If your pool is no longer useful for you or you’re concerned about high expenses, and safety issues, or if you are thinking of selling your home, you’re in the right place. Not everyone enjoys having a pool on their property, and there are a lot of different reasons why people choose to remove a pool.
Pool removal can sometimes be challenging due to its structural complexities, costs, environmental considerations, and many other factors that influence the process. However, pool removal can be done easily with good guidance and practical advice.
Stay with us as we guide you through the process of pool removal while we uncover all the details of the process and help you choose the best approach for your pool removal.
Why do people remove pools?
There are a lot of reasons why people decide to remove a pool. One of the most common are:
- High maintenance costs
- Safety concerns
- It’s not used enough
- Space issues
- Environmental concerns
Whatever the case is, it is important to be sure in your decision and to know why you are removing the pool. There are both advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to be well-informed before undertaking such a process.
The cost of pool removal depends on numerous factors such as the type of pool (above ground or inground), size of the pool, pool removal method, and the demolition contractor you choose.
If you made a decision and you’re sure that you want to remove your pool, in the following text, find out which pool removal methods exist and which one is the best option for you.
Pool removal methods
If you’re wondering how to get rid of an inground pool from your property, there are two ways:
- Partial removal (filling in a pool)
- Complete pool removal
Above-ground pool removal methods include:
- The pool is drained – The easiest way to drain a pool is with a pump, and a sewer point is typically located within 100 feet of the pool.
- Pool is torn down – This type of process includes unscrewing bolts, taking a sledgehammer to the walls, and ripping them apart.
- Pool is hauled away – Rent a dumpster or just hire a junk removal company to get rid of the debris and be sure to recycle as much as possible because then you’ll be able to save on costs and help debris out of the landfill.
Now that we’ve established which pool removal methods exist, let’s find out more about the inground pool removal process because its removal process is more complex than for an above-ground pool.
Inground pool removal process
What is involved in the inground pool removal process? Here are the steps that need to be included:
- Complying with local regulations and safety standards
- Draining the pool
- Utility cables check-in
- Decking removal
- Pool removal
- Backfilling the pool cavity and compacting the soil
As we said before, there are two methods of pool removal, partial pool removal and full pool removal. We will deal with each of these methods individually when it comes to the inground pool removal process.
Partial removal (filling in a pool)
Filling in a pool or partial removal, involves draining the pool, breaking up the top layer of the pool, and filling the space with materials like gravel or sand. This method is the most affordable way of removing an inground pool and it’s faster than full pool removal because it typically takes 2-3 days to finish it.
This method carries some risks as well, especially if you want to sell your house in the future. You’ll need to disclose this to future buyers of the property because if the method isn’t done properly, there is a potential risk of sinkage, swelling, or lack of proper seepage.
Complete pool removal
Complete pool removal involves demolishing the entire structure, backfilling with soil and gravel, removing debris, and restoring the area with topsoil. The process begins with pool draining, and removing all materials like concrete, fiberglass, liner, etc., and hauling them away. After this, the area is filled with soil or gravel and compacted.
Disclosing full pool removal to the potential buyers, in most cases, doesn’t impact on home’s value and the risk of sinkage and seepage is reduced, even eliminated.
Most of the cities consider the area of the former pool to be non-buildable, which means that no additions or dwellings can exist there. Although it’s non-buildable, the area is still very suitable for sheds, concrete, different landscaping, trees, etc.
In the following text, discover what type of permits you need, in order to safely start the pool removal process.
Pool removal permits
In most cases, for pool demolition, you’ll need a demolition permit. The cost of a permit depends on your local municipality. Many local governments have rules on how the pool should be removed.
Some municipalities have zoning ordinances or codes that state that a pool must be completely removed, without filling in. If partial pool demolition and removal are allowed, there will probably be some specific protocols on how you should fill in the pool.
Pool permit ensures that the demolished pool pieces are being removed and disposed of responsibly, and to ensure that the space where your pool used to be is filled in accordingly and does not represent a danger to other structures or people.
To make sure you’re handling the process in the best possible way, it’s always advisable to get a demolition contractor who will give his estimate on everything.
