How To Fill In A Pool

Staring at that unused, algae-ridden pool in your backyard, are you starting to wonder if it's more of a burden than a benefit? Pools can be amazing additions to a home, offering recreation and relaxation, but they also require significant upkeep, insurance, and can even become safety hazards. For some homeowners, the mounting costs and relentless maintenance eventually outweigh the joy, leading them to consider a more permanent solution: filling it in.

Deciding to fill in a pool is a significant decision, impacting not just your backyard's aesthetics, but also your property value and future landscaping options. Understanding the process involved, including permits, proper filling techniques, and potential pitfalls, is crucial to ensure a safe and legally compliant outcome. Whether you're tired of the expense, concerned about safety, or simply envisioning a different backyard oasis, doing it right is essential.

What Permits Do I Need and How Much Will It Cost?

What's the best material to use when filling in an inground pool?

The best material to fill in an inground pool is a combination of demolition rubble (broken concrete and masonry) for the majority of the fill, topped with several layers of compacted soil, culminating in a final layer of topsoil. This approach provides a stable base, adequate drainage, and a suitable surface for future landscaping or construction.

Using demolition rubble, like crushed concrete from the pool's demolition or sourced from other construction projects, is ideal for the primary fill for several reasons. It's readily available, relatively inexpensive, and provides excellent compaction and stability. This prevents settling over time, which is crucial for preventing sinkholes or uneven surfaces later on. However, simply dumping large chunks of concrete isn't sufficient. The rubble needs to be properly broken down and distributed to ensure even compaction. Also, be aware of local regulations regarding acceptable fill materials. Following the rubble fill, it's important to layer compacted soil. This layer acts as a buffer between the rubble and the topsoil, preventing rocks and debris from migrating to the surface. Proper compaction at each layer is critical. Without it, the filled-in area will settle unevenly over time, potentially causing problems for any subsequent landscaping or building projects. Compaction should be done with a heavy-duty compactor in multiple passes. Finally, a layer of topsoil is necessary to provide a suitable medium for plant growth if you plan to landscape the area. The topsoil layer should be thick enough to support the root systems of whatever you intend to plant. Remember to grade the topsoil to ensure proper drainage away from any nearby structures. The success of filling in an inground pool depends on the proper execution of each step, so consulting with a qualified contractor is always recommended.

How much will it cost to properly fill in my swimming pool?

The cost to properly fill in a swimming pool can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on factors like the pool's size, the method used (partial vs. complete), local regulations, and any additional services needed, such as demolition of the pool deck or removal of the pool liner.

The primary cost drivers involve labor and materials. A full pool removal, involving demolition and complete filling, will naturally be more expensive than a partial fill. Partial fills, where the pool is simply filled in without breaking up the structure, can sometimes be cheaper but may not be permissible depending on local building codes and potential impact on future construction on the property. You'll need to factor in the cost of permits, which can vary widely by municipality. Furthermore, soil and fill dirt prices fluctuate based on availability and transportation costs in your area. Before starting the project, it's crucial to get several quotes from licensed and insured pool removal contractors. Ensure they are familiar with local regulations regarding pool fill-ins and that their quote includes all necessary steps, from permits and demolition (if required) to filling, compaction, and grading. Don't just focus on the lowest price; consider the contractor's experience, reputation, and guarantees offered. A poorly executed pool fill-in can lead to significant problems down the road, such as sinkholes or drainage issues, costing even more to rectify. Here's a simple breakdown of potential cost factors:

Do I need permits to fill in my backyard pool?

Yes, in most jurisdictions, you absolutely need permits to fill in an inground pool. Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in hefty fines, legal issues, and even require you to undo the fill and redo the project according to code.

The primary reason permits are required is to ensure the fill is done safely and correctly, protecting both your property and the surrounding environment. Improperly filled pools can create drainage problems, sinkholes, and structural issues that can impact your home's foundation and potentially affect neighboring properties. The permitting process allows local building inspectors to review your plans, ensuring they meet safety and environmental regulations. This review typically includes verifying proper drainage solutions, compaction methods, and the use of appropriate fill materials. Furthermore, filling in a pool often involves disconnecting or altering existing utilities, such as gas lines for heaters or electrical lines for pumps. These modifications must be performed by licensed professionals and inspected to comply with safety codes. The permit process also helps to ensure that the pool's demolition debris is disposed of properly, preventing environmental contamination. Before starting any work, contact your local city or county building department to inquire about specific permit requirements and the necessary inspections involved in filling in your pool. They can provide you with detailed information on the application process, required documentation, and applicable fees.

What are the environmental considerations when filling in a pool?

Filling in a pool involves several environmental considerations, primarily relating to water management, potential soil contamination, and the impact on local ecosystems. It's crucial to manage the pool's water responsibly, avoid contaminating the surrounding soil with chemicals, and consider the effects on drainage and local wildlife habitats.

