How is gunite applied?

Asked by: Paige Smith

How do you install gunite?

This is actually where the gun is mixed together in this start the truck is full of both sand and concrete which is in this container with sand and this container drop into this hopper.

Is gunite the same as cement?

Gunite pools use a rebar framework that is sprayed over with a concrete and sand mixture rather than being poured like regular cement. This makes gunite highly durable and flexible in that it can be made into many different shapes when it comes to in-ground pools.

Is gunite the same as plaster?

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).

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 steps in 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.

How long does the gunite process take?

Gunite: 1 day + curing process time



Gunite (concrete) is the day on which most people say their pool begins to take shape. While gunite only takes a day on average to install, this process needs three to four weeks for sufficient curing. During this curing process, several other phases of the project will ensue.

Is gunite better than regular 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.

Whats stronger gunite or concrete?

Benefits of gunite:



Higher compressive strength than shotcrete (7,000 – 9 ,500 psi). No shrinkage cracks formed. The material for gunite getting dryer, will become harder on curing.

Which is better gunite or shotcrete?

Gunite generally lasts longer and maintains a higher quality than shotcrete. For instance, gunite tends to dry faster than shotcrete, leading to a much smoother surface and avoiding significant cracks from shrinking. Gunite can also withstand up to 9500 psi, a much higher psi than shotcrete.

Are shotcrete and gunite the same thing?

Gunite and shortcrete are essentially the same material, but they are applied with different processes. Gunite is the popular trade term for dry-gun concrete, while shotcrete is the common term for wet-gun concrete.

Is gunite concrete waterproof?

The sealing of the pool is accomplished by the application of a water resistant lining to the shotcrete or gunite surface usually immediately prior to filling the pool. This water resistant lining is typically a plaster made with Portland Cement and special aggregates.

Can gunite get wet?

Gunite will cure better and properly if kept moist. You can apply a light mist of water hours after the gunite application is completed. The next days you can apply a heavy spray to moisten the gunite. You cannot apply too much water.

How thick should a gunite pool be?

Generally, the pool walls need to be between three and four inches thick. Smooth the pool walls with your trowel, as you did for the base. Now the concrete has to cure properly before you can fill it with water. The concrete curing process allows the concrete to reach maximum strength and takes approximately 28 days.

Can you shoot gunite after rain?

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…

Why does gunite need to be watered?

Gunite dries and gets hard very quickly. As a matter of fact, it can dry too quickly. It is necessary for you to water cure your Gunite to slow the drying time down. In the summer, wet the pool down at least 5 times a day, more if you can get to it.

What happens if you dont water gunite?

Lack of curing and exposure to windy, hot, or dry conditions will certainly increase the potential for shrinkage and cracking of the concrete. Lack of curing will prevent the concrete from achieving its maximum potential strength.

How soon after gunite Can you walk on it?

Don’t walk on until about 1.5 days and be more careful watering it.

How often should you water gunite?

3-5 times daily

Maintaining Your Gunite Shell



Not enough watering throughout the day will leave a negative impact on your pool’s shell. It is recommended you water 3-5 times daily for about a week. Your concrete pool will thank you!

How long after gunite can you tile?

3-4 days

Typically installed 3-4 days after gunite, the tile and coping crew will install your tile, coping, and trim or spot tile selections.

Can gunite be applied in cold weather?

The 40°F minimum is standard. If the water in the concrete freezes, the concrete can be damaged. In my opinion, it should not have been done at freezing temperatures.

How long does it take for a concrete pool to cure?

After the concrete is sprayed on, it needs time to reach its full potential. It doesn’t dry, per se. It hardens and strengthens in a long process called curing. For a pool shell, this takes about 28 days.

How soon can I swim in my new pool?

After you shock the pool — As soon as your chlorine levels reach 5 ppm or lower, it’s officially safe to swim. Depending on the type of shock used, as well as the amount used, it can take anywhere from 24 hours or even up to a couple of days.

How long does a gunite pool last?

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.

What can I expect on gunite day?

Our true craftsmanship shines on gunite day! During this phase the walls, floor stairs, benches light niches come to life. Beginning the next day you should wet down the gunite shell two times a day for ten days, to facilitate the curing process. Do not become alarmed if any water accumulates in the bottom of the pool.

What are the stages of building a pool?

Upon signing of your contract, you will be delivered a custom schedule and detailed/customized plan for the process of your pool build.

• Step 1: Layout & Design. …
• Step 2: The Dig. …
• Step 3: Steel Installation. …
• Step 4: Plumbing & Electrical. …
• Step 5: Shotcrete. …
• Step 6: Tile and Decking. …
• Step 7: Interior Finish. …
• Step 8: Pool Start-Up.

Can you add gunite on top of gunite?

Yes they can add gunite and bring up the shallow end. Depending on what you wanted to do they may or may not add rebar.