Jun 18, 2024 | Pool Fill-In Education
Filling in a pool can be a great decision for homeowners who want to transform their outdoor space or reduce the maintenance costs of owning a pool. Understanding the costs involved is important for planning and budgeting.
Cost Breakdown
Partial Fill-In
A partial fill-in involves removing the pool’s water, drilling holes in the bottom for drainage, and filling it with a mixture of pack fill. In Ontario, this process typically costs between $10,000 – $15,000 for a vinyl pool, and between $12,000 – $15,000 for a gunnite pool, depending on the pool size and materials used.
Full Fill-In
A full fill-in requires completely removing all pool components and filling the space with compacted soil. This method ensures better stability for future landscaping and can cost between $12,000 – $15,000 for a vinyl pool, and between $12,000 to $25,000 for a gunnite pool.
Additional Costs
Additional expenses can include:
- Permits (if required): Approximately $2000, depending on local regulations.
- Decking Removal: Around $1,000-$3,000. This depends largely on the size of the pool and the materials used.
- Landscaping: Costs vary widely but expect to pay $1,000-$5,000 for basic landscaping.
What’s Involved?
The first step is the assessment of the pool and surrounding area.
There’s a process to determine just what the project involves. Every situation will be somewhat different based on several factors. Generally, a pool fill-in project will consist of the following steps.
Assessment
An initial evaluation is done to determine the pool size, and material removal, and estimate any additional costs that may be required.
Permits
Obtaining necessary permits from local authorities can take a few weeks. If this is required, it is advisable to plan for this step well in advance so it doesn’t slow the process down.
Materials and Equipment
Typical materials include a sand/clay base, topsoil, and sod.
Final Touches
Levelling the surface and adding topsoil, followed by landscaping.
Factors That Can Influence Cost
The size of the pool and surrounding area will affect the cost.
Pool Size and Type
Larger pools or those with complex designs cost more to fill. This is due to the increased volume of materials required and the additional labour involved. A larger pool needs more pack fill, while complex designs with features like curves, multiple levels, or integrated spa areas demand more time and effort to fill properly. Additionally, these pools often have more extensive plumbing and electrical systems that need to be removed or managed during the fill-in process, further increasing the cost.
Location
Specific factors such as soil type and local regulations can affect costs.
Accessibility
Difficult access to the pool area can increase labour costs.
Additional Features
Pools with extensive plumbing or electrical components require more work to remove or fill.
Comparative Analysis
Partial/Complete vs. Removal and Disposal
Partial fill-in: Less expensive, quicker.
Complete removal: More expensive and time-consuming.
Provide Detail
During the estimating process, make sure to disclose as much detail as you can. Every project is different and sometimes having those details in advance can help save headaches down the line. Pictures are helpful, as well as referencing yard entry points, and other details that can affect the procedure.
FAQs
Can I fill in a pool myself?
While possible, it’s recommended to hire professionals to ensure proper drainage and compaction.
How long does the process take?
Typically 3-4 days, depending on the method and site conditions.
Filling in a pool is a significant project that can save on long-term maintenance costs and repurpose your outdoor space. Understanding the costs and processes involved helps in making an informed decision. For a personalized quote and professional advice, contact The Pool Fill In People! We’d love to know more about your project!
Feb 20, 2024 | Pool Fill-In Education
Swimming pools can provide hours of fun and relaxation during the summer months, but they can also be a source of stress and expense for homeowners. If you’re tired of maintaining your pool or if you’re looking to reclaim valuable yard space, pool removal may be the solution you’ve been seeking. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of pool removal and why it’s an excellent investment for homeowners.
Increased Property Value
Filling in your swimming pool can boost your property value in several ways. For one, it eliminates the potential liability of a swimming pool on your property, and makes your home more attractive to potential buyers. It also provides more space for landscaping and other outdoor amenities, which can increase your property’s aesthetic appeal and functionality. Homeowners who fill in their swimming pools often see a significant increase in their home’s resale value, making it an excellent investment for the future.
Cost Savings
Maintaining a swimming pool can be expensive, especially if you’re not using it regularly. Chemicals, electricity, and water costs can quickly add up, not to mention the cost of repairs and replacements. Filling in your swimming pool can save you money in the long run by eliminating these ongoing expenses. You’ll also avoid potential repairs, which can be costly if you’re dealing with leaks or other structural issues.
Improved Safety
Swimming pools can be dangerous, especially if you have children or pets. By filling in your swimming pool, you’ll eliminate the risk of accidents, injuries, and drownings on your property. This can provide peace of mind and a safer environment for your family and guests.
Enhanced Outdoor Space
If you’re not using your swimming pool, it’s essentially wasted space. By filling in your swimming pool, you can reclaim that valuable outdoor space and transform it into something that better suits your needs. Whether you want to create a garden, a patio, or a new outdoor living space, the possibilities are endless when you have more land to work with.
Environmental Benefits
Swimming pools require a significant amount of water, energy, and chemicals to maintain, which can be harmful to the environment. By filling in your swimming pool, you’ll reduce your water usage, energy consumption, and chemical runoff, which can have a positive impact on the environment. This can be a great selling point for eco-conscious homeowners who are looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Filling in your swimming pool can provide numerous benefits, including increased property value, cost savings, improved safety, enhanced outdoor space, and environmental benefits. If you’re ready to take the plunge and reclaim your backyard, our team at The Pool Fill-In People can help. We specialize in professional pool removal and fill-in services, and we’re committed to providing quality workmanship and exceptional customer service.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your backyard goals.