Before filling in a pool, the most important step is to properly drain the water. Simply draining the pool into the yard or storm drain is often illegal and environmentally damaging. Pool water typically contains chlorine, salt, and other chemicals that can harm plant life, contaminate groundwater, and disrupt the balance of local waterways. The best practice is to dechlorinate the water to safe levels (typically below 0.1 ppm) before discharging it, often using a dechlorinating agent or allowing it to sit exposed to sunlight for several days. Check local regulations regarding acceptable drainage methods; some areas may require you to pump the water into the sanitary sewer system after dechlorination, which will send it to a wastewater treatment plant. Beyond water management, consider the potential for soil contamination. Pools can sometimes leak chemicals into the surrounding soil, and the fill material used to fill the pool needs to be clean and free of contaminants like asbestos, lead, or other hazardous substances. Using recycled materials can be an environmentally friendly option, but it’s vital to ensure they meet safety standards. Furthermore, assess the impact on drainage and local ecosystems. Filling a pool changes the way water flows through the property, which could lead to increased runoff, erosion, or flooding in adjacent areas. Consult with a professional to develop a drainage plan that minimizes these risks and consider how the change might affect wildlife habitats. Replacing the pool with a garden or native landscaping can provide habitat and improve biodiversity.

Can I fill in a pool myself or should I hire a professional?

Whether you can fill in a pool yourself or should hire a professional depends largely on your DIY skills, the complexity of the pool structure, local regulations, and your budget. While a DIY approach can save money, it also carries significant risks of structural issues, drainage problems, and code violations, potentially leading to costly repairs down the line. A professional offers expertise, proper equipment, and ensures compliance with all relevant regulations, giving you peace of mind and a higher quality result.

If you're considering the DIY route, thoroughly research local building codes and permit requirements. Proper pool filling involves more than simply dumping dirt into the hole. You'll need to ensure adequate drainage to prevent water buildup and potential damage to your property or neighboring land. This usually involves breaking up the bottom of the pool for drainage and installing gravel layers. Compaction is also crucial to prevent settling, which can create an uneven surface and potential safety hazards. Renting the necessary equipment, like a compactor, can also add to the cost. Hiring a professional pool demolition and fill-in service provides several advantages. They have experience with various pool types and soil conditions, ensuring the job is done correctly. They will obtain the necessary permits, handle all the excavation and compaction work, and properly dispose of any debris. While the upfront cost is higher, it can prevent costly mistakes and ensure the long-term stability and safety of your property. The increased property value due to a properly filled pool area is another benefit to consider. Before making a decision, get multiple quotes from licensed and insured contractors and compare them carefully against the cost of DIY, factoring in your time and potential risks.

What's the process for draining a pool before filling it in?

The process for draining a pool before filling it in involves safely removing all the water to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup and ensure proper compaction of the fill material. This typically involves using a submersible pump to remove the bulk of the water, followed by careful attention to local regulations and potentially managing remaining water or mud for a stable base.

First and foremost, *always* check with your local municipality and/or homeowner's association (HOA) before beginning any draining or filling process. Many areas have specific regulations regarding water disposal, permits for filling in pools, and required inspections. Ignoring these regulations can result in hefty fines. Contacting your local utility company is also crucial; they can advise on the best (and often legally mandated) place to discharge the water, usually a sanitary sewer cleanout. Avoid draining pool water into storm drains as it contains chemicals that can harm the environment. Once you have the necessary approvals, a submersible pump is used to efficiently remove the bulk of the water. Place the pump in the deepest part of the pool and direct the discharge hose to the designated drainage point. Monitor the process and adjust the pump as needed to maximize water removal. As the water level drops, be mindful of the pump potentially sucking in debris, which could damage it. Once the majority of the water is gone, there will inevitably be a muddy residue at the bottom. How you handle this depends on your local regulations and the specific fill method you will use. Some methods may require the complete removal of all standing water and mud before filling begins. Other methods may allow some residual moisture but demand proper compaction techniques to avoid future settling problems. Finally, ensure that any remaining water is managed appropriately to avoid future problems. This might involve drilling holes in the bottom of the pool shell (consult a structural engineer before doing so) to facilitate drainage into the surrounding soil or using a sump pump to continuously remove any accumulated water during the filling process. The goal is to eliminate the risk of hydrostatic pressure building up beneath the filled-in pool, which can cause cracking and shifting in the fill material over time.

How long does it typically take to fill in a swimming pool completely?

The time it takes to fill a swimming pool varies greatly depending on the pool's size, the water source's flow rate (measured in gallons per minute or GPM), and the water pressure. Generally, filling a standard residential swimming pool (approximately 20,000 gallons) can take anywhere from 24 hours to several days. Pools with larger capacities or lower water pressure will naturally take significantly longer.

To calculate an estimated fill time, you need to know the pool's volume in gallons and the water source's flow rate. You can usually find your pool's volume in its documentation, or you can calculate it based on its dimensions and shape. The flow rate can be estimated by timing how long it takes to fill a 5-gallon bucket and dividing 5 by the number of minutes. Once you have both figures, divide the pool's volume by the flow rate. This will give you the fill time in minutes. Then, divide that number by 60 to get the time in hours, or by 1440 to get the time in days. Keep in mind that extremely slow fill times can indicate issues with your water pressure or plumbing. If the process is taking significantly longer than expected, it's worth checking for leaks or consulting with a plumber. Using multiple hoses can also speed up the filling process, provided your water pressure can adequately supply them. Also, consider the cost of water and any restrictions on water usage in your area before beginning to fill your pool. Some areas have watering restrictions during dry seasons, and filling a pool could violate those rules and incur fines.

And that's all there is to it! Hopefully, you're now feeling confident and ready to tackle filling in your pool. Thanks for reading, and we wish you all the best with your project. Come back and visit us anytime you need a little help with your home and garden!