How Much Does It Cost To Remove an In-Ground Pool?
The typical expense for pool removal stands at $7,000; however, the cost fluctuates considerably depending on the type of pool.
The average expense for pool removal is $7,000, but the cost can escalate significantly when dealing with inground pools, reaching as high as $25,000 or more. On the other hand, removing an above-ground pool is a more economical option, typically ranging from $300 to $800. Pool removal often necessitates the use of heavy machinery, permits, and the expertise of professionals. Nevertheless, opting for removal may be the best choice for enhancing safety, cutting down on maintenance expenses, or boosting your home’s overall appeal.
Low Cost | Average Cost | High Cost |
$300 | $7,,000 | $25,000 |
Factors Influencing Pool Removal Costs
The cost of pool removal can be influenced by various factors. These include the type of pool, its size, construction materials, accessibility, local labor rates, regulatory restrictions, and disposal costs. Understanding these factors in detail can help you anticipate and budget for the expenses involved in this process.
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Type of Pool
The type of pool you have plays a crucial role in determining removal costs. Inground pools tend to be more expensive to remove compared to above-ground pools due to the complexity of the process. Vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete pools each have unique removal challenges, impacting costs differently.
Pool Size
The size of your pool directly impacts the cost of removal. Larger pools require more labor, equipment, and disposal efforts, which can drive up the overall cost. Additionally, the depth of the pool can also affect removal expenses.
Construction Materials
The material used to build your pool can affect removal costs. Concrete pools, for example, are often more expensive to demolish and remove than vinyl or fiberglass pools due to their sturdy construction.
Accessibility
The ease of access to your pool area can influence costs. If your pool is located in a hard-to-reach area of your property, it may require special equipment or additional labor, increasing the overall expense. Factors like narrow pathways or the proximity of structures can impact accessibility.
Local Labor Rates
Labor costs vary by location. Higher labor rates in your area will contribute to higher overall removal costs. It’s essential to consider the prevailing wage rates when estimating the budget for pool removal.
Regulatory Restrictions
Local regulations and permits can affect the pool removal process. Some areas may have specific requirements for pool removal, which could add to the overall cost. Compliance with these regulations is essential to avoid fines and delays.
Disposal Costs
Properly disposing of pool materials, such as concrete or vinyl, may incur additional fees. These costs should be factored into your budget. Disposal methods, landfill fees, and recycling options can all impact the final disposal cost.
Type of Demolition
Full Pool Demolition
A complete pool demolition involves the removal of all pool materials and components. This method typically costs around $9,000 on average but can vary from $4,000 to $16,000. While it requires more time and money compared to partial removal, it has the potential to increase your property’s value.
During full pool demolition, all materials from the pool are taken out and disposed of. The pool area is then filled and compacted, ensuring that the land becomes stable enough for future construction without the risk of ground settling or causing landscaping problems.
Partial Removal
Partial pool fill-in typically costs between $4,500 and $6,250 on average. It is a more cost-effective and less time-consuming option than full demolition but may not be permitted in some areas due to associated risks.
Partial removal involves leaving a portion of the pool cavity in the ground, filling it in, and compacting the soil. While this clears the area, it remains unsuitable for construction due to the potential for sinking or drainage issues. Additionally, you must disclose a partial removal to potential homebuyers, which could potentially decrease your property’s value.
specific to your location.
Draining the Pool
Before the removal process can commence, you must drain the water from the pool. This typically takes approximately 24 hours and may cost up to $175, depending on the size of your pool. To potentially save on this expense, you have the option to drain your pool yourself. Many home improvement stores offer small pumps for rent, typically priced between $40 and $70.
Ensuring Accessibility
Successful pool removal requires the use of heavy machinery like excavators, which are sizable and require ample space for maneuvering. If your pool or property presents challenges in terms of accessibility, such as obstacles like fencing, pool enclosures, or outdoor playsets, the removal process may take longer and incur additional costs. To minimize expenses, consider removing or repositioning these obstacles.
Considering Location
Similar to many services, the cost of pool removal can vary depending on your geographical location. Generally, you can anticipate higher labor costs in areas with a higher cost of living and lower labor costs in areas with a lower cost of living. It’s essential to account for regional differences when budgeting for your pool removal project.
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Filling the Pool Area
Selecting Fill Material
Whether you opt for a full or partial fill, the cost of filling your pool area is influenced by the choice of fill material. For optimal settling and drainage, it’s advisable to have a structural engineer oversee the filling process. Common fill materials include:
- Gravel: Typically the most economical option at $5 to $8 per cubic yard. However, it may not compact easily and can lead to sinkholes. Often used as a base material beneath other fill options.
