The Cost-Effective Benefits of Pool Removal
While it’s fun to have a private swimming pool at your home, there are definitely pros and cons to be considered. The reality is that a pool isn’t actually an investment. Even though it’s a luxury feature, it requires both time and money to maintain. Additionally, many homeowners are worried about liability concerns if an accident happens on their property.
If you currently have a pool and you are thinking about getting rid of it, then it’s time to call a pool removal contractor in New Jersey. The reality is that swimming pool removal requires special care and expertise to take out all of the materials and also fill in the hole that is left behind.
Inground pool removal can be a great choice. Think about all of the ways you can use the extra space in your yard after removing the pool. If you are thinking about this change, then talk to our team to learn more about both the financial and lifestyle benefits you will enjoy after the pool removal process is over.
What You Can Save Money on By Removing Your Pool
Add up the costs you are spending on pool-related expenses, and you will see that you will start saving quite a bit of money over time. Even though there is a cost to hiring a pool removal contractor, these expenses are offset in the future because you are no longer spending cash to maintain and care for the swimming pool.
Here are just a few ways you will start saving money in the future.
Professional Maintenance
Even though professional maintenance only needs to happen occasionally, these costs can still add up over time. Some homeowners bring in a maintenance team once or twice a year for a quick inspection and any repairs that might be needed.
On the other hand, there are homeowners who don’t want to worry about pool maintenance. So, they hire a professional maintenance team to come regularly for general cleaning, upkeep, and opening/closing services. While it’s nice to have these services, they definitely come with a high price tag.
Maintenance Equipment
How much money do you spend on maintenance equipment? Not only do you have the initial equipment costs when the swimming pool is installed, but these items occasionally need to be replaced over time.
It’s essential to ensure that all maintenance equipment is working properly to ensure the safety and quality of the water. For example, you need to have pumps and filters that move the water through efficiently and remove any debris. If the filter or pump goes out, then you can expect the equipment replacement to be several hundred dollars… or even more! The more complicated your maintenance system, the more expensive it will be when you need to repair or replace the system.
Repair Services
Even if you are proactive about regular maintenance and care, it’s inevitable that things will break at some point. Most homeowners don’t have the skills to repair a swimming pool, which is why they must call an expert contractor for help.
Repair services range from the equipment (as mentioned above), to broken tiles or even a leaking swimming pool. Other repairs might involve the water heating system, electrical wiring, or the swimming pool cover. Also, think about how much money you have spent on repairs for other areas surrounding the pool, such as the pool house, bathroom, and changing rooms, or cabanas.
Water Treatment Chemicals
It’s critical to maintain balanced pH levels, because the quality of the water affects the health of everyone swimming. Water treatment chemicals are not optional. You need to be treating the water regularly, and also testing the pH levels to make sure it is in the ideal zone.
Specific water treatment chemicals depend on the type of system that you have. The most common products include chlorine, shock, balancers, and algaecide. Since the chemicals will be in the water and your loved ones will be swimming, you want to make sure you are buying quality, trusted products.
Also, think about how this process can be time-consuming. If you had to put a dollar amount on the time that you are spending, what would that be worth? Your time is valuable. Yes, you might be saving money by doing it yourself, but no matter if you DIY or hire a pool maintenance company – it always costs time and money.
Pool Toys
When everyone is in the pool, you want to make sure they are staying entertained! Homeowners often have a big bucket of pool toys available, ranging from a swimming pool volleyball net to diving toys and water games.
Depending on your family demographics, you might have games for both adults and children. While it’s nice to have the variety, these expenses can add up over time. If the toys get broken or you want to buy a new pool game, consider how much you are spending each year.
Pool Accessories
Some pool accessories are necessary to ensure safety in the water. Always have life jackets and flotation devices on hand so that inexperienced swimmers can enjoy the swimming pool without being at risk.
Other accessories might include floating rafts, goggles, furniture and chairs, towels, and more. It often feels like an endless supply of pool accessories are needed to ensure that everyone is having a good time.
Other Savings
Also, consider some of the other expenses that you are paying to maintain a backyard swimming pool. When you hire a pool removal contractor in New Jersey, it means that you can reduce your liability insurance costs, decrease your water bills, and even benefit from decreased property taxes or improvements in your home value.
Ready to Take the Leap and Remove Your Pool?
While it can be costly to demolish your inground poo it can often provide you with new opportunities to utilize your yard especially if your pool currently goes unused. Mikula Contracting is here to help when you need to hire a pool removal contractor in New Jersey. We offer full-service pool demolition and more. You simply provide site access to the pool area, and we will handle all of the details. Our team is licensed and insured – reach out to schedule a consultation and get a free estimate.
Pool Excavations Effect on the Environment
If you are ready to get rid of an old pool in your backyard that costs you more money than it's worth, pool excavations But what does an extensive project like this entail? While it is essential to remove your inground pool the right way, you must also consider the implications that pool removal can have on the environment.
