Gunite Swimming Pool Construction: Process, Costs & Tips

Gunite swimming pool construction offers a level of customization and durability that makes it a standout choice for creating a truly unique backyard centerpiece. This method allows complete control over shape, size, and features, resulting in a pool that fits seamlessly with its surroundings. 

Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living has crafted gunite pools that combine long-lasting strength with refined design, producing spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. Here you’ll learn how these pools are built, what the construction timeline involves, and why they remain a preferred option for homeowners seeking both style and substance.

Key Takeaways

• Gunite pools offer unmatched design flexibility and durability, making them a smart choice for a long-lasting swimming pool.

• With proper construction and maintenance, a gunite pool shell can stay strong for decades while allowing for endless style options.

• The gunite application process creates a solid, custom-shaped pool that adds beauty and value to any backyard.

What is Gunite?

Gunite is a concrete mixture made from cement, sand, and water that’s applied through a high-pressure hose using compressed air. Instead of being poured into forms like traditional concrete, it’s sprayed directly onto the pool structure in thin, even layers. This creates a seamless surface with no joints or weak points.

Compared to other options, traditional poured concrete requires sectioned forms and results in seams, while shotcrete is similar to gunite but arrives as a wet mix before spraying. 

Gunite starts as a dry mix, with water added right at the nozzle for precise control. This makes it ideal for freeform shapes, sharp angles, or intricate pool designs that are harder to achieve with fiberglass or vinyl liner pools.

Why Choose Gunite for Your Inground Pool?

Homeowners choose gunite pools for three main reasons:

• Design flexibility – Works for sleek modern rectangles, natural-style lagoons, infinity edges, or tanning ledges.

• Lasting durability – The solid structure handles seasonal changes, and the gunite shell can last decades with proper care.

• Premium features – Built-in spas, waterfalls, and custom tile work are easy to incorporate.

Beyond the look and features, a well-planned gunite pool adds long-term value to a property, making it a strong investment compared to other pool types.

Step-by-Step: Gunite Swimming Pool Construction Process

Building a gunite pool is a detailed process that blends craftsmanship, precision, and the right equipment. Each stage plays a critical role in creating a pool structure that’s both strong and beautiful. 

Here’s how a typical gunite pool construction project comes together from start to finish.

Design and planning

This stage starts with selecting the pool shape, layout, and features. Your pool builder will also help determine the best pool size for your backyard and plan finishes like coping, decking, and interior surfacing. The design must also account for local codes and permits before any work begins.

Excavation

Once the plan is approved, heavy equipment digs the ground to the exact depth and contours of the pool layout. Soil type and drainage are addressed during this stage to create a stable foundation for the pool structure.

Rebar framework

A steel rebar grid is built inside the excavation to act as the skeleton of the pool. This framework supports the concrete mixture during application and strengthens the final pool shell.

Plumbing and utilities

Plumbing lines for water circulation, filtration, and heating systems are installed along with electrical wiring for lights and equipment. If you’re considering features like spas or water features, provisions are made now so they’re ready when the pool is finished.

Gunite application

The dry concrete mix is pushed through an application hose, water is added at the nozzle, and the material is sprayed at high speed onto the rebar frame. A skilled nozzleman applies it in layers until the entire pool shell has a solid, uniform surface.

Curing process

Gunite cures over about 28 days, allowing the concrete to reach maximum strength. Weather and regional conditions can affect this slightly, so some projects may take a bit longer or shorter.

During this time, the surface is kept moist to prevent cracks and to help the concrete bond properly.

Finishing touches

Once the curing process is complete, the interior finish is applied. Options include plaster, pebble, or tile. Coping and decking follow, using materials such as stone, pavers, or decorative concrete. Landscaping, retaining walls, and other add-ons are completed before filling the pool.

How Long Does Gunite Pool Construction Take?

A typical gunite pool construction project takes between three and six months from start to finish. Timelines can vary based on weather, the complexity of the design, and the permitting process. 

While the wait can be longer than other pool types, the result is a custom-built pool that’s designed to last for decades.

