Pool Surface & Shell Assessment
The pool features an older fiberglass surface, estimated to be 25–35+ years old. The finish appears significantly worn and abrasive, with visible pitting and loss of surface material, particularly on the steps and in the shallow end. In several areas, it is likely worn down to the final layer of fiberglass. Overall, the surface is approaching the end of its usable life cycle. Remaining life is estimated at 5–10 years at best, potentially closer to 5 years or less depending on wear patterns.
There are signs of possible minor settlement in the pool shell. Water levels appear inconsistent around the perimeter, which may indicate the shell has shifted approximately ½ inch to 1 inch. However, this assessment is complicated by missing tiles in multiple areas and the possibility that the original tile application was not perfectly level. Confidence in the exact amount of shell movement is approximately 50%, as much of the visible surface appears to be a patch job applied over older fiberglass or tile layers.
Water is sitting right at the edge of peeling surface material, especially noticeable in the southeast corner.
Overall Condition: Poor to damaged.
Resurfacing Notes:
When resurfacing becomes necessary, the cost for a pool of this size is estimated at $10,000 – $14,000 (to be confirmed). The underlying pool shell/sub-structure appears to be in good condition based on current limited visibility. A full and accurate evaluation of the sub-shell will only be possible once the existing surface is removed.

Note these issue below may only be ascetic if water level is lower than faulting surface edge (seen at sound end of pool) pictured.

Waterline Tile, Coping & Deck Assessment
The waterline tile acts as a protective layer for the fiberglass surface, shielding it from sun and temperature damage. Roughly half the tile has peeled off around the pool. Replacing it during resurfacing is recommended for best value, estimated at $1,500 plus $500 for materials.
Gaps between the tile and concrete deck exist along ~35% of the perimeter. This is mainly aesthetic and can be fixed by re-mastic for less than $1,500 if done separately.
Coping stones have been over-sealed, creating trip hazards and gaps in the outside concrete. Grinding, filling, and re-securing loose stones is estimated at $3,000–$5,000.
Recommendations:
Replace the skimmer during resurfacing to better handle heavy overhead debris (est. $3,500). Consider upgrading the main drain at the same time, with cost to be determined during resurfacing.
Estimated Costs:
• Tile replacement (with resurfacing): $1,500 + $500 materials
• Gap repair (separate): <$1,500
• Coping & concrete repair: $3,000–$5,000
• Skimmer replacement: $3,500
• Main drain upgrade: TBD
Total Estimated Repair Costs (excluding resurfacing): $8,000 – $12,000+

Water Quality Assessment
Pool water chemistry closely matches tap water levels, indicating the water is relatively new and fresh, or that significant recent water loss and refill has occurred.
Basic maintenance requires less than $200 in standard chemicals to keep acceptable quality through late spring and summer (increase CYA , lower PH/Alk, and maintain on going circulation.
For sparkling clean water, an additional ~$200 in specialized chemicals is recommended (phosphate removers, enzymes, and CYA/stabilizer).
Estimated Chemical Costs:
• Basic maintenance: <$200
• Enhanced treatment (phosphate removers, enzymes, CYA): ~$200
Total Estimated Chemical Costs: Up to $400 for the season.

Main Drain Assessment
The main drain is a recessed sump-style drain, set approximately 3 to 6 inches below the pool floor. The old drain cover is currently lying on the decking next to the pool.
It appears the main drain is likely no longer in use and may be abandoned. A full investigation is needed to confirm its status and ensure safe attachment of a compliant cover.
Repair Options & Costs:
• Installing a universal compliant cover: $200 (low end) to $500–$999 (if additional investigation and secure attachment work is required).
• At the time of resurfacing, properly addressing or repairing the abandoned main drain could cost $2,500 or more.
Recommendation:
It is likely safest and most cost-effective to leave the main drain as-is until the resurfacing stage, when a complete evaluation and proper repair or capping can be performed.
Estimated Costs:
• Universal cover installation: $200 – $999
• Full repair/addressing during resurfacing: $2,500+
Total Estimated Main Drain Costs: $200 – $2,500+ (depending on timing and scope)

Skimmer Assessment
The existing skimmer is very old and undersized for the large volume of organic debris entering the pool daily. As the primary (and likely only) surface intake, it severely restricts system circulation and makes water quality management difficult.
The skimmer is operating at roughly 10% effectiveness for flow and debris removal. It is the heart of the pool’s circulation system and should be the top priority for upgrade.
Recommendation:
Replace the skimmer first to restore proper circulation and reduce debris buildup.
Estimated Cost:
Skimmer replacement: $3,500 (ideally during resurfacing).

