Gunite Swimming Pools–The Pros and Cons

Of the various types of pools available, gunite and shotcrete pools are the most elaborate as they are permanent, in-ground, reinforced pools which are built using concrete and plaster and do not require Vinyl liners. “Guinite” and “Shotcrete “ are terms used to describe processes of applying concrete to a structure, and are often used to construct bridges, water tanks, pools and tunnels.

The primary difference between shotcrete and gunite pools are that gunite is sprayed using the dry mix method while shotcrete is sprayed using the wet mix method.

While gunite pools are most often seen in commercial settings, many homeowners install gunite pools because of their adaptability: They can be built in any shape and can be completed in a variety of plaster finishes. Gunite can be further customized using numerous special options such as waterfalls, custom steps and pebble applications for the pool floor and beach entries. While gunite pools can be painted, they require special paint and expert advice to ensure the best possible result. The options available with gunite are almost limitless and will allow you to be creative and make a statement.

How Gunite is Applied

To install a gunite pool, the first step is excavation of the pool site. Next, steel-reinforced rods are installed before the gunite or shotcrete is sprayed, then plumbing is added, and finally the surface is plastered. Gunite is a mixture of 1 part cement to 4 parts sand which is compressed and mixed while the materials are still dry. This mixture is then blown under high pressure through a pump which adds a carefully measured amount of water to the mixture while blowing it through a hose and out of a nozzle. Through careful control of the application machine, gunite can be applied in any thickness with uniform quality throughout.

Gunite is a long-lasting option for pools as it is strong, dense, highly weather-resistant, stands up well to most chemicals and stands up relatively well to high temperatures. Gunite is extremely durable and has about 6000-7000psi of strength, more in fact, than concrete or brick. This means that brick and concrete will break faster than guinte when put under pressure. Gunite also has a high bondage factor and bonds well to prepared surfaces such as concrete, brick, rock, tile, stone, steel or mesh.

Gunite Swimming Pool Costs

The primary negative of gunite pools is the cost. Their high quality usually makes them more expensive than other types of pools. On average installing a gunite pool will cost at least $5,000 more than installing a vinyl or fiberglass pool. Colder climates, where the ground freezes and thaws in the winter, add stress to the structure of gunite pools, and therefore require additional steel and concrete, which can boost the cost of installation. Further money is required every 5-10 years or so to resurface the pool and correct staining, chipping and other wear and tear. However, these costs are balanced by the fact that gunite is more durable than vinyl pools or fiberglass pools. Therefore, the long term cost is about equal.

A further inconvenience of gunite pools is that they are time-consuming to build, requiring about 6-8 weeks for installation.

Despite the cost and labour-intensive nature of gunite pools, they remain a popular option for homeowners with discerning taste. A gunite pool which is carefully designed and landscaped will add some glamour to your property and allow you to ensure that your home stands out from the crowd.

Gunite Swimming Pool Finishes and Trims >>