- What Exactly Is a Gunite Pool?
- Why Gunite Pools Stand Out from Other Types
- The Real Costs of Owning a Gunite Pool
- Maintenance Requirements for Gunite Pools
- Common Problems with Gunite Pools (and Solutions)
- Customization Options That Make Gunite Special
- Is a Gunite Pool Worth the Investment?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Exactly Is a Gunite Pool?
Gunite pools are basically pools made by spraying a mixture of cement and sand onto a steel rebar frame. The name comes from the “gun” that shoots this mixture at high pressure. It’s not the same as concrete – though people use the terms interchangeably sometimes. The difference is in how it’s applied and the final strength.
I’ve been around pools my whole life and the coolest thing about gunite is that it can be shaped into literally any design you can imagine. Wanna swim in a pool shaped like a guitar? Gunite can do that. Want weird curves and multiple levels? Yep that’s doable too.
Anyway the process is pretty intense. First they dig a hole then create a skeleton of steel rebar. Then they spray the gunite mixture over it which hardens into this super strong shell. After that dries they apply plaster or other finishes.
The whole process typically takes 8-12 weeks according to Blue Haven Pools’ construction guide which is way longer than dropping in a fiberglass shell.
Why Gunite Pools Stand Out from Other Types
So why would anyone choose gunite when it takes forever to build? Durability is the biggest reason. These pools can literally last generations with proper care. My neighbor’s gunite pool is 40+ years old and still going strong with just some resurfacing over the decades.
The customization factor is huge too. With vinyl or fiberglass you’re picking from existing shapes and sizes. But with gunite you’re starting from scratch.
Want a gunite pool with custom features? Here’s what’s possible:
- A tanning ledge
- A deep diving area
- Attached spa
- Underwater bar stools
Explore the top materials for above-ground pools explained to see how they compare.
But yeah they cost more upfront – like significantly more. You’re looking at $50,000-$100,000 for a basic gunite pool whereas vinyl might be half that. The tradeoff is longevity and design freedom.
Also gunite pools feel more “premium” when you’re swimming in them. They don’t flex under your feet like vinyl and there’s something about the solidity that just feels better.
Gulf Breeze Pools explains that this structural stability is one reason gunite pools retain their value better than other pool types.
The Real Costs of Owning a Gunite Pool
Let’s talk money because that’s what usually shocks people. Initial construction is just the beginning. Here’s what you’re looking at:
- Base construction: $50,000-$100,000 (more for complex designs)
- Decking/landscaping: $5,000-$30,000
- Equipment (pumps, filters, heaters): $2,500-$15,000
- Additional features (lighting, water features): $2,000-$10,000
Then there’s ongoing costs that people forget about. Gunite pools need to be resurfaced every 10-15 years which runs about $10,000 depending on size and finish.
The plaster eventually wears down from chemicals and use.
Chemical costs are slightly higher for gunite too because the surface is more porous and can harbor algae easier than fiberglass. I spend about $500-800 annually just on chemicals for my medium-sized gunite pool.
Wait – let me rephrase… The chemical costs aren’t necessarily higher because of the gunite itself, but because these pools tend to be larger and more complex than their counterparts.
More water = more chemicals needed. Considering installing an indoor swimming pool can be a viable alternative if outdoor conditions are challenging.
Maintenance Requirements for Gunite Pools
Maintaining a gunite pool isn’t rocket science but it does require consistent attention. The #1 mistake new owners make is letting the chemistry get out of whack. When that happens with gunite, you can actually damage the surface.
I’ve found that checking chemistry twice weekly is the sweet spot. You’ll be monitoring:
- pH levels (7.2-7.6 is ideal)
- Alkalinity (80-120 ppm)
- Calcium hardness (200-400 ppm)
- Chlorine levels (1-3 ppm)
The calcium hardness is super important for gunite specifically – too low and the water will actually leach calcium from your pool surface causing etching.
Too high and you get scaling. Finding that goldilocks zone matters a lot.
Also, brushing the walls weekly helps prevent algae growth in the micropores of the plaster. It’s surprisingly effective and prevents having to use those harsh chemicals later.
Too much chlorine is particularly problematic as research from Endless Summer Pools shows it can damage both your pool surface and your skin.
Common Problems with Gunite Pools (and Solutions)
No pool is perfect and gunite has its issues. The biggest one I’ve dealt with is surface staining. Because the plaster is porous, metals in your water (iron, copper, etc.) can leave these weird brown or green stains that are a pain to remove.
The solution? Use a metal sequestrant regularly if your water source has high metal content. And for existing stains, ascorbic acid (vitamin C) treatments work surprisingly well.
Cracking can also happen, especially in areas with freezing winters or unstable soil. Hairline cracks are normal and usually just cosmetic but bigger structural cracks need professional repair.
But yeah the biggest ongoing issue is just keeping the surface in good shape. Over time the plaster gets rough and can even start to wear down to expose the gunite underneath.
When that happens, it’s definitely time for resurfacing.
Customization Options That Make Gunite Special
This is where gunite really shines. The customization options are basically endless. Some of my favorites:
- Beach entries (sloped entry like an actual beach)
- Swim-up bars with submerged seating
- Vanishing edges (infinity pools)
- Grottos and caves
- Custom depth transitions
- Integrated spas with spillovers
For the finish itself, you’ve got tons of options beyond just white plaster. There’s exposed aggregate finishes like pebble tec that feel amazing underfoot and last longer than traditional plaster.
There’s quartz finishes that add sparkle. You can even do tile for the entire pool though that’s extremely expensive.
The shotcrete application method (a variation of gunite) allows for structural elements that would be impossible with other pool types. I’ve seen gunite pools with underwater seating areas, tunnels, and even transparent viewing windows.
Is a Gunite Pool Worth the Investment?
So after all that, should you get a gunite pool? It really depends on a few things:
If you plan to be in your home for 10+ years, gunite usually makes more sense than other types because of the durability factor. If you’re planning to move sooner, you might not recoup the additional cost.
Your budget matters huge here too. If you’re stretching to afford the initial construction, remember that ongoing maintenance is substantial. Nothing’s worse than having a beautiful pool you can’t afford to maintain properly.
The way you use your pool is another consideration. If you want something for serious swimming, gunite lets you create lap pools with proper depths. If you’re more into entertaining, the custom features like swim-up bars might be worth it.
Anyway I’ve had both vinyl and gunite pools over the years and while gunite costs more in every way, I personally think it’s worth it for the feel and longevity. Just go in with eyes wide open about the real costs and maintenance commitments.
In the end these pools are kind of like luxury cars – they cost more upfront, require more maintenance, but the experience is undeniably premium. And unlike cars, a well-maintained gunite pool can actually last for generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Disadvantages of a Gunite Pool?
Gunite pools can be pricey to install and maintain. They also have a rough surface, which means you might need to resurface it over time.
Plus, the curing process takes a while, so you’ll have to wait before using it. Not ideal.
How Much Should a Gunite Pool Cost?
A gunite pool usually runs you between $35,000 and $65,000, but it can spike higher, depending on size and features. Don’t forget upkeep costs too!
Just gotta balance what you want with what you can afford, right?
What Is the Lifespan of a Gunite Pool?
A gunite pool can last 25 to 50 years or even longer with good care. Yep, they’re tough!
Just keep up with maintenance, and you’ll be swimming for decades. Not too shabby, right?
How Often Do You Have to Resurface a Gunite Pool?
So, you’re gonna want to resurface your gunite pool like every 10 to 15 years, depending on wear and tear.
If it starts looking rough or rough to the touch, it’s probably time. Just keep an eye on it!
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