How To Make A Pool Smaller – A Practical Guide For Sustainable
Maintaining a massive swimming pool can often feel like a full-time job, especially when you would rather be out on the trail or working on your latest homesteading project. We agree that the high costs of chemicals, water, and heating for an oversized pool can quickly drain your time and adventure budget.
In this guide, we promise to show you the most effective ways to downsize your swimming area to better suit a self-sufficient lifestyle. We will preview the best methods for how to make a pool smaller, ranging from structural masonry work to creative landscaping conversions that save resources.
By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap for reclaiming your yard and reducing your environmental footprint. Whether you want a more manageable dip tank or more space for a garden, we have the expert insights you need to get started.
Understanding the Reasons for Pool Downsizing
Many homeowners inherit large pools that don’t fit their current needs or values. A large pool requires significant electrical power to run filtration systems and a massive amount of water to maintain levels against evaporation.
For those transitioning to a more self-reliant or off-grid lifestyle, these costs are often unjustifiable. Reducing the footprint of your pool allows you to redirect those funds toward solar upgrades or organic gardening supplies.
Smaller pools are also much easier to keep clean, meaning you spend less time scrubbing algae and more time planning your next wilderness excursion. It is about making your home work for you, rather than you working for your home.
how to make a pool smaller through structural renovation
The most permanent and professional way to reduce your pool’s size involves major structural changes. This process typically requires demolishing a portion of the existing shell and building a new wall to seal off the remaining area.
First, you must drain the pool completely and consult with a structural engineer to ensure the remaining shell stays stable. You will then build a new reinforced concrete wall at the desired distance to create the new boundary.
Once the new wall is cured, the area behind it is filled with compacted gravel and soil. This method is the most labor-intensive, but it provides a seamless look that makes it appear as though the pool was always that size.
The Backfilling Process
Backfilling is a critical step in structural downsizing that requires precision to prevent future ground settling. You cannot simply throw dirt into the old section of the pool and expect it to hold weight.
You should use crushed stone or clean fill dirt, compacting it every six inches with a plate compactor. This ensures that the new ground area is stable enough for a patio, deck, or raised garden beds.
Proper drainage must also be installed behind the new wall to prevent hydrostatic pressure from building up. Without a relief valve or drainage pipe, the pressure from groundwater could crack your new pool wall.
Adjusting the Plumbing and Filtration
When you reduce the volume of water, your existing pump and filter may become oversized for the new space. An oversized pump can lead to excessive pressure in the lines and wasted energy consumption.
You will likely need to reroute the PVC plumbing to match the new dimensions of the pool. This is an excellent time to upgrade to a variable-speed pump, which is much more energy-efficient for smaller volumes.
Ensure that the skimmers and return jets are positioned correctly in the new layout to maintain proper circulation. Dead spots in a pool lead to rapid algae growth, even in smaller bodies of water.
Creative Ways to Reduce Pool Volume Without Demolition
If a full structural renovation is outside your budget, there are “soft” ways to achieve a similar result. One popular method involves raising the floor of the pool to make it shallower rather than narrower.
Making a pool shallower significantly reduces the total gallonage, which lowers your chemical and heating requirements. This is often done by adding a layer of compacted gravel and pouring a new concrete floor over it.
Another option is to install a large, permanent “island” or tanning ledge within the existing footprint. This occupies water space and provides a functional area for lounging without the need for deep-water maintenance.
Installing a Pool-in-Pool System
A “pool-in-pool” approach involves placing a smaller pre-made shell, such as a fiberglass unit, inside the old concrete basin. The space between the two shells is then filled and finished with decking.
This method is often faster than traditional masonry work and allows for a complete style refresh. It is a favorite for DIY-inclined homesteaders who want a modern look with less long-term maintenance.
You must ensure the old pool shell is properly perforated to allow for drainage. If water gets trapped between the old shell and the new liner, it can cause the new pool to “float” or shift.
The Stock Tank Conversion Trend
For those who decide the old pool is simply too much, many are choosing to fill it in entirely and install a stock tank pool nearby. These galvanized steel tanks are rugged, affordable, and perfect for the outdoor enthusiast.
Stock tanks are easy to maintain and can be integrated into a permaculture landscape very naturally. They offer the cooling benefits of a pool with a fraction of the water waste.
Filling in the old pool provides a massive amount of “new” land for greenhouses or outdoor workshops. This is often the most practical move for those focused on total self-sufficiency.
