Your scope and the work involved
How our crew handles the work
Pool removal depends on the pool structure, site access and the intended use of the yard. Compare the available photos with your site and discuss the required final condition before choosing the scope.
Pools can be removed in two main ways. A partial removal breaks the top of the shell, punches drainage through the floor and backfills the hole. A full removal takes out the entire shell and fills with compacted material. Which one suits your yard depends on what you plan to build there later and what a future buyer or inspector may ask about. We explain both before you decide.
Access is usually the hardest part. Backyard pools sit behind houses, fences and gardens. We plan the machine route, remove and reinstall fence panels if needed, and protect lawns and driveways along the way.
Before any digging, locates are requested through Ontario One Call, and electrical to the pool equipment is disconnected by an electrician. Water is drained in a way that follows the City of Markham's rules for pool discharge.
Pool equipment such as heaters, pumps and filters is removed and disconnected, and any gas line to a heater is capped by a licensed gas technician.
Once the shell is dealt with, clean fill goes in and is compacted in layers, then topsoil is spread for seed or sod. The deck concrete, fencing and equipment are removed or left according to the scope we agree in writing.
See this kind of removal
Use the work collection to compare visible conditions with your project, then discuss the scope with us.
View this service's work collectionMarkham and wider service coverageWhat to expect
What to expect, step by step
Step 1
Site and access check
We look at the pool, the deck and the route a machine can take into the yard.
Step 2
Choose the method
We explain partial and full removal and what each means for future use of the yard.
Step 3
Drain and disconnect
The pool is drained following City rules and equipment power is disconnected by an electrician.
Step 4
Break out
The shell and deck are broken and removed to the agreed depth.
Step 5
Fill and finish
Fill is placed and compacted in layers and topsoil is spread for seed or sod.
Photos from our jobs
Pool Removal Pool Removal
Local questions
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit to remove a pool in Markham?
- Requirements can change with the method and the lot, so we recommend confirming with the City of Markham before work starts. Pool enclosure rules also apply to the fence until the pool is filled.
- What is the difference between partial and full pool removal?
- A partial removal breaks the upper shell and backfills the rest in place with drainage holes. A full removal takes the whole shell out. Full removal is often preferred if you plan to build on that part of the yard.
- Where does the pool water go?
- Pool water must be drained in line with the City of Markham's discharge rules, which usually means dechlorinating first and draining to an approved point. We confirm the method before draining.
- Can you get a machine into a fenced backyard?
- Often yes. We may need to take down a fence section or use a smaller machine. We plan the route with you and restore anything we move.
Decisions to prepare for this work
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