You step outside, glance at your pool, and something feels off. The water’s still sparkling, but the surface looks a little tired — maybe there are cracks, patches of fading colour, or rough spots underfoot. You might even notice you’re topping up the water more often than usual.
That’s when the thought pops up: “Is it time to reline my pool?”
Relining isn’t something you do every year, but like repainting your house or servicing your car, it eventually becomes necessary. The key is knowing when it’s just normal wear and tear… and when it’s time to call in the experts.
What Exactly is Pool Relining?
Think of relining as giving your pool a brand-new skin. Instead of replacing the whole pool, professionals apply a fresh interior finish to restore its look, feel, and watertight integrity.
Depending on the pool type, this could mean:
- Fibreglass pools: Applying a new fibreglass layer over the old surface.
- Concrete/gunite pools: Resurfacing with marbelite, fibreglass, or other coatings.
It’s not just cosmetic. Relining also extends the life of your pool, seals small leaks, and improves safety by smoothing out rough or cracked surfaces.
Signs Your Pool Might Need Relining
Here’s where we use bullets for quick scannability — the “symptoms” people search for:
- Cracks or leaks – Hairline cracks in fibreglass or concrete aren’t just ugly; they let water escape and get worse over time.
- Fading or discoloured surface – Years of sun and chemicals can bleach your pool’s colour unevenly.
- Rough patches – If swimming feels like sandpaper on your feet, the lining is breaking down.
- Chalking or peeling – In fibreglass pools, the surface can start to chalk (leaving residue on your skin) or peel.
- Frequent water loss – Constant top-ups may point to surface damage or hidden leaks.
- Stains that won’t budge – Minerals, algae, or rust stains embedded in the lining are often a sign the material’s too porous.
If you’re noticing two or more of these, relining is probably on the horizon.
How Often Do Cape Town Pools Need Relining?
There’s no exact calendar reminder for pool relining. It depends on the pool type, how well it’s maintained, and local conditions.
- Fibreglass pools: usually every 10–15 years.
- Concrete pools with marbelite: every 8–12 years.
- Heavily used or neglected pools: sooner.
In Cape Town, harsh summer sun, water restrictions (leading to inconsistent levels), and coastal corrosion can shorten that timeline. Pools near the sea, like in Blouberg or Muizenberg, often need attention earlier than sheltered inland pools.
Why Relining is Worth It
It’s easy to delay relining, but here’s why it’s worth tackling sooner rather than later:
- Saves money long-term – Fixing small leaks now prevents major repairs later.
- Keeps your pool safe – Rough surfaces can cut skin, and cracks can cause tripping hazards.
- Boosts aesthetics – A fresh lining makes your pool look brand new.
- Adds value – If you’re thinking of selling, buyers love a pool that looks well-kept.
Think of it as a renovation — you wouldn’t leave peeling paint or cracked tiles in your home, so why ignore your pool?
DIY vs Professional Relining
You might come across DIY kits, but here’s the honest truth: relining is not a weekend project. It requires surface prep, materials, and technique that only come with experience.
We’ve been called in to fix plenty of “DIY jobs” that ended up costing the homeowner more than professional relining would have in the first place. A skilled team ensures the lining bonds properly, cures correctly, and lasts the full lifespan it should.
The Relining Process
If you’re wondering what actually happens during relining, here’s a quick overview:
- Drain the pool and inspect the structure.
- Prep the surface – sanding fibreglass, chipping loose marbelite, or cleaning concrete.
- Repair cracks or leaks before the new lining goes on.
- Apply the new finish (fibreglass layer, marbelite, or other).
- Cure and refill – after drying/curing, the pool is refilled and ready to use.
The whole process usually takes a week or less, depending on weather and pool size.
Final Word
Pool relining isn’t something you’ll do often, but it’s one of the best ways to protect your investment and keep your pool looking and feeling fantastic. If your pool is showing its age, don’t wait for small cracks or rough patches to turn into major repairs.
At Cape Pools, we specialise in professional pool relining in Cape Town, with years of experience bringing tired pools back to life.
Thinking it might be time to reline your pool? Contact Cape Pools today for an expert assessment and quote.
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