Building a Stronger Pool with Gunite
In the world of swimming pools, there are several options. There are above-ground pools, typically made of vinyl and a vinyl-clad shell. Ask the typical owner of these pools how many times the liners have had to be replaced, and how much time and expense is involved in doing so over the average lifetime of these pools. What starts as the lower cost option for most people usually ends up being the more expensive over the long term.
Shea Alderete of Alderete Pools in San Clement suggests that you consider the lifetime cost of a pool, not just the upfront costs. This way you can evaluate whether you want to make an investment in a long-lasting pool, which will require little maintenance, or if you want to face the prospect of draining the pool, replacing the liner and then refilling several times before simply putting the whole thing down.
In terms of design, gunite is the hands-down winner, allowing a far greater range of design options. In terms of strength, gunite is also the winner allowing for a pool that has the right psi (pounds per square inch). A properly applied gunite pool, built by experts in the field, can have psi ratings of over 6,000, while pools created with other materials and methods will end up with ratings of half that number. Cast-in-place pools, for instance, may have ratings of around 3,000 to 3,500 psi.
When a pool is empty, there is no problem with the strength. After all, it is not bearing any weight at that point. However, once the pool starts filling, the weight can become incredible. A crumbling substructure can create major problems for the homeowner, requiring costly and time consuming (not to mention frustrating) repairs. Gunite allows the pool’s substructure to be properly gunned in and then finished for long-lasting and beautiful finishes.
Cost vs Value
When looking at pool types, most homeowners will be put off because gunite can be the more expensive option. However, if the homeowner wants a unique pool that not only functions properly and is strong enough to last for many years of use, but is a truly beautiful work of art, then it is really the only choice. While the initial price is higher, the value that can be realized by using strong and long-lasting gunite is clearly worth it.