Inground Gunite Pools
Gunite pools are the most flexible pool types in terms of design. Gunite pools are often seen in commercial applications; many private homeowners, however, also choose gunite pools for their flexibility since they can be built in any shape. Gunite pools can be designed to fit into irregular spaces and reflect the style of your home. From traditional to free form, the options are limited only by your imagination. These are permanent, reinforced pools finished with concrete and plaster. A wide variety of special options such as waterfalls, custom steps and beach entries can be easily added to complement these high-quality pools. Gunite pool owners can also choose from many plaster finishes or pebble applications, allowing for maximum creativity. The high quality of these pools can put them in the higher price range.
Considerations
Interior Finish A variety of selections are available, including white plaster, colored plaster, painting, pebble, quartz or glass bead finishes. Whatever you choose, the results will add to the overall beauty of your pool.
Decorative Tile: Decorative tiles and mosaics will add drama and detail to your pool. From subtle to bold, tile options will help you customize your pool.
Decking & Coping Your decking choices are unlimited – wood-grain composite, stained concrete, stamped concrete, natural stone, cool deck (coating, colored/textured), deck pavers or tile. Edges that blend from the deck into your pool are most frequently used. Whatever material you choose, the end result will be an attractive, comfortable outdoor space that complements your home.
Fencing: Most municipalities require construction of a fence anytime a pool is installed. The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals recommend that pool owners use “layers of protection” to ensure that pool time is a safe time. The key element to this layered concept is a minimum four-foot high barrier that completely surrounds the pool. A variety of fencing materials are available – from basic safety fencing to decorative wood, iron, aluminum or vinyl – your pool builder can help you decide what will best fit into you budget and complement your poolscape.
Upgrades & Accessories: It is generally more cost effective to plan the features you desire at the time of initial construction and installation. However, many features can be added after installation. Consider including spillover or island spas, rock or step waterfalls, interior finishes and colors, accent medallions, laminar jets, rain showers, sheer curtains, misters, lighting effects and pool heaters. You can also accessorize your poolscape with volleyball and basketball setups, backyard grills, fire pits, slides, loungers, pool covers and outdoor furniture. Your pool builder and local pool retailer can suggest the latest and most innovative accessories to maximize your new lifestyle.
Installation: It’s not paradise until it’s finished. You should expect your backyard to be “visually unpleasant” and somewhat messy during the installation process. Expect a gunite installation to take between 8 and 12 weeks. Completion times may vary with state and local inspection criteria. Typically, the builder should spell out the precise terms, timeframes and responsibilities of each party in your contract. Your pool builder will act as foreman over many subcontractors.
Click here for more information about pool installation.