Converting Large Inground Pools into Sustainable Ecosystems
Instead of a traditional chlorinated pool, some explorers choose to convert their large basins into natural swimming ponds. This involves using plants and biological filters instead of harsh chemicals.
You can effectively “make the pool smaller” by dedicating half of the original space to a regeneration zone. This zone is filled with aquatic plants that naturally purify the water for the swimming area.
This approach creates a beautiful backyard habitat that supports local wildlife while providing a clean place to swim. It aligns perfectly with the goals of a sustainable homestead and reduces your dependence on store-bought chemicals.
Benefits of a Natural Conversion
- No more chlorine: Eliminates the need for toxic chemicals that irritate skin and eyes.
- Lower energy costs: Natural ponds often require smaller, low-voltage pumps for water movement.
- Wildlife support: Attracts beneficial insects, frogs, and birds to your garden ecosystem.
- Year-round beauty: Unlike a covered winter pool, a natural pond looks beautiful in every season.
Essential Tools and Materials for Your Downsizing Project
If you plan to tackle how to make a pool smaller as a DIY project, you will need a specific set of tools. Safety and precision are paramount when working with concrete and water systems.
You will likely need to rent a jackhammer for removing old coping and a concrete saw for clean cuts. For the rebuilding phase, a high-quality rebar bender and masonry levels are essential for a straight wall.
Don’t forget the safety gear: heavy-duty gloves, eye protection, and a respirator for concrete dust. Working in a confined pool space can be hazardous, so always have a partner nearby.
Key Materials List
- Reinforced Rebar: To provide structural strength to any new concrete walls.
- Portland Cement: The base for your new pool floor or wall structure.
- PVC Piping (Schedule 40): For rerouting your filtration and return lines.
- Pool Liner or Plaster Finish: To seal the new, smaller dimensions and ensure it is watertight.
Safety Considerations and Local Regulations
Before you break ground, you must check your local building codes and zoning laws. Most municipalities require a permit for any structural change to a swimming pool.
Failing to get a permit can result in heavy fines or issues when you eventually try to sell your property. Additionally, you must ensure that your pool fencing still meets safety standards after the renovation.
Always call your utility companies before digging to locate underground power, gas, or water lines. Striking a main line can be a life-threatening and incredibly expensive mistake.
When to Call a Professional
While we love a good DIY project at OutwardLab, some tasks are best left to the pros. If you are uncomfortable with structural engineering or complex electrical wiring, hire a contractor.
A professional can provide a warranty on their work, which is valuable for something as high-stakes as a pool. They also have the heavy machinery needed to move tons of gravel and concrete efficiently.
If you notice major cracks in your original pool shell during the process, stop immediately. This could indicate soil instability that requires an expert’s assessment before you proceed further.
Frequently Asked Questions About how to make a pool smaller
Is it cheaper to fill in a pool or make it smaller?
Generally, it is cheaper to fill in a pool entirely than to renovate it to a smaller size. Filling a pool involves demolition and backfilling, while downsizing requires those steps plus the construction of a new, watertight pool structure.
Will downsizing my pool decrease my home value?
Not necessarily. While a large pool is a selling point for some, many modern buyers prefer smaller, “spool” style pools that are easier to maintain. A well-executed downsize can actually increase appeal by leaving more yard space for other activities.
How long does it take to downsize a pool?
A professional crew can usually complete a structural downsize in 2 to 4 weeks. If you are doing it yourself, expect the project to take several months of weekends, depending on the complexity of the plumbing and masonry work.
Can I turn my old pool into a sunken garden?
Yes! This is a fantastic way to “downsize” the water area. You can fill the majority of the pool with soil for a garden and leave a small section as a decorative pond or a tiny dipping pool.
Final Thoughts on Reclaiming Your Outdoor Space
Learning how to make a pool smaller is a significant step toward a more manageable and sustainable lifestyle. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of water without the overwhelming burden of a traditional large-scale pool.
Whether you choose to build a new wall, raise the floor, or convert to a natural pond, the goal is the same. You are creating a space that aligns with your outdoor values and gives you more freedom to explore.
Take your time with the planning phase, prioritize safety, and don’t be afraid to ask for professional help when needed. Reclaiming your yard is a rewarding journey that will pay off in saved time and resources for years to come.
Stay safe, plan carefully, and enjoy your new, perfectly-sized outdoor oasis!
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