What to Know Before Getting an Above Ground Pool Removal

An above-ground pool can be a great way to cool off in the summer, especially for those who lack the space or budget for an inground pool. However, these pools do not last forever, and their appeal often fades long before the pool reaches the end of its useful life. Although removing an above-ground pool is less of a hassle than removing an inground pool, it is nevertheless a big project that requires careful planning and skill.

Whether your above-ground pool isn’t getting much use, you want to eliminate the expense and hassle of buying chemicals to treat the water, or you bought a house with an unwanted above-ground pool, removal is a great option that can improve your home’s curb appeal and free up space in the yard for a garden, patio or play area.

Here’s everything you need to know before removing an above-ground pool.

Cost

Because above-ground pools are often removed for financial reasons, such as saving money on maintenance or improving a home’s overall value, cost is often one of the main questions homeowners have about above-ground pool removal.The price can widely vary and is estimated to be somewhere between $1,000 and $3,000. This includes the cost of dismantling the pool as well as disposing of all of its associated materials, such as stairs and decking.

Factors That Influence Above-Ground Pool Removal Cost

One of the main factors influencing the cost of removing an above-ground swimming pool is the size of the pool. Larger above-ground pools will naturally cost more to remove than smaller ones because more work is involved.

The accessibility of the pool is another factor, with pools that are situated in an area of the yard that is harder to reach, typically costing more to remove than those that are easy to access.

In addition, the more material that needs to be hauled away, the greater the overall cost will be. This means that if your pool is surrounded by stairs, decking, fencing or landscaping that will need to be removed at the same time, you can expect to pay more than someone with a simpler project like a free-standing pool.

One factor that you can control is whether the pool is still full of water when the contractors begin their work. Contractors may charge an additional fee for safely draining the pool and preparing it for removal. If you are comfortable with the process, you may be able to do this prep work yourself and save some money on the project.

Finally, the contractor you choose will also influence the price. Different contractors may offer different levels of service, so it is a good idea to ask multiple contractors for quotes ahead of your project and compare them. Make sure to ask each one which services are included so you can make an effective comparison.

Can You Remove an Above-Ground Pool on Your Own?

Many homeowners wonder if they can remove an above-ground pool themselves to save some money. Although this is theoretically possible, you need to be aware that it is a highly labor-intensive process that requires experience with home projects and proper equipment.

To illustrate how complicated the project is, here is a quick look at what is involved.

First, the pool must be emptied, taking care to drain the water away from the pool as well as your home and those of your neighbors. A sump pump is often used for this step, and it can take several days to fully drain. Some homeowners may not have a good place where such a high volume of water can be safely drained, in which case it will be necessary to hire a company that can drain the water into a tanker and haul it away.

Then, the pool equipment must be disconnected and removed, including the hoses, the pump and the filter. Next, the liner should be cut at the top of the wall and then folded into a bundle and tied with rope. Once the liner is out of the way, the top rail is removed with an electric screwdriver and a drill. There are many screws and bolts to remove, and some may be difficult to budge. There is often a lot of rust and debris involved in this step.

Next, the connecting strips, which are attached with heavier bolts, must be removed so the wall can be opened and cut using a metal cutter. Finally, the bottom metal rim should be pulled out of the dirt and disposed of. The entire process can take several days, although it may go faster if you have friends or family who are capable of helping.

Choosing a Contractor for Above-Ground Pool Removal

As you can see, an above-ground pool removal is a complicated task, so it is best to hire local professionals to carry out the work. In many cases, they can remove the pool within a matter of hours, haul away all of the materials and debris, and leave your yard clean, graded and prepared for however you wish to use the space moving forward.

Be sure to choose a contractor who is experienced in above-ground pool removal rather than a general handyman. Above-ground pool removal is a specialized task that requires the right equipment and knowledge to carry out safely and successfully. Research the contractors you are considering online and check their customer reviews. It is also a good idea to ask neighbors or acquaintances who have had pools removed recently for recommendations.

Reach Out to the Pool Removal Professionals

Removing a pool, whether it is above-ground or inground, can be a time-consuming and potentially dangerous undertaking. If you wish to remove a swimming pool from your yard and reclaim the space for other pursuits, contact the Northern Virginia pool removal contractors at Dirt Connections today to find out how we can remove your pool quickly, safely and affordably. We can handle every step of the process, from disconnecting and draining the pool to dismantling the structure, hauling the materials away, and grading your yard to perfection.