How Gunite Pools Are Constructed?

 

This month, we continue with our blog discussion of what a gunite pool is and how its constructed.

The construction of a gunite pool starts with excavation using heavy machinery to create a hole matching the desired depth, width, shape, and size of the pool. After the area is prepared, the next step involves setting up the pool's plumbing and reinforcing the walls and floor with steel rebar, forming a robust framework for the application of gunite. Unlike other concrete forms like shotcrete, which may not bond effectively when applied in stages, leading to structural issues or aesthetic flaws, gunite concrete is unique. Its high-pressure application and late-stage water mixing allow skilled nozzle operators to apply gunite over several days without compromising the pool's structural integrity or appearance.

How Long Does Gunite Pools Need to Cure? 

After the gunite process is complete, the concrete must undergo a curing period before the pool can be filled with water. This curing process typically lasts about one month, which allows the particles and molecules in the concrete mixture to fully bond, achieving maximum strength and durability. While it's feasible to apply additional layers of gunite during this curing phase, doing so can prolong the overall curing duration. Therefore, most gunite pool builders aim to finish the gunite application swiftly to avoid extended curing times. Additionally, adverse weather conditions can disrupt the curing process.

The Finishing Touches of a Gunite Pool

The exterior of a fully cured gunite swimming pool is usually covered with materials like plaster, tile, or other finishing options to ensure a uniform surface texture and color. This step often occurs at least a month after the final gunite application. During this curing period, the pool builder typically installs coping around the pool's edge and constructs the patio area. Additionally, while waiting for the gunite to cure, the builder might also work on installing various add-ons and accessories included in the pool project. These can include fencing, retaining walls, landscaping, and external water features that don't need to be integrated within the pool itself.

How Long Does It Take to Build a Gunite Pool?

The entire process of constructing a gunite pool typically spans three to six months. However, recent shortages of supplies and labor may extend the construction schedule. Because gunite pools can be customized to any size, shape, and depth, with just about any feature imaginable, estimating a timeline  without knowing the details is challenging. Additionally, costs vary from state to state and are based on the size, complexity, and materials used.

Maintaining Your Gunite Pool

All pools require maintenance. On average, gunite pools maintain their original finish for 10-15 years, depending on maintenance quality, whether indoors, and exposure to extreme temperature changes, among other factors.

Generally, the most significant costs for maintaining a pool are related to chemicals and electricity for heating more than any other expenses. However, the initial expense for acid washing or replastering services can also be substantial.

If you are considering a new inground pool or renovating or repairing your current pool, now is the time to research and find a qualified gunite expert, such as Pound Pool Plastering. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your upcoming project!

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or email us for a free estimate.

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

The 3 R’s: Replastering, Resurfacing, or Replacing Your Pool

 

Just like a house, pools are comprised of several components, which do not all need to be remodeled simultaneously. For example, a pool surface can be replastered while saving the tile, or the lights, fittings, plumbing, and equipment can be improved on their own. Pool renovations also include interior plastering, refinishing, tile work, coping, and updates to outdoor features. Water features can be added, along with benches, spas, rock rivers, etc. But what are the differences between resurfacing, replastering, or renovating/replacing your pool? Read on to learn more. 

When clients request a new pool surface, they typically look for pool resurfacing or replastering. The price can vary since the project focuses on the pool's interior (walls and floor). There are two main factors when estimating a pool resurfacing project, including the size of the pool and the type of finish.

Replastering a Pool
This process involves removing the existing layer of plaster from the pool’s surface by chipping or sandblasting and applying a new layer. Replastering is typically executed when the old plaster is cracked, rough, or stained, so any damage to the pool’s surface is repaired before the new layer is applied. The new layer of plaster can last for roughly eight to 10 years and provides a smooth, durable finish. When replastering occurs, the pool must be completely drained, which could take several days and require more water to fill later.

