There are a few things to think about when you make the decision to remove an in-ground pool and cost is only one of them. Would you rather have:
- A larger yard with more attractive landscaping
- Space for something more useful, like a nice patio with a fire pit
- Less maintenance
Read on for an overview of the process, what it can cost and how it can affect the value of your home.
The Process to Remove an In-ground Pool
Much like when digging for a pool, there’s quite a bit of work you need to do before you remove an in-ground pool. First there is the pool’s excavation. You’ll need to:
- Get a permit for digging
- Drain the pool
- Have heavy machinery on hand.
Depending on how the pool was made, it may need to be removed by a jackhammer, either man or machine-operated, such as on the end of a backhoe. You’ll also need to truck in stabilizers and dirt to fill the hole, regardless of whether you go with a full or partial removal of an in-ground pool.
Partial or Full Removal of an In-ground Pool
One of the major decisions you have to make when you think about removing your pool is if you want to do a full or partial removal. Each type of removal of an in-ground pool has advantages and drawbacks.
Partial Removal:
The top few feet of the pool is demolished with the debris thrown into the deep end. Holes are punched into the pool’s bottom to allow drainage from rainwater. Then the entire site is buried with back-fill.
Partial removal is a less expensive and less intensive option since the entire pool doesn’t need to be demolished and carted off. However, there are several drawbacks.
- Any material from the removal of an in-ground pool can not be hazardous.
- A partial removal in your back yard could lower your home’s property value.
- There could be drainage problems.
Full Removal:
While more expensive and resource-intensive, full removals remove the issues of hazardous materials and lowered property value. You will need heavy machinery to lift out the broken-up material and placed into a truck or dumpster. You will need to bring in additional back-fill. Without a layer of pool debris under your lawn, you will eliminate drainage problems that could occur otherwise.
The Cost to Remove an In-ground Pool
The cost of having professionals remove your pool varies widely, depending on location, access, and construction of the pool. The best way to determine the cost is to have a contractor provide an estimate for you. Have an experienced excavation company provide a consultation on the scope and cost of the project. This is a useful time to pick the professional’s brain on the type of removal that would work best for your yard and your budget.
How Pool Removal Affects Resale Value
If you have an old, non-functioning pool that has become an eyesore, removing it will help increase your property value. When you remove a fully-functioning in-ground pool, your home might decline slightly in property value. How much its value will decline depends on many different factors, including where you live and who the potential buyers are in your area. For example, Millennials prefer low-maintenance yards and features. This means that a pool would be a deterrent rather than a incentive for a millennial buyer. To offset any potential loss of value, consider adding a yard feature that will make your home more attractive for a future sale. Consulting a real estate agent can give you a better idea of the impact that removal of an in-ground pool will have on your property value.
At New England Enterprises in Marlborough, MA, we’re experts in demolitions and excavations, including full or partial removal of in-ground pools or semi in-ground pools. We’ve got the tools and experience to remove your pool quickly, safely and on-budget. Contact us to learn more and get an expert consultation for your pool removal project.