Removing Your Swimming Pool: Benefits, Process, and Next Steps

Joseph Danial
Mar 22
2 min read

Owning a swimming pool can be a luxury, but over time, many homeowners realize that the costs and maintenance outweigh the benefits. Whether you want to save money, improve safety, or reclaim your backyard space, removing your swimming pool can be a smart decision. This guide covers the advantages, the removal process, and what to do with your yard afterward.

Why Homeowners Are Removing Their Swimming Pools

There are several reasons why people choose to get rid of their pools:

1. High Maintenance Costs

Maintaining a pool requires regular cleaning, chemical treatments, equipment repairs, and high utility bills. Removing your pool can save you thousands of dollars each year.

2. Safety Concerns

If you have young children or pets, an unused pool can be a serious safety hazard. Even with fences and covers, accidental drownings remain a risk. Pool removal eliminates this danger.

3. More Usable Yard Space

Swimming pools take up a significant portion of a backyard. By removing your swimming pool, you free up space for a garden, patio, or other outdoor features.

4. Increasing Home Value

While pools attract some buyers, they also deter others due to high upkeep costs. Removing an old or unused pool can make your home more appealing to a wider range of buyers.

How to Remove a Swimming Pool

There are two primary methods for removing your swimming pool:

1. Partial Pool Removal (Fill-In)

The pool is drained, holes are drilled in the bottom for drainage, and the top part of the pool is demolished.
The remaining structure is filled with soil and gravel.
This method is more affordable but may have restrictions on future construction in the area.

2. Full Pool Removal

The entire pool structure is completely removed.
All debris is hauled away, and the area is filled with fresh soil.
This method is more expensive but provides better land stability and more flexibility for future landscaping or construction.

The Process of Removing Your Swimming Pool

Hiring a professional ensures the process is done safely and correctly. Here’s what to expect:

Draining the Pool – The pool is emptied to prevent flooding or water damage.
Demolition – The pool structure is broken down using heavy machinery.
Debris Removal – If opting for full removal, all pool materials are taken away.
Filling & Compacting – The area is filled with soil, compacted, and leveled for future use.

What to Do After Pool Removal?

Once the pool is gone, you can transform your yard into a more functional and beautiful space. Some popular ideas include:

Lush Garden or Green Space – Plant flowers, trees, or a vegetable garden.
Outdoor Living Area – Build a patio, deck, or fire pit.
Kids’ Play Area – Install a playground or sports court.
Lawn Expansion – Add artificial turf or grass for a low-maintenance yard.

Final Thoughts

Removing your swimming pool can improve your home’s value, reduce maintenance costs, and provide new opportunities for your outdoor space. Whether you choose a partial or full removal, hiring a professional will ensure a smooth process. If you’re ready to reclaim your backyard, start exploring pool removal options today!