Living in Central Florida means your pool is likely the most popular room in your house. But staring at cracked tiles, rough plaster, or an outdated deck during our sweltering summer heat is frustrating. If you're planning a renovation, timing is the main factor in saving money and avoiding the dreaded "waiting list." Here is exactly when you should schedule your pool remodeling in Orlando, FL to get the best results.
Why Does Timing Matter for Pool Remodeling in Orlando?
Timing affects your budget, project speed, and the final quality of the finish. In Orlando, scheduling your renovation during the off-peak season (October through February) often results in faster turnaround times because you aren't competing with the pre-summer rush. Contractors have more availability during these cooler months, meaning your project gets dedicated attention and won't get rained out by our daily summer storms.
Battling the "Swim Season" Rush
Most homeowners start thinking about their pools in March when the temperatures hit the 80s. By April, local phone lines are ringing off the hook. If you wait until spring to call a contractor, you might face a 6-to-8-week wait just to get on the schedule.
By planning ahead, you skip the stress. We've seen homeowners who schedule in November enjoy their brand-new backyard by Christmas, while those who call in May often end up watching construction crews instead of swimming on the Fourth of July.
The Impact of Orlando Weather
You know the drill: from June through September, it rains almost every afternoon in Orange County. This isn't just an annoyance; it's a construction nightmare. Pool interiors, specifically plaster and pebble finishes, need dry conditions to apply and cure correctly. Daily thunderstorms can stop work for days at a time, turning a 2-week job into a month-long ordeal.
What Is the Ideal Month to Start Your Renovation?
The absolute best months to start a pool renovation in Central Florida are November and January. During these months, average rainfall drops to roughly 2.4 inches, compared to over 7 inches in June and July. This dry weather allows plaster and tile work to cure properly without the interruption of unpredictable storms, giving you a stronger, longer-lasting finish.
Breaking Down the Seasons
Here is how the calendar looks for pool remodeling in Orlando, FL:
- The "Goldilocks" Window (October – February): This is the sweet spot. Humidity is lower, rain is scarce, and temperatures are cool enough for workers but warm enough for materials to set. You'll likely have your pick of start dates.
- The "Panic" Season (March – May): Everyone realizes summer is coming. Prices often creep up due to demand, and lead times regarding materials like pavers or custom tiles can stretch out.
- The Rainy Season (June – September): We can still work, but it's slower. If you choose this time, expect delays. We often have to tarp off areas or wait for clear skies to pour decks or shoot gunite.
How Much Does Pool Remodeling Cost in Orlando?
In Orlando, a basic resurfacing job typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, while a complete remodel with new pavers and tile can run between $15,000 and $40,000. Adding luxury features like a spa, heater, or automation system will increase the total. These prices vary based on your pool's size (the average local pool is 15x30 feet) and the specific finishes you choose.
Material Costs and Lead Times
Winter isn't just better for weather; it's often better for your wallet. Manufacturers sometimes offer end-of-year discounts on materials to clear inventory.
- Resurfacing: Standard marcite is your most affordable option, but many local homeowners are upgrading to aggregate finishes (like PebbleTec) for durability. These cost about 30-40% more but last 15-20 years compared to marcite's 5-10 years.
- Decking: If you're switching from standard concrete to travertine pavers (very popular in Windermere and Dr. Phillips), expect materials to cost between $5 and $10 per square foot, plus installation.
- Equipment: Pumps and heaters have seen price fluctuations recently. Locking in your quote during the fall can protect you from manufacturer price hikes that typically happen at the start of the new year.
What Permits Do You Need in Orange County?
Most structural pool renovations in Orange County require a residential swimming pool permit. This includes resurfacing if you're changing the main drain to meet anti-entrapment laws, or any work involving electrical or gas lines. Permit fees generally start around $150 but vary based on project value. Working with a licensed contractor ensures all paperwork complies with the Florida Building Code 8th Edition.
Navigating Local Regulations
Don't try to handle the permitting process yourself. The paperwork can be confusing, and mistakes lead to work-stop orders.
- Safety Barriers: If we replace your deck or fence, we must make sure your pool meets the current safety acts (Chapter 515, Florida Statutes). This usually means having a baby barrier fence, self-latching gates, or door alarms on any door leading to the pool area.
- HOA Approvals: If you live in a deed-restricted community like Lake Nona or Celebration, don't forget your HOA. They often have strict rules about paver colors or screen enclosure heights. We recommend submitting your plans to the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) at least 30 days before we start.
How Do Different Neighborhoods Impact Renovation Choices?
Neighborhood standards in areas like Lake Nona or Dr. Phillips often dictate specific aesthetic choices or construction hours. For example, HOAs in Windermere may require specific paver colors or screening materials to match the community look. Older pools in College Park might need more extensive structural updates to handle modern equipment compared to newer builds in Winter Springs.
Local Expertise Matters
At All Phase Pool Remodeling, we've worked across every zip code in the metro area.
- Dr. Phillips & Windermere: We see a lot of demand here for "spillovers" and travertine decks to match the luxury aesthetic of the homes.
- Downtown & College Park: Access is the challenge here. Narrow side yards between historic bungalows mean we often have to use smaller equipment to get into the backyard without damaging your fence or AC unit.
- Winter Garden & Oviedo: Family-friendly features are huge. We install a lot of sun shelves (tanning ledges) here so parents have a shallow spot to hang out with toddlers.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Even in the dry season, unexpected cold snaps (dropping below 50°F) can delay plaster curing. To fix this, experienced contractors use tenting or heaters to keep the shell warm. Another common challenge is finding older plumbing issues once the deck is opened up. We recommend setting aside a 10% contingency fund to handle these surprises without stalling the project.
Handling Unexpected Weather
While we can't control the weather, we can plan for it. If a hurricane or tropical storm is forecasted late in the season, we secure the job site to prevent debris from damaging the exposed shell. This is why hiring a local team matters—we know how to prep a pool for a Florida storm because we live here too.
Supply Chain Hiccups
While things have improved since 2022, getting specific custom tiles from Italy or specialized pumps can still take time. If you have your heart set on a specific glass tile, let us order it as soon as you sign the contract. This prevents us from having to pause work halfway through because we're waiting on a delivery truck.
Ready to Upgrade Your Backyard?
A pool renovation is a big investment, but it's one that pays off in home value and family memories. According to data, a well-maintained pool can increase a Florida home's resale value by roughly 5-10% [1].
Don't wait until the first heatwave of the year to think about your pool. By planning your renovation for the fall or winter, you'll save money, reduce stress, and guarantee that your pool is crystal clear and ready for that first cannonball in spring.
If you're ready to transform your pool, All Phase Pool Remodeling is here to help. We are the local experts you trust with your business and customers. We are not a giant, faceless corporation; we are the folks who live and work right here in Central Florida.
Call us today to schedule your consultation.
References
[1] “Do Swimming Pools Add Value to Your House?” - Home Improvement Loans