Ask the Guys.

Common questions.

• What's the difference between partial fill-in and full removal?

  Partial fill-in removes the upper portion of the shell, cuts drainage openings in what stays, then places and compacts approved fill before rough grading. Full removal takes the entire shell out and hauls it away before the excavation is backfilled, compacted and finish graded. Partial is generally intended for open-yard uses with no structure planned; full removal is generally preferred if you may build on that footprint later.

• How long does a pool removal take?

  The demolition and backfill itself is usually the shortest part of the project. What moves the schedule is everything around it: how your local building department handles the permit, how equipment gets into the yard, utility locating, weather, and how much material has to come in or go out. We give you a schedule in writing after the site walk, once we have seen those conditions on your property.

• What happens to the dirt and debris?

  Demolished shell material and spoils are loaded and hauled off the property. Backfill is placed as approved fill and compacted in lifts rather than simply pushed in—loose backfill is what causes settlement later. What material is appropriate for your lot depends on the soil and on local requirements.

• Do I need city permits?

  Pool removal is generally a permitted demolition, and requirements vary by jurisdiction and by property. We prepare and coordinate the paperwork with your local building department. We cannot promise how a department will rule on a specific property, and we will not tell you a permit is guaranteed.

• What can I do with the space after?

  Lawn, garden, patio, play space, or a future build. The one that matters for the decision is future construction: if a structure may go on the former pool footprint, that generally points to full removal. Tell us what you are planning at the site walk and we will tell you which option fits it.