Background swimming pools are a joy to own; here at Atlantic Pool Experts, we love them. Nevertheless, there may come a time when it no longer makes sense to keep operating a pool. It may be because your pool is old and run down, or it may be that you only aren’t using it enough to justify the maintenance; whatever the reason, when it’s time for pool demolition in New Jersey, you have two basic removal options: partial or full removal. Taking a closer look at each option and talking to a professional pool demolition contractor will help you decide which is best for you and your backyard.
Partial Removal
Partial pool removal is the most common pool removal choice; its relatively low cost and quick turnaround contribute to its popularity. Partial removal involves the following:
- Remove all pool components, including filters, pumps, ladders, etc.
- Drilling holes into the bottom of the pool liner. This allows groundwater to drain.
- Tear down the top 18 to 36 inches of the pool walls. Concrete and gunite are strong and typically reinforced with rebar, so this process must be done with care.
- Place the demolished concrete into the bottom of the pool. This process is more complicated than merely randomly dumping broken pieces into the empty pool. The future stability of the space requires that the debris be carefully managed.
- Backfill the pool with soil.
- Compacting and smoothing the soil to create a stable, flat surface. You can opt to have this process engineered to maximize the land’s stability and avoid future problems such as sinking.
The main advantages of this method are cost and speed. There are, however, some significant disadvantages that you need to consider. First, this method is not allowed by many municipalities. Make sure to check your local regulations before choosing partial removal. Second, the land will be unbuildable. Depending on the location, this may not be a significant issue, but it will always need to be disclosed to future buyers. And third, if anyone ever wants to put a pool there again, the old one will need to be dug up and completely removed.
Full Removal
Full pool removal is just as the name implies; every bit of the pool is demolished and removed from the site. Complete removal takes longer and is more costly. You can expect the process to involve the following:
- Remove all detachable pool components, including filters, pumps, ladders, etc.
- Demolish the entire pool liner. Again, concrete and gunite pools are built to be tough, but excavators with jackhammers will break the material into pieces that can be removed.
- Removing every piece of debris from the site and disposing of it safely and appropriately. As demolition creates considerable waste, this process can take some time.
- Backfill the pool with soil.
- Compacting the soil to create a stable, flat surface. Opting to have this process engineered will make a sound space that can be used for any future needs.
The main advantage of this method is that it removes any potential future impact. The land is buildable with no restrictions. However, this option does come at a higher cost and a longer time frame than partial removal.
Call for a Quote Today
Call Atlantic Pool Experts today for a quote on inground pool removal in New Jersey. Our contractors will explain your options and help you choose which is right for you.