Anytime you excavate a large structure from your property, there is waste involved. Therefore, teaming up with the right excavation team for your backyard pool project is vital to getting the task done responsibly.
Swimming Pool Excavation: Step by Step
The construction process for removing pools and spas requires heavy equipment and a team of experienced pool excavators. You can’t just start digging and remove the pool chunk by chunk. Instead, there is a process to ensure the inground pool is removed correctly to set your land up for future projects.
1. Drain the Pool
Did you know that chlorinated water can damage your trees and plants? Before draining your pool, make sure that you do not chlorinate your pool for at least a week. Then you can test the water and wait for it to reach a PH level between 7 and 8.
If you happen to drain your pool without checking the water, you’ll need to flush out the chlorinated water by irrigating your yard. Take care of the vegetation in your yard by always checking the water before draining.
2. Remove the Pool Decking Materials
Make a plan about how you are going to remove your pool and pool decking. Whether you have a concrete or wooden pool deck, it probably won’t remain in place once the swimming pool has been removed.
Take apart the deck and haul it out to make room for the dig process. Physically lay out where the machinery can find access to your old pool. Then your pool excavation will be ready for the next step.
3. Make Way for Heavy Equipment
You may need to remove a few fence panels to prepare a path for large excavation equipment, such as a dump truck and a mini excavator. However, these temporary changes to your yard will be worth it when you no longer have to pay for pool maintenance.
Also, be prepared for the heavy machinery to damage your landscaping, including grass and plants that may be in the pathway from the street to your pool. You may have to replace the landscaping in these areas, so plan for the time and cost that may be required.
4. Remove the Pool Materials
If you have a fiberglass pool, the materials are no use to anyone besides pool contractors. They may be able to use some of the materials in their next pool building project. Either way, trusted pool excavators will know the best way to dispose of your pool materials with the least impact on the environment.
The last thing you want to do is contribute waste as large as a swimming pool to the landfill. Instead, talk with your pool excavators to find out their plans for your old pool materials.
5. Backfill the Hole
Now that you have a massive hole in your yard, what’s next? First, be careful to keep kids and adults away from the hole. It is not a safe place to play. Safety fencing is required and used around large holes in the ground. But people should still keep a safe distance as a precaution. The wood forms placed to support the hole from falling may be removed at any time during the process of preparing the land, creating a situation both dangerous and unpredictable.
Next, it’s time to fill the hole. The first step is to backfill the hole with backfill dirt. This inexpensive dirt offers a good consistency for filling a hole in your backyard. Pool excavations require compacting the earth so that the hole doesn’t sink in the future.
6. Prepare the Land for What’s Next
After the hole is backfilled, you must place topsoil on the top layer to ensure that grass and plants will grow in the space that was once occupied by a swimming pool. Contribute to the health of your property by bringing in nutrient-rich soil.
If you have plans to pour a patio or sports court on the area that was once your swimming pool, you will not need topsoil. Preserve any part of the pool deck that may evolve into your outdoor patio. Minimizing waste is a must during a pool removal project.
When you think about all the steps that pool excavations require, there are many opportunities for missteps along the way that could widely impact the environment. Hire pool excavators who are environmentally conscious and will lay out the implications that the project may have on the environment.
Complete pool excavations are worth the cost, so your property can be free of any sign that a pool existed. Also, if you decide to install a new swimming pool down the road, you will have the freedom to do so without digging up an old, covered-up inground pool.
Hire Professional Contractors For Your Pool Excavation Project
Pool excavations can be an overwhelming undertaking. You want to get it done right the first time. Hire our trusted Mikula Contracting as your pool excavators to tackle the project in the least amount of time. We will have the equipment and know-how to dispose of the materials in a way that is consistent with preserving the environment. Contact us today to get started.
Is Swimming Pool Removal DIY?
There are many home improvement projects you can do without hiring a contractor, such as painting a room or planting flowerbeds. However, certain projects need professional services, such as swimming pool removal.
Why are you asking the question: can I remove my own swimming pool? Most of the time, it’s because homeowners don’t want to pay for the cost of hiring pool removal contractors. You know that you need to get rid of the neglected pool in the backyard, but you are feeling unmotivated because of the investment you will need to make for demolition and backfilling the empty space.
Here are a few reasons why you should rethink your approach if you are asking if you can remove your own swimming pool. These considerations will help you see why it’s worth the money to pay for pool removal from a professional contractor.
Avoid Future Yard Problems
You can find plenty of videos online showing DIY demolition and filling in a pool – going from backyard swimming pool to level ground in just a few days. What you don’t see in these videos is a few months or years later when the ground settles, leaving the homeowner with sinkholes, uneven ground, and/or drainage issues.
In-ground pool removal can leave your yard a dangerous place if you don’t follow the right pool removal method. Professional, engineered backfills are essential, especially if you or future property owners want to build on the space to expand the home in the future.
