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Pool Fill-In:

Why It’s Usually a Bad Idea

Let’s get real about terminology. The phrase “pool fill in” is one of the most misleading ways to describe what’s actually happening to your backyard.


What most contractors call a pool fill-in is better described as:

Partial Pool Demolition and Burial    Or...
Bury the Problem and Hope the Next Owner Doesn’t Notice

That’s not just colorful language. It’s a reflection of the very real consequences buried under your feet.

What Does “Pool Fill-In” Really Mean?

There are 3 main types of pool fill-ins, each with different risks and costs:

Option 1

Partial Pool Demolition & Burial
NOT SAFE FOR FUTURE
pool-demolition-mesa-az

This is the most common option.

The top half of the pool is broken up and dropped into the bottom. Dirt is filled in over the chunks to level the surface.

Pros
✔ It’s cheaper than full removal
Cons
✘ It leaves buried concrete, voids, and long-term issues under the surface

Option 2

Dirt-Only Fill
HIGHEST RISK
inground-pool-removal

The pool shell stays mostly intact, and dirt is dumped inside. A hole is cut in the bottom for drainage.

 
Pros
✔ Lowest upfront cost
Cons
✘ Leaves a visible concrete shell and offers no real usability

Option 3

Full Pool Removal
Permanent but Expensive
pool-demolition-phoenix-az

Every part of the structure is removed and hauled away.

 

Pros
✔ Safest long-term solution for future construction
Cons
✘ Most expensive and labor-intensive.

What Does “Pool Fill-In” Really Mean?

There are 3 main types of pool fill-ins, each with different risks and costs:

1. Partial Pool Demolition & Burial

This is the most common option. The top half of the pool is broken up and dropped into the bottom. Dirt is filled in over the chunks to level the surface.


Pros: It’s cheaper than full removal.
Cons: It leaves buried concrete, voids, and long-term issues under the surface.

2. Dirt-Only Fill

The pool shell stays mostly intact, and dirt is dumped inside. A hole is cut in the bottom for drainage.


Pros: Lowest upfront cost.
Cons: Leaves a visible concrete shell and offers no real usability.

3. Full Pool Removal

Every part of the structure is removed and hauled away.


Pros: Safest long-term solution for future construction. 
Cons: Most expensive and labor-intensive.

 

pool-demolition-before-pool-to-deck-conversion

6 Long-Term Problems with Partial Demolition

If you're considering filling in your pool with dirt or debris, here’s why that decision could haunt you:
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You Can’t Build Near It

Most building codes prohibit construction near a buried structure. A structure 8 feet deep can restrict building within 8 feet horizontally.

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Ground Settling

Concrete chunks leave air gaps. Over time, the ground settles unevenly, leading to sunken areas and unstable surfaces.

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Poor Plant Growth

Backfilled areas often lack proper compaction, gravel base, or topsoil. Grass and plants struggle to grow on this patchwork.

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Property Value Risks

Buyers may hesitate or negotiate down if they learn about a buried structure. It’s a hidden liability.

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Code and Safety Gaps

Many municipalities don’t regulate this process thoroughly. What passes inspection today could fail tomorrow’s resale or renovation plans.

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Out of Sight, Out of Mind… Until It’s Too Late

The problems take years to show up—long after the contractor is gone.

Why Is Partial Demolition So Popular?

Simple: it costs less upfront than full removal. But the hidden costs can hit hard later. Demolishing and hauling a pool requires heavy equipment, disposal fees, and time.

freedom-decks-pool-to-deck-conversion

Enhanced User A Better Way to

Repurpose Your Inground Pool

That’s why we created Freedom Decks—a smart, reversible way to repurpose an inground swimming pool without demolition or long-term risk.

Instead of burying the pool, we convert it into a beautiful, safe, walkable patio using a custom in-pool deck that sits securely within the pool shell.

Learn How Pool to Deck Works

Pool Fill-In vs. Freedom Decks

While both options eliminate ongoing maintenance and utility costs, only Freedom Decks protect your property value and give you a fully usable outdoor space, without permanent changes.

Benefits Pool Fill-In Freedom Decks
Covers existing swimming pool ✔ ✔
Stops pool maintenance costs ✔ ✔
Stops water and electric costs ✔ ✔
Opens backyard for other use ✔ ✔
Creates usable outdoor living space ✘ ✔
Safe for children and pets ✘ ✔
Fully reversible if plans change ✘ ✔
Avoids resale complications ✘ ✔
Fast, non-invasive installation ✘ ✔
Protects property value long-term ✘ ✔
FreedomDecksSingle

10 Reasons Freedom Decks Beat Pool Fill-Ins

Decks offers a smarter, safer, and fully reversible alternative.

Here are 10 reasons why our approach outperforms traditional pool fill-ins, especially for homeowners looking to protect their property value and enjoy a more usable backyard.

  • The original pool remains intact and untouched.

  • You regain usable outdoor space with no demolition.

  • Say goodbye to pool maintenance forever.

  • Your savings on water, electricity, and chemicals add up fast.

  • Water usage drops immediately.

  • Power bills shrink without pumps or filters running.

  • No more toxic pool chemicals.

  • Safety hazards are gone for kids and pets.

  • Future buyers can easily restore the pool if desired.

  • You retain (or increase) property value by avoiding permanent changes.

Licensed Contractor – AZ ROC 218334

We are fully licensed in accordance with Arizona law.

Ready to reclaim your backyard the smart way?

Let’s talk about how a Freedom Deck can work for you.
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