No! A gunite pool indicates the underlying STRUCTURE. Plaster is the final FINISH on top of the gunite structure. All inground gunite pools have the same structure (gunite or dry shotcrete – synonymous terms).
Prior to plaster: 3 weeks
While the gunite is curing, the beginning of many other processes will begin. During the three-to-four-week curing process, you can expect to see tile and coping take place (plus any additional stonework that may include grills, fireplaces, and firepits).
Standard white plaster is the tried and true pool and spa surface finish. White plaster has been around as long as people have been building swimming pools and it remains a popular choice in spite of the myriad of choices that have come into the market in recent years.
Gunite swimming pools are highly durable and can be created in just about any shape. They don't require wooden frameworks to hold the shape of the pool basin. Custom Gunite pools have become very popular lately, and it's easy to see why.
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.
No! A gunite pool indicates the underlying STRUCTURE. Plaster is the final FINISH on top of the gunite structure. All inground gunite pools have the same structure (gunite or dry shotcrete – synonymous terms).
A fiberglass pool is not prone to growing algae, which is one of the main reasons why this pool is easier to maintain. Anyone who is looking for a pool that doesn't require a lot of maintenance may want to consider going with a fiberglass pool.
But a properly built Gunite pool can and should last for 100 years or more, with no risk of cracking whatsoever. We've been building Gunite pools for more than 40 years (more than 4000 swimming pools), and we've never had one crack yet.
Many swimmers and children find the rough bottom in a gunite pool to be very abrasive and uncomfortable. It is not uncommon to scrape and or irritate your feet if the swimmer is in the pool for long periods of time and sitting on the pools steps or benches will certainly snag a swim suit.
On average, gunite swimming pools last 7 to 10 years before they need to be resurfaced. When that time comes, it's important to know what options are available so that you can pick the best choice for your backyard space.
Plaster is the least durable of the interior finishes for concrete pools. It only lasts 5-10 years.
Tile Finishes
Though tile is the most expensive pool finish and takes longer to install than plaster and aggregate, it's the longest lasting pool surface. With proper application and minimal maintenance, tiles should never need to be replaced. Tile pool finishes come in ceramic, porcelain, glass and stone.
While you can plaster your pool at any time of the year, the ideal weather is when it is a little cold and humid. That's because high temperatures can cause early drying before the pool fills altogether leaving cracks in between the dry and wet plaster.
You could refer to gunite as concrete's cousin because they are both in the same family, but have their differences. 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.
On Average, Replastering is Every 10 Years
So how often do you need to replaster a pool? The short answer is about every 10 years. However, it's important to consider the factors mentioned above, as they are typical signs that your pool needs to be replastered.
The best thing to do is spray the gunite with a hose 2-3 times a day for a week or so after it is shot. Helps keep shrinkage cracks to a minimum... so a light rain a few hours after it is shot is actually good for it. The only thing I would be concerned about is a heavy rain while they are shooting it...
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.
If you're looking for a simple answer, the answer is yes. Saltwater chlorinators are perfectly safe for gunite pools. The biggest issues reported when using saltwater chlorinators with gunite pools have to do with the tendency of the plaster to stain over time when coming into contact with salt.
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.
When you are swimming, you would get scratched or roughened when you step out of the pool. Also, you could get scratched or your swimsuit could get torn with the jagged plaster. If it's unpleasant to run your hand along the side of the pool or climb up the stairs then its because your plaster is wearing thin.
While Marcite plaster is the least expensive of the gunite pool surfaces, it does have its disadvantages. The surface can start to show visible chipping or etching after 5 to 7 years. They will also start to stain, and inhibit algae due to its porous surface and is the least durable in the plaster pool family.
You will need a track system to secure the liner to the pool. This system is installed with stainless screws just beneath the edge of the coping, around the entire perimeter of your pool. During the pool conversion, you will attach a pad between the liner and the gunite walls.
A fiberglass pool typically has the highest upfront cost but the lowest maintenance cost. They are quick to install, but because they're built from a mold the shape is not customizable (and they can't be wider than 16 feet). A vinyl pool has the lowest installation cost and can be built to any size and shape.
Fiberglass pools need the least maintenance, and they cost the least ($3,750 over 10 years).
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