You need to make sure the ground is secure, which is why it’s essential to have a professional contractor to assist with proper soil compaction.
Using the Wrong Pool Removal Method
Removing an above-ground pool is much simpler than tearing out an in-ground pool. The removal process doesn’t leave as much of a hole if the pool was sitting above ground. The process for above-ground pools is less complicated, but still not easy. You still need to drain the pool, disassemble the materials, then haul everything away. Finally, the area where the pool was located might need a little bit of fill dirt, such as topsoil for the top layer.
Complete pool removal requires full demolition and hauling away the remaining materials. The best solution for choosing from these two types of pool removal is to talk to a professional contractor about city requirements and necessary permits.
Inexperience Using Heavy Machinery
Yes, you can rent heavy machinery, but you need to be sure that you have the knowledge and skills to use this equipment without causing collateral damage in your yard. Usually, the intention is to save money on the cost to remove a pool. Sometimes DIY pool removal is a more expensive option because of the unintended damage that occurs.
Heavy machinery can break sprinkler lines, crush plumbing and sewer connections, ruin septic tanks, and more. In that case, you’ll be spending a lot of money to bring in a professional plumbing and repair team to fix the damage.
Hiring a professional pool removal company is a simple way to avoid these issues. The team knows the best practices for pool removal, including the right ways to use heavy machinery to avoid damage to the property.
Problems with Gas and Electrical Lines
One detail that DIY homeowners overlook is the proper handling of the gas and electrical lines. Not only are these systems connected to the swimming pool to run the heating, water, and more, but you might accidentally hit the main lines that are running through the property.
You need to know where these main lines are located, as well as expert industry strategies to avoid damaging them. Too often, homeowners don’t do the preparatory work, then discover the lines when the damage has already been done.
Hiring the pros is the ideal solution. An experienced pool removal company knows where to look, how to mark the lines and proper techniques for protecting the utility connections during the excavation.
Using the Wrong Fill Dirt
You need to bring in a lot of fill to cover up the hole left behind in your yard. Most homeowners assume that all dirt is the same, so it doesn’t matter what type of fill dirt they choose. You might be surprised to learn that there are major and important differences between different types of dirt.
You shouldn’t just fill in the swimming pool with the cheapest dirt you can find. Most “free” fill dirt out there contains organic material, clay, and trash, all of which cause problems with drainage and compaction. Additionally, it’s important to use the right amount of fill dirt vs. topsoil. Typically, 80% of the hole needs fill dirt, with about 20% of topsoil on the highest layer.
Underestimating A Pool Removal Project
The truth is that there are a lot of things that can go wrong in a DIY pool removal project. There are a lot of materials to haul away, and this process can be complicated, especially if you don’t have the right tools or equipment.
Homeowners mistakenly think they can get the job done in a weekend. Then, they end up with an ongoing mess in the backyard and a much higher bill than anticipated. Small details can lead to big issues, such as underestimating how much fill material will be required to fill the volume of the pool and still have the ability to compact everything down.
Contact Pool Removal Contractors
Can I remove my own swimming pool? Don’t set yourself up for failure because you removed a pool incorrectly. Instead, invest in the right services so you can avoid issues in the future. At Mikula Contracting, we offer quality services for both above-ground and in-ground pool removal. Contact us anytime to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate.
What Equipment Is Used for Inground Pool Removal?
Are you dreaming of that big, beautiful backyard where you can run and play with your kids? If you have a large pool taking up all that space, your backyard may seem a bit like a prisoner to the pool, keeping you from utilizing it the way you want. Maybe you’re just tired of the time, maintenance, and cost of keeping a pool and are ready for a change. Have you done the research if you’re considering an inground pool removal? Is this a project you can attempt on your own, or will it require qualified pool removal contractors? If you are trying to take on a pool demolition on your own, what equipment is used for swimming pool removal? Let’s “dive deeper” and take a look at this project a little closer.
How Is a Pool Removed?
Your swimming pool removal method will, of course, depend on the type of pool you have. An in-ground pool removal will be much more involved than above-ground pool removal will be. Here’s a general narration of each project’s removal process:
Complete Pool Removal
For a complete pool removal, your pool will need to be drained, and then all materials removed. While that may sound simple, there’s much more involved than you may initially believe. It includes removing the liner, all concrete, fiberglass, rebar, etc. Once the entire pool area is cleared out, it can be filled in with dirt and some gravel. And then, you can compact the soil to avoid the ground sinking later.
The best part of removing a pool completely is you never have to worry about what’s under your grass or garden area just a few inches down. You can build on top of it with no worries too. Your ground will move and sink much less over time, if at all, with a complete pool removal as well.
