Close in an Unwanted In Ground Pool

Filling an in-ground swimming pool can lead to all sorts of unexpected problems. Once the pool is empty, it may become buoyant while sitting in the ground. If the soil conditions are right, the pool can actually begin to "float" up out of the ground, which can cause soil erosion or even foundation problems for a nearby house. Here is an inexpensive and easy method to rid yourself of an unwanted in-ground swimming pool.

Steps

  1. Drain the pool. Do this when the soil is dry so it will be unlikely for the pool to float out of the ground. If the water contains chlorine or other harmful chemicals, make sure it's not going into storm drains or other places it could cause environmental damage.
  2. Use a jackhammer, sledgehammer, or other tool to smash holes into the bottom of the pool. This will allow water to drain out of it in the future.
  3. Remove any top decking concrete walkways, coping tiles and any other concrete around the pool that you don't want anymore. Toss it into the pool over the holes you have made.
  4. Cover the old cement with a layer of crushed rock. Then cover this with a layer of sand, or just fill it up the rest of the way with dirt. If possible, tamp it down as you go so you will have less settling over time. Be sure that the last foot of dirt is quality topsoil if you want to plant anything on top of it.

Tips

  • Placing a layer of filter fabric over the openings in the pool bottom will help keep them from becoming silted, so they continue to drain properly.
  • These instructions are not for use with a vinyl, fiber glass and metal in ground swimming pool, they apply to concrete pools only.

Warnings

  • If you put in a lot of concrete and do not use crushed rock and sand, you'll get a lot more settling than you otherwise would.
  • Check local bylaws and building codes in regard to what you can leave in the ground. You may not be able to leave the vinyl or the concrete.
  • Be sure to drill lots of holes (or even break up the bottom of the pool) in order to facilitate drainage.

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