By Michael Caine 
This is a hefty investment, and there is much more to selecting the right way to build an in-ground pool than appearances. Before construction is underway, homeowners should take into account the layout, soil type, shape of the pool, maintenance requirements, budget, and long-term plans of the property.
Many pool builders choose gunite pools because they offer a lot of flexibility in the pool setup, shape, size, and depth. But it’s a flexible option, which also requires careful planning. Knowing the process and what questions to ask a pool expert can help the homeowner avoid spending too much money and can help them build a pool that suits their lifestyle and home.
Start With a Thorough Site Assessment
There are countless gunite pool construction challenges that each backyard may contain. Prior to designing the pool, professionals should assess the space, property boundaries, construction equipment access, existing landscaping, drainage, and site conditions.
The slope of the yard is also important. If the surface of a site is sloped, extra planning may be necessary for grading, retaining walls, or drainage systems. These considerations should be discussed with the homeowner prior to the completion of a design, as the project’s cost and schedule may be impacted by site considerations.
Plan the Pool Around Your Lifestyle
A lovely pool area should also be functional. Consider how you will be using it at home. Consider the differences between the layout for a family that likes to swim for fitness and homeowners who prefer an entertaining area. Consider:
- Pool depth
- Entry steps
- Seating areas
- Shallow sections
- Water features
- Lighting
- Surrounding deck space
- Safety features
It is more likely to be easier and more affordable to consider important features in the initial design stage than to make major changes later.
Why Consider Gunite Pools
Gunite pools have one of their biggest benefits being the ability to design them in a variety of different ways. A concrete material pneumatically applied to the pool that can be used by pool professionals to form a custom shape and dimensions.
This is especially beneficial for people who own homes with odd shapes to their yards or have particular style choices. These permanent installations elevate backyard aesthetics with high-end finishes like pebble, tile, or stone, boosting long-term home value.
Understand the Construction Process
Prior to work commencing, the homeowner should be aware of what to anticipate. Typically, it encompasses planning and excavation, structural reinforcement, lining with a gunite or shotcrete shell, plumbing and electrical installation, interior finishes, and the installation of adjacent features.
Construction is a multi-trade, multi-stage process, so weather, site conditions, material availability, and inspections can impact the schedule. Request a realistic timeline and clarify the expectations about when tasks need completion in order to proceed.
Budget for More Than the Pool Shell
The quoted price for the pool is just one component of the total investment. Decking, landscaping, fencing, lighting, equipment, drainage, permits, electrical, water features, and other additions are all factors that homeowners should consider.
A clear estimate helps to ensure that contractors are more easily comparable and can help to minimize the risk of any unknown expenses cropping up once construction is underway.