Above Ground Pool Removal
Above-ground pool removal is by far the easiest kind of pool to remove. Again, draining the pool will be the first step. Next, things will need to be unscrewed and removed. You may be wondering, “what equipment is used for swimming pool removal in this case”? Often, a sledgehammer is enough to destroy the deck and walls of your above-ground pool. If needed, a simple skid steer can also help with certain parts. Once everything is torn up, you can rent a dumpster, hire a junk removal service, or recycle what you can to get everything cleaned up and out of your way.
What Equipment Is Used for Swimming Pool Removal?
While the need for certain heavy equipment will depend on the swimming pools we are removing, for the most part, 6 kinds are typically used. They include:
- Excavator (with and without a jackhammer) – This equipment is used to help break up the hard concrete or gunite portion of the pool. This is a very heavy piece of machinery. Many people try to use smaller pieces of equipment to complete the same job, but it can place the machine operator in great danger.
- Skid steer (or bobcat) – This is a very versatile machine because many different buckets can be easily switched out for different projects. Typically, a skid steer can help move materials that have been demolished to the trucks that will take them away and dispose of them by using a kind of “grabber” attachment.
This bobcat can also be used to help spread dirt and other material (gravel, etc.) to get it ready to be compacted. A bobcat does an incredible job smoothing out ground material and making it look nice. Once the ground is compacted, things can be leveled out once again and left nice for the customer.
- Junk removal trucks, large dumpsters – This equipment is often overlooked when you are thinking about what equipment is used for swimming pool removal, but it is essential and adds to your overall pool removal cost. You must have at least one of these things to get rid of the materials you are ripping up when you remove the pool in your yard.
- Compactor – In order to do the job correctly, you must use a soil compactor. Sometimes these compactors can be referred to as a “sheep foot” roller which is used to get the soil to really compact, even up to 95% density! There are “knobs” on this type of roller, which pushes down and manipulates the soil until it is compacted to the desired amount. Plate compactors can also be used, but they take longer and are a bit harder to use.
- Dump trucks – These big trucks are what bring in your soil or gravel that fills in the hole that is left after your pool has been removed. Dump trucks will save you time by completing the job quickly and efficiently.
- Other small tools – Many other tools are used when completing a pool removal job. These include tools that the typical person does not usually have at their disposal. These tools may include a grinder (to cut rebar), geotextile filer fabric (help avoid soil relocation), silt sifting bags, pressure washers, etc.
What Will Your Project Cost?
The cost for your pool removal will again depend on the type of pool you have, but for an inground pool (the costliest type to be removed), you can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to about $20,000. You will be at the pricier end if you have a large, deep pool that you want to be removed completely.
The good news is that much if not all of your pool removal costs will be made up for with the money you save on the care and maintenance of your pool. You’ll soon begin to see those savings come in and appreciate the time you will save worrying about it all.
Call Mikula Contracting for Pool Removal
Mikula Contracting gets your pool removal job done right with the material, equipment, tools, and know-how to leave you feeling good about your project completion.
A pool removal project is not something that can be done easily by just watching a couple of YouTube videos and renting a bobcat at your nearest home improvement store. So when you find yourself wondering “what equipment is used for swimming pool removal” and what to do next, stop and call Mikula Contracting to finish the job the way it should be done.
Better yet, save yourself time and money and let the professionals take care of things from the beginning. Then, you’ll be happy with how quickly and efficiently we work as well as the quality work you will receive. Your pool removal will not be our first, and we will make sure you see and feel the experience we possess in this area of work. So don’t hesitate to give Mikula Contracting a call today.
Is it Time to Remove Your Pool?
Having your very own pool in your backyard can sound desirable and ideal. But time goes on, and the pool maintenance fees stack up as the pool usage goes down. It may be time for pool removal services in NJ. A nice-sized pool can be pricey to remove, but the investment can cost much less than prolonged pool ownership.
Signs that Your Pool Needs to Be Removed or Replaced
If you have an above-ground pool, then the cost to remove it is significantly less than an inground pool removal. Inground pool removal in New Jersey is more complex, with a variety of price points and options. Some signs you want to watch for to decide whether it is time to remove your pool are:
- No one uses the pool anymore.
- Maintenance costs are no longer worth it.
- You are looking to sell, and buyers aren’t interested in the pool.
- You are looking to rent out your home, and the liability isn’t worth it.
- The repair cost is too high if you need to resurface the pool or fix leaks.
As contractors in the pool industry, we know how costly it is to maintain a pool. If those costs are no longer worth it for your family, it could be time to look into pool removal in NJ. An expert team will help you decide the best options for partial removal, complete removal, or a pool replacement.
Should I Replace My Inground Pool?
If you have decided that your current pool is not worth fixing or maintaining, you’re left with the option to remove the pool. If you are thinking about potential buyers, it may be better to replace the pool with a new pool that requires less maintenance.
