Owning a swimming pool in Cape Town is both a luxury and a long-term investment. But when your vinyl, gunite, or fibreglass pool starts showing signs of age—cracks, leaks, faded surfaces, or structural damage—you’ll face an important question:
Should you refurbish your old pool, or build a new one from scratch?
This guide breaks down realistic costs, pros and cons, and even explains the municipal approval process if you choose to build a brand-new pool.
Refurbishing vs Building New — What’s the Cost Difference?
Refurbishing a Swimming Pool
The cost to refurbish a pool in Cape Town and surrounding areas depends on the pool type and extent of the damage:
| Pool Type | Typical Refurbishing Cost (ZAR) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fibreglass pool relining | R35,000 – R80,000 | Involves resurfacing with new fibreglass and resin layers, ideal for cracked or faded pools. |
| Gunite (marbelite) pool renovation | R40,000 – R120,000 | Includes acid washing, re-marbeliting, re-plastering, or tile replacement. |
| Vinyl liner replacement | R25,000 – R60,000 | Liner is removed and replaced; best for smaller or older vinyl pools. |
Extra costs may include:
- Plumbing repairs: R3,000 – R10,000
- Pump/filter upgrades: R5,000 – R20,000
- Heating or lighting installation: R10,000 – R30,000
At Pools Reno, we always advise inspecting the existing structure first. In many cases, refurbishing a pool can save you up to 40–50% compared to a full rebuild.
Building a New Swimming Pool from Scratch
If your existing pool structure is beyond repair—or you’re ready for a completely new design—then a new installation might be your best option.
| Pool Type | Average Cost in Cape Town (ZAR) | Typical Size Range |
|---|---|---|
| Gunite (concrete/marbelite) | R150,000 – R300,000 | Fully customisable, highly durable |
| Fibreglass shell installation | R100,000 – R200,000 | Faster installation, low maintenance |
| Vinyl-lined pools | R90,000 – R150,000 | Budget-friendly, ideal for small spaces |
Building new costs more upfront, but offers:
- A longer lifespan (especially with concrete or fibreglass)
- Better customisation (shape, depth, features)
- Potential increase in property value
Pros and Cons: Refurbish or Rebuild?
Refurbishing Pros
- More affordable than new construction
- Faster turnaround (usually within 5–10 days)
- Eco-friendly — less waste, fewer raw materials used
- Keeps existing pool layout intact
Refurbishing Cons
- Hidden damage may remain unseen
- Limited redesign flexibility
- Lifespan depends on condition of existing structure
Building New Pros
- Fresh start with modern plumbing, filtration, and materials
- Flexible design options — shape, lighting, jets, tanning ledges, etc.
- Adds resale value to your home
Building New Cons
- Higher initial cost
- Municipal approval required (more paperwork)
- Longer construction time
Applying for Municipal Approval in Cape Town
If you plan to build a new swimming pool, the City of Cape Town requires you to obtain approval before starting construction.
Steps to Apply:
- Consult a professional pool builder (like Pools Reno) to design your new pool and prepare site plans.
- Submit building plans to your local municipality, including:
- Site plan showing pool placement
- Structural design drawings
- Safety barrier details
- Approval period: Typically takes 3–6 weeks depending on your area.
- Inspection: A municipal inspector may visit the property once construction begins to verify compliance with building regulations and safety standards.
Tip: If your new pool is larger than 2.0m deep, within 2m of a boundary wall, or requires backwash connections, municipal approval is mandatory.
When Refurbishment Isn’t Enough
Sometimes, an old fibreglass or gunite pool can become structurally compromised — for example, from:
- Bulging walls or lifting floors
- Persistent leaks around skimmer boxes or return inlets
- Severe delamination or cracked shells
In such cases, it’s often more cost-effective to install a new fibreglass shell inside the old pool cavity.
This hybrid solution combines the strength of the existing structure with the durability and smooth finish of fibreglass — a popular choice among Cape Town homeowners facing ageing pool issues.
Final Thoughts: Invest Wisely, Not Emotionally
Whether you choose to renovate or rebuild, consider your long-term costs and property goals.
If your existing structure is sound, refurbishing is cost-efficient and environmentally friendly.
However, if structural issues run deep or you desire a modern design, building a new pool could be the smarter long-term investment.
At Pools Reno, we help Cape Town homeowners make informed decisions.
From fibreglass relining and marbelite resurfacing to new pool construction, we handle every step — including free site inspections and expert advice.
