Installing a new pool instantly upgrades your backyard into an enviable oasis and gathering spot. And when it comes to residential pools, shotcrete (also called gunite) reigns as the premium choice to achieve truly custom designs. However, shotcrete’s superiority comes at a cost.

In this guide, we’ll break down every expense associated with shotcrete pools. You’ll get insider tips to budget accurately and save where possible, without sacrificing your dream pool. Let’s dive into the costs, construction process, and value shotcrete pools provide when done right.

How Much Does Shotcrete Pool Cost?

The minimum cost for a basic shotcrete pool starts around $50,000, while elaborate custom designs with luxury finishes and features can exceed $150,000, with typical backyard shotcrete pools ranging from $60,000 to $100,000 depending on size and options selected. The wide cost range for shotcrete pools stems from variables like pool shape and depth, quality of finishes, and additional amenities impacting the overall budget.

Based on the choices made for design, materials, and accessories, below reflects an itemized summary of typical costs associated with installing a new shotcrete pool:

Excavation and Site Preparation – $7,000 to $14,000

  • Demolition, digging, leveling and prepping the site to accommodate the pool requires heavy equipment and labor.
  • Complex tree clearing, grading, or retaining walls can add $5,000 or more.

Permits and Engineering Fees – $1,500 to $5,000

  • Building permits, municipal paperwork, safety inspections, and engineering drawings are required before construction.
  • Simpler above-ground pool designs minimize some of these fees.

Steel Rebar Framework – $4,000 to $8,000

  • This grid of steel rebar rods adds structural integrity and prevents cracking as shotcrete adheres to it.
  • More complex curved pools require specialized rebar bending to match shapes.

Shotcrete Material and Installation – $20,000 to $50,000

  • This constitutes the majority of pool construction costs, based on finish grade, desired thickness, size, and complexities.
  • Typically applied in multiple passes for even thickness and strength.

Coping, Tile, and Interior Finishes – $7,000 to $20,000

  • Decorative edging, colorful tile accents, plaster coatings, and aggregate pebble layers amplify aesthetics.
  • Keeping finishes simple reduces costs, while premium tiles, etched concrete designs, or stone aesthetic effects increase price.

Pool Equipment – $10,000 to $15,000

  • Filtration systems, pumps, heaters, chlorinators, and controllers are mandatory for maintenance and usability.
  • Eco-friendly saline systems and automation boost equipment costs but deliver convenience.

Decking and Landscaping – $5,000 to $15,000

  • Pathways, drainage, lighting, patios, and landscaping must integrate with the pool area design.
  • Hardscaping with pavers, retaining walls, foliage, and irrigation impact this budget item significantly.

Total Cost Range: $60,000 to $150,000+

As you can see, shotcrete pools entail major financial investments. But proper planning and design choices allow you to tailor the costs to your budget.

According to a report from HomeGuide, the average cost for a gunite pool—which is similar to shotcrete—ranges from $50,000 to $120,000, with costs per square foot typically between $100 and $250. The total price can vary depending on the complexity of the installation and additional features.

Another source, Angie’s List, reports that the average cost for a 14-by-28-foot gunite pool is around $100,000, with prices starting at approximately $65,000 for smaller pools. The report emphasizes that costs can escalate to over $120,000 for larger pools with extensive features such as diving boards and waterfalls.

A detailed overview from BAM Shotcrete indicates that the average cost of shotcrete for residential projects starts at about $300 per yard. For larger commercial projects, prices can range from $375 to $500 per yard. This pricing reflects the material and labor involved in applying shotcrete effectively.

According to another article from Estimator Florida, the national average cost for installing an in-ground concrete pool—including shotcrete—ranges between $60,000 and $100,000. They note that basic models can start as low as $22,500, while high-end installations can exceed $320,000.

Lastly, a discussion on Trouble Free Pool mentions that current prices for shotcrete in Southern California are around $240 to $260 per yard, indicating regional variations in pricing based on local market conditions.

What is a Shotcrete Pool?

