5 Smart Alternatives to Filling in an Inground Pool

That old, unused swimming pool in your backyard can feel like more than just wasted space. It’s a constant drain on your finances, a source of worry, and a visual reminder of a lifestyle that no longer fits. The first thought for many is demolition—a messy, expensive, and irreversible decision. But what if there were smarter ways to solve this problem? Understanding the full range of alternatives to filling in an inground pool is the first step toward reclaiming your backyard without destroying your property value.

The reality is, that concrete hole in the ground represents a significant asset. Annihilating it is rarely the best financial or practical choice. The goal isn't just to get rid of the pool; it's to transform that space into something functional, safe, and beautiful. From reversible, engineered decks to creative landscape projects, you have options that go far beyond a truckload of dirt. This guide will walk you through each alternative, helping you weigh the pros, cons, and long-term implications for your home and your wallet.

The Two Paths: Permanent Removal vs. Strategic Repurposing

Every option for dealing with an unwanted pool falls into one of two categories: permanent or reversible. This is the single most important decision you will make, as it directly impacts your home's future resale value, your upfront costs, and your flexibility.

Path 1: Permanent Pool Removal

This approach is final. Once you commit, there’s no going back without spending tens of thousands of dollars on a complete reconstruction.

• Full Demolition: This is the most extreme option. The entire pool shell—concrete, rebar, plumbing, and all—is broken up, hauled away, and the hole is filled with engineered fill and compacted. It’s incredibly expensive and disruptive.
• Partial Fill-In: A slightly cheaper but riskier method. Holes are punched in the bottom of the pool for drainage, the top few feet of the shell are demolished, and the remaining cavity is filled with the rubble and soil. This leaves a massive buried structure in your yard, which can cause soil settling, sinkholes, and major issues for future landscaping or construction. You are also legally required to disclose a filled-in pool to future buyers, which often scares them away or leads to significant price reductions.

Path 2: Reversible Repurposing

This path is about transformation, not destruction. These methods allow you to solve the immediate problem of an unused pool while preserving the structure as a valuable asset for the future.

• Engineered Deck Conversion: This is the gold standard for reversible solutions. A custom-engineered, load-bearing deck is built directly inside the pool shell. This instantly creates a safe, flat, and fully usable patio space. Companies like Freedom Decks use a patented bracket system that hangs the deck frame from the pool's rim, requiring no permanent alterations. The entire system can be removed later to restore the pool to its original condition.
• Creative Landscaping: Some homeowners choose to convert your pool to garden or a sunken greenhouse. This involves filling the pool partially with gravel for drainage and then soil for planting. While visually appealing, it can be labor-intensive to maintain and may create complex drainage issues if not properly engineered.
• Non-Structural Covers: These include heavy-duty safety covers or temporary platforms. While they prevent accidental falls, they are not designed to be walked on or used as functional space. They are a temporary safety measure, not a true lifestyle solution.

Comparing Your Options: Cost, Time, and Value

Making an informed decision requires looking at the hard numbers and long-term consequences. What seems like the cheapest option upfront can often cost you more down the line.

Note: Financial data is based on industry averages and typical project scopes in the Southwest US. Actual costs will vary based on project size, material choices, and location.

Why Reversibility Is the Smartest Financial Move

The decision to fill in a pool is one of the few home improvement projects that can actively decrease your property's value, especially in markets like Arizona and Nevada where a pool is often expected. When you disclose a filled-in pool, potential buyers see a hidden liability—a buried concrete tomb that could cause foundation issues or limit their ability to build in the future.

A reversible deck conversion, however, presents the best of both worlds. For you, it solves the problem of the ugly pool you no longer want. For a future buyer, it offers a fantastic patio space with the priceless option to restore the pool. This flexibility is a powerful selling point that preserves the value of the pool asset without the associated costs and risks. You are not just covering a pool; you are adding a feature while protecting an investment.

The Problem with a "Permanent Pool Cover"

Many homeowners search for a permanent pool cover, hoping for a simple, solid lid they can place over the opening. Unfortunately, this concept is fundamentally flawed and dangerous. A structure designed to span a pool opening and support the weight of people, furniture, and even snow must be engineered like a bridge. A simple "cover" without a robust internal support system is a recipe for disaster.

This is why an engineered in-pool deck is so different. It’s not a cover; it’s a fully supported structure built from the inside out. It doesn't rely on the pool edges alone but distributes weight safely and evenly. If you're considering this path, understanding the risks of unqualified builders is critical.

The Path to Reclaiming Your Backyard

When you decide to retire my pool, you're making a choice that will impact your lifestyle, finances, and home value for years to come. While the finality of demolition might seem appealing, it’s a short-sighted solution that erases an asset. Creative repurpose pool ideas like gardens are interesting but often impractical for the average homeowner.

The smartest, most versatile, and financially sound alternative is an engineered, reversible deck conversion. It offers the immediate gratification of a beautiful and functional new patio space, eliminates the costs and safety hazards of an unused pool, and—most importantly—preserves your options and your home’s value for the future. You're not just getting rid of a problem; you're investing in a better backyard.

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