What We Build

Custom Gunite Pools
in Idaho + California

The most durable, flexible, and customizable pool construction method available — built to last 50+ years.

The Material

What Is a Gunite Pool?

Gunite is a form of pneumatically applied concrete — a dry concrete mixture is shot through a hose at high velocity and mixed with water at the nozzle. The result is an extremely dense, high-strength shell that conforms to virtually any shape your designer can imagine.

Because gunite pools are formed from a steel rebar cage and sprayed concrete rather than a pre-molded shell, there are no size or shape limitations. Freeform lagoon, classic rectangle, L-shape, infinity edge — your design is not constrained by factory mold dimensions.

A properly constructed gunite pool has a structural lifespan of 50 years or more. Surfaces are resurfaced every 10–15 years, but the structural concrete underneath remains intact for the life of the home.

Custom gunite pool with raised spa and dual waterfall features
Aerial view of custom gunite pool with modern home
Custom pool with pergola and outdoor bar
Custom gunite pool with dark plaster at golden hour
Spa spillover and sun shelf detail

Comparison

Gunite vs. Fiberglass vs. Vinyl

Gunite Fiberglass Vinyl Liner
Design Flexibility Unlimited shapes + sizes Limited to mold shapes Limited
Structural Lifespan 50+ years 25–30 years 10–15 years (liner)
Surface Resurfacing Every 10–15 years Gel coat may need repair Liner replacement every 10 yrs
Resale Value Highest Moderate Lower
Install Timeline 8–14 weeks 3–6 weeks 4–8 weeks

Construction

Our Gunite Build Process

01

Excavation

We dig to the engineer-approved depth and shape. Soil conditions are evaluated and the excavation is prepped for steel placement.

02

Steel Rebar Cage

A structural rebar grid is installed to code specifications. This is the skeleton that gives gunite its unmatched strength.

03

Gunite Application

Pneumatically applied concrete is shot onto the rebar cage, forming a dense, uniform shell.

04

Tile, Coping + Decking

Waterline tile, coping, and surrounding decking are installed. This is where the design vision comes together visually.

05

Equipment + Plumbing

Hayward equipment is installed — pump, filter, heater, automation. All plumbing and electrical connections are completed and inspected.

06

Plaster

The interior pool surface is plastered, giving the shell its final finish, color, and waterproof seal.

07

Startup + Training

We balance the water chemistry and monitor it for the first 30 days. Every client receives hands-on equipment training and a pool maintenance kit — brush, net, and vacuum — so you're set up from day one.

Gunite pool under construction
Completed gunite pool with concrete decking

Gallery

Our Gunite Pools

Questions

Common Questions

How much does a custom gunite pool cost?

Custom gunite pools in Treasure Valley and Bakersfield typically range from $80,000 to $200,000+ depending on size, shape, features, and site conditions. We provide detailed pricing after your design consultation.

How long does the build take?

From permit approval to water in the pool is typically 10–16 weeks. Permitting timelines vary by jurisdiction and can add 4–8 weeks before construction starts.

What does ongoing maintenance look like?

Gunite pools require weekly chemical balancing and brushing, filter cleaning monthly, and plaster resurfacing every 10–15 years. Hayward automation equipment makes day-to-day maintenance straightforward.

Can you build year-round in Idaho?

The primary build window in Treasure Valley is May through October. Some phases can be completed outside that window, but we typically plan projects for a spring start and summer completion.

Does the Bakersfield heat affect gunite construction?

High temperatures actually accelerate concrete curing, which is favorable. We schedule gunite application for cooler parts of the day during summer months to ensure proper hydration.

Ready to build?

Every project starts with a conversation. We respond within one business day.