Last Updated on June 10, 2024 by lindseymahoney
When we first toured our home, one of the really attractive aspects of the property was the large backyard and in-ground pool. While the landscaping wasn’t our particular style and there were some improvements needed, I knew that with a little elbow grease, we could tackle a backyard pool makeover on a budget!
Table of Contents
- Paint the Interior Surface of the Pool
- Install Grass Around the Pool Deck
- Add Privacy with a Perennial Garden
- Replace the Broken Fence
- Install a Pool Shed
- Hide Pool Equipment
- Charming Brick Border
- Other Backyard Pool Renovations on the List
- Poolside Favorites
- More Content You Will Love
Backyard Pool Area Before:
Here is a list of a updates I wanted to make with the backyard pool makeover:
- Repair the chipping paint in the pool
- Remove the rocks surrounding the pool
- Hide pool equipment
- Update landscaping
- Add storage for pool and gardening equipment
- Replace rotting fence
- Add lounge seating around the pool
Together as a family, we tackled many outdoor DIY projects to create a beautiful outdoor living space and a great place to entertain and relax together.
Paint the Interior Surface of the Pool
As new pool owners we quickly learned that they require regular maintenance, particularly that concrete pools must be painted every 5-8 years. With a little planning and the determination to save money on labor costs, we tackled this DIY as a family and breathed new life into our old pool.
The pool was in good condition and the fresh coat of epoxy paint made it feel brand new. Paint is a great way to update a space on a small budget.
*Check out the complete tutorial for how to paint a pool yourself!
Install Grass Around the Pool Deck
Our oval-shaped swimming pool is surrounded by a concrete patio and originally had rocks surrounding the entire perimeter of the concrete pool deck.
The concrete pool skirting was just wide enough to walk around the pool and not large enough to add lounge chairs, so we had to place them on the rocks. This landscape design choice was incredibly uncomfortable for pool guests who had to awkwardly walk on them to get to a lounge chair.
Because we do not have the budget to completely replace the concrete skirting for a larger surface area, we decided to remove the rocks and replace them with the more affordable option of grass. These new green spaces were perfect to set up a seating area with lounge chairs and an umbrella.
There were a TON of rocks in this area of our backyard! We rented a bucket machine from Home Depot to remove them and then laid the grass. We tackled one half of the pool one summer and then finished the surrounding pool area the following summer when we tackled the garden areas.
Add Privacy with a Perennial Garden
After a few summers of pine needles slipping through our pool filter and burning up the motor, we decided it was time to cut the old trees down.
Backyard with Pine Trees
Backyard with Pine Trees Removed
Not only did this add more outdoor space, but the pool received much more sun throughout the day.
Once we decided on the shape of the garden behind the pool, I used existing plants in our yard to create natural privacy between us and our neighbors. We split hydrangea bushes that were getting too large and planted them in the back. Next we transplanted tons of spirea, hosta and peony bushes to add to the visual appeal.
With lots of sunlight throughout the day, these plants have thrived. Our garden has filled out in a few short years. For some added interest, we lined the new garden bed with natural stones.
Replace the Broken Fence
The entire fence in our large backyard has seen better days! We have slowly been chipping away at replacing different areas of the fence.
When the pine trees were removed the broken fence on that side of the yard could no longer be ignored. We opted for a split rail fence to save money. The perennial garden has done a great job blocking the neighbors view of the pool.
Install a Pool Shed
We really needed a place to store all of our pool toys and equipment and decided to install a shed that further provides privacy. When the time was right, we purchased a Tuff Shed which they installed in our backyard for us.
One way we saved money was purchasing the shed without any paint. I spent a few weekends painting the new shed and hanging charming window boxes under the windows. It is the perfect focal point behind our gorgeous pool.
Hide Pool Equipment
The pool equipment sits on the side of the house and is a complete eyesore. There was no way that we could move the pool equipment so we decided to hide it with a fence.
Before
After
Everything is still completely accessible and it helps block out the sound of the filter too. We added hooks to hang towels and this simple structure was a welcome addition to our budget-friendly backyard pool makeover.
Charming Brick Border
I came up with a simple design idea to use a pile of bricks in our backyard to create a charming brick border around the pool edge.
This DIY took a weekend to complete and creates a cohesive look with the brick garden borders throughout our backyard.
Other Backyard Pool Renovations on the List
- Pool lights: We are currently working on adding pool lights to add some ambiance to our backyard oasis
- New concrete patio: While we did paint our existing concrete patio, we plan on replacing the current patio that is in pretty rough shape
- Pergola: We would like to add a shaded area near the pool to enjoy meals out of the hot sun
The pool area of our backyard is my favorite spot to relax and hang out with the family.
It can be intimidating to purchase a home with so many home projects. By taking each project one at a time, it is possible to create your dream backyard. With a little patience, you will create a space that you love without a complete overhaul or installing a brand new pool.
There are plenty of ways to take your outdoor area and existing pool to the next level without spending a fortune. I hope these DIY projects for our backyard makeover has given you the confidence to refresh the look of your pool and create your own outdoor oasis.
Poolside Favorites
Here are a few poolside accessories I am loving this summer!