Bottom Cleaner Assessment
The bottom cleaner is connected via a separate auxiliary line, which functions adequately. The hose length appears intentionally short to prevent sticking.
The unit is older (5–10+ years) and shows wear, including a ruptured rear clip, rusted parts, and a failing tail bag. It currently has only two hose swivels and should have 3–4. The internal filter needs cleaning.
Repair Options & Costs:
• Minor repairs (new tail bag, additional swivels, clip, and service): $105 – $205
• Full replacement if major issues are found: ~$550
Recommendation:
Perform the lower-cost repairs first. Replacement may be needed if further inspection reveals more damage.
Estimated Costs: $105 – $550

I only saw a manual filler that is leaking / due for service ($125-250+)

I was not able to locate any automatic filler, but one can easily be added with a hose for less than $200 sometimes even less than $100 depending on the model.

Pool Light Assessment
The existing pool light is very old and non-functional (dead). The light niche is integrated into the fiberglass shell, which may create sealing challenges at the niche-to-fiberglass connection.
Current Issues & Repair Options:
• Minor repairs or attention to the niche connection could cost $100–$500.
• At the time of resurfacing, it is recommended to update the niche for a fully watertight seal, estimated at $500 or more.
The junction box behind the light is older. It is hoped that no live electricity remains connected inside it; power appears to have been pulled to a separate junction box that has not yet been located.
Cost Estimates for Updating the Light:
• Basic light can/nice update during resurfacing: $500+
• New light fixture only (standard incandescent): ~$500 online
• Low-cost Amazon LED light: ~$200
• Professional installation: ~$400
Total Estimated Cost for Light Replacement: $300 – $1,200 depending on light type chosen (fixture + installation).
A full niche update during resurfacing is strongly advised for long-term reliability.

Filter Assessment
The current cartridge filter dirties quickly due to heavy organic debris and likely requires cleaning once per month (or more frequently if pressure rises rapidly). Cleaning takes about 30 minutes each time. A sand filter would be much better suited, as it can be cleaned in under 3 minutes and handles high debris loads more efficiently.
Filter elements are likely due for replacement (<$200). Two unusual wet spots on the lower tank suggest possible leaking. If leaking, the lower tank half would cost ~$600 to replace.
Recommendations & Costs:
• New cartridge elements: <$200
• Lower tank half (if leaking): ~$600
• Full upgrade to sand filter (including sand & installation): $800 – $1,000
Estimated Filter Costs: $200 – $1,000 (repairs vs. full sand filter upgrade)

Filter Pump Assessment
The filter pump is relatively new (likely under 3 years old) and may still be covered under warranty. The label is in a hard-to-read location, making exact age confirmation difficult.
The motor is making unusual noises, likely from the fan or (more probably) failing bearings. It is recommended to address this promptly before the motor fails completely, which could lead to more extensive damage.
Repair Options & Costs:
• Immediate repair (bearings or fan): $450 – $750 (potentially free under warranty if less than 3 years old)
• Delayed repair (if motor fails within the next year): $1,000 – $1,500
Recommendation:
Inspect and repair the motor as soon as possible to avoid full failure and higher costs. Check warranty status first for possible free service.

Booster Pump Assessment
The booster pump is currently working, but the bearings are heavily worn and causing issues, similar to the filter pump.
Repair Options & Costs:
• Bearing service/repair: $450 – $750
• Brand new booster pump: $300 – $600
Recommendation:
It may be more cost-effective to replace the entire pump rather than repairing the bearings, especially given the age and wear. Replacement is recommended over repeated repairs.
Estimated Booster Pump Costs: $300 – $750 (repair vs. full replacement)

Likely covered under warranty though due to age.

Working. Still no GFCI rec upgrading to GFCI sub panel / breakers $350-750+

Valves & Plumbing Assessment
The majority of the valves and plumbing are copper, with at least one section appearing to be updated to PVC (or possibly just above-ground). All valves should be tested for proper function and considered for replacement.
Recommendations & Costs:
• Updating valves and above-ground plumbing on the suction side: ~$850 or less
• Converting the bottom cleaner booster pump to hard plumbing at the equipment pad (to extend its life): <$400
• The remaining blue-glued plumbing is lower quality and was poorly installed. Blue glue typically lasts up to 10 years under high-pressure conditions, so full replacement is recommended within the next 10 years (not urgent). Updating the entire system for better efficiency would cost less than $2,000 including parts and labor.
Estimated Valves & Plumbing Costs: $850 – $2,000 (phased approach recommended)

Plumbing Note (Copper Lines)
The plumbing from the main drain, skimmer, and returns is likely copper. Due to observed signs of pool shell movement (inconsistent water levels and waterline tile issues), copper lines are more susceptible to shifting and potential leaks.
It is recommended to update these copper lines during the next resurfacing to prevent future water loss.
Estimated Cost:
Copper plumbing replacement during resurfacing: $2,000+
This is a separate note to be considered alongside the main valves & plumbing assessment.