Gunite versus Fiberglass Pools

By: Gunter Walderon

Though it may be a few months before swimming season is upon us once again, it is never too early to start preparing for the greatest season of all. Most of us enjoy swimming throughout the summer, whether it is in the ocean, a river, or the neighbor’s backyard pool. For those interested in having their own swimming pool built in their backyard, now is the perfect season to begin planning. So with that in mind, let’s take a look at two of the most popular materials for pool construction: fiberglass and gunite.

Fiberglass pools are known to most as the more traditional style, but don’t be fooled, many top manufacturers have made advances in fiberglass pool construction to keep them at the forefront of pool design. A fiberglass pool is composed of a fiberglass resin shaped into the “tub” of a pool. The pre-shaped pool is then lifted and placed into an existing hole, where plumbing awaits. Once the pool is placed correctly, it is back filled with dirt and sand, and most often a concrete deck is poured around the pool to finish the job.

An advantage to constructing a fiberglass pool is cost. A manufacturer’s ability to design and construct the pool in a warehouse enables them to streamline their processes and work in a more efficient environment. This can be a great advantage to those looking for a standard looking pool to add a touch of fun and class to their backyard. Another great advantage to a fiberglass pool is its durability and ease of maintenance. Despite the many advantages, a fiberglass pool has some drawbacks as well. When designing a fiberglass pool you are limited on the shape and depth; most pools are limited to a standard rectangular shape. On the other hand, if a truly custom designed pool that fully compliments the space in your yard is what you are looking for, perhaps a gunite pool is a better option.

Gunite pools are the most popular form of pools in the United States. When constructing a gunite pool a company will dig a hole in the desired shape and depth, add plumbing, and then construct a grid of rebar along the sides and bottom for reinforcement. Next the gunite, a mixture of concrete and sand, is poured around the rebar and shaped accordingly, much like concrete is poured in a form. Before a gunite pool is finished the installer will put a top layer of plaster around the entire pool for a clean, smooth finish. Finally a concrete or wooden deck is likely erected surrounding the pool.

Gunite pools allow a homeowner to design any shape of pool they desire. In luxury homes, where the homeowner desires a custom look or an endless pool, gunite is simply the best material to work with. If you have seen one of the custom designed pools that look like a natural swimming hole in a luxury homes magazine, gunite is the material used to construct such a pool. The drawback with such fantastic looking pools is their cost. The longevity of a gunite pool in most cases is fabulous, but the plaster layer does need replacing every 10-15 years.

In the end it is best to talk to a professional pool design firm before making a commitment to a pool for years to come. Keep in mind the space you are going to fill with the pool, and what style will best compliment that space. Also, have a good idea of what kind of price you can afford; custom pools can be costly. Finally, enjoy the whole process, because when it is all said and done, you are going to have an incredible place for the entire family to enjoy throughout the year.

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Doing your homework first is a wise strategy and that’s exactly what Gunter Walderon did before hiring a California swimming pool contractor to create the multi-tier Gunite Pool for his estate. Award winning designs for infinity pools and infinity edge pool plus a reliable record as a contractor convinced him to choose California Pools out of Southern California.

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