What Equipment Is Used During A Pool Removal?

If you have a pool that is old and in need of repairs or you simply no longer wish to take on the expenses and risks associated with having a pool, you might consider removing it. Pool removal is also a popular option for people who want to reclaim yard space to use for leisure, entertainment or gardening.

While many people embark on a pool removal as a DIY project, professional pool removal contractors are a much smarter choice because of the potential for injury and damage to your yard or home. Whether you are going to attempt this yourself or you are bringing in professionals to get the job done, you might be wondering what tools and equipment are needed.

The Pool Removal Process

Removing a pool is a complex project that requires specialized equipment. There are two main methods used to remove a pool. With a fill-in, or partial removal, holes are placed into the bottom of the pool for drainage. Then, the first few feet of the pool shell are broken down and placed inside the remaining part. The area is then filled in with soil, which is compacted and leveled out to leave the yard in the right condition for its next use.

With a full removal, all of the materials that were used to construct the pool are broken down and hauled away. The area is then filled in with soil and compacted.

Although it can be more expensive and may take a couple of days longer than a fill-in, this is a favored method by many homeowners because it leaves the yard as though a pool never existed, which can help its resale value and give you more options for what to do with the space once the pool is gone. No matter which method you choose for your pool removal, several types of equipment and tools will be needed.

Breaking Down The Pool

Some pools are very thick. Those made of gunite or concrete may be as much as a foot thick and might also be reinforced with rebar. An excavator with a jackhammer attachment is often used to safely break this concrete. Excavators can be placed in a stationary position while their turret is spun around as the work is being carried out.

This keeps the operator more than 10 feet away from the breaking concrete. With their rubber tracks, excavators keep ground disturbance to a minimum and can be equipped with a range of specialized attachments that can get the job done efficiently.

One piece of equipment that should not be used for this process is a skid steer, such as a Bobcat with a breaker attachment. Skid steers are not designed to work with loads overhead while the machine is being moved; this can cause it to tip over.

Moreover, with the operator working directly beneath it, they are in danger of getting hit with falling concrete. Therefore, this type of machinery is not normally used for the demolition part of a pool removal.

However, a skid steer may be used for moving the concrete out of the swimming pool. A Bobcat with a grapple attachment can be used to pick up the material and transport it to the trucks that will haul it away. The same skid steer with a smooth bucket can be used to move the soil into the swimming pool cavity and spread it evenly; compactors need a perfectly level surface to work with.

A padded drum roller, also known as a sheep foot roller, is often used to compact soil to a high degree of density. These machines have large vibrating drums with knobs that serve to knead the soil to bind the dirt. In tight areas where access is challenging, a plate compactor might be used, although this may take longer and requires a very experienced operator.

Some other types of equipment that may be used include reciprocating saws, laser levels and rebar cutters.

Can The Equipment Used For Pool Removal Cause Damage To Your Home?

Some of the equipment that is used to demolish a pool can cause damage to driveways, sewer connections, landscaping, septic tanks and other areas of your yard.

This is why you should always choose to work with an experienced pool removal contractor who knows how to safely gain access to the pool area without while keeping disruptions to the surrounding area to a minimum. An experienced contractor will also know which type and size of equipment is best suited to the specific concerns of your swimming pool and your yard.

The popularity of DIY home projects means that many people are attempting pool removals on their own, but this often ends in an expensive mess that must be corrected by professionals and may end up costing even more than it would have if the project had been carried out by professionals from the start.

Although the tools and equipment that are needed for the job can be rented, there is a risk that an inexperienced homeowner could have a major accident operating unfamiliar heavy-duty equipment. It is surprisingly easy to destroy your sprinkler lines, plumbing pipes or septic tank if you do not know what you are doing.

Moreover, the prospect of chunks of concrete flying around while breaking and moving the pool lining means the potential for physical injury is very high.

In addition, an inexperienced homeowner could hit electrical or gas lines in their yard while working on their DIY pool removal, which can lead to serious problems. Experienced pool removal companies know what to look out for and where and how these lines can be secured to prevent accidents.

Why Professional Pool Removal Is a Smart Choice

While some homeowners may consider a DIY pool removal, the risks and challenges often outweigh the potential savings. Professional pool removal contractors have the experience and specialized equipment needed to safely and efficiently complete the job. They can prevent damage to your yard, home, and utilities, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. If you’re considering a pool removal in Northern Virginia, contact Dirt Connections for reliable and affordable service. Our team will help you reclaim your yard space with minimal disruption.

Get In Touch With The Experienced Swimming Pool Removal Team

If you are looking for professionals to carry out a Northern Virginia pool removal, get in touch with the team at Dirt Connections. We have the equipment and experience needed to get the job done safely and effectively. Our contractors can handle pools of all sizes and conditions, and our demolition and removal services are competitively priced.