When designing your custom pool, an early choice you’ll face is between shotcrete and gunite. But what exactly distinguishes these two materials, and how do you determine the best option for your project?
We’ll clarify the differences to help you make a knowledgeable design decision.
What Shotcrete and Gunite Have in Common
Shotcrete and gunite are very similar concrete mixtures used to build custom in-ground pools. They’re both sprayed through a hose at a high velocity to create a watertight pool shell, and they can both create all kinds of shapes, depths, and design features.
So, what makes these concretes different? Surprisingly, the answer is water.
What Is Gunite?
Gunite is a dry concrete mix of sand and cement. When it gets delivered to the build site, it’s completely dry. Water isn’t added to the nozzle until the actual spraying starts, so the nozzle operator has full control over the water-to-cement ratio.
You’ll see gunite in most traditional pools. It’s a great option, but the outcome is heavily dependent on the experience of the building crew.
What Is Shotcrete?
Shotcrete is a wet mix, meaning the concrete and sand are mixed with water in the truck before being pumped through the hose. This gives the concrete a very consistent moisture level.
Since this concrete is pre-mixed, shotcrete pools have a consistent strength and can be applied and cured quickly.
Key Differences Between Shotcrete and Gunite
Even though gunite and shotcrete pools look almost identical, their differences determine how quickly your pool is built and how long it lasts.
Application Method
Since water isn’t applied to gunite until it’s sprayed, the building crew can manually adjust the consistency on site. Shotcrete can’t be adjusted once it’s in the truck.
Consistency and Quality Control
Shotcrete is manufactured to exact specifications at a plant, so it will provide very consistent structural strength. Conversely, gunite application could be too wet or too dry since the water ratio is determined by the nozzle operator.
Installation Speed
Shotcrete is ready to be sprayed as soon as it arrives at a build site, so shotcrete application is relatively quick. However, it also has to be sprayed quickly since the concrete can set in the hose and cause blockages. This could create some inconsistencies in the application.
Gunite can take longer since the operator has to carefully adjust the nozzle the entire time, but since it’s not pre-mixed, there’s no chance of the concrete setting in the hose.
Durability and Strength
The material difference of shotcrete vs. gunite doesn’t matter much. What’s really important is the craftsmanship. The true secret to choosing between the two materials is whether your pool crew can perform the proper application and curing techniques.
How Swan Pools Helps You Choose the Right Option
While it’s helpful to understand the differences between gunite and shotcrete, you don’t need to be a concrete expert to get your free design consultation. What you need is to hire the right concrete experts!
Swan Pools has been building pools for over 70 years, and we’re ready to help you choose the right material once you have a design in mind. Any of our team members can offer:
- Specific recommendations for your property
- Professional construction methods using high-quality concrete
- Incredible craftsmanship built on years of experience
get your free design consultation Today
If you’re ready to start building the pool you’ve been picturing, contact Swan Pools! Our team’s passion is creating one-of-a-kind custom pools for your entire family to enjoy. If you’d like more information about our process or shotcrete vs. gunite pools, visit our website or call us for a free consultation.