Aug 11, 2020 | Pool Fill-In Education
Are you considering buying a house with a pool and want to know if it’s a smart investment? Maybe you already have a pool and are having second thoughts about keeping it.
“Pools are great in theory, but there can be hidden downsides that lead to a pool being more of a headache than a relaxing haven.”
An in ground pool can seem like the ultimate luxury, and to some, it certainly is, but a pool is just a pain if it’s:
- in need of repair
- requires extensive maintenance
- is taking up space that could be better suited for something else
There are many benefits to a pool—no one is likely to argue that. But there are just as many drawbacks, if not more so, that should be carefully considered. Let’s take a closer look at some of the biggest cons of owning a pool to investigate whether or not removing or filling in your pool makes financial sense in your case…
Cons of Owning a Pool
Heating and water costs can be expensive. Running a pool heater costs $150 – $800 per month depending on various factors, like the temperature, humidity, and average wind speeds.
The most common types of swimming pool heaters use propane, natural gas, or electricity as their fuel source, and each has its benefits. Gas heaters cost less up front but more over time.
Conversely, electric heat pumps are more expensive up front but are cheaper to run over time.
Energy Star estimates that it costs about $2,000 to heat a 1,000 sq. ft. pool in the GTA to 78 degrees (average temperature recommended by International Code Council) between May 1st to September 30th—the five warmest months of the year when a pool is most often utilized. In this circumstance, that equates to roughly $400/month to heat a pool that size.
Energy Star estimates that for every one-degree increase in pool temperature, energy consumption increases by 10% – 30%.
A good-quality pool cover can help reduce pool heat loss by 50% or more depending on where you live and can also reduce evaporation.
Pool maintenance can be a hassle
There are rules to owning a pool. No, not the “Pool Rules” you’re used to seeing on the side of a public pool. There are codes put in place to keep people and the environment safe. These pool regulations require up-to-date and operational equipment, code-compliant drain covers, pool barriers, etc.
The cost of these various components can be more than some people are prepared to take on, and they can add up especially quickly in the case of an old, outdated pool. Learn more about swimming pool codes: 2018 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
Water evaporation is something to consider.
The average pool sees ¼ – ½ an inch of water loss per day due to evaporation. This equates to about 2 – 4 inches of water per week. A typical-sized pool loses roughly 25,000 – 50,000 gallons of water per year due to evaporation alone. If you live in a particularly hot and/or dry area, expect evaporation to happen even more quickly. The same can be said for windy environments as well.
“First-time pool owners may think their pool has a leak when they discover how quickly evaporation depletes the water level. Depending on where you live, it’ll be necessary to top off the water level every week or so to keep it from getting too low.”
Not only is refilling your pool a pain, but it’s also a strain on your wallet and the environment. Another sneakier downside of evaporation is its effect on the pool’s water temperature. One of the biggest culprits of energy loss (i.e. heat loss) is evaporation.
If you add a pool cover, you can reduce the amount of heat loss that occurs from evaporation, and you’ll notice significant savings.
Insurance coverage may need to be increased
In the insurance business, swimming pools are the most commonly cited example of an “attractive nuisance,” or anything that might simultaneously attract and endanger an unsupervised child.
Other examples of common “attractive nuisances” are trampolines and man-made ponds.
Because of this title, pool owners are responsible for taking proper measures to protect unsuspecting children from the potential danger of an attractive nuisance, like a pool. This could include installing a fence around the pool’s perimeter, using a safety cover when the pool is not being used, and having easy-to-access safety equipment nearby. Even when taking reasonable precautionary measures, you may still want to consider increasing your homeowner’s insurance coverage and limits.
This will, in turn, result in a higher annual premium.
When it comes to homes with pools, insurance companies recommend increasing liability coverage from $100,000 to $500,000.
This could increase your monthly bill $65 – $135 depending on rates where you live. Speak with your insurance company to see which coverages are preferred in your situation.
Pros of Owning a Pool
Fun in the sun. Everyone can likely agree that a pool that is in good condition is a fun place to be!
Taking a swim with friends and family is a great way to spend warm months out of the year. Keeping a pool makes financial sense in certain situations. A pool only makes financial sense if all circumstances are right when it comes time to sell. In a perfect scenario, a pool will increase a home’s value by an average of 7%.
Some examples of a “perfect pool scenario” include:
You live in a higher-end neighborhood and most of your neighbors have pools. (In this case, not having a pool might make your home harder to sell.)
- You live in a warm climate, such as Florida or Hawaii.
- Your property is big enough to accommodate a pool and still have some space left over.
- The style of the pool fits the neighborhood.
- The pool is well-maintained and in good condition.
- The pool is not too old or out of date.
- You can attract the right buyer. (Couples with very young children may not be interested in homes with pools because of potential safety issues, but an older, childless couple, or a family with kids who can swim, may fall in love with it.)
Pros of Removing a Pool
- You save time and money on swimming pool maintenance.
- You have more yard space for other activities or landscaping opportunities.
- You no longer have the additional hazards and liabilities that come with pool ownership.
- If you sell your house, it may increase the number of potential buyers and make your home easier to sell.
- If you have young children, removing your pool eliminates the potential safety hazards associated with pool ownership.
Cons of Removing a Pool
