Thinking about tackling a DIY pool fill-in to save money? It might sound tempting, but the reality often looks much different. Before you grab a shovel or rent a dump truck, take a moment to see some of the most disastrous and costly DIY attempts. You’ll quickly understand why a professional custom in-pool deck is not only safer but also a smarter and more valuable way to transform your backyard.
Laughable DIY Pool Fill-In Fails
Below are real-life or plausible scenarios that highlight just how bad a DIY pool fill-in can go:
- The Sinkhole Surprise: Homeowners dump truckloads of dirt, skip compaction, and come back to a giant crater after rain.
- The Weed Swamp: Half-filled pools end up as soggy, muddy patches where weeds thrive and water pools at the bottom.
- The DIY Concrete Block Wall: A cheap “permanent” cover made from cinder blocks collapses under pressure—or just looks awful.
- The Rainwater Pond: Poor drainage design turns the pool into a breeding ground for mosquitos and algae.
- The Emergency Fill-In Escape: A rushed weekend fill-in is later discovered to have buried utility lines or damaged pool plumbing.
These stories highlight what can go wrong when you skim steps or skip professional oversight—it can cost more in corrections than hiring pros—and it’s not reversible.
Why DIY Pool Fill-In Costs More Than You Think
At first glance, digging in your own backyard seems cost-effective. But hidden costs add up fast:
- Equipment Rental: Dump trucks, compactors, and excavation gear can cost hundreds per day.
- Permit Fines: Proper permits are often required—and mistakes can incur fines or stop-work orders.
- Drainage Mistakes: Without proper sloping and drainage, water often pools and ruins landscaping.
- Unstable Ground: Over time, improperly compacted dirt can sink—leading to uneven ground, trip hazards, or flooding.
- Time and Injury: Heavy labor can cause injury. Mistakes cost time, which costs money.
Ultimately, you may end up spending **more** on repairs later—or worse, you lose valuable resale value when your yard becomes a problem area for inspectors or buyers.
Enter the Freedom Deck: A Safer, Reversible Alternative
Instead of risking a backyard disaster, a custom in-pool deck from Freedom Decks gives you a beautiful, functional outdoor space—without demolition or irreversibility. Here’s what you gain:
- Installed by experienced pros in just a few days
- No need for permits, dumpsters, or heavy labor on your part
- Creates safe, flat patio space ready for furniture
- Completely reversible if you choose to restore your pool later
- Custom finishes match your home and outdoor style
- Environmentally responsible—no concrete debris or fill-in waste
Estimated cost: $12,000 to $25,000 or more. Yes, that's more than a quick DIY, but it ensures a solid solution that adds value, safety, and longevity to your property.
DIY Cover vs. Freedom Deck: A Quick Comparison
*These are common price ranges for Arizona installations. Your final cost may vary depending on layout, materials, and site conditions. A no-cost consultation can clarify what to expect for your site.
| Option | DIY Fill-In or Cover | Freedom Deck |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $500–$5,000 (rental + dump fees) | $12K–$25K or more* |
| Labor Time | Weeks of manual labor | Installed in 2–5 days |
| Reversible | No | Yes |
| Landfill Impact | High (dumping dirt/concrete) | Low |
Protect Your Backyard—and Your Budget
Want a solution that doesn’t turn into a lawn nightmare? A Freedom Deck is engineered to last, looks great, and avoids the regret of subpar DIY results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really fill in a pool myself?
Not safely—or legally—in most areas. Without proper compaction, drainage, and permits, DIY fill-ins often collapse or become unsafe.
How long do DIY solutions last?
Often less than a year. Rain, erosion, weed growth, and uneven settling are common issues.
Are in-pool decks worth it?
Yes—though they cost more upfront, you gain a beautiful, safe space with no future regrets or repair headaches.