At Plunge Pools Gold Coast, we specialise in helping homeowners repair, refresh, and modernise their swimming pools. With years of local experience, we know how coastal weather, salty air, and sandy soils affect pool structures. Our team focuses on durable finishes and practical designs that stand up to Queensland conditions.
In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs of pool renovations in Australia. You’ll see what drives those costs, how Gold Coast projects compare with Brisbane, and smart ways to save without cutting corners. We’ll also cover financing options, eco-friendly upgrades, and how a renovation can boost your home’s value.
What Is the Average Cost of a Pool Renovation in Australia?
The average cost of a pool renovation in Australia ranges from $5,000 to $50,000+.
- Minor repairs: $5k–$12k (avg. $8k)
- Mid upgrades: $15k–$30k (avg. $22k)
- Full redesigns: $30k–$50k+ (avg. $40k)
The final cost depends on the pool type (concrete or fibreglass), size, and the condition of the shell. Site factors like soil type, access for equipment, and whether a crane is needed can also push prices higher.
Across the country, small resurfacing jobs usually fall at the lower end of the scale, while complete makeovers with decking, plumbing, and landscaping land at the top end. Industry reports suggest the national average for a standard renovation is around $9k, but most families spend more once design upgrades and hidden repairs are included.
Tip: Always book a professional inspection before quoting. A pool that looks sound may hide cracks, drainage issues, or leaks that add thousands to your budget.
How Pool Renovation Costs Are Calculated
Pool renovation costs in Australia are calculated based on five key factors:
- Labour – tilers, concreters, plumbers
- Materials – tiles, plaster, coping stones
- Permits – council fees, approval delays
- Engineering – soil tests, structural repairs
- Site issues – crane hire, drainage work
Each pool is unique, so the final cost is shaped by a mix of labour, materials, approvals, and site conditions.
- Labour: Skilled trades are the biggest cost driver. A project needing tilers, concreters, plumbers, and electricians can add thousands to your budget.
- Materials: The choice of finish has a big impact. For example, pebblecrete is cheaper than glass tiles, but quartz or glass bead finishes last longer and reduce future maintenance costs.
- Permits and Approvals: In Queensland, council approval may be required for major structural changes, new decking, or fencing. Permit fees and approval wait times can increase both cost and project timeline.
- Engineering and Repairs: If cracks, leaks, or shell weakness are discovered, structural reinforcement or soil stabilisation is needed. These hidden problems can add $5,000–$10,000 or more.
- Site Conditions: Limited access can mean hiring a crane to lift materials in or out, while drainage or waterproofing fixes are common in coastal areas like the Gold Coast.
Tip: Always ask for an itemised quote. This helps you see where money is going and makes it easier to compare contractors.
These five cost drivers affect every renovation. In the next sections, we’ll show how they play out for inground, concrete, and fibreglass pools.
What Does an Inground Pool Renovation Cost in Australia?
Most inground pool renovations cost between $7,000 and $50,000, depending on finish quality, shell condition, size, and site access.
Detailed Breakdown & Factors
Inground pools are the most common type in Australia. The cost variation is wide because you might only need resurfacing, or you might rebuild coping, plumbing, decking, and landscaping too.
| Level / Scope | Typical Work | Example Cost Drivers |
|---|---|---|
| Resurfacing only | New plaster, pebblecrete, or quartz finish | Pool size, finish type, condition of existing surface |
| Tiling & coping refresh | Replace tiles, coping stones, edge treatments | Tile quality, cutting complexity, labour |
| Structural & shell repair | Fix leaks, shell cracks, reinforce walls | Extent of damage, soil conditions, engineering work |
| Full makeover | Decking, lighting, plumbing, equipment, landscaping | Extra features, drainage, permit work, access |
How the Cost Drivers Apply to Inground Pools
- Labour & materials: Because inground pools often require high labour intensity (removal of old surface, re-tiling, prep), labour and premium materials (quartz, glass bead) push the price upward.
- Permits & approvals: In Queensland, councils often demand engineering certification for structural repairs, especially for inground works.
- Engineering & shell condition: If the shell is cracked or uneven, reinforcement or rebar work may be needed. That’s one of the cost “risers.”
- Site & access conditions: Tight backyards, narrow gateways, or uneven terrain may require crane access or extra machinery, adding cost.
- Finish choice: Basic plaster is cheaper; quartz, pebble, and glass renders are premium. Each adds a different multiplier to base cost.
