Pool Removal Services: The Hidden Costs and a Smarter Alternative
Many homeowners looking to reclaim their yard start by searching for pool removal services near me. While removing an old or unused swimming pool may seem like the best path forward, the true cost—financially and environmentally—can be significant. Before committing to a full demolition, it's worth exploring alternatives that cost less, take less time, and preserve your property’s long-term value.
What Do Pool Removal Services Actually Include?
Swimming pool removal isn’t as simple as digging a hole and filling it. It’s a complex process that typically involves:
- Permitting, including site inspections and fees
- Draining and treating thousands of gallons of chlorinated water
- Demolishing the pool structure using heavy equipment
- Removing concrete, rebar, fiberglass, or vinyl components
- Backfilling with dirt or gravel and compacting in layers
- Site grading, restoration, and potential re-landscaping
Typical timeline: 2 to 6 weeks, depending on pool type, size, and access. During that time, your yard may be inaccessible or unsafe.
Pool Removal Cost: What You’re Really Paying For
According to homeowners and contractors across the U.S., here’s how pool removal costs often break down:
- Permits and Inspections: $300 to $1,000
- Demolition and Debris Removal: $5,000 to $10,000
- Backfill and Compaction: $2,000 to $6,000
- Restoration (landscaping, fencing, etc.): $2,000 to $7,000
Total estimated cost: $10,000 to $25,000 or more. Inground pool removal projects are especially expensive due to the materials involved and the structural excavation needed.
The Environmental Impact of Pool Removal
Few homeowners realize how much waste is created during swimming pool removal:
- Up to 40 tons of concrete and steel may be removed and sent to landfills
- Water waste includes thousands of gallons drained and treated
- Heavy equipment emissions add to the project’s carbon footprint
- Backfill dirt may introduce contaminants if improperly sourced
Traditional pool removal is a permanent decision—and a destructive one. There’s no undoing it once the shell is broken and filled. That’s why many homeowners are exploring reversible alternatives before hiring a demolition crew.
A Better Option Than Full Pool Removal
Instead of destroying your pool, consider repurposing it. Freedom Decks offers a smarter alternative that converts your existing pool shell into a walkable, functional outdoor space—without demolition or permanent changes to the structure.
- Installed in just a few days
- Cost-effective, usually less than half the price of pool removal
- No demolition, heavy machinery, or soil disruption
- Safe, walkable, and child- or pet-friendly
- Fully reversible if you choose to restore your pool later
Cost typically ranges from $12,000 to $25,000+, depending on your design, materials, and pool layout. Final pricing reflects site access and project specifics, but it’s a smart investment for a safer, more usable backyard.
Fill-In vs. Freedom Deck: Feature Comparison
*Pricing reflects standard Arizona projects. Final pricing may vary depending on location and the scope of work.
| Feature | Traditional Pool Removal | Freedom Deck Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated Cost* | $7K–$30K or more | $12K–$25K or more* |
| Time to Complete | 3–6 weeks | 2–5 days |
| Reversible? | No | Yes |
| Environmental Impact | High | Low |
| Adds Usable Space | After landscaping | Yes, immediately |
Hear from Real Homeowners
Freedom Decks verified reviews from real homeowners via GuildQuality highlight the service quality and results of choosing a smarter pool conversion:
“I would highly recommend this for anyone who is not using their pool. It was brought to my attention by a friend and I am very pleased that it became a reality. Wish I would have done it sooner..”
– John S., Gilbert
“I had a great experience with the whole team. From initial contact to the actual build, everyone had great communication.
The deck is just beautiful.”
– Felicia Q., Las Vegas
Explore Your Options Before Demolition
If you're researching inground pool removal or thinking of calling a contractor, take time to consider a safer, smarter, and reversible way to reclaim your backyard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does inground pool removal cost?
Costs typically range from $7,000 to $30,000+, depending on the size of the pool, access to equipment, and local permitting requirements.
Can I remove my pool myself?
DIY removal is risky and often illegal without permits. It also increases liability and potential property damage. Professional guidance is strongly recommended.
Is pool removal bad for resale value?
Removing a pool can reduce resale value, especially if the replacement isn’t functional or aesthetic. A reversible solution like a Freedom Deck helps preserve equity and flexibility.
Are pool conversion decks safe?
Yes. Properly engineered in-pool decks offer a flat, stable, and slip-resistant surface ideal for seniors, children, or pets.