An expert team like Mikula Contracting has the resources and equipment for removing a pool. It all just depends on what you ultimately want for your home. A pool replacement option is also an alternative to pool removal NJ. If you have to demo a pool, you already have the hole, and it can be ready for a new swimming structure with recent upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Replacing a Pool
If you would like to replace an old, cracked, mildewy swimming pool with a new, updated structure, there are some pros and cons to doing so. A new pool eliminates many worries and maintenance issues that come with your old pool. Take a look at some of the positives and negatives of a pool replacement project:
Pros of Replacing a Pool
Even if a buyer isn’t necessarily looking for a home with a swimming pool, they can be allured into choosing your home if the pool is new. The idea of a private swimming area and new technology in their pool that won’t need updating or huge repairs for years to come can change a buyer’s mind when you sell your house.
If the existing pool isn’t what it once was and is too old to make any of the repairs worth it, then replacing the pool can have many benefits:
- New pool, fewer maintenance issues
- New technology and building materials
- Inground space already burrowed out
- New pool brings in potential buyers
A new pool will always have its benefits and will eliminate any stress that an old pool was causing. A pool replacement can be a great alternative to pool removal NJ.
Cons of Replacing a Pool
Replacing a pool can come with negative points too. It may not be in your best interest to spend the money to put in a new pool. Some negatives of replacing a pool are:
- Cost for a pool that may not get used
- Potential buyers may not want a pool
- Pool can be dangerous for young kids
Depending on your lifestyle, a pool may not be conducive to your family with young kids. Or maybe you are recent empty-nesters, and it would make more sense to remove the pool altogether. If you are selling your home in the near future, examine the neighborhood norm to determine whether a pool would add value or be a deterrent to potential buyers.
Planning to Remove Your Pool? Hire a Professional
There are many decisions to make when choosing the best option for your pool removal in New Jersey. Whether you decide to completely remove the pool or replace it with a shiny new structure, finding an expert team is the priority. Mikula can get the job done right the first time, leaving you with nothing to worry about as you enjoy your new pool or expanded yard space.
For the best contractors regarding your pool removal, our team at Mikula Contracting is the team for you. Our experienced contractors can free you of any hassle or stress. Contact us today to get your questions answered and get the backyard of your dreams.
How Long Does a Commercial Pool Last?
On a sweltering day when the sun feels like it’s about 10 feet over your head, there is nothing quite as nice as jumping into a pool. Whether you actually swim, float, or just submerge yourself up to your chin, once you’re in, you don’t feel like getting out for a while. A pool can be a big reason why people go on vacation. Heck, entire resorts have been built around their magnificent pools. They can also be a big draw for apartment complexes and even senior living communities.
The problem with pools, however, is that they require a lot of work to maintain and they don’t last forever. Over time, a pool’s many parts will wear down, wear out, and need to be fixed or replaced. Here are some guidelines for how long you can expect pool components to last before action needs to be taken.
Concrete shell
The most important part of the pool is the shell, which is its foundation. Generally, this is built with solid concrete and rebar. A common issue for older pools is that cracks form in the concrete, which exposes the rebar to oxygen and can lead to rust or deterioration. The concrete shell typically lasts about 25 years before requiring resurfacing or re-tiling and can remain viable for decades so long as they are properly maintained.
Note: Some shells today are made of fiberglass, which has a projected lifespan of 25 years and may need resurfacing after about 10.
Liner
Once the shell is constructed, the liner is put on. In most cases, this is made of a thin but strong vinyl, which makes it susceptible to rips and tears. Harsh pool chemicals can also eat away at it. With proper cleaning and maintenance, a vinyl liner will last around 15 years.
Pump and motor
Pumps are necessary for circulating both water and chemicals like chlorine, and the motor enables the pump to do its job. Because the pump and motor run a lot — perhaps as much as 12 hours a day – they will probably need to be rebuilt or replaced around the 10-year mark.
Filters
A filter system is essential for keeping the pool clean. Most filters use sand cartridges or diatomaceous earth to remove dirt and debris from pool water as the pump cycles it through the system. Even with regular cleaning, these filters won’t be able to do their job properly after a while, and generally need to be replaced every 10 years.
Heater
Though not every pool has a heater, this is a pretty common feature in places like hotels. There are many varieties, including ones that run on natural gas, propane, and solar power. Because heaters may also be used quite frequently and things like chlorine wear them down, their lifespan is usually 8-10 years.
Cover
While pools can be used all year long in some places, they need to be closed for the colder months in most locations. This means they need to be covered. Like everything else with a pool, covers deteriorate due to an accumulation of stormwater, debris, or just being exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. They will need to be replaced every seven years.
When it’s time to close the pool
When you add up all the repair and replacement projects — in addition to daily maintenance — the costs and the headaches can become overwhelming. Eventually, many commercial properties with pools decide to just get rid of them. Aside from the enormous expense, there are also liability issues that can be avoided.