- Dirt: Priced between $8 and $12 per cubic yard, dirt is frequently mixed with a gravel base for stability. If you plan to landscape the area, leave space on top of the dirt fill for topsoil.
- Concrete: Although less common due to its higher cost, broken-up concrete from a partial pool removal can be used in conjunction with dirt to fill the space.
Labor Costs
The average total cost of labor for pool removal typically falls within the range of $1,000 to $3,000. Professional contractors determine labor rates based on various factors, including the time required to complete the project, the complexity of the removal process, and the cost of materials specific to your location.
Pool Removal Costs by Type and Material
The cost of pool removal is significantly influenced by the type of pool and the materials used in its construction. Different materials may require additional demolition steps, resulting in increased labor costs. Below, we provide a breakdown of the most common pool types and materials to help you understand the associated costs.
Above Ground Pools
When it comes to removing pools, above ground pools are generally more cost-effective to remove compared to inground pools. The process is less time-consuming and requires fewer resources. Here’s a closer look at the cost breakdown for removing above ground pools:
- Removal of an above ground pool typically costs between $300 and $800 on average.
- If your above ground pool has a deck, removal may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Professional removal of an above ground pool can be completed in less than four hours.
Additional considerations for above ground pool removal:
- Removal costs may be at the higher end of the range if excavation of the base sand is necessary.
- Some recycling options may provide discounts if the metal pool frame is recyclable.
Inground Pools
Removing inground pools presents various options, each with its associated costs and implications. Below, we outline the costs associated with removing inground pools, whether through partial fill-ins or full removal, for standard pool sizes:
[Note: Include cost breakdown for inground pools, partial fill-ins, and full removal for standard pool sizes.]
Inground pool removal offers both budget-friendly partial fill-in options and complete removal for those looking to make the land suitable for new construction and appealing to potential homebuyers.
Understanding the specific costs related to your pool’s type and material will help you plan your pool removal project more effectively and make informed decisions. Consulting with professionals in your area will provide you with precise estimates tailored to your unique circumstances.
Inground Pool Size | Partial Fill-In (Average Cost) | Full Removal (Average Cost) |
10 by 20 ft. | $2,000 – $6,200 | $4,300 – $10,800 |
12 by 24 ft. | $2,100 – $6,700 | $4,600 – $11,600 |
14 by 28 ft. | $2,300 – $7,700 | $4,900 – $12,900 |
15 by 30 ft. | $2,500 – $8,100 | $4,100 – $13,400 |
18 by 36 ft. | $2,800 – $9,300 | $5,600 – $15,100 |
20 by 40 ft. | $3,000 – $10,300 | $6,100 – $16,400 |
30 by 50 ft. | $4,100 – $14,700 | $8,000 – $22,500 |
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Vinyl:
The cost for the removal of a vinyl-lined pool typically falls in the range of $3,000 to $10,000. A complete removal is necessary because a partial fill-in is not a viable option in this scenario. Before demolition can commence, an engineer must inspect the vinyl liner’s underlying structure, which may consist of aluminum, plywood, steel, or concrete, and certify its safety for removal.
Fiberglass:
The removal of fiberglass pools typically comes with a price tag of $5,000 to $15,000. Full removal is imperative as fiberglass components cannot be left in the ground, unlike concrete. If the fiberglass shell is in good condition and can be extracted in one piece, the removal cost tends to be lower. However, if the shell needs to be dismantled into sections, the removal cost will increase with each additional piece.
Concrete:
Concrete pools tend to be the costliest to completely remove, which is why they are often partially dismantled, with removal costs ranging from $3,000 to $15,000. In such cases, the concrete is broken down and mixed with soil to fill the pool cavity.
Additional Expenses to Consider When Removing a Pool
While demolition labor stands as the primary expense in a pool removal project, there are several supplementary costs to take into account before making any decisions. These include permit fees, disposal fees, expenses related to deck or enclosure removal, and the potential need to hire a structural engineer or landscaper.
Permits:
Before commencing your project, you may be required to obtain permits or undergo inspections, typically costing around $200. Pool removal contractors often manage this process and include the fees within a flat rate for the project. However, it’s advisable to contact your local building department to determine the necessary permits. This ensures compliance with all legal requirements and provides peace of mind that no essential steps have been overlooked.
