A gunite pool, otherwise known as shortcrete, is a material used to reinforce pools structured out of concrete. The gunite pool is strong and adaptable to a variety of unusual shapes and sizes. Unlike fiberglass, gunite pools aren’t a one size fits all option in pools. Homeowners looking to express their personalities in backyard design with an in-ground pool should consider using plaster, or gunite, to surface the concrete base of their pool.
In order to build a concrete pool with a gunite surface, the pool company’s construction team will dig a hole in the desired shape and size. They will then place the plumbing and assemble the wire framework with a grid comprised of three eighths of an inch steel reinforced rods, otherwise known as rebar. Rebar rods are placed about every ten inches and are held together with wire. Once the grid is in place the pool company’s construction team will spray a heavy coating of gunite into the wire frame. On top of the mixture of sand and cement around the rebar the plaster is put in place to create a finish.
The sprayer that is used combines the dry mixture of gunite with water before putting it into place. This mixture produces a wet concrete material. The pool company will then trowel the gunite until it is smooth. This mixture then dries for about a week and sits without being touched before the smooth plaster finish is applied to the rough pool surface.
A popular pool finish is plaster. Marcite is a special finish that people use to complete their pools surface. This is done using a special concrete paint. The entire process of construction and installation of a concrete in-ground pool can take anywhere between thirty to ninety days. This will of course depend on the local weather and pool installer.
Custom pools most often are created from gunite because it can be designed in any shape. This makes it ideal for luxury homes that are looking to create a pool and landscape that is designed specifically to the needs of the designer. When you are looking to create a natural pool gunite is the material that best fits this need.
Gunite pools can be designed to resemble a Florida beach or mountain side lake resort. Vanishing edges, a sandy beach entry resembling the ocean or an exotic pebble finish are just a few of the many touches that can be added to create a custom pool.
The advantages of an in-ground gunite pool
- An in-ground pool made from gunite is a permanent structure that extends your home into your backyard creating an oasis. The property will have an overall higher value then other homes in the area without in-ground pools.
- A custom, personalized pool can be created from gunite. It may cost more and take a bit longer than fiberglass to install but the extra expense and time is all worth it in the end. With the installation of a gunite pool you are able to customize each and every detail of the pool and its surroundings.
- Even if a plaster pool finish isn’t what you are looking for it is important to consider gunite as they can be finished with tile, exposed aggregate or even fiberglass.
- The most out of the box, unique ideas can be reflected in the design of your gunite pool. The concrete provides a highly durable pool that comes in any shape and size you can dream of.
- Gunite pools last a substantial amount of time. If you choose a plaster finish it is important to know that there will be maintenance involved. The plaster must be replaced every ten to fifteen years to keep the pool looking as good as the day it was first installed.
Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.