I'm a first time pool owner going through a pool renovation. I've managed big projects at work and this is stressing me out, as nothing is staying to scope. What initially started as a pool resurfacing has turned into new coping and tile, a new deck, replacing the underground electrical. The next question, since the decks are up, is whether I need to replace the skimmer and all of the copper plumbing.

The copper plumbing I can see on the return lines is soft copper (K grade), which the plumbing guy said was the best. And even though it shows a little discoloration on the outside the pipes are in great shape.

So here's what's in question. in tearing up the decks the jackhammers squashed a few of the return lines. My initial reaction was to just get those areas of the return lines fixed, but a plumber came out and said he had a hard time getting the fittings on, so he recommended I call the pool guy and convert the returns to PVC.

So now I have a few bids from 2 pool guys and a different plumbing company:

1) Pool Guy #1 wants $1,150 to replace the copper piping to PVC. But said that while I have the deck up I should consider replacing the skimmer and all the piping to PVC = $3,600

2) Pool Guy #2 said that I should replace the returns to PVC and replace the skimmer and skimmer piping. Though he recommends leaving the copper inflow lines and holes to be filled in by plaster and wants to drill new holes for the PVC.

3) New Plumber - He says he can cut out the damaged areas and put fittings on and solder new pipe to the existing line. He said it would be strong and run me about $500 to $600 dollars. Or if I want to replace in new PVC or Copper $1,200 to $1,800.

My logic and leaning says Option #3. All indications are that my copper piping is in great shape. My skimmer works fine, there's no cracking, etc. The copper pipes it's obvious they put the best stuff in back in the 70 and that pipe is holding up great from what I can see. But it doesn't leave me with 100% confidence that I can pour my new deck over it and not think that a leak will come a few years from now. If the repair is done right, it should make the pipe almost as good as new, right?

Does anyone have any wisdom out there, specifically anyone who's been in my position and made a decision they learned to regret or regret that they prevented.

As you can see I'm trying to maximize $$$ now as my budget went from $10k to $22k. I've got to stop the bleeding somewhere.

Thanks in advance for your help, wisdom and knowledge!

Best-

Jenzen