Swimming PoolShotcrete

Shotcrete is what we now use to create the structural shell of a swimming pool. In the past we used gunite which was a simple process but had some real disadvantages that needed to be overcome. First of all, when using gunite, we would dump tons and tons of sand in the street as part of the process. That would upset the local public works folks. Heaven forbid some sand would get into the gutter and end up back at the beach, but they were certainly worried about any side effects. The real problem was trying to achieve enough strength in the gunite material. The process is very dependent upon the precise mixture of the sand and cement materials as well as the weather conditions. On hot days it really created some issues as we had to ensure it did not set up too fast as it would lose the strength required.

Shotcrete is a process that really has transformed the pool industry. These are the reasons why: The mixture which consists not only of sand and cement but also small “p” gravel aggregate for more strength is computer controlled at the Ready Mix plant. It is a completely clean process for the environment. It is put into a Ready Mix truck to be delivered to the site. Then it is placed into a shotcrete pump that delivers the material from the street to the pool site. Compressed air helps to shoot the material out of the hose and onto the desired surface, and start the curing process. We are able to achieve double the strength of gunite. The county of Orange requires a minimum of 4,500psi strength. Gunite would be lucky to hit 2,500psi on a perfect day. Shotcrete tests at 5,500psi or more.