How much does above ground pool removal cost?
How much does above ground pool removal cost?
$800 – $3,000 average cost
Above ground pool removal cost
Above ground pool removal costs $800 to $3,000 on average depending on the pool size. The total cost also depends on how easy the pool is to access, whether it needs to be drained or not, and local labor rates and disposal fees. The cost to remove an above ground pool with a deck can exceed $5,000.
| Pool size | Average removal cost |
|---|---|
| Small pool (up to 12' diameter) |
$800 – $1,200 |
| Medium pool (12' – 18' diameter) |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
| Large pool (18' diameter or more) |
$1,500 – $3,000 |
Above ground pool removal cost factors
Several factors affect the cost to take down an above ground pool:
Pool size
Larger pools require more time, labor, and equipment to dismantle and haul away. A small pool can often be removed in a few hours, while an oversized pool may take a full day or more. The amount of material to dispose of also directly impacts your final bill.
Accessibility
Contractors need clear access to your pool with trucks and equipment. Pools in tight backyards, behind fences, or near structures cost more to remove because workers must spend extra time maneuvering materials through narrow spaces.
Pool draining
Most contractors drain the pool before removal. If your pool water contains chemicals, it may require special disposal methods rather than draining it into your yard. Some companies include draining in their quote, while others charge separately. Pool draining costs $150 to $250, depending on the pool size.
Labor
Labor costs vary by region and company. Experienced pool removal specialists typically charge more than general handypersons but complete the job more efficiently. The complexity of your pool's installation also affects how long removal takes.
Disposal fees
Landfills charge fees based on the weight and type of materials. Metal pools may qualify for recycling, which can reduce disposal costs. Vinyl and resin pools typically go to standard landfills at higher disposal rates.
Landscaping
After pool removal, you're left with a bare patch of ground that may be uneven or compacted. Basic grading and seeding to restore the area add to your project cost. More extensive landscaping like sod installation or planting costs extra.
Sod installation costs $1 to $2+ per square foot.
Seeding a lawn costs $0.25 to $0.75 per square foot.
Flower bed installation costs $20 to $65 per square foot.
Additional costs
Several add-ons can increase your total pool removal expense:
Deck removal: Wooden or composite decking around the pool requires dismantling and disposal, adding several hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the deck size and complexity. Deck removal costs $1,000 to $7,000+ on average.
Stair removal: Attached stairs or entry platforms also need removal and hauling, increasing the cost.
Fence removal: Pool fencing must be taken down if it encircles only the pool area. Some homeowners choose to keep existing fencing for other purposes.
Excavation or backfilling: If the pool sat in a depression or had ground-level installation, you'll need soil delivered and graded to level the area. Leveling or grading costs $500 to $1,000, while fill dirt costs $200 to $600, including delivery and spreading.
DIY vs. professional removal
While removing an above ground pool yourself is possible, it's a labor-intensive project that requires proper tools and disposal arrangements.
Professional removal offers several advantages. Contractors have the right equipment to dismantle pools quickly and safely. They handle all disposal logistics and ensure proper cleanup. Most importantly, they carry insurance to protect against property damage during the removal process.
Above ground pool removal FAQs
How long does it take to remove an above ground pool?
Most above ground pool removals take 4 to 8 hours for a standard-sized pool. Small pools may be removed in as little as two to three hours, while removing large pools with decking can take a full day or more. Access issues or challenging installations extend the timeline.
Will removing an above ground pool increase home value?
Removing an above ground pool can increase your home's appeal to buyers who don't want pool maintenance. However, it typically doesn't add significant monetary value. The main benefit is improved yard usability and eliminating a potential deterrent for pool-averse buyers.
Can I drain my above ground pool into my yard?
Draining into your yard is allowed in many areas if the water is free of chemicals and hasn't been treated recently. Check local regulations first, as some municipalities prohibit it. Never drain chemically treated water onto your lawn, as it can kill grass and plants.
Getting quotes from pool removal companies
Follow these tips to ensure you hire the best pool removal company near you:
Get estimates from at least two to three pool removal companies.
Look for companies with experience in above ground pool removal, not just general junk removal.
Look for reviews from previous customers on trusted sites like HomeGuide and Google.
Confirm the company you choose is licensed and insured.
Request an itemized estimate, contract, and warranty in writing.
Questions to ask pool removal contractors
Ask contractors these questions before signing a contract:
Are you licensed and insured?
Can you provide references with contact information?
Does your quote include cleanup and debris removal?
Will this project require a permit, and will you obtain it?
What will you do to protect my property from damage?
How long will it take to remove the pool?
Do you handle draining, or do I need to drain the pool first?
What happens to the pool materials after removal?
Are there any additional fees I should expect?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.