How Long for a Gunite Pool to Cure? Everything You Need to Know

One of the first questions we get during a build is, “how long for a gunite pool to cure?” 

It makes sense. When you're investing in custom gunite pools, you want to know what to expect and when you'll be able to move to the next stage. The short answer is 7 to 28 days, but there’s more to it than just waiting around.

Curing isn’t the exciting part, but it’s one of the most important. Get it wrong, and you risk cracks and repairs down the line. Get it right, and you’ve got a strong, lasting structure. In this blog, we’ll cover what affects curing time, how to care for your pool, and why patience matters.

Key Takeaways

• A gunite pool needs 7 to 28 days to cure, and giving it time is the only way to build lasting strength.

• Cutting corners during curing can lead to cracks, leaks, and costly repairs later on.

• Working with an experienced pool builder like Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living keeps your backyard project on track and built to last.

What Is Gunite and Why Does It Need to Cure?

Gunite is a dry mix of sand, cement, and water that's sprayed through a high-pressure hose. Once it hits the surface, it's shaped to match your pool’s design. The force of application helps it bond tightly to the steel rebar, forming a strong and compact shell.

But spraying the mix is just the start. The curing process transforms it into hardened concrete. Through a chemical reaction called hydration, the cement bonds with water and gradually hardens. If the concrete dries too fast or isn’t kept moist, it won't reach full strength.

This step isn’t about appearance. The gunite shell is the backbone of your pool. If curing is rushed or skipped, everything built on top, including the tile, pool plaster, deck, and equipment, can crack or shift over time.

How Long Does a Gunite Pool Take to Cure?

Curing a gunite pool usually takes 7 to 28 days, depending on the outside temperature, pool shape, and overall construction conditions. This time allows the gunite shell to properly hydrate and form hardened concrete, giving your pool the strength it needs for the long haul.

Here’s how the schedule usually breaks down:

Day 1–7: This is the critical phase. The concrete surface must be kept wet to avoid drying faster than it should. Maintaining a concrete temperature low enough for hydration is key. If the surface dries out or heats up too quickly, it can lead to surface crazing or even structural damage.

Day 8–14: At this point, the gunite is gaining strength, but it’s not fully cured. Some builders may begin light work like installing tile or prepping for the pool deck, depending on how the gunite shell is holding up and the weight of the materials involved.

Day 15–28: This is when the pool shell typically reaches its full strength. While the surface may appear dry and solid, the curing process is still happening inside. Rushing into the next phase too early can still create issues with the structure down the line.

Throughout this timeline, keeping the surface wet, controlling concrete temperature, and managing your yard conditions are all key to supporting the hardening process. A reliable pool builder will track the temperature, sun exposure, and your specific pool design to adjust the schedule accordingly.

What Happens If You Rush the Process?

Cutting the curing short is like pulling brownies out of the oven too early. It might look done, but inside, it’s unstable. For a pool, that means surface cracks, a weakened structure, and costly repairs later.

Some companies promise a finished pool in two to three weeks. That’s a red flag. Gunite needs time to form hardened concrete, and skipping that time can lead to issues like surface crazing, poor bonding with plaster, and long-term problems with your deck, equipment, or even nearby parts of your house.

Any pool builder who rushes this phase is gambling with your investment. The curing process isn’t optional—it’s essential.

How to Care for Your Gunite During the Cure

Once the gunite is in, the next few weeks are key. Keeping the concrete moist and managing temperature helps your pool shell cure properly and prevents issues like cracks or poor plaster bonding. Here's what to do:

1. Start watering 24 hours after application

Once the gunite has set for a day, it’s time to start watering. This keeps the concrete moist, which is key to proper curing. Use a hose or sprinkler system, but make sure the entire surface is covered, especially hard-to-reach areas.

2. Water 2–5 times daily

In cooler temps, watering twice a day may be enough. During the summer months or when the outside temperature is high, aim for 3 to 5 times per day to keep the surface wet and the concrete temperature low.

3. Don’t shock the concrete

Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day. Spraying cold water on hot concrete can cause surface crazing, similar to hot glass breaking when it meets cold water. Stick to early morning and late afternoon watering.

4. Keep the shell clean

Debris, rainwater, or dirt piling up in the shell can interfere with the curing process. Remove anything that doesn’t belong. Small cracks may appear—that’s normal. Larger ones should be reported to your pool builder or pool expert.

