How to Clean Up and Renovate a Foreclosed Swimming Pool

If you follow the correct procedures, you can return a neglected pool to a nearly like-new condition. When a home with a pool goes into foreclosure, the pool may sit unattended without proper maintenance for a long period of time. A lack of running water or electricity means the filter is not cleaning and the old water is sitting stagnant, with growing algae and bacteria. Heat and cold may play a role in the destruction of a neglected pool as well if it is not properly covered.

Skimmer
Pool scrub brush
Acid preparation
Filler compound
Epoxy paint
Filter
Pool lights
Pump (optional)
Gloves
Chlorination products

Instructions

- 1
  If the pool contains water, skim large, floating pieces of debris from the pool.
- 2
  Check the pump. The electricity may have been turned off for a long period of time in a foreclosed home, and the pump may have frozen or not be in working order. If the pump is not working, contact a professional for repair or replacement.
- 3
  Drain the pool.
- 4
  Clean up the bottom of the pool with a pool brush and clean water.
- 5
  Inspect the interior of the pool for cracks. Before continuing to renovate the pool, all cracks in the pool must be repaired. Used an appropriate filler compound to fill in cracks and allow the filler to dry thoroughly before proceeding.
- 6
  Clean the entire pool and tiles with an acid preparation. Muric acid based cleaners are available from swimming pool supply stores. Apply the acid preparation and scrub the entire interior of the pool. This will kill bacteria and remove other stains.
- 7
  Replace the interior lights on the pool. After sitting for a long period, the pool lights may need replacing. Pool supply stores offer lights along with installation kits.
- 8
  Paint the pool. This step is not necessary if the interior of the pool is in good condition after cleaning. If repairs were needed or stains remain, paint the interior of the pool with Epoxy based paint especially made for pools.
- 9
  Fill the pool and add chlorination.

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