Why It’s Time to Renovate That “COVID Pool” and Why Rising Sun Pools Builds Better

Reopening your pool? Let Rising Sun Pools help!

Why It’s Time to Renovate That “COVID Pool” and Why Rising Sun Pools Builds Better

  • December 17, 2025
  • Pools

When backyard pools became the “it” project during the COVID-19 pandemic, hundreds of homeowners across North Carolina jumped at the chance to create their own personal oasis. With vacations on hold and everyone spending more time at home, pool installations surged. Unfortunately, not all those pools were built to last.

Fast forward a few years, and we’re seeing the results: liners failing early, finishes fading, equipment breaking down, and shortcuts in construction becoming painfully obvious. At Rising Sun Pools & Spas, homeowners call us every week looking for help renovating or repairing a pool that wasn’t built with the care, experience, or quality materials they expected.

The good news? It’s never too late to restore your backyard pool to something beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance. Whether your pool needs a new liner, updated tile and coping, or a complete refresh, our team has been bringing Triangle-area pools back to life for more than 50 years.

What Happened With “COVID-Era” Pools

The pandemic pool boom was unlike anything the industry had ever seen. Demand skyrocketed, materials were hard to source, and many new pool builders popped up almost overnight to cash in on the surge. Some of those companies didn’t have the experience, craftsmanship, or customer service that homeowners deserve.

We’ve noticed some common issues among pools built during that rush:

 

  1. Premature liner failures: Many of these pools used thinner, lower-grade liners that weren’t meant to handle years of sun and chemical exposure.
  2. Poor ground prep and installation shortcuts: Improper grading, plumbing, or drainage can cause settling, wrinkles, or even structural damage.
  3. Subpar equipment: Cheaper pumps, filters, and heaters may save money up front, but tend to wear out fast, leaving homeowners frustrated with constant repairs.
  4. Lack of long-term planning: Some builders focused on getting pools in the ground quickly rather than ensuring they were designed for the property’s layout, soil, and drainage.

 

At Rising Sun Pools, we’ve been rebuilding and re-engineering these systems so they not only look better but function the way a high-quality pool should: reliably, efficiently, and safely.

Why Rising Sun Pools Are Different

Since 1972, Rising Sun Pools & Spas has been the Triangle area’s trusted name in pool building and service. When we say our pools stand the test of time, we mean it. We’ve seen fads come and go, new materials emerge, and installation methods evolve, but one thing that’s never changed is our commitment to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

Here’s what sets our pools apart:

 

  1. Experience you can count on: With more than 50 years in the business, we’ve built and serviced thousands of pools, and we know how to do it right the first time.
  2. Top-quality materials: From premium liners to durable concrete finishes, we use only materials designed for longevity and performance.
  3. Award-winning expertise: We’ve been recognized as a Top 50 Pool Builder in the U.S. every year since 2009 and have received multiple national awards from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and Pool & Spa News.
  4. Full-service support: Our relationship doesn’t end when the pool is filled. We offer regular maintenance, water testing, and repair services to keep your investment in peak condition year-round.

 

Simply put, we don’t cut corners because our reputation depends on your pool lasting for decades, not just a few seasons.

 

Is It Time for a Pool Renovation?

If your pool was built during the COVID boom, you may already be seeing signs that it needs attention. Here are a few indicators that it’s time to call our renovation team:

 

  1. The liner is faded, wrinkled, or leaking
  2. The tile or coping is cracked or outdated
  3. The pump or filter is struggling to keep water clear
  4. You’re constantly adjusting chemicals or fighting algae
  5. The pool just doesn’t look as inviting as it used to

 

A pool renovation can breathe new life into your backyard. The experts at Rising Sun Pools can replace liners, resurface concrete, upgrade equipment to more energy-efficient models, or even add new features like lighting, water features, or decking to modernize your outdoor space.

Invest in Quality and Peace of Mind

When you choose Rising Sun Pools & Spas, you’re investing in more than just a renovation. You’re choosing a company that’s been part of the Triangle community for generations. A team that stands behind its work long after the project is done.

We’ve seen firsthand how disappointing it can be to realize that a “brand-new” pool isn’t performing the way it should. That’s why we take pride in helping homeowners turn those frustrating situations into success stories. Whether your pool needs a little TLC or a full transformation, our experienced technicians and designers can make it happen smoothly and stress-free.

Contact Rising Sun Pools today to schedule a consultation and see how we can restore your pool to its full potential. Because after more than 50 years, one thing’s for sure: quality never goes out of style.