Shotcrete, also known as gunite, refers to concrete that is spray-applied using pressurized hoses and equipment. This method allows concrete to adhere in thin layers on contoured surfaces.

The main differences between shotcrete and poured concrete include:

  • Application method – Shotcrete is sprayed, while concrete is poured and settled.
  • Speed – Shotcrete pools can be installed in days or weeks versus poured concrete taking several months. The rapid application of shotcrete accelerates projects.
  • Consistent coverage – Shotcrete creates uniform thickness and composition as it adheres directly to the contoured subsurface and rebar.
  • Strength – The velocity of shotcrete bonds it tightly to the surface with less shrinking or cracking as it cures.
  • Cost – Shotcrete is generally 15-30% more expensive than poured concrete due to materials and equipment.

Factors Influencing Shotcrete Pool Costs

Several considerations impact the overall budget when planning a new shotcrete pool:

Pool Size and Configuration

As expected, larger pool footprints require greater materials, excavation, and labor resulting in higher overall costs.

Typical shotcrete pool installation costs range:

  • $50 – $80 per square foot for simple rectangles
  • $80 – $120 per square foot for freeform shapes
  • $100 – $150+ per square foot for cascading areas and custom tiers

For a baseline 400 square foot kidney bean-shaped pool, expect around $50,000 in shotcrete costs on average.

Pool Depth

The depth of your pool also affects total shotcrete volume required, along with excavation needs. Common configurations include:

  • 4 feet depth – entry-level and lounging sections
  • 6 feet depth – general swimming areas
  • 8 feet depth – diving areas

Deeper pools mean higher overall budgets, as much as 30% more for an 8 foot versus 4 foot design.

Design Complexity

Basic pools allow for economical shotcrete application. But intricate negative edge designs, water features, caves, and specialty tanning ledges require added time, material, and expertise to sculpt properly. These luxurious enhancements elevate costs 20% or more.

Shotcrete Type and Thickness

Standard shotcrete with light rebar reinforcement provides essential durability at the lowest cost. Opting for thicker shotcrete walls or steel-reinforced shotcrete will increase strength but also price.

Premium Finishes and Tiles

Upgraded pool plaster, exotic glass and quartz tiles, etched designs, and poured flake coats boost aesthetic appeal. But luxury finishes tack on 15-50% more versus standard plaster. Limiting embellishments containing price.

Extended Decks, Walkways, and Landscaping

Integrating your new pool into patio space and landscaping adds costs for additional concrete, pathways, and site preparation. Less elaborate decking saves money.

Construction Site Logistics

Remote sites requiring extensive digging, tree removal, or steep access ramps will incur overage fees. Surveying the build site beforehand highlights considerations.

Shotcrete vs Other Pool Types

Shotcrete Pool ModelShotcrete sits on the premium end of pool installation costs due to its unparalleled durability and customization capability. How does it compare to other popular pool building materials?

Shotcrete Pools

  • Cost Range: $60,000 – $150,000
  • Pros: Strongest and longest-lasting material, extremely customizable
  • Cons: Expensive, requires skilled application

Poured Concrete Pools

  • Cost Range: $45,000 – $80,000
  • Pros: Strong, durable, design flexibility
  • Cons: Prone to cracking, slower installation than shotcrete

Vinyl Liner Pools

  • Cost Range: $30,000 – $50,000
  • Pros: Affordable upfront cost in some regions
  • Cons: Requires frequent liner replacement

Fiberglass Pools

  • Cost Range: $45,000 – $70,000
  • Pros: Quick installation, moderate cost
  • Cons: Limited on customization, vulnerable to cracking over time

While pricier, shotcrete’s longevity, strength, and aesthetic potential make it a premium choice that adds value.

You might also like our articles about the cost of Gypcrete, pool deck resurfacing, or pool tile cleaning.

Cost Saving Tips

You can reduce shotcrete pool expenses by:

  • Choosing a simple oval or rectangular footprint.
  • Minimizing extra add-ons like water features.
  • Using standard plaster instead of upcharged aggregates.
  • Building a smaller pool within your budget size threshold.
  • Completing landscaping and decking later as funds allow.

