Do you want to remove your pool? Before you start the renovation process, take a look at what you need to know about construction debris, disposal, and dumpster rental.
Why Do You Need a Dumpster for Pool Demolition?
Pool removal isn't an easy job. Most homeowners will need to hire an experienced contractor to demo the area. Even though the professional will tear down the pool liner, break apart the concrete, and complete the major renovations, you may still need to rent a dumpster to hold the construction debris until the job is complete if:
- You start with a smaller project. If you want to save money with a DIY tile removal, plant removal, or another similar easy-to-manage project, you'll need a dumpster immediately — especially if you have a large number of items to throw away or remove.
- You have heavy items.
Concrete and other building debris can't go into garbage bags for curbside pickup. A dumpster rental can accommodate these items, making it possible to remove the leftover construction debris from your yard.
- You don't want to pay the pool contractor for haul away.
While many pool contractors offer a haul-away service, you may have to pay extra. Compare the costs of dumpster rental and haul away to decide which is the best option for your home improvement project.
- Your contractor requires it.
Does the pool removal contractor provide their own dumpster? If not, they may require you to rent one for the project.
- Your community requires it. Check with local agencies about building codes and construction requirements. Some communities require dumpsters or have rules regulating where, when, and for how long you can leave construction debris out in the open.
If you're not sure whether you'll need to rent your own dumpster or the construction contractor arranges a rental/brings one to your home worksite, ask before you sign an estimate. Whether the contractor agrees to bring one or not, arranging the rental yourself could save you money in overall construction costs.
What Can You Put in a Rental Dumpster?
The bulky, heavy concrete, and other over-sized items were your main reason for a dumpster rental. Along with larger construction debris, you can also fill the dumpster with old pool toys, yard waste, or some pool accessories (such as grab rails). Even though you can put most construction-related items into a dumpster, the rental company may not permit:
- Pool chemicals.
Potentially flammable or poisonous pool chemicals shouldn't go into your rental dumpster. In a landfill, pool chemicals can leech into groundwater and harm the environment. Contact your local waste company or municipal waste authority for local rules and regulations about hazardous disposal.
- Some types of outdoor furniture.
Does your pool project include the removal of outdoor furniture? Sofas and other similar soft furniture shouldn't go into the dumpster. Again, ask your local garbage authority or agency about acceptable disposal.
- Paint.
Do you have paint left over from a past pool project? Your rental dumpster isn't the place for paint.
- Pesticides.
Pesticides used in the outdoor pool area don't belong in the dumpster. These poisonous and potentially flammable chemicals pose a serious fire or safety hazard.
- Contaminated soil.
Contaminated soil surrounding your pool is hazardous in a dumpster. You'll need to find another way to dispose of this removal-related product.
While these items are generally not accepted for dumpsters, your rental company may have its own list. Discuss what you can and can't put into the dumpster with the company's staff before you start the demolition project. It's easy to toss construction debris into the dumpster — but not as easy to remove it.
