When you’re ready to build a gunite swimming pool, you’re probably already picturing family fun, warm afternoons, and a quiet spot to relax. But before the water is clear and the chairs are set out, there are a few basics worth knowing. Starting with the right information can make the whole experience smoother. It helps keep the planning process simple, not stressful.
Gunite pools are a popular choice for many homeowners because they offer a lot of flexibility in how they’re designed. If this is your first time thinking seriously about building a pool, we’ll walk through the main steps so you’re not caught off guard. Whether you want something practical or something a little more custom, having a clear plan makes a big difference.
What Makes a Gunite Pool Different?
Gunite is a type of concrete that’s sprayed into a frame, then shaped and smoothed before it hardens. Once it cures, it becomes strong and durable. Many builders use it for custom pools because it works well with nearly any pool shape or size.
Compared to vinyl or fiberglass, gunite offers more options for curves, edges, and everything in between. Rather than dealing with a pre-made mold, we can shape the pool to match what works best in your yard. That level of control is a big reason why people choose it for projects that are meant to last for many years.
Fiberglass pools are often quicker to install but have size limitations. Vinyl liners might cost less upfront, but they’ll need to be replaced after a while. With gunite, you get something that’s built to stay in place and handle long-term use with the right care.
At Bella-Aqua Pools & Spas, we specialize in custom gunite swimming pools suited to Louisiana’s climate, using 3D design technology to bring your vision to life before construction even begins.
The Steps to Build a Gunite Swimming Pool
Building a pool is a big project, and it helps to break it down into sections. Each step takes time, and winter is often the best season to begin so spring and summer are set up for smooth swimming.
1. Design: This is where we talk about shape, layout, features, and how the pool can fit into your yard without taking over the whole space.
2. Excavation: Digging begins once the design is approved and marked out. This part usually takes just a few days.
3. Steel framing: The steel rebar framework is added to shape the structure and reinforce the walls and floor.
4. Gunite application: Gunite is sprayed into place over the steel frame. It’s shaped and smoothed while still wet, then left to harden.
5. Curing: After spraying, the gunite needs time to cure. During this period, we often water the surface by hand for a few days to help it set properly.
6. Finishing touches: Tiles, plaster, steps, and extras go on after the shell is solid. This part really starts to make the pool look finished.
This isn’t something that goes from start to swim over a weekend. The whole process can take several weeks, possibly longer depending on design or weather. That’s why planning ahead, especially in winter, pays off later.
Consider Your Backyard Before You Begin
Before starting construction, it’s a good idea to really look at the space you have now. Every backyard has its own shape, slope, and sun patterns. Figuring out how the pool will fit means thinking through the flow of the area, both during and after construction.
• Look at where the sunlight hits during the day and how shade from trees or buildings might move
• Think about ground level and drainage, especially if your yard slopes or gets soggy after a rain
• Decide how close the pool will be to fences, patios, and your house
In Louisiana, winter is a smart time to finalize ideas. The soil is usually easier to work with during these cooler months, and it makes prep work easier before spring projects pile up. You won’t want to plan everything last minute when the weather turns warm and schedules fill fast.
Choosing the Features You’ll Enjoy Most
A pool should match how you want to use it. For some, that means built-in benches for relaxing in the shallow end. For others, it means a safe step area where kids can splash without going too deep too fast.
Here are a few features worth thinking about as you plan:
• Tanning ledges for lounging in shallow water
• Underwater benches for quiet sitting spots
• Custom steps that double as easy entry and hang-out areas
• A shallow shelf for little ones to enjoy under watch
We tailor every project to each client’s backyard and lifestyle, offering options like tanning ledges, custom benches, and unique water features to create your ideal resort-style oasis.
Talk it over with the people who will use the pool the most. Whether it’s simple seating or special lighting for evening swims, decisions made during the design phase are easier and less costly than after construction begins.
Making Sure Your Pool Lasts
Once your gunite pool is built, taking care of it should become a habit, not a hassle. Pools don’t need a ton of attention, but the little things you do on a regular basis help prevent big problems later.
• Brush the walls and steps to stop buildup
• Keep filters clear and clean so water circulates well
• Test pH and chlorine levels so your water stays balanced
• Check for any cracking or surface wear during the year
In a warm climate like New Orleans, keeping an eye on your pool all year long helps it bounce back quickly when warm months return. Even in the quiet winter phase, occasional check-ins go a long way in keeping the pool clean and clear when you’re ready to use it again.
A Great Pool Starts with a Smart Plan
Building a pool takes more than picking a pretty shape and filling it with water. When we build a gunite swimming pool, we’re building something that becomes part of your everyday life. That all starts with a thoughtful plan and a step-by-step process you can trust.
Knowing what makes gunite different, how the pool gets built, and how to prep your yard are the early choices that help keep things simple. Planning during the winter puts new pools in good shape for spring and summer, and good habits afterward will keep it beautiful for years ahead. Every detail matters when you want a pool that lasts.
At Bella-Aqua Pools & Spas, we know how exciting it is to plan for the space your family will enjoy for years. Taking the time to design, prepare, and finish strong makes the difference between a good pool and one that truly fits your lifestyle. Ready to take the next step and build a gunite swimming pool that suits your home and climate? We’re here to help guide the process. Our team has worked with yards of all shapes and sizes across Louisiana, and we know how to bring ideas to life. Send us a message and let’s talk about your vision.
