Swimming pools used to be the ultimate luxury for homeowners, but nowadays, more and more people are deciding to remove them. From costly repairs, maintenance, and insurance to safety hazards and limited backyard space, there are several reasons why homeowners are reconsidering their pools. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the top 6 reasons people are removing their swimming pools, and why it might be worth considering for your own backyard.
Why some homeowners are choosing to remove their swimming pools
Removing a swimming pool is becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners due to various reasons. Some homeowners may find that their swimming pools are no longer being used frequently and occupy a significant portion of their yard space. Others may want to save on repair and maintenance costs, or they may want to repurpose their backyard for other activities. Homeowners may also remove their pools due to high insurance costs and legal liabilities associated with owning a pool or due to the pool being a safety hazard. Additionally, removing a swimming pool can actually increase a home’s resale value in some cases.
1-Repair expenses can add up quickly
Repair expenses can be a significant factor in a homeowner’s decision to remove their swimming pool. Minor repairs, such as fixing a leak or replacing a pump, can cost several hundred dollars. However, more extensive repairs, such as resurfacing the concrete or replacing multiple broken tiles, can cost thousands of dollars. Additionally, upgrading equipment can add another $10,000 or more to the cost. Over time, these repair expenses can add up quickly and become a significant financial burden for homeowners. Removing the pool altogether can be a cost-effective solution in the long run.
2-Monthly and yearly maintenance costs
It’s no secret that owning a swimming pool can be a lot of work. In addition to the initial cost of installation, there are also ongoing maintenance expenses to consider. From purchasing supplies like chlorine and pool vacuums to paying for monthly upkeep services, the costs can quickly add up. According to Dallas Pool Demolition, the average homeowner spends approximately $150 per month on pool maintenance. And if repairs are needed, those costs can be even higher. All of these expenses may be a deciding factor for homeowners who are considering removing their swimming pool as a way to cut costs in the long run.
3-Homeowners may want to use their backyard for other activities
Homeowners may choose to remove their swimming pool because they want to use their backyard for other activities. Maybe swimming isn’t a priority for them or they simply want more open space. Removing the pool can free up room for a garden, outdoor sports, or even a playground for children. Real estate agents say that features like grassy spaces and covered patios can be more attractive to buyers than a pool. So, if you’re not using your pool much or it’s become a burden, removing it can open up new options for your yard.
4-High insurance costs and legal liabilities
Owning a pool can lead to high insurance costs and legal liabilities. A swimming pool is considered an “attractive nuisance” that can attract curious children and pose a drowning risk. As a result, pool owners are often required to take extra precautions such as installing proper fencing and safety perimeters, purchasing safety alarms for the pool, and having an automatic and lockable cover. Homeowners may also need to increase their liability coverage to protect themselves from potential accidents. These added expenses can add up quickly, leading some homeowners to opt for pool removal.
5-Buyers may not want the added liability
When comes to purchasing a home, some buyers may think twice about the added liability that comes with owning a pool. In fact, a backyard swimming pool might even scare away potential buyers who are turned off by the work and expense required to maintain a pool. This is especially true for buyers who may not have any interest in owning a pool or who may be concerned about safety issues for young children or pets. Additionally, insurance companies may charge a higher premium or may not cover diving-board injuries at all, which further adds to the liability concerns for potential buyers.
6-Home additions may require the removal of the pool
If you’re thinking of adding an extension to your home, it’s important to consider whether your swimming pool is going to get in the way. Unfortunately, even if your pool is built in a separate area of your yard, it could still be a challenge for certain home extensions. In some cases, the entire swimming pool structure might need to be removed so that you can create space for your new addition. Fortunately, pool removal experts can handle the job for you, ensuring that your yard is structurally sound enough to support your home renovation plans.
