Pluses And Minuses Of Gunite Pools

Gunite pools are the most popular type of pool built in the United States. They are very durable and can be built in any shape. However, there are many other types of pools available including fiber glass, vinyl, above ground, and cement. Here we will attempt to explain exactly what a gunite pool is, the maintenance these type of pools usually need, any pool repairs that commonly occur and the usual cost. Hopefully this information will help you in deciding if a gunite pool is the correct choice for your needs.

Building any pool is complicated. For example, when a fiberglass pool is built the hole must be dug to fit the pool which is then lowered into the ground. Obviously, this is an exact process. Building a gunite pool has several steps: First, the crew digs the hold. Then the plumbing is added. After these steps comes the process which makes the pool uniquely gunite. A metal framework secured with wire is inserted in the whole. Then, sprays cement mixed with sand (gunite) which is then mixed with water over the framework. The mixture is allowed to set for around a week after which the outer layer is added. The finishing layer can be made of many different substances including plaster which is the most popular choice. However, many people also use exposed aggregate, concrete paint or even fiberglass.

The routine maintenance required for a gunite pool is pretty straightforward. The chemical levels must be checked daily and then adjusted (adding more acid etc.). This should only take a couple of minutes if done regularly. Like all pools, gunite pools must also be vacuumed on a regular basis. There are automatic cleaners available to help with this job, however if you choose to do it yourself it should take about 30-45 minutes a week- although some people claim it takes as little as 10 minutes if done on a weekly basis - depending on the size of your pool.

The most common repairs required on a gunite pool occur in the outer layer of plaster as the pool ages. The plaster will chip or bubble, exposing the gunite layer underneath. However, if the chip is a manageable size most of these repairs can be done by you. Instructions can be readily found online. Deeper or larger cracks that are leaking or structural will require the expertise of a professional. However, if the smaller cracks are taken care of the larger cracks are not a common problem. In my research I didn't find any other problems that were common to gunite pools. Of course big repairs to plumbing, etc., are required occasionally but there didn't seem to be anything required across the board.

It is very difficult to pin point a good price for a gunite pool. The cost is obviously affected by the very flexibility that makes these pools so attractive. The final number will be affected by the square footage of the pool (both size and depth), the location, any special features, etc., etc. However, a good ball park number to have in your head as you begin the process is $30,000. That is about what the average home owner spends on installing a gunite pool. Now are you average? Only you know.

Again, gunite pools are very durable and flexible. The extra features that can be added such as waterfalls, slides, spas, etc., make them a popular choice both for families and those without children.