Example Scenarios
- A 9 × 4 m concrete pool, needing just resurfacing, might fall in $6,000–$9,000 (per industry resurfacing examples).
- hat same pool, needing tiling, shell repairs, coping, and lighting: could push into $25,000–$40,000+.
- When structural damage or major drainage fixes arise, costs can escalate toward or exceed the upper $50,000 threshold.
Tip for Homeowners
When you get a quote for an inground pool renovation:
- Ask for a line-item breakdown (labour, materials, engineering, extras).
- Inspect whether the shell is sound — fixes later are far more costly.
- Check site access (is there room for crane / machinery?).
- Confirm if permits / engineering reports are included.
- Always budget a 10–20% contingency for hidden issues.
Concrete vs Fibreglass Pool Renovation Costs: Which Is Cheaper?
Fibreglass pool renovations are usually cheaper ($3,000–$15,000) than concrete pool renovations ($10,000–$30,000). Concrete pools cost more to resurface or tile but last longer, while fibreglass is faster and more affordable to repair or reline.
Cost Comparison Table
Cost Comparison Table
| Renovation Type | Concrete Pool | Fibreglass Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Resurfacing | $10k – $20k | $6k – $12k |
| Full Tiling | $15k – $30k | N/A |
| Coping Replacement | $5k – $10k | $3k – $6k |
| Full Renovation | $30k – $50k+ | $15k – $25k |
Concrete Pools
- Costs: Resurfacing typically runs $10k–$20k, while full tiling or coping replacements can reach $30k+.
- Strength: Extremely durable, with a renovated surface lasting 10–15 years.
- Drawback: Higher labour and material costs, plus longer project times.
Fibreglass Pools
- Costs: Small repairs are $3k–$6k, with full relining at $6k–$12k. Complete fibreglass makeovers can reach $15k–$25k.
- Strength: Faster and cheaper to update, with minimal labour.
- Drawback: May need re-doing within 7–10 years, shorter than concrete.
Key Takeaway
- For many Gold Coast and Brisbane homeowners, the decision comes down to how long they plan to keep the property and the current state of the pool shell.
- If budget and speed matter most, fibreglass is usually the better choice.
- If you want premium finishes and longer lifespan, concrete offers more value over time.
What’s the Difference Between Minor and Full Pool Renovation Costs?
A minor pool renovation usually costs $5,000–$15,000, while a full renovation often costs $30,000–$50,000+. Minor work covers resurfacing, coping, or tiles, while full makeovers include decking, plumbing, filtration, and landscaping.
Minor Renovations
- Scope: Small fixes that refresh the look without major structural work.
- Examples: Resurfacing, re-tiling, replacing coping stones, swapping filters.
- Cost: $5,000–$15,000 depending on pool type, size, and material choice.
- Timeframe: Usually completed in 1–2 weeks.
Full Renovations
- Scope: A complete transformation, often turning an old pool into a modern design.
- Examples: New plaster or quartz finish, coping, decking, plumbing replacement, new filtration systems, heating, lighting, and landscaping.
- Cost: $30,000–$50,000+ depending on extras and site access.
- Timeframe: Typically 4–6 weeks, longer if permits and engineering are required.
Tip: If your pool is more than 20 years old or showing cracks, leaks, or outdated equipment, a full renovation is often more cost-effective long term than repeating minor upgrades.
Gold Coast vs Brisbane Renovation Costs
In many cases, pool renovations on the Gold Coast tend to cost slightly more than in Brisbane, often 5%–10% higher, due to additional waterproofing, coastal wear, and sandy soil conditions. But actual differences depend heavily on site conditions and finishes.
Pool renovation prices vary across Queensland, and the main contrast is between coastal and inland conditions. On the Gold Coast, the combination of salty air, sandy soils, and humid weather tends to wear pool finishes faster. This means homeowners often invest in stronger coping materials, corrosion-resistant fixtures, and extra waterproofing, which can push up the overall budget compared to Brisbane.
In Brisbane, the climate is less harsh on materials, so pools don’t need the same level of coastal protection. However, clay soils and stormwater drainage issues are common, which can lead to higher structural reinforcement costs. Labour rates in inner-city suburbs may also add to the price, though outer areas are often cheaper.
Overall, Gold Coast projects can sometimes end up 5–10% more expensive than Brisbane, but the actual difference depends on the property’s location, site access, and the finishes chosen.
What Are the Risks of Underestimating Pool Renovation Costs?
