Quality Gunite and Shotcrete Application for a Successful Pool Project

When constructing a gunite pool, many factors contribute to the success of the project. Shotcrete application often influences the appearance of the plaster surface. Therefore, shotcrete and gunite pool builders should use the right construction equipment, shotcrete mix, and application technique for the concrete pool to achieve high bondability and durability.

Keep in mind that a poor concrete job adversely affects the whole construction project. One mistake during shotcrete application can cost you thousands of dollars. Before plastering a pool, contractors should carefully examine the concrete surface. If they identify any surface or structural problems, they should fix them immediately. But how will you know that the pool shell has issues?

Pool shell issues

Evaluating the pool shell requires you to pay attention to the below.

Check the texture of the pool’s surface

The first thing to do would be to examine the texture of the surface of the pool. Is it loose, uneven, or sandy? Also, is it possible to rub off the surface material with your hand? If you notice any of these signs, then the pool shell has a problem. It could be that the shotcrete was not mixed properly or that you didn’t give the pool enough time to cure. Moreover, these signs may indicate that the contractor used a rebound during application. Uneven surfaces on the pool shell prevent the plaster from setting, curing, and bonding uniformly.

Examine the porosity and permeability of the pool shell

Normally, the entire pool shell should absorb water at the same rate. In case some sections of the pool shell take longer to absorb water, it means that the pool surface does not have uniform levels of porosity and permeability. This problem is mostly caused by the techniques used during shotcrete application.

In areas of high porosity, shotcrete builders must have used the hand packing technique during application. On the other hand, builders hydraulically placed shotcrete in areas of low porosity. At times, concrete builders have to pause when applying shotcrete to pool steps or walls. And this leads to inconsistencies in the pool shell.

Are there any pool cracks?

Another issue to look out for when examining the pool shell is cracks. Concrete is popularly known to crack during the hydration process. Some cracks are completely normal, while some may indicate a serious issue. So, how do you differentiate normal cracking from abnormal cracking?

Normal pool shell cracks resemble a smashed eggshell. This cracking results from the drying of concrete. And these cracks should not raise a cause for concern since they are not structural. Also, concrete pools experience shrinkage cracks when the concrete begins to set. Such cracks tend to widen and extend into the pool wall and floor. But you need not worry about these cracks; they are not structural.

On the flip side, seeing many extensive cracks may indicate a problem with the pool shell. The pool shell can have a structural crack that interferes with the pool’s foundation and the appearance of the finish material. Moreover, structural cracks affect the durability of the pool. You can notice a structural crack when you notice a leak point or rust around a specific area. It would be best to fix structural cracks immediately before proceeding to the next step. Failure to do so would cause the crack to widen even more.

Check whether the pool shell is experiencing calcium leaching

Never forget to check for any signs of leaching. You can spot calcium leaching through numerous colored spots surrounding the pool. Calcium leaching is a sign of structural cracks. Once you notice this problem, fix it first before you proceed to the next step. Calcium leaching affects the strength and bondability of the plaster.

Examine hidden corners and penetrations

Before plastering the pool, ensure you check the situation around penetrations. Most pools have hidden corners and penetrations that are hard to access during shotcrete application. So, check all these areas to ensure they are consistent with the rest of the pool surface. Only an expert concrete pool builder can reach these areas and apply concrete accordingly. Additionally, ensure that the porosity levels of these sections match with the rest of the pool.

Evaluate areas with flash coats and even out all sections of the pool

Ensure that the whole pool shell is uniform in terms of thickness. Occasionally, pool builders use a flash coat to make the entire pool surface level. If you choose to do this, make sure the flash is firmly attached to the pool’s surface. Also, some builders use plaster to even out the entire surface.

The concrete application plays a huge role in determining the success of the project. Therefore, pool experts advise hiring an experienced and expert gunite pool builder when constructing a gunite pool. Remember, you want to avoid all common mistakes during gunite pool construction. Ultimately, employing a reputable company helps you create a strong foundation for your pool.