Arrowhead Deck & Pools – Scottsdale, AZ
Why Scottsdale Homeowners Remodel
A remodel can transform how you use your backyard and how buyers perceive your home. In Scottsdale, we most often remodel to:
- Update aging plaster or dated tile/stone
- Improve safety and efficiency (lighting, slip resistance, circulation)
- Add “resort” features for everyday enjoyment (Baja shelves, water/fire features)
- Reduce upkeep with modern finishes and equipment
Bottom line: The right upgrades increase daily enjoyment first, while also supporting resale appeal when the time comes.
What Can Influence Home Value (Without Over-Promising)
Remodels don’t have a one-size ROI. These factors matter most in Scottsdale:
- Condition & Age: Replacing worn surfaces/equipment removes buyer objections.
- Materials & Aesthetics: Neutral, high-quality finishes show better in listing photos.
- Energy & Water Efficiency: Variable-speed pumps, LED lighting, smart automation, and efficient sanitation lower ownership costs buyers care about.
- Safety & Code Alignment: Up-to-date barriers, lighting, and drains signal a well-maintained property.
- Neighborhood Fit: Upgrades should match (not overshoot) nearby homes.
Tip: Prioritize visible upgrades + efficiency; then match scope to neighborhood comps.
Popular Scottsdale Remodel Upgrades
Surface & Style
- Mini-pebble or quartz interior (longer life, modern look)
- Porcelain or glass waterline tile
- Natural stone or cool-to-the-touch decking (e.g., travertine, acrylic overlays)
Use & Enjoyment
- Baja (tanning) shelf with umbrella sleeves
- Raised beam with stacked-stone and scuppers
- Spa addition or spillway refresh
- Fire bowls + LED color-changing lights
Low-Maintenance & Efficiency
- Variable-speed pump and modern filter
- Salt or alternative sanitizer systems
- Automation (app controls for lights, schedules)
- In-floor or robotic cleaning upgrades
How Long Does a Remodel Take?
Timelines depend on scope, access, and permitting. Typical ranges in Scottsdale:
- Cosmetic refresh (interior + tile): ~2–4 weeks after permits/materials
- Deck + coping + interior: ~3–6 weeks
- Major structural changes (spas, new steps, water features): ~6–10+ weeks
Factors that extend timelines: HOA reviews, utility locates, custom stone/tile lead times, and weather (summer heat cures vs. monsoon interruptions).
The Remodel Process (Step-By-Step)
- On-Site Consult & Scope – Measurements, equipment check, finish samples, budget/fit.
- Design & Selections – Choose interior, tile, coping, decking, and features; finalize plan.
- Permits/HOA (as needed) – We coordinate drawings, submittals, and inspections.
- Prep & Demo – Drain, chip-out interior, remove dated tile/coping/deck where applicable.
- Plumbing/Equipment Updates – New lines, valves, pump/filter/heater placement.
- Forming & Features – Baja shelves, benches, raised walls, scuppers, lighting.
- Coping/Tile/Deck – Set stone or precast, install waterline tile, apply deck overlay or pavers.
- Interior Finish & Fill – Apply pebble/quartz; acid wash (if required); begin fill immediately.
- Start-Up & Orientation – Balance water chemistry, program automation, owner walk-through.
Budget Planning (Ballparks by Scope)
- Refresh Tier – Interior + tile refresh; limited equipment updates.
- Upgrade Tier – Add coping/deck updates, lighting, select features (e.g., one scupper or bench).
- Resort Tier – Multiple features (Baja shelf, raised beam/water/fire), significant decking, spa work, full equipment package.
Ask about phased remodels if you want to spread work (and cost) across seasons.
Scottsdale-Specific Tips
- Surface Temperature: Choose lighter colors and cool-deck options to manage summer heat.
- Dust & Monsoon Season: Consider design that makes cleanup easier (deck drains, skimmer placement, automation for post-storm cycles).
- Water Use: Pair interior refreshes with efficiency upgrades to offset fill/evaporation.
- HOA & Setbacks: Factor review windows into your schedule.
Maintenance After Your Remodel
- Follow the chemistry start-up plan for the first 30 days on new interiors.
- Keep calcium in range to protect tile and interior; monitor CSI.
- Use soft brooms on fresh finishes; avoid aggressive tools early on.
- Program automation for consistent run times and seasonal adjustments.
FAQs
Do I need permits for a remodel?
Minor cosmetic changes may not; structural changes, gas lines, electrical, or new hardscape typically do. We’ll confirm and handle submittals where required.
Can I swim during the project?
Not until we’ve completed the interior, filled, and balanced the water. We’ll give you a green-light date.
What if my equipment pad is cramped?
We can re-layout pads for service access and sound; variable-speed pumps also lower noise.
How do I keep the new surface looking great?
Stay on the provided start-up schedule, then transition to regular service or a DIY plan we outline at orientation.
Ready to Explore Options?
Book a free on-site consultation with Arrowhead Deck & Pools. We’ll review your pool’s condition, show finish and decking samples, and create a plan that fits your home and neighborhood with no pressure. Call or schedule online today.
About the Authors
Catherine Trice & John Trice, Co-Owners.
Catherine and John grew Arrowhead Deck & Pools from a small Scottsdale crew into an award-winning residential and commercial pool company. For 17+ years (since 2008) and 5,000+ completed projects, they’ve helped families and communities keep outdoor spaces looking for great new builds, thoughtful remodels, and outdoor-living upgrades. When they’re not on site, they’re usually swapping design ideas with homeowners over tile samples.