Removing an in-ground pool isn’t an incredibly complex process on paper: The pool is drained and drilled, the edges are broken down, and the pool is filled in. But it’s actually a lot easier said than done. In reality, removing a pool is a very intensive process that requires a lot of know-how and even more equipment that most people don’t have access to. If you have an old pool you need removed, it’s important to work with an expert for your pool removal in New Jersey. Still, you should know what your options are and understand a little bit about the process and average cost before committing to removing your pool. Keep reading to learn what you need to know.
Understanding Your Options
First and foremost, it’s important that pool owners understand there is more than one way to remove a pool. Generally speaking, you’ll have two options to choose from: a full removal and a partial removal. As the name implies, a full removal completely extracts every piece of the old pool from your property. The entire pool structure is broken down using heavy machinery to create more manageable pieces that can then be hauled to a dumpster. The hole that’s left behind is then backfilled, compacted, and leveled to fit seamlessly with the rest of your yard.
Partial pool removal does not mean that you’ll have half a pool left on your property—at least not a visible half of a pool. Partial removal is very similar to full removal. The pool is drained, holes are drilled in the bottom, and only the top edges of the pool are broken down into chunks. These chunks are then left in the bottom of the remaining pool structure, and your contractor fills in the remaining space with gravel and/or dirt. The backfilling and compacting process in a partial removal is the same as that of a full removal, and you’ll see no sign of your old pool when the job is done.
Pros and Cons of Both Options
Due to the lower amount of demolition required, a partial removal is faster and less expensive than a full removal. However, having part of a swimming pool buried on your property does have its disadvantages. For one thing, there is a higher risk of sinking and seepage where the buried concrete is left behind. Additionally, you will need to disclose to future buyers that you had a pool removed, and a partial removal could impact your resale value.
Full removals cost more and take longer, but may be required in some municipalities and under certain by-laws, so it’s important to check your area’s rules regarding pool removal. The risk of sinking and seepage is virtually eliminated with a complete removal and, even though you do have to disclose the removal to future buyers, it doesn’t typically impact resale value.
Keep in mind that any area where a pool has been removed—whether a full or partial removal—will typically be considered non-buildable space, so you cannot build any dwelling on that area. However, you can still use it for landscaping, trees, patios, sheds, and concrete pads.
What Does It Cost?
Of course, the cost is always something to be considered for a project like this. The price tag on a pool removal will vary depending on the size of the pool, accessibility of the area, material type (vinyl, concrete, fiberglass, etc.), and whether or not you choose a full or partial removal. On average, full removal will cost between $9,000 and $19,000, while a partial removal is about $5,000.
If you need your pool removed, contact Atlantic Pool Experts to get a quote on your concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass pool removal in New Jersey today.