The biggest risks of underestimating pool renovation costs include:
- Hidden site access issues needing cranes
- Drainage or waterproofing failures causing leaks
- Council approval delays increasing timelines
- Cheap materials leading to cracks and unsafe finishes
Underestimating the true cost of a pool renovation can lead to stress, delays, and even unsafe results. One of the most common problems is limited site access. If heavy machinery or cranes are needed to get materials in or out, costs can quickly climb. Drainage and waterproofing are another hidden issue, especially in coastal areas like the Gold Coast. If they’re not done properly, you may face leaks that require expensive rework.
Council approvals can also catch homeowners off guard. Some projects require permits for structural changes, new decking, or fencing. Waiting for approval not only adds fees but also delays the timeline. Finally, choosing cheaper materials or unqualified contractors may save money upfront but often results in cracks, leaks, or finishes that fail within a few years, costing far more to fix in the long run.
What Are the Best Cost-Saving Tips for Pool Renovations?
You can save on pool renovations without cutting corners by:
- Getting multiple quotes from local experts
- Staging renovations in steps
- Choosing durable finishes like quartz or glass bead
- Maintaining the pool regularly
- Knowing when DIY is safe vs pro-only
Renovating a pool doesn’t always have to drain your budget. The most important step is to compare at least three quotes from trusted local contractors. This makes it easier to see who is charging fairly and whether the scope of work matches your needs. Another smart approach is staging the renovation. For example, you can resurface the pool now and delay decking or landscaping until your budget allows.
Material choice also makes a big difference. While quartz and glass bead finishes cost more upfront, they last longer and reduce maintenance costs, saving money in the long run. Regular upkeep, such as balancing water and cleaning filters, prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs.
Finally, consider the balance between DIY and professional work. Small cosmetic tasks like repainting the pool area or cleaning tiles may be fine to do yourself, but structural work, plumbing, and electrical jobs should always be left to licensed professionals. Trying to cut costs with DIY on these areas often leads to expensive mistakes.
How Do You Decide Between a Minor or Major Pool Renovation?
Use this quick decision guide:
- Pool under 15 years old, no cracks → Minor renovation
- Pool over 20 years old, leaks or cracks → Major renovation
- Selling home soon, need facelift → Minor renovation
- Staying long-term, want new design → Major renovation
The right type of renovation depends on your pool’s age, condition, and your lifestyle goals. If your pool is relatively new, under 15 years old, and only shows surface wear, a minor renovation such as resurfacing or re-tiling is usually enough. These jobs are quicker, cost less, and keep the pool looking fresh.
On the other hand, pools older than 20 years, or those with leaks, cracks, or shell damage, often need a full renovation. A major renovation can include new finishes, coping, plumbing, decking, and even landscaping to bring the pool up to modern standards.
Your personal goals also matter. If you plan to sell the home soon, a minor renovation may be all that’s needed to boost property appeal. But if you intend to stay for years and want a backyard transformation, a major renovation is the better investment.
Tip: A professional inspection can confirm whether hidden structural issues exist, which often shifts a project from “minor” to “major.”
What Is the Typical Timeline and Process for a Pool Renovation?
Most pool renovations follow six main steps:
- Inspection and quote
- Draining the pool
- Structural repairs
- Resurfacing or relining
- Coping, tiling, or decking
- Refill and finish
Minor upgrades usually take 2–3 weeks, while full renovations can take 6–8 weeks, depending on weather and council approvals.
The pool renovation process begins with a site inspection and a detailed quote. Once agreed, the pool is drained so that repairs can be carried out safely. Structural issues such as cracks, leaks, or weak shells are addressed first. After that, the interior is resurfaced or relined with the chosen finish, whether that’s plaster, quartz, pebblecrete, or fibreglass.
Once the surface is complete, attention shifts to the edges and surrounds, coping stones, tiling, or decking upgrades are added to finish the look. Finally, the pool is refilled, treated, and handed back ready for use.
Timelines depend on the size of the job. Minor renovations such as resurfacing or coping replacements can be finished in two to three weeks. Major renovations that involve structural repairs, plumbing upgrades, and landscaping may take six to eight weeks or longer if permits or weather delays occur.
What Are the Financing Options for Pool Renovations?
Pool renovations are commonly financed through home equity loans, bank renovation loans, or staged payments with your builder.
Because pool renovations can cost anywhere from $5,000 for small repairs to $50,000+ for full makeovers, many homeowners explore financing options instead of paying everything upfront.
