You're staring at that old hot tub that hasn't worked in three years. Or maybe it's that rickety shed taking up prime backyard real estate.
Either way, you want it gone. But which one's going to cost you more?
Here's the honest answer: it depends. But not in the vague contractor way that drives you crazy. Let's break down exactly what you're paying for with each project so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Hot Tub Removal: What You're Actually Paying For
Most hot tub removals in Delaware County run between $200 and $1,500. That's a pretty big range, right?
Here's why the price swings so much:
Size and Weight
- Compact 2-person spa: 400-500 lbs empty
- Full-size 6-8 person hot tub: 800-1,000 lbs empty
- Commercial-grade models: 1,200+ lbs
And that's empty. If water's still in it, you're looking at several thousand pounds more.
Access Matters More Than You Think
- Ground-level patio installation? Straightforward.
- Deck-mounted hot tub? Requires specialized equipment and careful dismantling.
- In a fenced backyard with a narrow gate? Now we're talking about cutting it into pieces.
- Second-story deck? This becomes a whole different project.
Electrical Disconnect
Most hot tubs have dedicated 240V circuits. Before removal, the electrical needs to be properly disconnected by a licensed electrician. Some removal services include this. Others don't. Always ask.
Disposal Fees
Fiberglass and acrylic hot tub shells can't just get tossed in a dumpster. Delaware County has specific disposal requirements for large composite materials.
Shed Demolition: The Variables That Drive Cost
Shed removal is typically $300 to $2,000+ depending on what you're dealing with.
Construction Type Makes All the Difference
- Pre-fab metal shed (8×10): Quick teardown, minimal labor
- Wood frame shed with shingle roof: More labor, multiple material types
- Permanent structure on concrete slab: Now you're into full demolition territory
Slab or No Slab?
Here's where costs jump significantly. If your shed sits on a concrete foundation, removing that slab requires:
- Concrete sawing equipment
- Heavy machinery for breaking and hauling
- Proper disposal of concrete (usually by the ton)
- Site grading after removal
At Narcise Construction Group, we handle complete slab removal as part of our shed demolition service. It's not an afterthought , it's planned from the start.
What's Inside?
If your shed is packed with stuff, that adds time and disposal costs. Most demolition contractors (including us) focus on structure removal. You'll need to clear out contents first, or budget for junk removal as a separate service.
Site Conditions
- Tree clearance needed? Extra time.
- Underground utilities nearby? Requires careful planning.
- Soft ground that equipment can't access? Manual labor increases costs.
The Direct Comparison: Hot Tub vs Shed
Let's compare apples to apples with typical Delaware County scenarios:
Simple Job Comparison
- Basic hot tub removal (ground-level, good access): $300-$600
- Simple shed teardown (pre-fab, no slab): $400-$800
Complex Job Comparison
- Deck-mounted hot tub with electrical disconnect: $800-$1,500
- Permanent shed with concrete slab removal: $1,200-$2,500+
Bottom line? A basic shed removal and a basic hot tub removal cost roughly the same. But sheds with concrete foundations almost always cost more than hot tub removal because of the slab work involved.
Delaware County Specifics You Need to Know
Permit Requirements
Here's something that surprises homeowners: most hot tub removals in Delaware County don't require permits. You're removing equipment, not altering structure.
Shed demolition is different. If your shed is:
- Over 200 square feet
- Attached to your home
- On a permanent foundation
You likely need a demolition permit from your local municipality. Permit costs in Delaware County typically run $50-$150, but requirements vary by township.
Our local coverage includes:
- Media, PA
- Swarthmore, PA
- Springfield, PA
- Broomall, PA
- Havertown, PA
- Upper Darby, PA
Each of these municipalities has slightly different rules. We handle these projects regularly and know the local requirements.
Disposal and Recycling
Delaware County takes waste management seriously. Here's where your demolition debris goes:
Hot Tub Materials:
- Fiberglass and acrylic shells → specialty recycling or landfill
- Wood skirting and frames → wood recycling facility
- Metal components → scrap metal recycling
- Electrical components → proper e-waste disposal
Shed Materials:
- Wood framing and siding → recycled or repurposed when possible
- Asphalt shingles → recycling programs (if available) or landfill
- Metal roofing → scrap metal recycling
- Concrete → crushed and recycled as aggregate
Proper disposal isn't just about being environmentally responsible. It's about staying legal and avoiding fines that get passed to you.
What Sets NCG Apart (Without the Sales Pitch)
We're not a junk hauler with a truck. We're not a handyman crew winging it.
We're a fully licensed and insured demolition contractor specializing in selective demolition and site preparation.
For Hot Tub Removal:
- We handle deck-mounted units with the right equipment
- Electrical disconnect coordination (we work with licensed electricians)
- Complete site cleanup , not just hauling the tub away
- Deck repair if needed after removal
For Shed Demolition:
- Full structure teardown, not just cosmetic removal
- Professional slab cutting and removal capabilities
- Site grading and leveling after demo
- All permits pulled and inspections handled
What You Actually Get:
- Honest, upfront pricing with no surprises
- Site protection (we're not tearing up your lawn or driveway)
- Proper disposal documentation
- Licensed, insured crew
- Clean site handoff
How to Get Accurate Pricing
Text us photos. Seriously.
We can give you a ballpark estimate from photos that show:
- Overall view of the hot tub or shed
- Access route from street to removal location
- Any obstacles (fences, trees, stairs)
- Close-up of the structure or unit
For firm quotes, we do a quick site visit. No charge, no obligation.
📲 Text photos for fast pricing: (484) 574-0138
📞 Or call for a site visit: (484) 574-0138
FAQ: Hot Tub vs Shed Removal Costs
Can I remove a hot tub myself?
Technically, yes. Practically? It's heavy, awkward, and requires tools most homeowners don't have. Plus, electrical disconnect needs to be done properly. DIY hot tub removal usually takes 2-3 times longer than expected.
Do I need a permit to remove my shed in Delaware County?
It depends on your township and the shed's size/construction. Most small pre-fab sheds don't require permits. Permanent structures over 200 sq ft usually do. We check this as part of our quote process.
What if my shed has asbestos siding?
Stop. Don't touch it. Asbestos siding requires special handling and licensed abatement. We can coordinate asbestos testing and removal before demolition. This adds to the cost but is legally required.
How long does each project take?
- Hot tub removal: 2-4 hours for most jobs
- Shed demolition (no slab): 4-8 hours
- Shed with slab removal: 1-2 days
What's the messiest part of each job?
For hot tubs: cutting through fiberglass creates dust. For sheds: concrete cutting generates significant dust. We use water suppression and containment for both.
Can you remove both at the same time?
Absolutely. Combining projects often saves on mobilization costs. If you're clearing out backyard structures, doing them together makes sense.
Ready to clear that backyard space? Whether it's a hot tub that's seen better days or a shed that's outlived its usefulness, we'll handle it cleanly and efficiently.
📩 Email: info@narciseconstructiongroup.com
📞 Call or text: (484) 574-0138
🌐 Learn more: narciseconstructiongroup.com
We serve Delaware County and surrounding areas with honest pricing and professional demolition services. No surprises, no mess left behind.