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What Exactly Is Gunite?

Written by Reaves Newsom

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November 11, 2021

Gunite is a material that’s very often used in the installation of swimming pools. But what is gunite and what makes it so well suited to swimming pools? We’re going to answer all of those questions and more today. It’s important to make informed decisions when it comes to choosing materials for a new pool, so read on now to learn more about gunite.

What Is Gunite?

So, at the most basic and fundamental level, what is gunite? It’s a dry mixed type of concrete that’s sprayed into place when used. The mix includes sand, cement and water. The material is compacted and creates the end result that gunite offers through the spraying process, in which compressed air is used.

That’s a basic explanation of what gunite is, and now we’ll take a look at what makes it different from concrete, as well as the pros and cons of choosing gunite over the alternatives.

How Does It Differ From Concrete?

When people choose gunite construction, it’s usually because they’ve decided that gunite offers the properties they’re looking for that regular concrete simply can’t provide. Concrete is usually more expensive and more labor intensive to use when creating a pool.

Concrete doesn’t have the particles such as sand mixed into it the way gunite does, and isn’t compacted in the same way gunite is, as described above. Concrete often also cracks more easily than gunite after application.

The Advantages Of Gunite

One of the big advantages that comes with gunite construction is the flexibility it offers. It’s very easy to create all kinds of custom pools with gunite, and the on-site application makes it even more flexible. There’s a range of different finishes that can be added to the pool after the gunite is in place, such as tiles, plastic or fiberglass.

Gunite is generally less expensive than regular concrete, and that’s definitely a big benefit for anyone looking to install a new pool in a way that’s as affordable as possible. That doesn’t mean you have to accept less in terms of the finished quality though; gunite is very strong, stable and durable.

The Disadvantages Of Gunite

Applying gunite is a process that can only be carried out by a skilled team of professionals. So it’s not something that you can just decide to do by yourself. You’ll need to hire a team of people who specialize in this kind of work and who have experience of doing so.

It’s also a time-consuming application process, so it’s not the option to choose if you’re in a hurry or need the project completed at relatively short notice.

As you can see, there are lots of things that it’s worth being aware of when it comes to choosing the material for your pool. If you’re looking for a team of people who can install a gunite pool for you or simply give you more information about the process of doing so, you might want to contact RCS Pool & Spa. They’ll be able to help you with what you’re looking for.

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