Gunite and concrete pools

Why most local pools are gunite

Gunite takes any shape, so it handles odd lots, sun shelves, benches and a raised spa that spills into the pool. River Pools, a fiberglass maker, says concrete pools are common in the South and often the more affordable choice there because crews are plentiful (River Pools).

How the build goes

1. Design, contract and permits
2. Dig, with pumping if the hole fills with water
3. Steel and plumbing, then the shell is sprayed
4. Tile, coping, deck and equipment
5. Plaster or pebble finish, fill and start-up

One Lake Charles builder puts the work at "four to six weeks," weather permitting (Thrive SWLA). The wait for a dig date can be longer in spring.

Finishes and upkeep

White plaster is the cheapest finish; colored quartz and pebble cost more and last longer. Plan on re-plastering every 10–15 years (estimate). After Laura and Delta, a Lake Charles pool shop told KPLC its re-plaster work ran several times its normal volume.

Concrete still needs a relief valve

A concrete shell is heavy, but groundwater can still crack or lift an empty one. Ask for a hydrostatic relief valve in the main drain and a written plan for water during the dig (Aqua Magazine).