5 Things To Consider For A Northern Virginia Pool Removal

Once you have decided to have your swimming pool removed, you may believe that the demolition will be a simple and straightforward project. However, a Northern Virginia pool removal is actually a complex undertaking, which in some ways is more intense than constructing a new pool.

What To Consider Before Northern VA Pool Removal

Here is a look at some important factors to consider when you are having a pool removed in Northern Virginia to ensure the process goes smoothly from start to finish.

1. The Pool Removal Method

Northern Virginia homeowners have two main choices when it comes to getting rid of an unwanted inground swimming pool: partial pool removal or full pool removal. A partial removal is the more affordable option. This involves drilling holes in the bottom of the pool to help it drain properly before breaking down the sides of the pool a few feet from the top and placing the broken concrete into the bottom of the pool. It will then be backfilled and compacted.

Although this is faster and cheaper than a full removal, it is important to be aware that it may limit the way that the land can be used in the future. In many areas, you will not be permitted to build on top of the land where the pool once stood.

For example, extending your home onto this area or building a new pool there may not be an option until the entire shell is broken up and removed completely. Moreover, you will be required to disclose this work to anyone who buys your home in the future.

A full pool removal, in contrast, may be more expensive but comes with the major benefit of allowing you to do whatever you wish with your land after the pool has been removed. This involves breaking up and removing all of the material that makes up the pool cavity and hauling it off the site before filling in and compacting the area.

This option tends to have less of an effect on a buyer’s decision if you sell your house in the future because there are no limitations on what can be built on the area where the pool was situated.

2. The Time of Year

The absence of extreme temperatures in Northern Virginia means that most times of year are perfectly suitable for a pool removal. However, there are some times that are more ideal than others. For example, Northern Virginia does experience freezes in winter, and you may wish to avoid the need to dig into frozen ground for a pool removal.

Summer and spring are the most popular times of year for pool removal. Once the ground begins to fully thaw in spring, pool removal can begin. However, it is important to note that spring and summer are very busy months for contractors, so you may find that you have to wait several weeks or months to have your pool removed in Northern Virginia if you contact a contractor at this time of year.

Fall is a good time to have a pool removed as the days start getting cooler and the pool gets less use. Removing the pool during this time of year means that you will have your yard ready to start new projects as soon as spring sets in.

3. How You Plan To Use The Reclaimed Yard Space

It is important to consider how you intend to use the land where your pool once stood before you begin the process. First, the land’s future use will determine whether a full or partial removal is more appropriate. As discussed above, if you plan to build a structure over the space, you will need to get a full pool removal.

Another reason it is best to have a future use in mind is because it can help your pool removal contractor leave the yard in a suitable condition. They may need to level the yard or cover the top layer of fill with soil that is appropriate for planting a garden, for example.

4. The Cost Of Your Pool Removal Project

Another important factor to consider with your Northern Virginia pool removal is its cost. There are many factors that can influence how much you can expect to spend on the project. The average cost for a pool fill-in or partial removal is around $5,000, while a full removal may cost between $9,000 and $19,000.

However, bigger pools will naturally require more labor as they may take longer to remove, which can drive up the cost. Another consideration is how easy it is to access the pool area. If the contractors can get their equipment into the pool area easily, it will be considerably cheaper than it will if the pool is in an area that is difficult for machinery to reach.

5. Who Your Contractor Is

It is essential that you choose an experienced and qualified contractor to carry out the task. Even the most seasoned DIYers should not attempt to remove their own swimming pool due to the many dangers involved in the process.

Specialty equipment is needed, and breaking up concrete can pose a lot of danger to those in the area. A contractor will have the right tools and knowledge to get the job done safely and without compromising the integrity of your yard or home.

When you are choosing a pool removal contractor, it is best to get referrals from friends and family. You may want to research them by taking a look at reviews online and interviewing the contractor directly. You may also ask for referrals and talk to customers who have used their services.

If a pool removal is not done properly, you could end up facing very expensive problems, such as the ground swelling or sinking, a lack of proper drainage, or even damage to your driveway, landscaping or septic tank.

Reach Out To The Experienced Northern Virginia Pool Removal Contractors

If you would like to learn more about the pool removal process, get in touch with Dirt Connections. With more than 30 years of experience in pool removal and other residential remodeling and construction services, our professionals can advise you on the best way to remove an unwanted swimming pool from your yard and carry out the work at a competitive price regardless of your pool’s condition.