What are the different methods for removing an inground pool?

1. Partial Removal or Pool Fill-in Method

How it works: Partly removing and filling in a pool is the most common form of pool demolition. It involves draining the pool, punching holes into the bottom, demolishing the top layer of the pool (18″ – 36″), placing the rubble in the bottom of the pool, filling in the pool with additional dirt and top soil, and compacting the soil. Unless your city requires it, the partial fill in can be done without the oversight of an engineer technician. Take a moment to read some of our online reviews to see why our pool removal Sydney are considered some of the best.

Advantages: This type of inground pool removal is often the most affordable option, and is also the fastest to complete (typically 2-5 days).

Disadvantages:

This will be something you have to disclose to future buyers of the property, and it could affect the value of your home.
If this method isn’t performed properly, there is an increased risk of sinkage, swelling, or lack of proper seepage.
A majority of cities consider the area of the former pool to be non-buildable, meaning no additions or dwellings can exist there. However, the area is still suitable for sheds, concrete, landscaping, trees, etc.

2. Partial Removal or Pool Fill-in with Engineered Backfill

How it works: This partial removal method also involves draining the pool, punching holes into the bottom, demolishing the top layer of the pool (18″ – 36″), placing the rubble in the bottom of the pool, and then backfilling and compacting. However, the fill-in of the pool is done under the supervision of an engineer technician.

Note: This method is typically only used when the city requires it, but if you’re not confident in your contractor’s skill, this may be a good route to take.

Advantages: This method is also a fast, affordable option, and has the added benefit of knowing the area has been properly compacted.

Disadvantages:

This will be something you have to disclose to future buyers of the property, and it could affect the value of your home.
If this method isn’t performed properly, there is an increased risk of sinkage, swelling, or lack of proper seepage.
A majority of cities consider the area of the former pool to be non-buildable, meaning no additions or dwellings can exist there. However, the area is still suitable for sheds, concrete, landscaping, trees, etc.

3. Full Removal with Non-Engineered Backfill

How it works: The pool is drained, and all materials (e.g. concrete/gunite, fiberglass, liner, re-bar, etc.) are removed and hauled away. The area is then filled and compacted without the supervision of an engineer.

Advantages:

Although you will have to disclose that you fully removed a pool that was once on the property, it should have little to no impact on your home’s value.

With no concrete buried in the old pool, the risk of sinkage and seepage is greatly reduced, even eliminated.

Disadvantages:

A majority of cities consider the area of the former pool to be non-buildable, meaning no additions or dwellings can exist there. However, the area is still suitable for sheds, concrete, landscaping, trees, etc.
This option is more expensive than partial removal.

4. Full Removal with Engineered Backfill

How it works: The pool is drained, and all materials (e.g. concrete/Gunite, fiberglass, liner, re-bar, etc.) are removed and hauled away. The area is then filled and compacted under the supervision of an engineer who performs density testing and submits a final engineer review declaring the area “buildable.”

Advantages: This is the best method for maintaining your home’s value. In the eyes of real estate and builders, it’s as if the pool was never there.

Disadvantages: This is the most expensive option.