Even when owners decide to move on from their pools, it’s not as simple as slapping a “closed” sign on the gate. You will need to make sure the water it removed properly (most localities have laws against simply draining chemical-laden water into the local aquifer) and the hole must be safely filled in. It’s the last project you’ll have to do on the pool, but one that’s much easier with professional help.
If your pool just isn’t the attraction it used to be and the upkeep isn’t worth it anymore, get in touch with Mikula Contracting. Removing old and possibly dangerous pools is one of our specialties. For a free quote, give us a call at 973-772-1684 or send a message through our online contact form.
Pool Past Its Prime? Here’s What You Can Do
Commercial pools work overtime to keep crowds happy, and eventually, time and use take their toll on even the best-maintained facilities. Here’s how long you can expect a pool to last and what to do when it’s removal time.
Commercial pools are built to be tough, but eventually, they all need to be removed or replaced. Long-term wear and tear will break down the shell and other components until your building’s pool is more of a hazard than a hot spot.
A pool’s lifespan depends on how well it’s maintained, but things like cracks, loose tiles, torn liners, and necessary landscaping all increase maintenance costs as the amenity ages. A commercial pool with a concrete shell and an attentive owner could see up to 25 years of use, or even longer if it’s made of fiberglass. (Some optimists say a well-tended fiberglass pool could last an owner’s lifetime.)
Concrete designs typically need resurfacing halfway through their lifespan, but they still don’t usually make it past a quarter-century. Concrete also requires more chemical treatment over the years because the porous surface can trap and grow bacteria, and that contributes to its shorter lifespan. Fiberglass is more flexible, which makes it tougher and able to withstand more internal impact as well as hydrostatic pressure.
How hydrostatic pressure affects a pool’s lifespan
Hydrostatic pressure is an environmental factor that contributes to the wear and tear on a pool in a couple of ways.
First, the everyday weight of the water pushes down on the floor of the pool, adding pressure and strain to its shell. Then, after a heavy rainfall or several accumulative showers, the surrounding earth can absorb that liquid and become denser. This adds mass to the soil, which pushes against the pool shell from the outside with that extra weight.
External hydrostatic pressure adds stress when the pool is full, but even more so when it’s empty and there is no water weight within the shell to push back against that force.
It can seem like the odds are against you. A pool full of water is under stress from the pressure on the inside, but an empty or partially empty pool is being crushed by the fluctuating weight of the soil around it. With the amount of rain we get in New Jersey, the ground can absorb a lot of moisture and lean heavily on your pool walls.
Pool removal won’t leave a hole in your grounds
Pools are an attractive addition to a property, and some property owners may worry that removing one will leave an ugly hole in their landscape. But the space is legally required to be filled in safely, and that usually includes some landscaping that will leave an attractive space where the pool used to be. Your grounds can look even better after removing a pool than they did with one.
Removing and disposing of all the water and waste material from the old pool site must be done to NJ state guidelines to avoid pollution and other risks. Complying with these regulations, as well as ensuring that the hole is safely filled in, is a very important part of the commercial pool removal process.
Is your pool past its best? Costs could start to mount for replacing multiple parts and other repairs. It’s better to commit to professional pool removal before you start to sink in repair expenses or, even worse, litigation from injured swimmers.
Weighing removal costs against legal fees and damages
Commercial property owners may ignore or delay a pool removal because they’re afraid it’s too expensive. Take a moment to consider how much more expensive lawsuits can be if the property owner is deemed legally negligent when the pool causes an injury.
Another thing to consider is just how much of a mess, financial and otherwise, could be made if you attempt to remove the pool yourself or hire someone with less than ideal experience. Severed power lines, gas lines, and fines for working without a permit are all dangerous and draining expenses you want to avoid.
Mikula can provide an estimate for your project with just a little information about your pool. The size of the pool and materials used in it will factor into the cost of any removal job, so it’s a good idea to get an estimate before committing to any plan of action.
Ready for a removal? Let Mikula do it right
We handle pool removal for apartments, senior living communities, and hotels throughout Essex, Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, Morris, and Union Counties. Mikula is a family-run business that puts safety first by training all our team members to be OSHA-compliant. We’re fully licensed throughout the state of New Jersey and take care of all inspections and permits to give our client’s peace of mind.
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email or email info@mikulainc.com
Don’t Leave Your Hotel Underwater by Going Solo
Pool removal is one of the trickiest excavation jobs there are. An amateur attempt will quickly create more problems than a hotel wants to handle. Hiring an experienced firm will make sure your property stays high and dry.
Swimming pools can be a real jewel in a hotel’s crown. They add a certain degree of luxury to a property, but even still, there are many good reasons why a hotel may part with a pool. Pools can cost a lot in maintenance and present a safety hazard for patrons. Or, maybe it’s just time for a cosmetic change in the landscape.
Whatever the reason, in-ground pool removal must be carried out by professionals. This delicate work needs experienced hands and a team who understands the many factors which need to be considered.