Prioritizing essentials first while postponing optional upgrades helps lower initial costs. An experienced pool designer can recommend cost-saving measures.

Expert Insights

“When installing a shotcrete pool, focus investments on structural elements first, then weigh the value of pricier finishes and accessories later to find the right balance.” – Luis Montoya, Montoya Pools Inc.

“Optimize the pool layout and contouring for the space to avoid over-engineering and unnecessary shotcrete expenditures just to achieve a complex look.” – Jennifer Montero, Luxury Pool Design Concepts

“Research local shotcrete contractors thoroughly, as skill level varies greatly, and unqualified or inexperienced teams lead to flaws and rippling from poor application.” – David Billchai, All Coast Pool Construction

Working with a quality contractor you trust is essential for shotcrete pool projects to maximize quality and cost-effectiveness.

Long-Term Maintenance Costs

While substantial upfront, shotcrete pools provide lasting value and performance for decades when properly maintained:

  • Weekly maintenance – Expect $150 – $300 monthly for chemicals, cleaning, monitoring
  • Equipment upkeep – Budget $200 – $500 annually for repairs as parts wear out
  • Shotcrete resurfacing – Necessary every 8-12 years, costs around $10,000 for a typical 300 sq foot pool
  • Major repairs – Rare but budget for potential cracked shotcrete, plumbing, or tile repairs around $4,000

Shotcrete’s resilience prevents frequent expenditures when cared for properly. But periodic costs apply over the lifespan.

Final Words

Shotcrete pools offer tremendous long-term enjoyment and equity for homeowners who value quality construction. While budget-friendly options exist, shotcrete provides an unparalleled combination of durability, customization, and aesthetic potential.

Answers to Common Questions

How long does it take for a shotcrete pool to cure?

The curing process for new shotcrete pools takes patience:

  • Initial drying takes 24-48 hours before the pool can be filled with water. Shotcrete reaches an initial set quickly but full strength takes time.
  • Once filled, avoid swimming for 1-2 weeks while the shotcrete continues hardening. Premature swimming can damage the surface.
  • Full curing where shotcrete reaches maximum strength happens over 28-30 days. Avoiding alterations during this period prevents cracks.
  • Refrain from any acid washing, plastering, or other chemical treatments until the shotcrete has fully cured after a month.

Rushing the curing stages risks permanent damage. Allow shotcrete time to gain abrasion resistance and durability benefits that make it worth the investment.

What is a disadvantage to shotcrete?

Potential downsides of shotcrete pools include:

  • Higher upfront cost – Shotcrete pools cost more initially than vinyl or fiberglass options. Long-term savings offset this over decades of use.
  • Extensive curing time – Shotcrete pools can’t be filled or swam in for weeks after installation until fully hardened.
  • Dust and overspray – The installation process creates dust that must be managed and may affect landscaping.
  • Limited designs – While flexible, shotcrete still has shape limitations compared to freeform fiberglass pools.
  • Skill required – Proper shotcrete application requires specialized training to avoid flaws.

With proper project management, shotcrete disadvantages fade compared to the extremely durable and high-performing pools it creates.

What is the alternative to shotcrete?

Beyond shotcrete, popular pool construction materials include:

  • Poured concrete – Slower installation but lower material costs than shotcrete. Reinforced with rebar.
  • Fiberglass – Prefab units installed quickly but limit customization. Vulnerable to cracks over time.
  • Vinyl liner – Lowest upfront cost but requires replacing liner every 5-10 years. Limited designs.
  • Stainless steel – Prefab modular pools with modern appeal. Very expensive upfront.
  • Tile – Provides decorative and durable finishes but higher costs for full tile builds.

Each material has pros and cons. Many homeowners favor shotcrete for its unparalleled combination of durability, customization, and prestige. But those prioritizing budget may prefer poured concrete or vinyl liner pools initially.

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