How To Choose A Pool Removal Contractor

Having a swimming pool on your property can be a significant burden, especially if you do not use it often. If you are keeping your pool closed year after year or you are tired of the work and worry associated with having a pool, it may be time to consider hiring a pool removal contractor.

Why Do People Remove Their Swimming Pools?

There are several reasons that you might feel it is time to have your swimming pool permanently removed. First, you will be able to save the time and money that you spend each month on swimming pool maintenance. It also means you will not have to contend with the liabilities that come with having a pool on your property.

If you have young children or you live in a neighborhood with lots of children, you can avoid the potential safety hazards associated with having a pool.

For some homeowners, the prospect of having additional yard space for other types of recreation or landscaping features is a very appealing one. In addition, a home without a swimming pool can be easier to sell in the future as many buyers actively avoid homes that have pools. In some cases, it may even raise the value of your home.

What To Look For In A Pool Removal Contractor

As pool removal becomes more popular, many contractors are offering pool removal services. However, it is important to choose a contractor with experience and expertise in the specific concerns involved in removing a pool, as substandard work can compromise your entire property.

Outlined below are some of the qualities you should look for when you are choosing your pool removal contractor.

A Pool Removal Contractor With Plenty Of Experience

Many people begin their search for pool contractors online. You can look for local pool removal services in your area and use online reviews to guide your selection. You might also want to consider general pool builders, as many of them offer removals as an additional service.

If you know someone who has recently had a pool removed, or if you have seen this type of work being carried out in your neighborhood, ask for referrals. Find out how your friends or family members felt about the pool removal process and whether the contractor lived up to their expectations.

You will also want to ensure the contractor you are considering has specific experience in the type of removal project you need. There are two general approaches to removing a pool: a partial removal and a full removal. It is important to understand the differences between these two methods before you begin, as your choice will have a big impact on the project’s cost and timeline as well as the equipment needed.

Partial Pool Removal or Fill-In

This is a less expensive pool removal option that is also known as “filling in” the pool. Your pool removal contractor will get the required permits for demolishing the pool and disconnecting the plumbing and electricity to it. After disconnecting everything, the pool will be fully drained. Then, holes will be drilled into the bottom of it to ensure that any of the moisture it collects will be able to drain away.

After breaking up the bottom of the pool, the contractor will take away the top 18 inches of your pool’s wall as well as any unwanted decking. This debris will then go into the pool shell that remains. After the debris is placed, the pool shell will be backfilled with dirt and gravel and then compacted so the surface will not sink with time. The area can then be covered with soil if you wish to use it as additional yard space.

Keep in mind that this option is not suitable if you plan to build a new structure on the site. Most building codes prohibit such use because of the potential for settling or sinking.

Full Pool Removal

A full pool removal is a more expensive method, but it is the preferred option in most cases. With a full removal, the entire pool is demolished, and its materials are hauled away by the pool removal contractor.

Contractors will first drain the pool and then demolish its shell to break it into pieces. These pieces will then be removed and recycled as appropriate. The empty area where the pool once stood will be backfilled with gravel and soil. Finally, the surface will be compacted and prepared for future use.

This approach takes more time than partial removal and requires more backfill, but it will leave you with a more stable yard that is less prone to sinking.

A Contractor Who Will Get The Required Permits

Many municipalities require that you obtain a permit prior to pool removal. A good pool removal contractor will handle all of the permit details for you. Not only are they more experienced at obtaining the necessary permits, but they also know how to avoid some of the more common problems associated with permits.

General contractors who say they cannot get a permit may lack experience in pool removals. Keep in mind that having a pool removed without the necessary permits will cause problems when you try to sell your home or if your local municipality finds out you had this work carried out.

A Pool Removal Contractor Who Is Properly Insured

Make sure the contractor you hire is fully insured as this can protect you if they make a mistake during your demolition, an accident occurs or one of their workers is injured. Ask to see copies of their liability insurance, worker’s compensation insurance and state contractor’s license, and then verify that their policies are current.

Reach Out To The Professional Pool Removal Contractors

Pool removal is a serious job that requires experienced contractors who have the proper equipment to perform the work safely and efficiently. Get in touch with the pool removal professionals at Dirt Connections to find out how their friendly team can help with every step of the process, from permits and demolition to filling, grading and landscaping.