how do you make a gunite pool

The Process for Building a Custom Gunite Swimming Pool

• On-Site Consultation Because gunite pools are custom designed and built, the process begins by meeting with the client on their property. ...
• Grading and Excavation The physical process begins by grading and leveling the property. ...
• Installing Plumbing ...
• Building Rebar Cage ...
• Installing Lights and Electric ...
• Shooting and Forming the Gunite ...
• Coping, Tiling and Rock Detailing ...
• Hardscaping & Landscaping ...

Full Answer

Can You powerwash your gunite pool?

First, you have to note that a power wash is only recommended for gunite pools. The cleaning procedure is quite intense. So, the process might be harsher for fiberglass and vinyl liner pools. As a matter of fact, power washing damages vinyl liners in vinyl pools. Pressure washing is only recommended for concrete and plaster pools.

How do you make gunite?

The construction processes for gunite and shotcrete pools are similar:

• Measure and excavate the ground.
• Install the plumbing.
• Install a reinforced cage of tied steel rebar.
• Spray concrete?using either the gunite or shotcrete process?encasing the rebar.
• Shape and finish the concrete pool shell.
• Let the concrete cure.

How do you get dirt stains off a gunite pool?

Three Ways to Remove Stains of This Type

• The first is to attach an emery stone to your swimming pool cleaning pole and rub off the stain. ...
• The second method is an old serviceman's trick. Turn off your pump and wait for the water stop moving. ...
• The third and best method for removing stains on a plastered pool requires getting in the pool. ...

How is a gunite pool constructed?

A gunite pool is an inground concrete pool that is built in a specific way. Traditional concrete pools are constructed by building a wooden framework and then pouring concrete over that framework to hold the shape while the concrete hardens.

Who meets with the owner to finalize pool position in yard?

What is pool coping?

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Can you DIY a gunite pool?

Gunite pools typically require a skilled technician for proper application of the sprayed concrete as well, so you may not be able to DIY a gunite pool if you're not already an experienced "nozzleman." In other words, don't wear your good shoes and consider wearing protective earplugs.

What is the mixture for gunite?

"Gunite", also known as "Dry-Process Shotcrete", is a name used to designate a mixture of 1 part Portland Cement and 4 parts sand thoroughly mixed dry, passed through a Gunite Machine, and conveyed by air through a rubber gunite hose and deposited by air pressure.

What are the stages of building a gunite pool?

The process of constructing a Gunite swimming pool includes the excavation, installation of rebar and plumbing, installation of the gunite, installing the tile and coping, installation of a concrete deck or pavers, installing the filter equipment and control system and finally the interior finish.

Is a gunite pool the same as a concrete pool?

Concrete pools can be made of either shotcrete or gunite. The difference is when the concrete mixes with the water. Shotcrete refers to wet concrete that's already fully mixed before it's shot out of a hose. Gunite is dry concrete mix that only mixes with water at the nozzle when it's sprayed.

Which is stronger gunite or shotcrete?

Gunite can also withstand up to 9500 psi, a much higher psi than shotcrete. If you expect your pool to have to withstand a large amount of pressure, gunite is the better choice.

Can gunite pools crack?

A common cause with pool cracks is from too-thin gunite used during the installation process. During the construction process, the gunite might not adhere properly to the steel framework. When this occurs, the gunite “rebounds,” or bounces back after application. Rebound gunite should be removed and thrown away.

What if it rains after gunite?

More often than not, weather changes affect gunite pool installation. Remember, gunite needs at least 28 days to cure. So, when it rains, the pool construction process undoubtedly gets delayed.

How long does it take a gunite pool to cure?

On average, gunite pool construction takes approximately two to three months. There are several steps involved in building a gunite pool. But the curing process is the one that prolongs the construction period. This is because gunite needs about 28 days or more to cure.

How thick should a gunite pool be?

To be structurally sound, a concrete pool shell should generally be 6 inches thick.

Which is better gunite or concrete?

