Surfacing Options for Gunite Pools
In addition to the enjoyment that comes from swimming and lounging outside, a backyard pool offers a way to enhance the beauty of your property and reflect your unique style. When building your new pool, one of the key design elements is the type of interior surfacing that you choose.
At Aqua Pool & Patio, we specialize in designing and building gunite pools. The term “gunite” refers to the pool’s underlying structure—which consists of a steel rebar frame that has been sprayed with a cement mixture—rather than its surface. One of the main advantages of gunite pools, as opposed to fiberglass or vinyl, is that they are highly customizable and allow you to choose from several different types of interior finishes. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of interior surfacing options for gunite pools:
- One of the most classic choices for pool surfacing, plaster is a combination of cement, water, and sand or marble aggregate. Plaster has a smooth texture and is usually white, a shade of grey, or black. A major advantage of plaster is that it tends to be less expensive than other surfacing options. However, it is also prone to “marble-izing” and has a shorter lifespan (as compared to the other interior finishes) before needing to be replaced.
- Pebble (or exposed aggregate finish) pool surfaces have a more natural look that bodes well in all designs. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures, pebble surfaces are generally long lasting, stain resistant, and easy to clean, making them a relatively low-maintenance option.
- Another higher-end option, quartz is popular due to its vibrant appearance and silky smooth texture, which is gentle on skin and bathing suits. While it tends to be pricier than plaster, quartz is durable and should deliver years of enjoyment.
- Glass beading. A more recent addition to the array of options for pool surfacing, glass beading has a texture similar to pebble finishes, but with a beautiful iridescence that gleams in the sunlight. Glass beading offers long-lasting durability and endless design options.
Whether you’re building a brand-new gunite pool or updating your existing one, the interior surfacing you select offers a way to give your pool a distinct and beautiful style. To learn more about the surfacing options available, contact us today!
