Gunite undoubtedly creates world-class pools. Moreover, gunite pools act as excellent sources of entertainment and relaxation. Even so, gunite swimming pools incorporate high initial and lifetime costs. Maintaining a gunite pool is not a walk in the park. You need to use the right chemicals and equipment to ensure your gunite swimming pool stays in good condition.
What is gunite?
Generally, gunite is a mixture of cement, sand, and water mixed at the hose’s nozzle. Unlike shotcrete, gunite gets mixed with water during application. Gunite application requires a pool professional. Failure to hire a dependable pool builder to construct your gunite pool can lead to uneven surfaces and interfere with the internal structure of the pool.
What are the advantages of a gunite swimming pool?
Easily customizable:
One of the main benefits of a gunite swimming pool is that it can get customized according to your needs. Unlike vinyl and fiberglass pools, there are no limitations when customizing a gunite pool. You can create any pool shape or design with gunite. Also, gunite pools accommodate a broad spectrum of water features.
High durability:
If you have a gunite pool, rest assured that it will last for decades. Gunite pools are more immune to wear and tear over the years. Nevertheless, the durability of a gunite pool depends on how you take care of it. But generally, gunite pools can last for approximately seven to ten years. Even so, you will need to resurface the pool after several years of use.
Exceptional aesthetics:
Gunite pools are gorgeous. Since they are highly customizable, you can create any pool shape and design with gunite. In fact, experts report that most world-class pools are made from gunite. So, if you want to transform your yard into a premium haven, consider installing a gunite swimming pool.
Gunite Pool Maintenance Tips
Although gunite pools offer a broad spectrum of benefits, you need to maintain them. Gunite pool maintenance requires you to incorporate specific techniques. Let’s take a look at some of these techniques below.
Clean the pool
Gunite pools tend to get dirty depending on the frequency of usage. Thus, it is essential to clean the pool from time to time. Use a skimmer net to get rid of all large particles and debris in the pool. Also, use a robotic cleaner to filter out tiny dirt particles in the pool. Ensure that your pool filter runs for approximately 6 to 8 hours a day. Pool filters are responsible for getting rid of harmful microorganisms in the pool. Consider scrubbing the surfaces of the pool from time to time to get rid of any dirt build-up.
Keep the filter in good condition
As mentioned earlier, your pool filter is responsible for removing small dirt particles from the pool. Therefore, you need to keep it in good condition to boost its efficiency. One way you can do this is by cleaning the cartridge. Also, backwashing the pool helps remove any dirt build-up on the cartridge. Backwashing involves reversing the flow of water to get rid of all dirt particles hanging on the filter.
Inspect the pool
You should hire a service pro to examine the condition of the pool. Your pool service technician will identify any defects on the pool surfaces. Also, during this process, check for any leaks. Gunite pools can get cracks that lead to leaks after several years of use. Remember, leaks can negatively tamper with the structural foundation of the pool. Therefore, it would be best to examine and fix these cracks as soon as possible.
Balance the water chemistry
Another way of taking care of your gunite swimming pool is by balancing the pool chemistry. You need to ensure your gunite pool has an accurate pH. Typically, pools should have a neutral pH. So, if you find that your pool is too alkaline, use muriatic acid to lower the pH to neutral. On the other hand, if your pool pH is acidic, increase it using sodium bicarbonate.
Ensure you have accurate water levels
The heat from the sun will evaporate the water over time, so don’t be alarmed if your water level decreases. It’s essential to maintain adequate water levels so your skimmers can properly filter the water. If you have an automatic water supply, you may not have to worry about this part. However, if you ever need to add more water, you can do so at any time with a garden hose. Make sure to rebalance the chemicals each time you add water.
Turn on your pool pump
The pool pump should run at all times. This functional pool equipment should stay on for approximately 8 to 24 hours a day. Pool pumps are responsible for boosting the healthy circulation of water in the pool. When you don’t turn on your pool, you encourage stagnant water in your pool.
Ultimately
Gunite pools are spectacular features that offer excellent functionality. If you are planning to construct a gunite swimming pool, do not hesitate to contact Beyond Blue Pools. We are only a phone call away!