Unlike concrete, when building gunite pools, you can stop and start without any problems, which will help give a smoother finish. With a skilled nozzleman, the mix of cement and water can be adjusted at the point of delivery as required, while it is also less prone to cracking than concrete.

Is a gunite pool worth it?

A Solid foundation: A gunite pool is perfect because of its amazing design versatility. These pools last the longest of all inground pools and often feature the best warranties. Gunite pools do not need wooden frameworks to hold the shape, so building is simpler than standard concrete.

How thick is the plaster on a gunite pool?

Pool plaster will be applied over a scratch coat and will have thickness of 3/8 to ½ an inch. Once the new plaster layer is applied, the finish will be smooth troweled. This plaster layer will fill all hollows that we hammered out to ensure a long lasting finish to your replastered swimming pool.

What is the mixture for shotcrete?

Shotcrete typically consists of one part cement and four parts sand by weight with approximately 7% water by mass of dry ingredients. It can also include coarse aggregate and admixtures.

What is gunite cement?

Gunite is the dry mixed form of sprayed concrete. Gunite typically only contains fine particles in its mix while concrete contains both large and small particles. For gunite, builders load a pre-mixed dry material into the delivery equipment. Compressed air is then sent through a nozzle where it mixes with water.

Is gunite the same as plaster?

Gunite or ShotCrete is the concrete shell that encases the rebar and forms your pool. The plaster is the waterproof layer that contains your water in the pool and give it a nice smooth finish.

What is the typical WC ratio for shotcrete?

0.35 – 0.45The water W/CM of shotcrete material is typically in the range of 0.35 – 0.45.

8 Steps to Building a Gunite Pool | Pool and Spa Installation - YouTube

Watch how easy the experts at Hot Springs Pools & Spas make building a custom-designed gunite pool with water feature look! We have the experience to give yo...

15 Steps of Pool Building - Palo Verde Pools

Step 1 – Permit, Engineering Plans & HOA (AVG 7-10 days) We shall acquire the permits for the construction of the pool. All plans must comply with state, local and HOA building requirements.

Gunite Pool Construction Process – Arista Pools

Your Content Goes Here Step 1. Layout & Set Elevations Once a pool shape is chosen we flag out the pool in your yard so that you can picture what it will look like. If any adjustments need to be made that can happen easily prior to digging the pool. During

Why are gunite pools so popular?

Currently, gunite pools are popular due to their high versatility and durability. Homeowners can highly customize gunite pools to fit all their needs and requirements. In fact, most world-class pools are gunite pools. If you plan to build a gunite pool, it is essential to understand the construction process.

How long does gunite cure in a pool?

However, the combination of sand and cement comes into contact with water during application at the hose’s nozzle. That is what sets gunite apart from shotcrete. Make sure the gunite complements the shape of the pool. Then, please leave it to cure for about 28 days or more.

What is the best finish for a pool?

Once the tile and the coping process is complete, apply finishing material. Some of the popular finishing materials today include plaster, aggregate, and ceramic tiles. Each has unique configurations and enhances your pool’s appealing nature. Often, new pool owners go for plaster. The plaster is affordable and attractive. But if your desire to go for a high end looks, a ceramic or glass finish might be a good alternative for you.

Can you put tile in a pool?

After several weeks, you can proceed with pool construction. Since the gunite has already cured, you can start putting in place the pool tiles. Nowadays, there is a wide range of pool tiles you can select. It all depends on your taste and budget. However, ensure that the tiles are slip-resistant and boost your pool’s aesthetics. Additionally, there is a broad spectrum of pool coping you can incorporate.

Is it worth building a gunite pool?

Homeowners who build gunite pools enjoy a wide range of benefits. Even though it might take a long time to build a gunite pool, the results are worth it.

What is shotcrete pool?

Shoot Gunite. There are two main types of concrete pools that you can buy. The two choices are Shotcrete or Gunite. Shotcrete is a wet mix. This product is cement out of cement trucks. They pull up with as dry a mix as they can to make stacking easier. The crews then stack this mix up to form the pool walls.