Deck Removal:
In most cases, inground pools are accompanied by a concrete deck that must be removed along with the pool. Expect to incur expenses ranging from $2 to $5 per square foot for deck removal.
Fence or Enclosure Removal:
In certain jurisdictions, legal regulations mandate the presence of a pool fence or another form of pool enclosure. Removal costs can vary from $800 to $2,000, with larger enclosures and materials such as steel or structural aluminum tending toward the higher end of this range.
Hiring a Structural Engineer:
The cost of hiring a structural engineer typically falls within the range of $100 to $200 per hour. Local building codes may necessitate the oversight of an engineer during the pool removal and filling process. Even when not mandatory, an engineer can ensure proper drainage in the pool area, prevent future sinking or swelling issues, and facilitate post-removal construction.
Landscaping:
Following pool removal, you might consider enlisting the services of a landscaper. Heavy equipment used in the removal process can inevitably damage the surrounding lawn, plants, and shrubs. A landscaper can restore the area by cleaning it up and replanting as needed, with professional landscaping costs averaging between $100 to $200 per hour.
Disposal Fees:
Disposal fees associated with a pool removal project can range from $150 to $500. It’s important to review your project quote to determine if these fees are included. The final cost is contingent upon factors such as the size and weight of debris, disposal expenses, and the number of trips required. You may have the option to reduce this cost by personally covering the expense of dumpster rental.
Cost of Self-Pool Removal
While it is technically feasible to undertake the removal of an inground pool independently, most homeowners lack the essential skills, equipment, and experience needed to do so safely and correctly. In certain areas, removing a pool without the appropriate licensing and oversight from a structural engineer can be unlawful. Professionals must be engaged if you intend to utilize or construct on the site after removal.
Taking down an above-ground pool is somewhat less perilous, yet it remains a labor-intensive endeavor. You’ll require a robust metal cutter to disassemble the frame and must also have a disposal plan in place for the old pool materials since your regular garbage collection service is unlikely to accept them.
DIY Pool Removal Cost vs. Professional Services
The average expense for professional swimming pool removal stands at approximately $6,000. We strongly recommend contacting several pool removal companies in your vicinity to obtain multiple quotes and secure the most competitive price available. You may be able to reduce labor costs by independently dismantling any fences or lightweight enclosures in advance as a DIY project.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Pool Removal Guide
The typical expense for pool removal stands at $7,000; however, the cost fluctuates considerably depending on the type of pool.
The average expense for pool removal is $7,000, but the cost can escalate significantly when dealing with inground pools, reaching as high as $25,000 or more. On the other hand, removing an above-ground pool is a more economical option, typically ranging from $300 to $800.
Several factors influence pool removal costs, including the type of pool, its size, construction materials, accessibility, local labor rates, regulatory restrictions, and disposal costs. Understanding these factors is essential for accurate budgeting.
The type of pool plays a crucial role in determining removal costs. Inground pools are generally more expensive to remove compared to above-ground pools due to their complexity. The material of the pool, such as vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete, also impacts removal costs differently.
Besides labor costs, additional expenses include permit fees, deck removal costs, expenses related to fence or enclosure removal, hiring a structural engineer, landscaping costs, and disposal fees. These factors should be factored into your overall budget.
While it’s technically possible to undertake pool removal independently, it’s not recommended for safety and legal reasons. In some areas, removing a pool without proper licensing and oversight from a structural engineer can be unlawful. Professional pool removal services are generally the safer and more efficient choice.
The average cost for professional pool removal is approximately $6,000. It’s advisable to obtain multiple quotes from pool removal companies in your area to secure the most competitive price. While you may save on labor costs by independently dismantling certain components, professional expertise is essential for a safe and lawful pool removal process.
Conclusion
The cost of removing an in-ground pool can vary significantly depending on various factors, such as the type of pool, its size, materials, and location. On average, homeowners can expect to spend around $7,000 for pool removal. However, this cost can rise substantially for inground pools, reaching up to $25,000 or more. Above-ground pool removal is generally more budget-friendly, typically ranging from $300 to $800. It’s important to note that pool removal often involves heavy machinery, permits, and professional expertise. While some homeowners may consider a DIY approach to save costs, hiring a professional pool removal company is recommended for safety and compliance with local regulations. Additionally, there are additional expenses to consider, including permit fees, deck or enclosure removal, structural engineer consultation, landscaping, and disposal fees. Ultimately, the decision to remove a pool should be based on factors like safety, maintenance costs, and improving the property’s overall appeal.