Resurfacing a Pool
With resurfacing, aggregate, plaster, or tile can be used to add a new layer of material on top of the existing pool surface. Resurfacing is quite durable and can last up to 25 years. Resurfacing is intended to improve the durability of the pool’s surface and remedy cosmetic damage such as discoloration, staining, and chalking. This process can be done without draining the pool, but the durability will decrease if the pre-existing pool’s surface has significant damage.

Overall, the life span of a pool’s surface depends on water chemistry, weather, age, and more. Depending on the type of finish, size, and plumbing requirements, a pool remodeling job can range from $3,500 to $12,000, but a high-end, custom project can cost around $25,000. 

The choice between replastering and resurfacing depends on the condition of the pool, the expected outcome, and budgetary funds. The state of the pool can be assessed by a professional who will provide recommendations for the best course of action. Regular cleaning can help extend the life of the pool surface and postpone the need for either replastering or resurfacing.

Replacing a Pool

Regrettably, some aging pools may be beyond feasible restoration for swimming purposes. This likelihood increases the longer the pool remains neglected and unused. If you have a pool at your home that isn't worth the restoration cost, you're presented with two primary decisions: Should you fill in or replace your old inground pool? If you no longer want a pool, the answer is obvious; however, if your existing pool is not the right size, shape, depth, or material – or if it has too many costly repairs, it may be wise to replace it and start with a new one.

At Pound Pool Plastering, we specialize in replastering and refinishing pool surfaces. Contact our experts today to learn more. 

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Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/ 

Pool Plastering Timeline

 

Pool plastering can be fairly intimidating if the homeowner does not know what to expect. Read on to learn the steps of pool plastering and discover how easy this project can be.

1. Choose a color: A variety of plastering color options are available for swimming pools. Colors can vary based on water depth, so it is important to keep that in mind.  

 

2. Drain the pool: One of the first steps for the pool crew is to drain the pool with submersible pumps. 

 

3. Remove hydrostatic pressure: A crucial step in the replastering process, this ensures the pool will not pop or move while plastering occurs. The pool can expand outward without water to create pressure on the walls.  

 

4. Prepare for plastering: This step is accomplished by undercutting waterline tiles and pool fittings such as jets, lights, drains, and returns.

 

5. Inspect for damage: Cracks, hollows, and other issues might be brought to light during this time and must be remedied to avoid future complications. Hollows are created when calcium nodules mature, creating a hollow space beneath the pool’s surface that resembles bubbles or overall deterioration. 

 

6. Muriatic acid wash: This process helps to remove stubborn stains, calcium deposits, etc., by removing a thin layer of the surface. It also allows the bonding materials to adhere in the next step.

 

7. Bonding agent: Bond Kote is an acrylic-modified cement and sand mixture consisting of one part resin and one part bonding cement. Once they are mixed, they can be rolled or sprayed onto the pool walls or flooring. This step ensures proper adhesion between the old and new pool surfaces.

 

8.       Plaster layers: Pool plaster is applied over a scratch coat with a thickness of ⅜ to ½ an inch. The finish will be smoothed with a trowel, and all hollows will be filled.

 

9.       Hand wash: Any uneven surfaces that might have occurred during the application process can be smoothed out to ensure pool plaster is not too rough. The finish will be smoothed with a trowel, and all hollows will be filled.

10. Refilling with water: Sequestering agents are added to the pool water to prevent staining the new plaster. Maintaining the proper pH is crucial to ensure the pool’s chemistry is correct and that the new plaster will last for years to come. 

 

Are you looking for pool plastering services? Look no further - Pound Pool Plastering can handle all your pool plastering needs. Contact us today to learn more. 

 

Pound Pool Plastering services residential and commercial pools in applying a wide variety of pool plaster finishes and complete renovations. We offer Diamond Brite, Sunstone, Hydrazzo, and Marcite – and a great selection of tile choices and coping stones. Owner Dale Pound personally oversees each pool project to ensure the highest quality is delivered. Call or e-mail us for a free estimate. 

 

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/