Removing an outdoor swimming pool is a multi-step process that requires careful planning, adherence to local regulations, and execution. It transforms your outdoor space by eliminating the pool structure and restoring the land for new uses.
How to Remove an Outdoor Swimming Pool?
The process of removing an outdoor swimming pool involves a series of critical stages, from initial permit acquisition to final site restoration. Proper execution ensures safety, compliance, and a successful transformation of your property.
The Step-by-Step Pool Removal Process
Based on common industry practices and regulatory requirements, the pool removal process typically follows these five essential steps:
1. Step 1: Obtain Permits and Regulations
Before any physical work begins, the crucial first step is to understand and comply with local regulations. This involves:
- Researching Local Codes: Contact your local building department or planning commission to inquire about specific permits required for pool demolition.
- Environmental Considerations: Check for any environmental regulations regarding water drainage, debris disposal, or potential impact on groundwater.
- Utility Line Identification: Arrange for utility companies to mark any underground lines (water, gas, electrical, sewer) that could be near or under the pool structure to prevent accidental damage. This is often a free service (e.g., calling 811 in the U.S.).
2. Step 2: Drain the Pool
Once permits are secured, the pool must be completely emptied. This step requires careful attention to environmental guidelines:
- Proper Drainage: Use a submersible pump to drain the pool water.
- Disposal Regulations: Do not simply drain chlorinated water into storm drains or natural bodies of water. Local regulations often require water to be drained into the sanitary sewer system, or to dissipate chlorine before release. You might need to test the water's chemical levels before disposal.
- Sediment Removal: After draining, remove any remaining sediment or debris from the pool bottom.
3. Step 3: Demolition Process
This is the core of the physical removal and can be approached in a couple of ways:
- Full Demolition: This involves completely breaking up and removing all pool materials (concrete, fiberglass, vinyl liner, rebar, plumbing).
- Heavy machinery, such as an excavator or jackhammer, is used to break down the structure.
- All debris is then hauled away from the site for proper disposal or recycling. This method is more expensive but leaves no buried pool components.
- Partial Demolition (Burial/Fill-In): This common method involves breaking down only the top portion of the pool walls (typically 2-3 feet below grade) and punching holes in the bottom of the pool shell.
- The holes in the bottom facilitate drainage and prevent water accumulation after backfilling.
- The remaining pool shell is left in place and buried. This is generally more cost-effective but may require disclosure if the property is sold in the future, as there's a buried structure.
- Safety First: Always prioritize safety during demolition. Ensure all workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and that the site is secured to prevent unauthorized access.
4. Step 4: Backfill and Compaction
After demolition, the excavation must be properly filled to prevent future settling and drainage issues:
- Appropriate Fill Material: Use inert, non-organic materials for backfilling, such as:
- Gravel
- Sand
- Crushed concrete (from the demolished pool, if processed correctly)
- Clean fill dirt
- Layered Filling and Compaction: The fill material should be added in layers (e.g., 6-12 inches at a time). Each layer must be thoroughly compacted using heavy compaction equipment (e.g., plate compactors, vibratory rollers).
- Compaction is critical to prevent voids and future settlement that could lead to uneven ground, drainage problems, or structural issues for anything built on the site.
- Slope for Drainage: Ensure a slight slope away from any existing structures to promote proper surface water runoff.
5. Step 5: Site Restoration
The final step is to restore the area, preparing it for its new purpose:
- Final Grading: Finish grading the area to ensure it is level and blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
- Landscaping: This can involve:
- Planting new grass or a garden.
- Installing a patio or deck.
- Creating a new outdoor living space.
- Monitoring: It's advisable to monitor the site for a period after restoration for any signs of settling, which might require additional fill and compaction.
By following these comprehensive steps, an outdoor swimming pool can be effectively and safely removed, transforming your backyard into a versatile new space.
