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Writer's pictureMichael Bowers

How much dirt really comes out of a pool excavation

Updated: Feb 27, 2021


We recently received a comment on our blog asking: "What is the process of removing dirt during an inground pool installation?"We find that this is a question that most folks have when considering an inground pool. Today you're in luck because in the following Jobsite video we tackle this, as well as other common excavation/dirt-related questions. But before we jump into the video, here are some other questions about the removal of dirt on an inground pool project that we receive on a daily basis.


How long does the dirt hauling process take?

This really depends on several factors such as: How close the dumpsite is to the home, what equipment is used to load and haul the dirt, and the accessibility of the backyard but on average, it usually takes around a half-day to excavate and haul away the dirt for a swimming pool.


What equipment is used to remove and haul away the dirt? We use a track hoe, also called an excavator(shown above), to remove the dirt from the hole. We typically load dirt directly into dump trucks with the excavator if the truck can make it into the backyard. If not, we will move the dirt to the front of the home and load the truck with a skid steer front end loader.


How much dirt typically comes out of a pool excavation? In the following video, we are installing a Cathedral 36 fiberglass pool and we hauled out 7 truckloads at 16 tons each- that's a LOT of dirt.To calculate how much dirt will come out of the hole, simply take the dimensions of the hole and multiply them to find how many cubic yards of dirt will be removed. A cubic yard is 3'x3'x3' and the ratio is typically figured at 1.35 tons of dirt per cubic yard. Should I keep the dirt or have it hauled away?


Most people think they can keep all the dirt from the excavation, after all, is said and done, but as you'll see in the video, the amount of dirt is usually greatly underestimated. Many times, people end up with literally tons of dirt that they can't do anything with, and it's often more difficult to get rid of than they initially thought. So, take our word for it—if you're in doubt, just have it hauled out.


However, there are some reasons for keeping the dirt from the pool excavation such as: If you have a sloped yard or If your property was struck by a meteor watch our video below to learn more. Enjoy! For more information, check our other related articles and videos.


Content of this blog article provided by River Pools



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  • This website contains an abundance of information that has been created over the last decade or more. Some of the content on this site may reflect prices, perspectives, processes, entities, and names that were relevant at the time but may not be as relevant today. Consumers should consult a Pool Pros associate for the most accurate and updated information based on the unique conditions of their property. Consumers should verify specifications with the installing Pool Pros rather than relying on the information on this website, which is not intended to be a final specification.

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