- Home Equity Loans: Many Australians use the equity in their home to fund large renovations. These loans often come with lower interest rates than personal loans.
- Bank Renovation Loans: Major banks and lenders offer renovation or personal loans that can be used for pool projects. These are flexible but may carry higher rates than secured loans.
- Staged Payments: Some pool builders allow staged or progress payments. This means you pay in instalments as the renovation moves from inspection to completion, easing the immediate financial burden.
- Credit Options (for small upgrades): Minor works under $10k can sometimes be managed with credit cards or short-term finance, though interest rates are higher.
The best financing option depends on your budget, project size, and whether you have home equity available. For large renovations, home equity loans usually provide the best long-term value. For smaller upgrades, staged builder payments or short-term finance may be more practical.
Tip: Always compare interest rates, fees, and repayment terms before choosing a finance option, the cheapest headline rate isn’t always the most affordable over time.
Sustainability & Modern Renovation Trends
Modern pool renovations often include eco-friendly upgrades such as energy-efficient pumps, solar heating, LED lighting, and recycled glass tile finishes. These features reduce running costs and extend the lifespan of the pool.
Sustainability is becoming one of the biggest trends in pool renovations across Australia. Many homeowners are now choosing finishes and equipment that reduce both environmental impact and long-term costs.
- Eco-Finishes: Options like recycled glass tiles and quartz aggregates not only look modern but also last longer, cutting down on resurfacing needs.
- Energy-Efficient Pumps and Filters: Modern variable-speed pumps and high-efficiency filters use less electricity while keeping water clear.
- Solar Heating: Solar pool heating is a popular choice on the Gold Coast and Brisbane, offering a renewable way to extend the swimming season without adding to power bills.
- LED Lighting: Replacing halogen lights with LED units reduces energy use, improves durability, and adds striking design effects.
- Water-Saving Features: Smart covers and backwash-recycling systems help reduce water loss, which is especially important in areas with summer restrictions.
How Much Value Does a Pool Renovation Add to a Home?
Renovating a pool can add $20,000 to $50,000 to property value in Australia, in favourable markets and with premium finishes. Under the right conditions, properties with upgraded, functional pools often command higher resale prices.
Many homeowners expect that pool renovations will boost their home’s resale value. In some warm-climate regions, where pools are a sought-after feature, agents and homeowners report value uplifts in the tens of thousands. However, the actual gain depends heavily on location, pool condition and design, maintenance, and buyer preferences local to your suburb.
A well-renovated pool with modern equipment, safe finishes, and thoughtful design can improve everyday living and reduce running costs, which adds psychological and practical value to buyers. But in less demand-driven markets or where the pool is older, poorly maintained, or difficult to service, the value added may be much lower or in rare cases, the cost may not be fully recovered.
Conclusion
Renovating your pool is about creating a safe, modern, and enjoyable space for your family. A refreshed pool adds comfort, boosts lifestyle appeal, and can increase the value of your home.
At Plunge Pools Gold Coast, we help homeowners bring their old pools back to life with quality materials, trusted service, and designs that fit your lifestyle. Contact us today for a tailored renovation quote and expert advice.
FAQs
How often should a concrete pool be resurfaced?
Concrete pools usually need resurfacing every 10 to 15 years. The exact timing depends on the finish you choose, like pebble or quartz, and how well the pool is maintained. Regular cleaning and water balance can extend the life of the surface, while poor care may shorten it.
Can I renovate my pool in stages?
Yes, pool renovations can be done in stages to spread costs. Many Gold Coast homeowners start with resurfacing or relining, then add coping, decking, or new equipment later. This staged approach makes it easier to manage budgets without delaying a full upgrade.
Do I need council approval for a pool renovation?
Council approval is often required for major pool renovations that involve structural changes, fencing, or decking. Small updates like resurfacing usually don’t need approval, but it’s always best to check with your local council. Rules vary across suburbs on the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
What’s the cheapest way to renovate a pool?
The cheapest option is resurfacing or relining the pool interior. This refreshes the look, fixes minor wear, and gives your pool a new finish without major construction. While affordable, it’s best paired with regular maintenance to avoid larger costs later.
Is it better to renovate or replace an old pool?
Renovating is usually better if the pool shell is still structurally sound. It costs less than a full replacement and can modernise the pool with new finishes, coping, and equipment. Replacement is only needed if the shell is beyond repair or you want a completely new design.