Gunite Swimming Pool Costs

While each gunite pool construction project is unique, a typical turnkey installation ranges from $100,000 and up.

Cost factors include:

• Pool size, shape, and depth.

• Luxury features like infinity edges or tanning ledges.

• Materials for finishes, coping, and decking.

• Landscaping and add-ons like spas or outdoor kitchens.

Compared to vinyl liner pools or fiberglass pools, gunite pools are a higher initial investment but offer unmatched customization and long-term value.

Maintenance and Longevity

Keeping a gunite pool in great condition means regular brushing, vacuuming, and maintaining proper water chemistry. Because the surface is slightly porous, it can require more chemicals than a fiberglass pool to manage algae growth. Every 10 to 15 years, the interior finish may need replastering to restore its look and feel.

While annual maintenance costs can be higher than vinyl liner pools, the payoff is a pool that maintains its shape and structure for decades without liner replacements or shell warping.

Common Myths About Gunite Pools Busted

Over the years, a few misconceptions about gunite pools have stuck around, but most don’t hold up when you look at the facts. Here’s the truth behind some of the most common myths:

“They crack easily.” A properly built gunite shell with rebar reinforcement is a solid structure that can last for decades.

“Too expensive to maintain.” While upkeep costs can be higher than vinyl liner pools, the long lifespan of a gunite pool often makes up for the difference over time.

“Only for large backyards.” Gunite construction can be customized to fit almost any space, from compact courtyards to expansive resort-style layouts.

Why Work With a Local Gunite Pool Builder

A local pool builder brings valuable knowledge of the soil, drainage, and weather patterns specific to your area. They understand the permitting process and can recommend materials that perform well in your climate. 

Local builders often have trusted relationships with subcontractors and suppliers, which helps keep the project moving smoothly from start to finish.

Ferrari Pools: Trusted Gunite Pool Builders

For over 50 years, Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living has designed and built custom gunite pools, concrete pools, and shotcrete pools with lasting quality. From sleek modern inground pools with tile coping to classic backyard retreats with water features and marble dust finishes, every gunite pool shell is built for strength and style.

We handle the entire process, including pool layout, pool design, plumbing, equipment installation, and finishing touches. Our services also include pool renovations, maintenance, openings and closings, leak detection, and equipment replacement.

If you’re ready for a new pool or a complete backyard upgrade, contact us for a complimentary consultation and a clear gunite pool cost estimate.

Conclusion

A gunite pool is more than just a swimming pool. It is a custom creation built to suit your backyard, your style, and the way you want to enjoy your space. 

Crafted from cement, sand, and reinforced concrete, each pool is shaped with precision to match various designs and sizes. With a strong bond beam, reliable pool plumbing and equipment, and finishes ranging from classic plaster to detailed tile, a future pool built with gunite combines beauty, strength, and flexibility for years of enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, gunite or concrete pool?

Gunite pools are a type of concrete pool, but the application method makes the difference. 

Instead of pouring wet concrete into forms, gunite is sprayed with air pressure, allowing for more control over shape and strength. This process makes it easier to create various shapes and custom features, which is why many homeowners prefer gunite over traditional poured concrete pools.

What is the lifespan of a gunite pool?

With quality cement, sand, and reinforced concrete, plus proper pool plumbing and equipment, a gunite pool can last 50 years or more. While the plaster or tile finish may need refreshing every 10 to 15 years, the gunite shell can remain solid for decades.

How do I tell if my pool is gunite?

If your swimming pool has a hard concrete shell beneath the plaster or tile, it may be gunite. Unlike fiberglass or vinyl liner pools, gunite is sprayed in place, often revealing rebar if the surface is chipped. Shotcrete looks similar but starts as a wet mix before application.

What are the advantages of a gunite pool?

Gunite pools allow for custom shapes, from sleek rectangles to freeform designs with spas or tanning ledges. The reinforced concrete and strong bond beam create lasting durability, while finishes like plaster or tile add style. 

Quality pool plumbing and equipment can be a beautiful and long-lasting addition to any backyard.