3 Things You Should Know About Gunite Pools

This flexible design and sturdy construction of the gunite pool comes with an important tradeoff: they can be pricier and time-consuming to build than some other pool systems. When you are trying to compare pool options, look at the whole project, not just the initial quote to build the pool.

What Determines the Cost of a Gunite Pool?

Gunite Pool Prices Gunite pool prices can vary widely depending on location, design, size, site conditions, finishes, and equipment included. A simple design on accessible property can be much less expensive than a complex pool with extensive landscaping and custom features. Our financing options can help make a larger project more manageable.

Several factors can affect the total investment:

• Pool size and depth: Bigger pools usually require more excavation, construction material, labor, and water-treatment capacity.
• Site conditions: Poor access, unsuitable soil, drainage needs, rock excavation, or other site challenges may increase construction costs.
• Design complexity: Using custom shapes, built-in benches, tanning ledges, elaborate steps, and specialty features can add to the project cost.
• Interior finish: Material, installation, and maintenance costs vary for standard plaster and more elaborate finishes such as aggregate or tile.
• Equipment and accessories: Pumps, filters, lighting, heating, automation, and water features all have an impact on the overall price.
• Surrounding landscaping: Decking, patios, fencing, outdoor lighting, planting, and seating can take up a large part of the total backyard project.

Ask your contractor for an itemized estimate before you sign that clearly details the work to be done, allowances, potential extra charges, and warranty coverage. Our guide to things to consider before you get a pool covers more planning questions.

How long does it take to build a gunite pool?

Gunite pools typically take longer to install than many above-ground and some in-ground prefabricated pool systems.

The project includes excavation, reinforcing, concrete work, curing, plumbing and mechanical work, interior finish work, and a punch list. More time for landscaping and decking.

The schedule will vary depending on the size and complexity of the pool, weather, contractor availability, inspections, and material lead times.

It’s a sensible idea to discuss the expected timeline with your contractor before construction begins and to allow for flexibility for unexpected delays.

Are Gunite Pools Worth It?

A gunite pool is worth the higher initial investment if your priorities are:

• Designing a highly customized swimming pool
• Creating a permanent feature in the backyard for long-term enjoyment.
• Including built-in features and architectural details.
• Building a pool in a weird property layout.
• Choosing from a wide selection of suitable interior finishes.

But if your priority is to keep your upfront cost down or get the installation done quickly, it may not be the best option.

Consider construction costs, maintenance needs, finish replacements, equipment costs, and long-term plans before you make your decision.

Why it matters: Understanding the total investment helps you choose a pool that matches your vision and budget for your backyard.

Gunite Pools vs. Other Pool Types

Gunite isn’t your only choice for building an in-ground swimming pool. Fiberglass and vinyl liner pools differ in installation requirements, design flexibility, and maintenance considerations. For a broader overview, read our guide to the best in-ground pool types.

There isn’t a single-size pool for every property. The right choice will depend on your budget, design aims, site conditions, anticipated use, and willingness to carry out continuing maintenance.

Design a Pool to Turn Your Vision into Reality

Gunite pools allow homeowners to create a unique, permanent swimming space with a great deal of design flexibility. It’s constructed from reinforced concrete, so the actual pool structure will be durable for many years to come. The designs and finishes are versatile enough to complement a variety of backyard styles.

Before you decide, weigh the benefits against the construction cost, installation timeline, and maintenance commitments. By planning carefully and comparing your choices, you will invest with more confidence.

Want to see your backyard pool options? Perfect Pools of VA can help you learn more about swimming pool design, installation, and maintenance.

Visit Perfect Pools of VA to learn more about our services and discuss your vision for a beautiful and functional backyard swimming pool. You can also read what our customers say.

FAQs

Fiberglass Pools vs. Gunite Pools: Which Is Better?
Gunite pools allow for more freedom in custom shapes, depths, and design features that can be built in. Fiberglass pools are usually delivered with prefabricated shells and might have a faster installation process. Which is better depends on your priorities, property, budget, and what you want in terms of long-term maintenance.

Do gunite pools crack?
Cracks can form in concrete pool structures or interior finishes due to ground movement, construction defects, shrinkage, or other stresses. Not every crack indicates a structural problem, but a qualified professional should evaluate unusual cracks, new cracks, widening cracks, leaks, and other damage. If you’re concerned about an existing pool, see our pool renovation options.

Does a gunite pool need to be resurfaced?
Over time many gunite pools require interior finish repairs or resurfacing. Timing depends on finish material, workmanship, water chemistry, and maintenance. For long-term maintenance planning, the structural shell and interior finish should be evaluated separately. Here is why spring is a good time to renovate a pool.

Are gunite pools relatively simple to care for?
Like other swimming pools, gunite pools require regular water testing, cleaning, filtration, and equipment maintenance. The interior finish may affect the brushing method and cleaning requirements. Daily maintenance keeps the pool in excellent shape and prevents avoidable problems. See our pool maintenance tips.

Can you shape a gunite pool?
“Yes.” Gunite pools are built on site and offer a lot of flexibility when it comes to design. The shape, depth, steps, benches, and compatible water features are often adaptable to the property, subject to engineering, site conditions, and local requirements. Browse custom pool designs for ideas.

Are gunite pools right for small yards?
They can.” Because of their custom design, a gunite pool can fit into many different spaces. But before you finalize the layout, you have to consider access, setbacks, underground utilities, drainage, and room for construction and maintenance.