Deciding whether to fill in your pool or remove it completely is a significant choice that involves considerations ranging from cost and practicality to aesthetics and future plans for your property. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, and the decision largely depends on your specific circumstances and preferences.
Filling In Your Pool
Filling in a pool is generally less expensive and less invasive than completely removing it. Here are some key points to consider:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Filling in a pool is typically more cost-effective than complete removal. This process involves breaking up the bottom of the pool, punching holes in the sides for drainage, and filling the pool with gravel and soil. The cost can vary depending on the size of the pool and the complexity of the fill-in process, but it is generally cheaper than excavation and removal.
- Time and Effort: Filling in a pool is usually quicker and requires less effort compared to complete removal. The process can often be completed within a few days, minimizing disruption to your property.
- Aesthetics: While a filled-in pool may not be as aesthetically pleasing as a completely removed pool, it can still be landscaped and integrated into your yard. You can create a garden, patio, or lawn over the filled-in area, maintaining a visually appealing outdoor space.
- Property Value: In some cases, filling in a pool may have less impact on property value compared to removing it completely. It can still be seen as a usable space for future buyers who may want to repurpose the area.
- Structural Considerations: Filling in a pool properly requires ensuring that it is done in a way that prevents future issues such as settling or drainage problems. Hiring a professional with experience in pool removal or filling in is crucial to ensure the job is done correctly.
Removing Your Pool Completely
Complete pool removal involves excavating and hauling away all of the pool materials, including the concrete, plumbing, and any other associated structures. Here are some considerations for complete pool removal:
- Cost: Complete pool removal is typically more expensive than filling in due to the excavation and hauling costs involved. The total cost can vary widely depending on the size of the pool, access to the property, and local disposal fees.
- Clean Slate: Removing the pool completely provides a clean slate for landscaping or building new structures on the site. It completely eliminates the pool from your property, which can be beneficial if you have no plans to use the space as a pool in the future.
- Potential for Future Use: If you have no intention of using the pool again and want to maximize the usable space on your property, complete removal might be the better option. It allows you to redesign your yard without any constraints from the existing pool structure.
- Aesthetics and Property Value: Completely removing a pool can potentially increase the aesthetics and property value of your home, especially if the pool was outdated or in poor condition. It can enhance the appeal of your yard and make it more attractive to potential buyers.
- Environmental Considerations: Proper disposal of pool materials is important for minimizing environmental impact. Working with a reputable pool removal company ensures that materials are disposed of or recycled responsibly.
Making the Decision
When deciding whether to fill in your pool or remove it completely, consider the following questions:
- Future Plans: What are your future plans for your property? Will you want to use the space for other purposes, such as landscaping, building, or expanding your outdoor living area?
- Cost Considerations: What is your budget for pool removal or filling in? How does the cost compare to your long-term plans for the property?
- Aesthetic Preferences: How important is the appearance of your yard to you? Do you prefer the look of a filled-in pool or a completely removed space?
- Property Value: How might each option impact the value of your property? Consider consulting with a real estate professional for insight into local market preferences.
- Environmental Impact: Are you concerned about the environmental impact of either option? Ensure that the chosen method of pool removal or filling in aligns with your environmental values.
Ultimately, whether you choose to fill in your pool or remove it completely depends on your specific circumstances, preferences, and long-term plans for your property. Both options can provide a solution to reclaiming your yard and enhancing your outdoor living space.