What you need to ask before going ahead with pool removal
Cost is probably the first factor on a hotel owner’s mind. It’s also the hardest one to predict without an onsite look at the pool. Naturally, the bigger the pool is the more it will cost. Next to consider is the removal method that works best for the property; this can be a full, partial, engineered, or collapsed finish.
Having all those factors in place will decide how expensive the job will be. You can avoid further expense by understanding the risks of amateur removals; mistakes that can add thousands of dollars to your final bill.
The risks of an unqualified pool removal
Any party attempting a pool removal without a license is breaking the law. New Jersey requires all contractors operating in the state to obtain licenses and register themselves before being allowed to work. Failure to do this can lead to steep fines and fees for the illegally operating firm. These criminals will pass their carelessness along to you through substandard work and you may also be subject to criminal fines if you DIY.
At Mikula, we’re more than licensed – we take care of all necessary pool removal permits and inspections, so our clients don’t need to worry about it. Here are the other headaches we can save you from:
- Improper drainage – There's more to emptying a pool than sucking out water. Holes need to be drilled or jackhammered to allow proper drainage. Chlorinated water from commercial pools can’t just be casually disposed of – New Jersey takes possible environmental impacts seriously.
- Drilling, demolishing, and filling – Pool walls can be made of materials like steel and concrete. Concrete can be a foot thick and reinforced with rebar making for a tough job. Tackling those without heavy-duty equipment and training won’t just be impossible, it will endanger your safety. Filling the pool afterwards with concrete or high-quality and well-compacted soil is also a professional job. DIY here could mean a cave-in later.
- Waste removal – New Jersey is careful about removing C&D waste. Our state has a list of guidelines, as well as, further rules to protect contractors, clients, and the community.
- Nasty shocks from electricity or gas lines – Professionals know where to look to find utility lines on your hotel’s property. DIY pool removers can easily impact or sever these conduits and cause serious health and safety risks.
- Future construction failures – Even if you managed to get a pool removed by yourself, there are laws in certain locales as to what you can do with that space in future. Many states don’t allow anything to be built again on top due to concerns about collapse. A professional can assess future build potential and tell you which options you have, if any.
DIY seems to offer one benefit – saving money. It’s an illusion. Amateur attempts only lead to major financial costs through fees, fines, extensive repairs, and even injury or death. There’s no sense in paying more than you must and no need to endanger your health or your life. Protect yourself by hiring pros.
We’re the pool professionals
We give our clients in the hospitality sector decades of experience plus the peace of mind our work ethic brings. We’re family-run and fully certified throughout the state of New Jersey. We’re qualified to the highest safety standards and care how our work affects our clients and the wider community environment.
If you’re intimidated by the expense of pool removal, don’t be. Mikula provides a free estimate of how much it will cost and a detailed timeline of the demolition process. You’ll know how much it will cost upfront, and you’ll be clear on what’s happening every step of the way.
Mikula has more than 70 years of work under our belt and commercial pool removal is just one of our many services. We offer services in Essex, Hudson, Bergen, Passaic, Morris and Union Counties. Let us know if you have a pool project that needs an expert eye.
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, trucking, and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email or email info@mikulainc.com
Nobody Cares for Customers Better Than a Local Contractor
The benefits of hiring a professional speak for themselves, but does it really matter if your choice is local? It certainly does. Here are the many reasons why a contractor from your own neighborhood is a cut above the rest.
Right off the bat, a local business is quite literally invested in their community. They’re not some big national corporation or shady company from out of state who lack all the right licenses. When you hire a local contractor, you’re choosing a team that has roots in the same ground you do. It’s an empowering relationship for all concerned. Customers get the best possible service while the contractor further cements (pun intended) their standing in the community.
It goes beyond this, too. A local professional understands every aspect of their job and that includes the legal and financial alongside the manual.
A local contractor knows the letter of the law
Legal requirements for contractors vary from state to state. The companies who really care will know what’s needed for their locality and make sure they’ve got it. This tells a customer two important things at once. First, this contractor takes the law seriously. Second, they care deeply about their customers and their own reputation; an unqualified contractor sets their customers up for trouble just as much as themselves.
Here in New Jersey, contractors need to carry insurance before they’re even allowed their license to start working. This is an excellent and disciplined approach which quickly presents the best available option to the client searching. It holds local contractors to a higher standard and protects everyone involved. The same goes for being bonded. A bonded contractor will be compliant with all local (as well as state) license laws. Since New Jersey contractors are all licensed at either the city or county level, bonds really show awareness and dedication to their home turf.
A local professional has the right insurance and permits
Plenty of contractors will tell you they’re insured, and an uninsured one is easy to spot these days. Check out their website to see if they have their insurance details prominently displayed. If they don’t, they’re breaking the law and putting you at risk while doing it.
