950-$2,500 per year.

4. Financing
Financing a new pool construction can make the process more affordable. We recommend funding through LightStream, a division of SunTrust Bank.

You can get a low-interest, fixed-rate loan from LightStream with good credit. Avoid appraisals and home equity requirements and repay your loan in just two years or up to 12 years.

5. Builder
Installing a luxury swimming pool is a big project, which is why it’s important to hire someone you trust. Do your research when you shop around to provide prospective builders with a clear vision of what you’re looking for. Find pictures online of shapes, materials and features to get quotes on your new pool construction that are as accurate as possible. The more informed you are, the easier it will be to determine which builder understands your vision.

You should also thoroughly research the pool companies to ensure they have credibility and a track record for customer satisfaction. Read reviews online and check to make sure they are licensed and insured.

Custom Watershapes is licensed and insured with 25 years of experience in new pool construction. We are a member of the FSPA and Genesis University and are committed to a higher standard of service. Our team continuously seeks out training on new products and higher education to provide the latest products and services to our customers.

Investing in a new pool is a great way to upgrade your home. Do your research, map out your budget and find a builder who understands your needs. Before you know it, you and your family will be relaxing in your new backyard oasis.

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