Swimming Pool Removal – Demolition Process, Fill In Tips & Permits

ByOluwasegun

Here, we’re going to be discussing a swimming pool removal process, provide details about hiring the right pool demolition contractor as well as the pros and cons involved.

You will learn how to fill a pool with dirt and get rid of it completely.

So how do you fill in a swimming pool?

How To Demo A Pool

Swimming pools eventually outlive their usefulness. In other words, such installations will have to be removed or demolished at some point.

We’ll also be looking at different swimming pool types as well as the most suitable demolition method for each type. Do you need to obtain a permit for swimming pool demolition?

You want to stick around to find out how to fill in a pool.

How To Fill In A Swimming Pool

Swimming pool demolition jobs are handled in varying degrees.

In other words, there’s partial demolition as well as complete demolition. The names alone speak volumes; however, to what degree or extent do such demolitions go?

Let’s take a brief look at each type.

i. Partial Swimming Pool Removal

The term “partial” refers to an incomplete process. This prefix simply means a swimming pool demolition isn’t complete. Incomplete swimming pool demolition serves a purpose or need. Basically, it involves the removal of the top portion of a pool and no more.

In other words, the top portion of the pool is demolished or pushed right into the bottom of the pool. This process also goes by the name “pool fill-in.” the entire pool void needs to be filled up with debris from the demolition process and also dirt from elsewhere.

This procedure is mostly performed for inground pools. Now it’s important to note that there are inground and above-ground swimming pools. The removal process for both types of pools is different as you’ll soon learn.

What are the Pros and Cons?

Both partial and complete swimming pool removal methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Before you settle for any, it’s important to have an idea of what these are.

Such knowledge provides a guide in choosing what works best for you.

  • Pros

a. Speed of Completion

As discussed above, it’s clear that performing a partial removal procedure for pools isn’t thorough. In other words, it doesn’t target the entire structure for demolition. This gives it a clear edge; speedy completion.

Now, the number of persons involved in such demolition work will also influence the amount of time spent on the job. On average, it’s faster to complete a partial pool demolition than complete demolition.

b. Cheaper

Because the removal process adopted isn’t as detailed as incomplete pool demolition, it tends to cost less.

Generally, the more strenuous a job is, the higher the pool removal costs are likely to be and vice versa. This is why partial swimming pool demolition jobs tend to be cheaper.

c. Easier to Perform

Only a part of the swimming pool structure is targeted for demolition. Plus, debris isn’t cleared and hauled away but emptied down the pool. As such, less work is performed, thus making the process much easier.

  • Cons

Swimming pool demolition or removal comes with its downsides too. Not everything about the process is good. Some of the disadvantages include the following;

a. Building on the Filled space isn’t Possible

After every pool demolition job, the space left needs to be filled up.

Spaces, where partial demolition has occurred, can’t be built upon. This is because such ground is most likely unstable as the right kind of material wasn’t used to fill it up.

b. Greater Risks Involved

In a way, this connects with the first point given which is the unsuitability of the filled space for building. Risks involved here include underground pooling as well as the possibility of sinkholes resulting.

c. Decrease in Property Value

Any property with a partially demolished pool won’t be as attractive to buyers as one where complete swimming pool demolition has occurred.

Knowing this can be helpful towards adopting a more comprehensive swimming pool demolition technique.

d. It may be Illegal

In certain locations, partial swimming pool demolition may be outright illegal.

You might want to speak with appropriate local authorities to find out what applies to your area or location. This saves you a lot of stress due to ignorance.

Complete Swimming Pool Removal

This is an extensive and thorough pool removal process.

Unlike partial demolition that focuses only on the pool sections above-ground, this pool removal method involves completely breaking up the pool and hauling away debris.

The empty void is then filled with gravel, and dirt among other types of materials.

  • Pros

There are multiple benefits attached to complete swimming pool removal. These include being maintenance-free, keeping a stable property value, low risks, and a buildable space.