Pool demolition contractors
Since removing a pool can be a costly experience, it’s always highly recommended to get multiple estimates and opinions on the best way to do your pool demolition project. You should get quotes from different pool removal contractors in your area to decide which one is the most efficient for you.
You will need to provide your contractor a detailed site plan, that will provide an overview of everything that’s on your property.
Hiring an experienced pool removal contractor is very important because due to the use of heavy equipment for pool demolition, damage can be done to landscaping, driveways, septic tanks, sewer connections, etc. To avoid this, the pool contractor needs to carefully consider how to gain access to the pool, and what size and type of equipment is the best for your pool and backyard.
Whatever pool removal method you choose, always hire a licensed professional who will do the work according to municipality and building rules.
After you finish your pool demolition process, you can fill in your pool and transform your backyard. In the following text, find out different alternatives to filling in an inground pool.
Inground pool conversion ideas
After pool demolition is done, with a little creativity, you can transform your old and now useless pool into a usable area for you and your family. Here are 4 ideas of what you can do:
- Convert swimming pool to patio – The swimming pool area can become a functional patio for you and your family. After draining the pool and demolishing the structure, prepare the area for the patio’s foundation. Try to choose durable and weather-resistant materials such as concrete to ensure its quality. Consult with the contractor and ensure a successful transition from a pool to a patio.
- Turn your pool into a garden – If you like plants and would love to have a plot for vegetables, this is an ideal solution for you. This project can’t be done without a professional. For this conversion, holes need to be drilled in the bottom of the pool in order to allow proper drainage and the soil needs to be compacted to prevent it from sinking. After this is done, plan the garden layout and enjoy your new space.
- Have a pool-to-deck conversion – Building a deck is a great idea to make your outdoor space look more beautiful and to reuse the pool space in the best way. Once your pool is gone and removed, prepare the site for deck construction by leveling the ground, removing any remaining pool debris, and fixing all the drainage or grading issues. Make sure to design the deck layout and choose materials such as wood or composite, and since you’re building a new structure, check compliance with your local building department.
- Cement pond – If you’re not using your swimming pool but want to keep the possibility of restoring it in the future, turning it into a pond will help you create a relaxing area. You will probably need to make changes to your pool’s structure and add a filtration system, and also pay for its professional upkeep especially if you add plants or animals.
These are the four most common ideas for reusing the backyard space on your property after the demolition of the pool. Whichever idea you decide on, you will certainly not go wrong and you’ll use the space in the best way.
Pool removal FAQs
Is it possible to remove an inground pool yourself?
Yes, it is possible to remove an inground pool on your own, but it’s not advisable since the process is very challenging and involves tasks like draining, breaking up the structure, and taking care of the disposing of debris. You should always consider hiring professionals for the safety and efficiency of the process.
What does fiberglass pool removal include?
Removal of fiberglass pools involves:
– draining the pool
– cutting it into sections
– lifting or excavating the pieces from the ground
This process will most likely require heavy equipment and skilled labor. Once the process of removal is done, the site is filled, leveled, and landscaped to restore it to its original condition.
How much does the swimming pool removal service cost?
Pool removal service typically depends on numerous factors such as pool type, size, and location. Basic above-ground pool removal goes from $2,000 to $6,000 while inground pool removal costs are more expensive and range from $5,000 to $20,000.
Can I repurpose or recycle materials from my removed pool?
Yes, you can reuse or recycle materials from your removed pool. Metal components can be reused or recycled, concrete and masonry can be crushed for landscaping, wooden decking can be repurposed while pool liners like vinyl, may have more limited recycling options. For proper disposal always check in with local recycling facilities.
What post-removal considerations should I keep in mind for landscaping?
You should consider a lot of factors such as soil quality, drainage, plant selection, irrigation, hardscaping, utility lines, budget, local regulations, and erosion control, and always seek professional help and advice when you’re planning landscaping after pool removal.
Pool removal process can be stress-free with expert guidance
Now that you know everything about the process, you’re ready to remove your pool safely without any concerns. Our expert guidance and site plan for permits, ensure efficiency, compliance with regulations, and a stress-free experience. We hope that we have helped you and that your pool removal will go without any complications.
For any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.
