Having an inground pool in your backyard can be a wonderful thing, but many homeowners – especially those who move into a home that already has one – end up either forgetting it entirely or resenting it.
The thing is, an inground pool needs regular maintenance and care even when it’s not being used, which means time and money going to something you might not even be using.
So what are the best ways to get rid of or repurpose an unwanted pool into something useful?
“Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do. – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Pool to pond
The first backyard pool idea would be to turn your inground pool into a backyard pond – which is ideal if you would like to beautify your backyard in some way and you don’t really care for a pool at this point.
A good amount of research is encouraged to figure out the best ways to make your pond, but a good advantage of this idea is that in most cases it’s totally reversible. Meaning that if you ever want your pool back (or decide to sell your home), you can revert it back to a normal pool.
But of course, the pond would also require a decent amount of care and maintenance, so inform yourself on what those are to make sure you’re up for the task.
Bury it
No, I’m serious – it may sound a little dramatic, but it’s totally possible. You can turn your pool into garden space by filling it up with soil and either removing the deck portion or burying it entirely (though removing it is probably more effective).
Just be warned that this process would essentially destroy the pool for future use and you would still have to disclose it in the event of selling the home.
If you decide to go with it, it’s recommended to look for professional help, but also check to see if any permits are required before going through with the project. You would have to drill holes on the bottom of the pool to allow for drainage before adding the soil – it’s a tricky process, which is why professional help is highly recommended.
Turn it into a greenhouse
It’s very unlikely you’ll find use for a greenhouse unless you’re a seasoned gardener, but in case you are, it’s something to consider. And I do mean “consider, because this is a somewhat complicated process that needs a good deal of research and consideration before committing.
The idea is to level the pool with gravel and turn it into a pit greenhouse, but not every type of pool is appropriate for this transformation. The weight of the gravel and the way earth and water behave can either collapse the pool into the ground or slowly push it out – both of which can compromise surrounding structures. The best course of action would be to consult a professional that will analyse your property beforehand and see if your type of pool allows it.
Convert into a deck
One of the most effective ways to transform an inground pool is to make it into a deck. Many companies specialise in this type of pool conversion and it’s incredibly effective, because you use the same space for an all-new outdoor space for the family that everyone can actually enjoy (naturally, we’re assuming that you want to get rid of the pool because no one uses it).
The only notable things to mention are that sometimes pumps will be implemented to prevent standing water from settling in and you will still have to disclose the pool when selling the home since it’s still technically all there. But other than that, it’s a great idea for an inground pool repurpose!
Remove it entirely
If none of the ideas above appeal to you, we’re left with the most obvious and effective solution: removing the pool entirely and forever. The main reason it took us this long to get here is because this project isn’t exactly easy and comes a bit costly, but in return will give back the entire yard space and, better yet, permanently end the pool maintenance costs.
In theory it’s simple: remove the pool and fill the space with dirt. In practice, however, it takes a lot of attention to detail – all debris must be removed, the pool has to be moved, dirt must be compacted to not compromise nearby structures… Naturally, professional assistance is highly encouraged!
With the pool removed, you now have your entire yard space back and no more pool maintenance to worry about!
Need help sorting out your inground pool? Talk to a pool expert today and get free quotes for your area!
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