Everything You Should Know About Gunite For Pools

Installing an inground gunite pool involves a lot of factors. Before making a final decision, consider things such as the type of material you want to use for your pool and its cost and location. Gunite and concrete are the two most commonly used building materials for swimming pools. Gunite is a concrete-like material. How it’s applied makes a big difference. We at Southern Poolscapes are here to assist you in making the right decision, especially when it comes to gunite for pools.

What is Gunite?

You may refer to gunite as concrete’s cousin since they’re both of the same family but have distinct differences. Gunite is a cured and hardened dry mixture of sprayed concrete. Concrete typically contains small and large particles, while gunite uses only fine particles.

In the case of gunite, construction workers put a dry, pre-mixed substance into the delivery equipment. After that, water and compressed air are sent via a nozzle. Upon mixing, it produces a powerful spray that helps in compacting the material.

Instead of pouring it like ordinary cement, gunite pools employ a rebar framework sprayed with a mixture of sand and concrete instead. Because of this, you can mold gunite into a wide variety of shapes for inground pools. This makes it extremely flexible and long-lasting.

What is gunite made of?

In most cases, gunite is a mixture of sand, cement, water, and a small amount of aggregate mixed with the water.

The ability to apply gunite in phases as opposed to a one-and-done technique is one of the most important advantages it has over shotcrete, which builders use in a similar manner.

Since most concrete types, including shotcrete, do not bond effectively when applied at different periods, structural flaws and cracks can develop, detracting from the finished concrete surface’s aesthetic appeal.

On the other hand, a good nozzleman may spray gunite several days apart and yet produce a durable, appealing concrete surface without incurring structural faults when using gunite-applied concrete.

Benefits of Using Gunite for Pools

For various reasons, inground pools are becoming increasingly popular with the use of gunite.

A few examples are as follows:

• Considered one of the most durable pool materials on the market
• You can finish gunite pools with a variety of materials such as tile or fiberglass.
• Cost-effective compared to regular concrete
• Builders can mix gunite on-site, so workers can stop and restart as needed.
• Because the construction of a gunite pool happens on-site, the design options available to the owner are virtually limitless.

Drawbacks of Using Gunite for Pools

Consider these drawbacks when determining whether to use concrete or gunite for pools:

• The porous surface of a pool makes it more susceptible to the growth of algae.
• It’s well-known that a dry mixture can clog plumbing in homes.
• In addition, the bottom of a pool can be rough and irritating.
• All mixing and sculpting on-site, which means it takes a long time.
• Gunite application necessitates a highly experienced staff. One mistake in the cement, sand, and water ratio area could sink your pool.

Benefits of gunite pools

In terms of the end product, gunite has a reputation for being long-lasting.

Limitless Versatility

Pools made with gunite can be whatever size or shape you want. Allowing you to construct a shape that fits within your existing space decreases the environmental impact. Gunite is a common choice for freeform pools because of its flexibility. Because a gunite pool is created on-site, the design options are virtually limitless.

Resists Settling

The soil beneath and surrounding your swimming pool will change shape over time. To avoid cracking, your pool must be able to settle a bit without cracking. Pools made of gunite are both long-lasting and versatile.

Easily to Customize

When designing a gunite pool, the options are nearly limitless. With custom features, you may be as creative as you like. Adding features like waterfalls, tanning ledges, or underwater bar stools is simple. Gunite plaster finishes can be customized in many ways. There are a variety of materials from which you can create a high-end aesthetic, such as pebbles or glass.

Stable Foundation

The enormous design flexibility of a gunite pool makes it an excellent choice. Inground pools made of gunite have the strongest warranties and last the longest. Because they do not need wooden frameworks to keep their shape, they are easier to build than regular concrete. They can endure a great deal of pressure and stress. This guarantees that your pool and property are safe from damage.

Southern Poolscapes can install your gunite pool

Gunite pool installation has both benefits and drawbacks. Gunite may not be the best option if you have a small backyard, a hectic lifestyle, or prefer a more traditional style of pool design. Make an appointment with Southern Poolscapes professionals today to help create your dream pool!