Many Newcastle and Lake Macquarie homes have a large timber or composite deck built around the pool, sometimes wrapping it on two or three sides, sometimes with an overhead pergola structure as well. When the pool goes, the deck question arrives immediately: does it come out too? And if so, in what order? This guide covers the practical, financial and structural considerations for pool removal when a large deck is part of the picture. Note that this guide is about removing the deck before or during pool removal, for the question of whether you can build a deck over a filled-in pool site, see our guide on deck over filled-in pool.
Quick answer (BLUF)
In most cases, the deck must come down before the pool can be demolished, the excavator needs access to the pool shell from the perimeter. Deck demolition is typically straightforward and adds $1,500 to $5,000 to the overall project cost depending on size and materials. In some cases, a partial deck retention strategy is possible.
Why the deck usually comes out first
An excavator needs to get to the edge of the pool shell to work effectively. Pool deck structures, particularly large decks built on timber or steel bearer-and-joist systems, or on concrete footings, block this access. The rock breaker attachment or bucket needs to reach the pool wall perimeter to start demolition.
Additionally, many pool decks have their structural footings adjacent to or partially resting on the pool’s concrete collar or coping. If the footing system is tied to the pool structure, demolishing the pool first would undermine the deck and create a structural hazard.
For these reasons, the standard sequencing is:
- Remove deck (and any pergola/cover structure above)
- Expose the full pool perimeter
- Proceed with pool demolition and backfill
- Restore the area (including deciding on a new deck or other surface)
Deck types and how they affect cost
Timber bearer-and-joist decks: The most common type around Newcastle pools from the 1980s, 2000s. Typically built from hardwood (spotted gum, merbau, ironbark) or treated pine. Demolition involves removing decking boards, then joists, then bearers, then footings (concrete stumps or buried posts). The timber can often be salvaged, merbau and hardwood decking has good resale value. Demolition cost: $1,500 to $3,500 for a standard 30-50 sqm deck.
Composite/PVC decking: Composite boards (Trex, Ekodeck, Modwood and similar) are popular in newer Newcastle homes. They disassemble similarly to timber but have less salvage value. The aluminium or steel subframe may have recycling value. Demolition cost: similar to timber, $1,500 to $3,500.
Concrete pool surround (not a deck per se): Many pool areas have a poured concrete surround rather than a timber deck. This is typically demolished as part of the pool removal job, the concrete is broken and removed along with the pool shell. The cost is usually included in the pool removal quote or added as a small separate item.
Large elevated deck with pergola and roof: A more complex structure, sometimes with Colorbond or polycarbonate roofing, steel posts, and a significant footprint. These require more time and sometimes a structural assessment before demolition, particularly if the roof structure is attached to the house. Demolition cost: $3,000 to $8,000+ depending on complexity.
Can I keep part of the deck?
Sometimes, yes. If the pool is at one end of a large deck and the rest of the deck serves a different purpose (access from the house, outdoor dining area), the section of deck not directly over or adjacent to the pool can sometimes be retained while only the pool-side section is removed. This depends on:
- Whether the retained section can be structurally supported independently after the adjacent section is removed
- Whether the contractor can get adequate machine access with partial deck retention
- Whether the retained deck has footings that are separate from the pool coping
A good pool removal contractor will assess this during the site inspection and advise on whether partial retention is structurally viable.
What about pool fencing integrated into the deck structure?
Many pool decks have the pool barrier fencing (glass panels, aluminium pickets, or balustrade) mounted directly to the deck frame or to concrete posts adjacent to the deck. This fencing must come down as part of the deck demolition sequence. Glass pool fencing panels can be retained and reused in the new backyard design, sold second-hand, or recycled.
Total cost with deck included
A complete job, pool removal plus deck demolition and site restoration, in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie typically costs:
| Component | Typical cost range |
|---|---|
| Concrete pool removal | $8,000 to $18,000 |
| Fibreglass pool removal | $6,500 to $13,000 |
| Timber deck demolition (30-50sqm) | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Large pergola/roof removal | $2,000 to $6,000 |
| Site restoration (fill, topsoil, turf) | Included in pool removal or $1,000 to $3,000 add-on |
Request a combined quote from your pool removal contractor, some include deck demolition in their scope, particularly where the deck is small and simple. Others quote it as a separate line item.
What can you do with the old deck materials?
- Hardwood decking boards: Good resale on Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and salvage yards. Newcastle has several building material recyclers who buy good-condition hardwood decking.
- Composite decking: Lower salvage value, but some installers will accept returns for recycling.
- Steel posts and hardware: Recyclable through metal recyclers.
- Concrete footings: Typically broken out and disposed of with the pool rubble (crushed concrete is recycled as road base in the Hunter region).
FAQs
Who demolishes the deck, the pool removal contractor or a separate carpenter?
Many pool removal contractors include deck demolition in their scope, particularly timber or lightweight decks. Complex structures with roofing may require a separate builder or demolition contractor. Ask your pool removal contractor during the quoting phase.
Do I need a permit to demolish a deck?
In NSW, demolition of a non-structural deck that is not part of the primary building structure is generally exempt development under the Housing Code, provided the work is carried out safely and waste is disposed of correctly. Confirm with Newcastle or Lake Macquarie council if your deck is attached to the house or has roof structure.
What’s the best thing to build in place of the pool and deck?
A level, usable backyard is the most versatile outcome. Common choices after pool + deck removal include a full-width outdoor entertaining area (concrete slab or pavers with a new pergola), lawn, or a combination. See our backyard design ideas after pool removal for inspiration specific to the Hunter region.