What can I do with a pool we never use?

A: Shutting down a pool goes beyond stopping the motor. Even if you drain it initially, rainwater will partially fill the pool, causing a hazard. Odors and a refuge for mosquito breeding are the reasons why we do not choose this option. Here are some good options for rearranging the space occupied by your swimming pool:

Fill it out: Collapsing a pool and filling it requires a permit. There are very specific requirements for filling a swimming pool, including the depth to which the pool must be collapsed, the contents with which it must be filled, and the clogging of electrical lines. The demolition will include the collapse of the pool structure and deck. Fences will need to be removed and possibly part of the immediate landscape. You will need to provide access to your backyard for the equipment necessary to knock down the walls and either remove the debris or use it as backfill in the pool cavity. You will need to consider these costs when making your decisions.

Bridge option: This option does not require the damage associated with deletion. One company, Retire My Pool, offers an innovative way to decommission a pool. They build a supporting structure made of wood or metal in the empty pool. A composite wood deck is built and fits into the water space at deck level. Existing water features or rocks can remain in place and add character to the patio. Pool equipment can be turned off and disconnected but does not need to be removed. The terrace becomes a new place for other activities such as games or entertainment.

Built-in fireplace: Similar to the deck option, this involves designing the pool cavity to accommodate seating around a fire pit. Depending on the rules for fireplaces in your jurisdiction, you may want to consider gas logs. Some things to consider include:

• Leveling the Pool Bottom: The sloping bottom of the pool will need to be flattened for seating. This may require a filling option which may require access to equipment. Check out some of the concerns mentioned in the “Fill It Out” section.
• Access: You may be able to use the steps already in your pool. If you don’t have steps, you will need to build them.
• Drainage: Rainwater accumulation can be managed by drilling or creating holes in the bottom of the pool to allow accumulated rainwater to seep into the ground below. In case of heavy rain, you may want to think about a sump pump solution.

Garden: This is another filling option. After removing the bottom of the pool or large portions of it, backfill will be needed to create the garden bed. Plan your garden to ensure the proper soil mixes are installed. Consider how you want to water the garden, water by hand with a hose or irrigation system. Each option has financial implications.

Pond: Creating a pond can be a great adaptation of your swimming pool. The oasis-like moving water decor that can be created transforms your outdoor living space. There are many options with this solution. Here are some considerations to ponder.

• Consider the level of maintenance you are willing to perform or hire.
• Aquatic plant life will be a crucial consideration. There are plenty of choices.
• Do you want fish in the pond? This will affect the design. Use boulders and rock formations to create “cave-like” places for fish to hide from predators.
• Preparing the pool will take some effort. You will have to eliminate all harmful chemical residues for a mini organic ecosystem that will be your pond.
• Removing the filtration system as it will not be necessary. The pond will have its own biofiltration system.

With any of the options mentioned above, start by checking with your local jurisdictions and your HOA, if you have one, before committing to a project.