Deciding what to do with your grungy, outdated pool can be quite the tricky decision. Pools get old and dirty quickly if they are not used and maintained frequently or maybe you’ve had kids move off to college and simply want to get rid of your pool. What options do you have as far as renovation or removal are concerned? In this article we will look at some of the available options to re-energize your pool as well as how to simply remove it altogether.
Renovation and restoration
What if you love swimming and want to keep your pool but the current one just is simply not cutting it? Renovation or restoration of your old pool is definitely a possibility. Often times renovation is far cheaper than removing your old pool and starting over.
One of the main things that needs replacing in pools is the interior liner. Chlorinated water acts as a corrosive on the lining of most pools – which can cause problems when the it starts to break down. This might be all you need to return your pool back to its former glory.
Most pool renovation companies can do a multitude of tasks for you – whether it be updating the plumbing or fixing cracks in the cement or tiling. Prices will be all over the board for renovation jobs, so your best way to get started is by calling multiple companies to come out and give you their estimates. Show them exactly what you want done, and even ask them for advice because the professionals are bound to know a few options that may have slipped your mind.
Reshaping your current pool
Can a pool be reshaped? Generally, the answer is ‘yes’. Modern cement pouring technology allows pools to be remodeled without destroying the entire thing and re-pouring. Making your pool a little wider or deeper is now realistic. Other options include changing the color of your pool’s finish or adding stylish underwater lights.
Removal
Removing an unwanted swimming pool is quite a task. It is a lengthy process and can be quite expensive. Despite its price, pool removal can be cheaper than the alternative of maintaining a unused or poorly designed pool. Before you even think about removing an in ground pool, you are most likely going to need a building permit. Following that, all materials (cement, vinyl etc.) need to be completely removed and then the gaping hole left behind will need to be replaced with whatever fill you desire (sand is often the cheapest). After getting the empty hole filled and leveled, you can begin planting grass, trees or landscaping to your heart’s content. You should also be prepared for settling – in a year or two you will most likely need to add more fill to keep the ground level.
Things to think about before removing your pool
Other things to consider when removing an old pool is the cost of dumping the materials/trash and how to transport them to the dump site. If you don’t have a professional service do this, it can be a long, strenuous process. What about just filling in the pool with dirt? Check your local laws because this can be illegal in many municipalities – filling a pool with dirt may be legal in Indianapolis but illegal in other states, so make sure you consult a specialist before getting to work. The costs of pool removal add up quickly, but think of it as a one time investment to eliminate an energy sucking and space clogging pool that drains your resources each year it is left in the ground. Again, you’ll need to contemplate the costs and benefits of this as opposed to having your pool coating fixed & enjoying the pool for several years. Make sure you list all the foreseeable expenses and benefits of both options before opting for either option.
Regardless of your situation and the current condition of your pool, there are plenty of options available for you. Be prepared to spend a little bit of money, but as we mentioned earlier, updating or removing your pool can be cheaper than the alternative.