Freedom Decks Blog | Smarter Alternatives to Pool Removal

DIY Pool Fill-Ins Gone Wrong: Laugh First, Then Convert the Smart Way

Written by Jeff Getz | Jun 28, 2025 6:46:08 PM

DIY Pool Fill-Ins: Hilariously Bad Ideas and Why You Should Leave It to the Pros

Are you thinking about filling in your pool on your own? While the idea of a DIY pool fill-in might sound like a fun weekend project, the reality is far from it. Instead of tackling this daunting task yourself, why not enjoy a little humor at the expense of some truly terrible pool conversion attempts? And when you’re ready to get serious, consider Freedom Decks for a professional and hassle-free alternative to demolition or fill-ins. Let’s dive into some comically bad DIY pool fill-in ideas and why you should avoid them at all costs.

Comically Bad DIY Pool Fill-In Ideas

The Giant Sandbox

Imagine turning your pool into a massive sandbox for the kids. Just dump in a few tons of sand, throw in some plastic shovels, and voilà! Instant fun, right? Except for the fact that sand gets everywhere, attracts all sorts of critters, and will eventually erode into a giant muddy mess. Plus, good luck explaining to your neighbors why there’s a beach in your backyard.

The Great Pool Planter

Why not fill your pool with soil and turn it into a gigantic planter? Think of all the vegetables you could grow! Unfortunately, the logistics of filling a pool with soil are a nightmare. You’d need an entire forest’s worth of dirt, and the weight could crack your pool structure. Not to mention, you’d basically be creating a swamp. Enjoy your backyard bog!

The Concrete Jungle

For those who want to get serious, just pour a few truckloads of concrete into the pool and call it a day. Sure, it sounds straightforward, but do you know how to properly mix, pour, and level that much concrete? And what happens when you realize you’ve created a giant, permanent, gray eyesore? Breaking that stuff up is no joke.

The Inflatable Wonderland

Just cover the pool with inflatables! An inflatable flamingo here, a rubber ducky there, and you’re all set! Except inflatables degrade, pop, and eventually you’ll have a pool full of sad, deflated plastic blobs. Plus, it’s not exactly a “fill-in” if you just cover it with toys.

The DIY “Permanent” Cover

Grab some plywood, a few nails, and construct a makeshift cover over the pool. Problem solved! Until the first rainstorm turns your cover into a dangerous, sagging trap. And don’t forget the delightful aesthetics of a giant wooden pallet covering your pool. Classy!

The Junkyard Special

How about filling the pool with all that old junk you’ve been meaning to get rid of? Broken furniture, old appliances, miscellaneous debris – just toss it all in! Sure, it’s environmentally disastrous, potentially illegal, and highly dangerous, but think of the free landfill space!

Why Freedom Decks Is the Real Pool Conversion Solution

Now that we’ve had a good laugh at some ridiculous DIY pool fill-in ideas, let’s get serious. If your pool is unused, aging, or just not worth the maintenance anymore, there’s a far better way to reclaim that space.

Cost-Effective and Efficient

Our solution is affordable and fast. We transform your pool into a usable outdoor living space in a fraction of the time and cost of traditional pool removal or fill-in methods.

Environmentally Friendly Pool Repurposing

By keeping your pool’s structure intact, we reduce waste and avoid the mess of demolition. Our in-pool decks are a sustainable, low-impact option for homeowners who want to minimize environmental disruption.

Custom Designs for Any Backyard

We offer multiple finishes, colors, and materials to match your existing landscape. Whether you want a patio for entertaining, a garden lounge, or a safe space for kids and pets, we’ll tailor the design to fit your needs.

Experienced, Award-Winning Team

Freedom Decks has been serving Arizona since 2001 and focusing on pool-to-deck conversions since 2007. We’re a Rosie On The House certified contractor and proud recipient of the Guildmaster Award for customer satisfaction.

Flexible and Reversible

Our custom in-pool decks are semi-permanent and can be removed if you ever decide to return to a traditional pool. This preserves your property value and keeps future options open.

Safe, Stylish, and Practical

Our in-pool deck systems eliminate the hazards of an open pool while giving you a beautiful, functional space to enjoy. It’s the smart way to repurpose a pool without sacrificing your home’s equity or curb appeal.

Ready to Reclaim Your Pool — the Right Way?

While the idea of a DIY pool fill-in might make for some entertaining stories, the reality is that it’s a complex and challenging task best left to professionals. Freedom Decks offers a smarter, safer, and more attractive solution to transform your unused pool into a valuable part of your outdoor living space.

If you’re ready to ditch the inflatables, skip the concrete, and forget the junk, we’re here to help. Contact Freedom Decks today to schedule your consultation and explore your custom in-pool deck options.