Let’s discuss each of these points.

a. Maintenance-Free

You won’t have to worry about maintenance when it comes to complete swimming pool removal. This is because a thorough demolition job was performed and the space properly filled up.

The chances of excessive soil compaction and refilling are limited.

b. Keeping a Stable Property Value

Your property value doesn’t depreciate as is the case with partial pool demolition. With complete demolition, it maintains its value and could even increase when other factors come into play.

c. Low Risks

Common issues associated with partial demolition such as sinkholes and underground pooling water are absent here. Complete swimming pool demolition goes a long way to lower the risks involved.

d. Having a Space that’s Buildable

More importantly, you’re able to put the leveled surface area above the filled pool to good use. Having extra building space means your property has additional space for doing whatever you want to do.

  • Cons

There are downsides too! Although complete swimming pool demolition has several advantages, some downsides exist. However, these are manageable. They include increased costs as well as unexpected costs.

It’s also a time-consuming procedure.

Swimming Pool Demolition: Above & In-Ground Options

Swimming pool removal and demolition fall under two main categories; above-ground and in-ground demolition. Let’s have a look at both types as well as the demolition processes involved.

i. Above Ground Swimming Pool Removal

Not all swimming pools are installed in-ground. Some are mounted above the ground surface. Demolishing such pools is performed following a series of steps such as those provided here;

  • Have the Pool Drained

Before any demolition work begins on a swimming pool, it needs to be drained of water. A pump will prove handy for such a task. Find a drainage point nearby where such water can be channeled through.

  • Demolishing the Swimming Pool

Having drained the water held in the pool, it’s time to commence demolition work. Demolition targets the pool body. This is broken up using appropriate tools.

Specific tools use for demolition will be determined by the demolition contractor.

One of the first things to do is loosen all bolts. The walls are then torn down using assorted tools. With teardown completed, it’s time to begin hauling off debris to a dumpsite.

  • Hauling Debris Away

You might want to hire a junk removal company or rent a dumpster.

Actions taken will be determined by your preference. If some items or components can be salvaged, your total cleanup costs will be reduced.

  • Grading the Site

Now, the demolition site needs to be graded or leveled. This process leaves the site ready for other uses.

Sometimes, an above-ground pool may be replaced. If you’re building or installing another pool at the same site, then grading won’t be necessary.

ii. In-Ground Swimming Pool Removal

In-ground swimming pool demolition follows multiple steps.

Such steps include breaking the top concrete layer, tearing down pool walls and floor, clearing debris, getting rid of other materials, filling up space, and grading the site.

  • Breaking the Top Concrete Layer

If the pool hasn’t been drained of water previously, it’s performed as a preparatory step. Now, the concrete at the top layer consisting of the walkway and surrounding concrete are broken up.

  • Tearing Down Pool Walls and Floor

The next phase focuses on the swimming pool floor and walls. Demolishing these areas doesn’t have to turn debris into fine dust. These are broken up into fairly manageable pieces orbits.

  • Clearing Debris

All debris resulting from demolition is cleared out into a dumpster. A demolition contractor may use an excavator for this purpose.

  • Getting Rid of Other Materials

With debris out of the way, what remains are other construction materials such as steel framing, wood, aluminum among others. It will be a great idea if you find other uses for such materials.

  • Filling up Space

Space created needs to be filled back up. Dirt and gravel are mostly used as filling materials. The right materials must be used to better manage compaction and settling.

  • Grading the Site

Having filled the pool, the top surface needs to be leveled or graded. Demolition contractors are well trained in this area. Sometimes, new construction may be targeted or planned for space.

Who Performs A Pool Demolition Procedure?

Swimming pool demolition and removal isn’t one to be considered as a DIY project.

It requires the expertise of a pro to tear down the structure and fill it back with appropriate materials. You’ll need to hire a reputable demolition contractor for such a project.

If you’ve read through the entire article, you should have a fair idea of what it takes to remove a swimming pool, as well as its pros and cons.

Here, we’ve seen the different types of pool demolition as well as procedures involved.