Options for what can take its place
There are basically two types of people in the world: those who have always wanted an in ground swimming pool but never got it and those that have one and want to get rid of it. If you are in the latter category, you may be wondering what you will put in its place after the in ground pool is gone.
People who wish for a pool can’t understand why anyone would ever discard one. The truth is that there are a multitude of reasons why you may want to replace your in ground pool. However, before you make a final decision, you may want to figure out what you can do with a giant, gaping hole in your yard first.
Why you may want to get rid of your in ground swimming pool
Dangerous for children
If you have young children, an in ground swimming pool can be akin to a death trap. Even if you have a gate surrounding it with locks, children are quite resourceful so it’s never a sure bet that they can’t get in. Additionally, tragic accidents can happen whether your children can swim or not.
Extra yard space
Sometimes, you may have other plans for your yard space. Perhaps you have pets that you want to run free or creative landscaping ideas that don’t include an in ground pool.
You never wanted one in the first place
Purchasing a home is a major investment and commitment. It’s common to find a house that is perfect except for one or two factors. One of these might be an in ground pool that you want to dispose of.
Upkeep is too expensive
You can’t install an in ground pool and then just leave it. It must be maintained and sometimes repaired. In addition, having an in ground pool requires chemicals, cleaning, and opening and closing in winter and summer. There is also the added expense of high water and electric bills. The costs can quickly add up and lead to frustration, especially when you consider all the other things you could be doing with that money.
You’ve simply outgrown it
Perhaps you installed an in ground pool when your children were young and now they’ve grown up and moved away. Maybe you just don’t have time to use it anymore. Lifestyles change and interests often shift and one of those might be your desire for an in ground pool.
It’s in disrepair
If you have an in ground pool that simply doesn’t work (and it would be too expensive to fix), replacing it is definitely in order. Before you begin, it’s important to have a plan for what’s next.
You’re not using it
At first glance, having an in ground pool may have seemed like the ideal way to spend relaxing family time. Then, reality sets in and you discover that, due to weather and time constraints, you are not using it as much as you though you would. If that’s the case, the in ground pool is just wasting space.
To sell your home
In many areas, it’s actually harder to sell a home with an in ground pool. Potential buyers may not want to assume the responsibility and risk that comes with such a substantial backyard fixture. As a result, they will decide to purchase elsewhere. It’s important to note that even if you do replace your in ground pool before putting your home on the market, you should still disclose its former presence.
What can you put in place of an in ground swimming pool?
Fire pit – this is a popular, charming feature that can really set your backyard apart from all the rest. It’s wonderful for gathering friends and family on either cool autumn evenings or beautiful summer afternoons.
Patio – the area from an in ground pool can be covered up and turned into a deck or patio. This is a great solution for some homeowners because you don’t have to worry about seeing the evidence of a former pool. The wood or cement will just cover it up. It also eliminates the need for complete removal of the pool. However, you may need to install pumps to prevent standing water from building up underneath.
Pond – there are many options if you want to turn your in ground pool into a pond. You can create a koi pond or one for other wildlife like fish, turtles and frogs. This typically involves different equipment, filling the bottom with gravel or installing a new liner. In the end, however, you will have a beautiful, unique backyard that will be the envy of the neighborhood.
Garden bed—the space from an in ground pool can be ideal for a flower garden or a fruit and vegetable bed. The area probably already gets plenty of sunshine. You can even be adventurous by covering the spot and making a greenhouse.
Dance pavilion – like to entertain? You can turn that old in ground swimming pool area into a place where guests can dance. Add some cool lights and a space for a band or DJ and your visitors won’t want to leave.
Nothing – you may choose to simply fill in the hole left over from an in ground swimming pool. Unfortunately, this is not as easy as it sounds. You must completely tear down the structure, find a way to dispose of the debris and get enough dirt to fill the hole. This is a task best left to professionals.
How to replace an in ground pool
- Depending on what you are putting in its place, you may have to dig holes to allow for drainage. Just backfilling the space is not enough. You must have a plan for the water. Otherwise, the area will become a muddy, unstable mess.
- Soil must be compacted to keep the area from sinking.
- Remove the decking and top few feet of the in ground pool to eliminate all traces of the pool.
- Do your homework to find out if any special permits or permissions are needed. Some areas have rules about how much of your in ground pool can be left in the ground.
- Hire only expert contractors. Replacing an in ground pool may seem like an easy DIY project but in actuality it can become a complicated, time consuming venture.
Excavation projects take experience and training. Mikula Contracting handles foundation and construction excavation as well as pool removal and trench excavation. You can trust us for all your excavation needs. We service Essex, Passaic, Hudson, Bergen, Union and Morris counties. Call today for a fast quote.