All manual labor puts workers at risk. The right contractor will have worker’s compensation in place to protect their employees alongside other coverage like general liability and umbrella. As the name suggests, umbrella coverage protects them from a lot more than general does. Safety is of the utmost importance to us, which is why every Mikula Contracting operator is qualified under the strict standards of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
OSHA (as they’re more commonly known) treats worker safety as an absolute priority and they set the bar nationally for contractors when it comes to looking after their team. It’s more than common sense and laws; a safety-conscious contractor makes sure their customers don’t foot the bill for workers injured on the job.
We took an in-depth look at permits in our previous blog which are another benefit of hiring a knowledgeable local contractor. We’re also dedicated to keeping our local community as pristine as possible which is why we’re certified with the New Jersey Department of the Environmental Protection Agency.
A local contractor shares your weather woes
If you’re in the contracting business in New Jersey, you had better know about snow! Last year’s winter had many of us thinking we’d broken a record (but we had a long way to go). Any contractor can stay up to speed with our state weather via the web, but it’s only a local contractor who has the same experience customers do with ensuring your neck of the woods maintains business as usual.
Snow can be a sudden hazard. It can box you in overnight and leave driveways, highways, and commercial sites crippled for days, weeks, or even months. New Jersey’s northern communities are often the hardest hit and that’s why we provide both emergency and ongoing snow plowing and removal services with our state-of-the-art equipment.
What it all adds up to
Everything you’ve just read shows you why a local contractor beats the rest. Mikula Contracting is fully licensed throughout the state of New Jersey and we’re adding to our 73 year-long list of satisfied customers every day. We can be there to get the job done no matter where you are in NJ.
Mikula Contracting, Inc. provides commercial and residential customers with a wide range of excavation, demolition, environmental, snow removal, trucking and soil materials services. For more information, call 973-772-1684 or email info@mikulainc.com
The Essentials of Commercial Land Clearing and Excavation
Commercial Excavation: It’s more than just removing trees and digging holes
Walk across the ground of an empty lot. It can seem solid. And that may be so, for the weight of a human. It’s a different story for heavy equipment and certainly a building.
The weight of a building has a different impact on the ground beneath it than you do, and that’s what excavation is really all about. It’s preparing the ground to support what will be built on it, which is far more detailed and precise than most people might imagine.
Breaking ground
Trees and rocks, or even existing structures, are the first things that must be safely and appropriately removed to prepare for building construction. While this is part of excavation, it’s only the start.
Land clearing doesn’t mean a building site is reduced to nothing but bare earth. Excavators can be tasked with preserving certain trees or geological elements like natural hills. Proper land clearing ensures that the trees and vegetation that remain stay healthy.
Generally, land clearing involves the removal of what’s above the surface and some of the topsoil itself. It’s called earth excavation when it’s necessary to dig foundation holes for buildings, bridges, or even roads, where the earth below the topsoil is also removed. Excavation can also include removing sediment and debris from water.
Preparing for construction
The objective of excavation is to prepare the earth to support the building being constructed on it. This can mean moving and adding material, as types of soil can behave differently when they are compacted. It’s the excavator’s responsibility to work with construction architects to ensure that the soil offers a dependable surface to support the building. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) puts soils into four categories, which are sorted by stability.
Stability is the main concern because a cubic yard of soil can weigh more than 3,000 pounds. It’s why excavation is also a science. It takes calculated and precise movements to position soil on a site to correctly support the project. It’s also why civil engineers and geological inspections are attached to the excavation process involved with commercial construction.
The right type of excavation is also crucial for the creation of proper drainage on a piece of land, especially if the topography has been changed to accommodate the building. Often, this involves working with excavators to decide the way to create the smallest amount of impact to the existing parcel.
Sites for new buildings, especially in urban areas, may need to be rehabilitated if preparatory testing discovers that the soil was contaminated by previous usage. This process is undertaken by excavating companies that collect the contaminated soil for relocation. These excavation site workers do more than remove the soil, they also work to monitor dust control.
Trenching
We think of excavation as digging into the ground, specifically as a space prepared for the foundation of a building. But when the excavation’s depth exceeds its width, it’s called a trench. Trench excavation is necessary for the placement of building-related functions like water pipe connections and sewage. These excavations can’t be more than 15 feet wide.
OSHA calls excavations associated with trenching the most hazardous in the industry, and the agency requires excavations deeper than five feet to have protective systems in place. If the trench is deeper than 20 feet, the protective system must be overseen by a professional engineer.
It’s all connected
Preparing a site for construction involves more than clearing the land. It includes the cooperation of a group of professionals whom are experts in various fields ranging from engineering to geology. The soil on the site must be made “competent,” or strong enough to withstand the forces that the load of the building will put on it. Excavators are also responsible for the integrity of their work, as well as the consequences on the surrounding areas.
Learn more about our commercial excavation services.
