As a homeowner with an inground pool, you may consider whether to fill in or demolish the pool due to various factors such as changing needs, maintenance costs, or environmental concerns. Each option has advantages and disadvantages; the best choice depends on your circumstances and goals. This blog article will discuss the pros and cons of filling in versus demolishing your inground pool, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Filling In Your Inground Pool
Pros:
- Lower Cost: Filling in your pool is generally less expensive than a full demolition. This process involves draining the pool, punching holes in the bottom to allow for drainage, and then filling the cavity with clean fill material, such as soil or gravel. Because this method requires less labour and fewer materials, it can be a more cost-effective solution for homeowners with budget constraints.
- Faster Process: Filling in a pool is relatively quick compared to demolition. Depending on the size of the pool and the materials used, filling in a pool can often be finished in a matter of days, minimising the disruption to your daily life and allowing you to move forward with other projects or plans.
- Reversible: Filling in a pool is a reversible process. If you or a future homeowner decide to reinstall a pool, excavating the filled-in area and constructing a new pool is possible. This flexibility can appeal to some homeowners who may be unsure about their long-term plans or the potential impact on their property’s resale value.
Cons:
- Limited Landscaping Options: When a pool is filled, the space may not be suitable for certain landscaping or construction projects. The filled-in area may settle over time, and depending on the materials used, it may not provide the stability needed for structures such as decks, patios, or garden sheds. This limitation can restrict your options for redesigning your outdoor space.
- Disclosure Requirements: In many jurisdictions, homeowners must disclose that a pool has been filled in when selling their property. This information may deter some potential buyers or impact the home’s perceived value.
Demolishing Your Inground Pool
Pros:
- Full Restoration of Space: Demolishing your pool involves removing the entire structure, including the concrete, steel reinforcements, and plumbing. This process allows for the complete restoration of the area, providing a blank canvas for landscaping or construction projects. A fully demolished pool gives you more flexibility and options for outdoor space redesign.
- Potential Increase in Property Value: In some cases, removing an inground pool can increase the property’s value. Some potential buyers may view a pool as a liability or maintenance burden. A well-executed demolition and subsequent landscape restoration can enhance your outdoor space’s aesthetic appeal and functionality, potentially attracting more buyers and increasing your home’s resale value.
- Environmentally Friendly: Demolishing a pool allows for the recycling and repurposing materials, such as concrete and steel. This eco-friendly approach can reduce the project’s environmental impact and create a more sustainable future.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: Demolishing a pool is typically more expensive than filling it in due to the labour and materials involved. Depending on the size and complexity of the pool, demolition costs can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Longer Process: The process of demolishing a pool can take longer than filling it in, as it involves more extensive work, including removing the pool structure and excavating the surrounding area. This extended timeline may inconvenience homeowners eager to move forward with other projects or plans.
- Permanent Decision: Unlike filling in a pool, demolition is permanent. If you or a future homeowner decides that a pool is desired, the cost and complexity of constructing a new pool from scratch will be significantly higher than if the pool had been filled in. It’s essential to carefully weigh the long-term implications of pool demolition before deciding.
- Possible Permit Requirements: Depending on your local jurisdiction, you may be required to obtain a permit for pool demolition. The permitting process can add time and cost to the project and may involve compliance with specific regulations or inspections.
Making Your Decision: Factors to Consider
When deciding between filling in and demolishing your inground pool, it’s crucial to consider several factors:
- Budget: Consider your budget and the cost difference between the two options. If you have a limited budget, filling in your pool may be a more feasible solution.
- Future Plans: Consider your long-term plans for outdoor space and whether you want to reinstall a pool. If you or a future homeowner want a pool, filling in the pool may be a more suitable option.
- Resale Value: Assess the potential impact of each option on your property’s resale value. Depending on your local real estate market, a filled-in or demolished pool may attract potential buyers.
- Landscaping and Construction Options: Consider your goals for redesigning your outdoor space and whether filling in or demolishing your pool will provide the necessary flexibility and stability for your desired projects.
- Environmental Impact: If environmental sustainability is a priority, you may prefer demolishing your pool, which allows for recycling and repurposing materials.
The decision to fill in or demolish your inground pool will depend on your unique circumstances, preferences, and goals. By carefully considering the pros and cons of each option, as well as your budget, plans, resale value, landscaping options, and environmental impact, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Whether you fill in or demolish your pool, the result will be a transformed outdoor space that can be tailored to your preferences and enhance your home’s value and appeal.