Factors That Affect Gunite Pool Curing Time

Not every pool cures at the same pace. Things like weather, design, and added features all play a role. If your pool builder overlooks these, it could lead to early damage or delays in your build process. Here’s what can make a difference:

• Temperature and climate. Warm weather speeds evaporation, so more frequent spraying of water is needed for proper hydration. Cold slows curing, and without control, uneven drying can cause surface crazing.

• Humidity. Dry air pulls moisture from the concrete too quickly, especially during the hottest part of the day. Without enough moisture, the surface doesn’t cure evenly, which can affect how well the plaster bonds later in the construction.

• Pool shape and size. A large or custom pool shape with added features like grottos or benches increases the amount of material and weight on the shell, which can extend the curing timeline. More sand, gravel, and brick mean more stress on the structure.

• Gunite mix design. Most builders use dry-mix gunite, but the cement, sand, and water ratio can affect how the concrete sets. A poor mix or inconsistent pressure during application can impact the final strength of your pool shell.

• Structural load. Adding heavy design features like waterfalls, fire bowls, or raised deck elements puts more weight on the gunite shell. These require additional cure time—often closer to the full 28 days—to make sure the structure holds up long term.

When Can You Start the Next Phase of Construction?

Most builds move forward between Day 7 and Day 28. Around the two-week mark, some companies begin installing tile or coping, but only if the pool shell has gained enough strength. For complex designs or heavier features, waiting longer is the safer choice.

No matter the timeline, a reliable pool builder should inspect the shell before moving ahead. Skipping this step can create long-term issues in your backyard, especially with finishes like plaster or with connected plumbing and equipment.

Why Your Pool Shell Needs to Be Left Alone

Even if the pool shell looks dry, it’s still curing beneath the surface. Avoid foot traffic, tools, or heavy machinery on it. Added pressure too early can weaken the structure, cause shifting, or contribute to developing surface crazing later. Let the curing process do its work—it’s essential.

Real Talk: Beware of Builders Who Cut Corners

If a builder promises to deliver a fully filled and finished pool in just a few weeks, that should raise red flags. Quality construction takes time, especially during the curing stage. Ignoring that timeline can leave you with cracks, leaks, or warranty disputes down the road.

Choose a pool builder who values durability over speed. The curing phase isn’t flashy, but it’s one of the most critical parts of the entire build process, and it’s what keeps your backyard pool ready to swim for years to come.

Our Approach at Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living

We know how disappointing it is when companies cut corners and leave you with cracks or leaks. At Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living, the gunite shell is treated as the most critical part of the construction. Our licensed and insured team carefully monitors conditions, adjusts spraying water schedules, and waits to move forward with plumbing or electrical conduit until the pool shell is strong enough.

With over 50 years of experience, our team specializes in custom pools, hot tubs, swim spas, and hardscapes. From design and installation to service and maintenance, we handle every detail to create outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle. We take pride in delivering award-winning craftsmanship and back it all with exceptional service.

Schedule a free consultation with Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living today. We’ll walk you through the full build process, make sure every phase is completed with care, and deliver a backyard paradise that’s built to last and perfect for that first swim once it’s finally filled.

Conclusion

Waiting 7 to 28 days for the curing process might feel like a slow stretch in your backyard build, but it’s what gives your pool its strength. Taking the time to do it right means fewer problems later and a pool that holds up season after season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a gunite pool need to cure?

A gunite pool usually needs 7 to 28 days to cure, depending on the weather and design. The shell hardens around the steel rebar, gaining strength each day. A good pool builder won’t rush this step since it’s the foundation of the pool.

How soon can you swim in a new gunite pool?

You can only swim once the curing, plaster, and final equipment setup are complete. The pool must be fully filled and the water balanced before it’s safe to use.

What is the lifespan of a gunite pool?

With proper care, a gunite pool can last 50 years or more. The structure is durable, and resurfacing over time keeps it looking new. For expert guidance, schedule a free consultation with Ferrari Pools: Custom Outdoor Living.

Why is steel rebar important in a gunite pool?

The steel rebar acts like the skeleton of your pool. It gives the pool shell its strength and helps it withstand water pressure and shifting soil. Without it, the gunite wouldn’t hold up over time.

How do I choose the right pool builder for my project?

Look for a pool builder with years of experience, strong warranties, and proven craftsmanship. The right team will explain the build process, from curing to plaster, and won’t cut corners on critical steps.