A gunite pool is one of the most durable and customizable swimming pools you can own — but proper gunite pool maintenance is essential to keep it that way. Without regular care, small issues can turn into costly repairs.
Here are the top mistakes gunite pool owners make and how you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring Proper Water Chemistry
One of the biggest threats to a gunite pool is improper water balance.
- Too much chlorine can cause plaster etching and discoloration.
- Low pH can make the water acidic, damaging the plaster and metal parts.
- High calcium hardness leads to scaling on pool walls and cloudy water.
Solution: Test your pool water at least once a week and make adjustments promptly. Consider professional water testing a few times per season to catch imbalances early.
2. Skipping Regular Cleaning
Gunite pools are highly customizable, but their textured surfaces can trap dirt, algae, and debris.
- Neglecting to brush the walls and steps allows algae to grow.
- Letting leaves and debris sit can stain the plaster.
- Poor circulation in corners leads to cloudy water.
Solution: Brush the pool surfaces weekly, vacuum regularly, and keep your skimmer baskets clear. A robotic pool cleaner can make this much easier.
3. Postponing Small Repairs
That tiny crack in the plaster? The missing piece of tile? They may seem harmless, but small issues spread quickly.
- Small cracks can expand, leading to leaks and structural damage.
- Loose tiles can cause water to seep behind the finish.
- Putting off resurfacing can expose the gunite shell.
Solution: Address repairs as soon as you notice them. Quick fixes cost far less than major renovations.
4. Running Inefficient Equipment
Using outdated or overworked pool equipment isn’t just expensive — it can also affect your pool’s health.
- Old single-speed pumps waste energy and over-circulate water.
- Neglected filters struggle to keep debris out.
- Failing heaters or chlorinators put extra strain on the system.
Solution: Upgrade to modern, energy-efficient equipment. A variable-speed pump and automated controls can save you money while protecting your pool.
5. Draining the Pool Without Professional Guidance
Some homeowners think draining the pool completely is harmless, but it can be one of the most damaging mistakes.
- An empty pool can shift or “float” if the groundwater table is high.
- Exposed plaster dries out, cracks, and becomes more fragile.
- DIY draining often overlooks proper refilling techniques.
Solution: Never fully drain your pool without professional advice. If a drain is necessary (for resurfacing or major repair), let a licensed pool contractor handle it.
6. Neglecting Seasonal Maintenance
Closing late in the fall or opening late in the spring can cause serious issues.
- Freezing water can damage plumbing and equipment.
- Algae blooms explode in warm weather if the pool isn’t opened early.
- Leaving the pool untreated over winter shortens plaster life.
Solution: Stick to a seasonal maintenance schedule. Open early, close properly, and protect your pool through the off-season
7. Assuming “Gunite Lasts Forever”
Gunite pools are incredibly durable, but they still need care and resurfacing. Many homeowners think because the shell is concrete, it’s indestructible.
- Plaster surfaces wear down every 10–15 years.
- Resurfacing and tile replacement are necessary for longevity.
- Neglecting this maintenance can damage the structural shell.
Solution: Plan for resurfacing and regular renovations as part of long-term ownership. It’s an investment that keeps your pool safe and beautiful for decades.
Final Thoughts
A gunite pool is built to last, but only if you care for it properly. By avoiding these common mistakes — from ignoring water chemistry to delaying resurfacing — you’ll enjoy a pool that looks stunning, operates efficiently, and adds value to your home for years to come.
At Accelerated Pools, we specialize exclusively in gunite pools. Whether you need repairs, resurfacing, or guidance on proper care, our experts are here to help.
Contact us today to protect your investment and keep your pool in top shape.
