Your gunite pool may have served you well over the years. But after your pool has been installed for a decade, you may notice that issues start to spring up. 

The walls or floor of your pool might be chipping away in small pieces. There may be permanent stains that refuse to budge, no matter how hard you scrub. Or perhaps your water level keeps dropping, indicating a leak somewhere in the foundation. 

When any of these problems occur, it’s time to look at resurfacing or renovating your pool! Here’s everything you need to know. 

Do You Have a Gunite Pool?

Gunite is a cement-based substance, made from combining water, cement, sand, and small coarse aggregates. While it’s very similar to concrete, the application process differentiates a gunite pool from a concrete (or shotcrete) pool. 

A concrete pool is pre-mixed and is sprayed out of a hose to form the shell of the pool. Gunite, on the other hand, is mixed on-site. This allows for more control over the exact consistency of the material. The application team can also start and stop more easily, which can result in a smoother overall finish. 

Since there is a science to creating the ideal gunite composition, it’s essential to work with an experienced and highly reviewed gunite pool installer when resurfacing or installing a new pool.

How Often Do Gunite Pools Need Resurfacing? 

Gunite pools typically need to be resurfaced every 10 to 15 years. This time frame will depend on several factors, including the quality of the original material, how expertly the gunite was applied, and exposure to extreme weather.

If you see signs of chipping, permanent stains and damage, or even fluctuating water levels (indicating a leak), it is probably time to look into resurfacing. 

Benefits of Resurfacing Your Gunite Pool

• Restores Structural Integrity: Resurfacing addresses cracks, erosion, and surface roughness that naturally occur over time, helping prevent leaks and further structural damage.
• Improves Safety: A worn or pitted surface can become abrasive and hazardous; new surfacing smooths out rough spots and reduces the risk of cuts, scrapes, or tripping.
• Enhances Aesthetic Appeal: Fresh plaster, pebble, quartz, or polished finishes can dramatically improve the pool’s appearance, often making it look brand-new.
• Increases Durability: Modern resurfacing materials are more durable than older ones, extending the lifespan of the pool shell and reducing the frequency of future repairs.
• Boosts Energy Efficiency: A smooth, even surface supports better water circulation, which can help pumps and heaters operate more efficiently.
• Improves Water Quality: New surfaces are less porous, making it harder for algae and bacteria to grow; this reduces chemical demand and improves clarity.
• Raises Property Value: A resurfaced pool increases overall home appeal and can improve resale value by eliminating visible deterioration.
• Allows for Design Upgrades: Resurfacing provides an opportunity to refresh the pool’s look with updated colors, textures, tiles, or steps—without the cost of a full renovation.
• Reduces Long-Term Maintenance Costs: New finishes are easier to maintain, more stain-resistant, and require fewer chemical adjustments, reducing maintenance time and expenses.
  

How Gunite Pools Are Resurfaced

Resurfacing a gunite pool begins by draining the water and thoroughly cleaning the shell to remove debris, scale, and deteriorated material. Technicians then chip out or sandblast weakened areas, repair cracks, and smooth any rough sections to create a stable foundation. A high-strength bonding agent is applied to ensure proper adhesion, followed by the chosen finish—plaster, quartz, pebble, or another aggregate. 

After the new surface is troweled and detailed, it’s allowed to cure for the required period. The pool is then refilled, chemically balanced, and brushed repeatedly to help the finish set evenly and achieve its final smoothness and durability.

Partnering with Fiberlux for Your Gunite Pool Resurfacing

If your gunite pool is showing signs of wear, now is the perfect time to bring it back to life with a professional resurfacing. At Fiberlux, we combine expert craftsmanship with premium materials to deliver a finish that looks stunning, lasts longer, and makes your pool easier to maintain. 

Whether you’re aiming for a fresh, modern look or simply restoring safety and durability, our team is ready to help. Contact Fiberlux today to schedule your consultation and rediscover the beauty of your backyard oasis!