What is the final step in a pool?

Plaster and Fill. The final step of the build process is the plaster, the finish coat on the inside of the pool. Whatever color you have chosen is hand troweled to a nice smooth finish. When the plaster is first applied it may seem like a different color than the one you picked. Do not panic!

Why do we dig pools in house?

When digging our pool we hand shape the sides of the entire pool to ensure a true consistency of Gunite all around the pool.

How long does it take to build a stone wall?

The entire project from start to finish will take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks weather permitting. Keep in mind if you do add stonework to your project that will bring you closer to the 8 week timeframe as our stonework is done by a professional mason who chips and form all the stone by hand.

Do you have to pay extra for topsoil for pool?

Now that the pool location has been approved by the customer we strip all the topsoil and stockpile the dirt to be returned at the end of the job at no extra cost. Many companies charge extra machine time and or require you to pay for additional topsoil. We dig our own pools we do not use any subcontractors so we are able to spend the extra time to grade the job without additional costs.

Do you stub plumb a pool line?

Right after the pool is dug all the plumbing is installed complete. We do not stub plumb any lines, all the plumbing is installed 100%. In doing this we can charge the plumbing system with air from a compressor to ensure there are no leaks. This test gets performed many times throughout the build process to ensure nothing has been broken during construction. We also install any electrical conduit in the same trench with the plumbing this way everything is together and decreases the chance of electrical conduit being damaged later.

When is it a good time to repair a gunite pool?

If stains grow in size or quantity, or if repeated attempts to clean up and remove your stains are unsuccessful, it’s probably a good time for a professional gunite pool repair.

What to do with an aging pool?

The best thing you can do for your aging pool is to have a pool professional conduct a thorough inspection. An expert will check all the primary equipment — pump, heater, filter, drains — for leaks, malfunctions, and operations. They’ll inspect the liner or plaster, the tile and coping for signs of aging that can lead to problems.

How Long Does it Take to Resurface a Pool?

So the surface of your pool is waving a red flag — or two … or three — and you’re recognizing the need to resurface. Not so fast. There’s a catch. You’re not ready to shut down your pool for an indefinite amount of time just because your pool has a couple leaks and stains.

What causes pool stains?

Most pool surface stains are caused by the following: 1 Chemical and mineral inputs 2 Leaves and other natural debris 3 Algae (red or green)

Why does my pool have a stain?

Most pool surface stains are caused by the following: Chemical and mineral inputs. Leaves and other natural debris.

What is marcite plaster?

Made of a mixture of cement, water, and marble dust (or silica sand), marcite is a standard plaster application for pool surfaces. Sometimes referred to as white plaster, this surface choice is dependable and provides a watertight seal over porous gunite.

How long does it take for a pool to reopen?

And on average, there is a two-week curing period before a homeowner can use their pool. Two weeks! That’s the perfect amount of time to plan for your pool’s grand re-opening party.

Watering Gunite

An essential step in caring for your concrete pool is to saturate the bond beam.

Maintaining Your Gunite Shell

While watering is an important component, it is how much and for how long that counts the most. Not enough watering throughout the day will leave a negative impact on your pool’s shell.

A Gunite Pool Will Look the Best When Cared for

A normal part of the process is the development of holes and other imperfections. They are shrinkage cracks on the top layer of the gunite so don’t worry if you start to notice them.

Who meets with the owner to finalize pool position in yard?

Our Construction Manager meets with home owner to finalize pool position in the yard and goes over all the details of the construction process. After this meeting you will be notified of your dig date.

What is pool coping?

We also accent our steps and benches with tile so you can distinguish where they are. You have several choices of pool coping that can be installed. Coping is the finished product that rests on the top of the gunite bond beam. Some examples are concrete cantilever, brick or stone. We give you a choice of concrete bullnose cantilever, which is a foam form we install around the inside of the pool then we pour the concrete. After curing we remove the form and finish the inside edge to give it a clean, smooth finish. Your other choice is a paver bullnose brick. These 2 forms of coping are equal in price.