Shotcrete, gunite, or poured construction?
Most commercial pool builders use shotcrete, a premixed pneumatically applied concrete that is acceptable for most applications. Some use gunite, which is mixed at the nozzle—a process which requires more skill but also more control over the quality of the final product. Gunite is therefore a preferred method but care should be taken to approve only experienced, qualified contractors. The resulting monolithic pool shell formed by shotcrete or gunite is a structurally sound and nicely contoured where it meets the floor. Poured concrete should only be used in poor soil conditions; it is more expensive, often requires expansion joints in the pool, is used by fewer pool contractors, and leaves corners and crevices where the walls join to the floor which collect dirt and are difficult to keep clean.
