Gunite or concrete pools are by far the highest quality of pools. Installing a gunite pool is a big production that begins with the custom design of a pool for the particular site. Design includes checking the yard for obstructions and buried utilities (this also applies to the other varieties of in-ground pools).

Next you must apply for permits and in some cases, get permission from your homeowner’s association. After that, the builder shows up with a crew and lays out the area where the pool will be installed, often using a special spray paint to outline the location and shape of your pool. That’s the time to alter the design if you suddenly get the feeling that the size or shape just isn’t right for you.

During excavation, the pool begins to take shape. Once the hole is dug, the plumbing is installed, which includes water supplies and skimmers (the pool's main filters), returns and intakes, as well as steel reinforcement rods (rebar). These are tied together to create a sort of skeletal shell to accept the gunite, or sprayed-on concrete. Also the pool gets wired for underwater lighting, pumps, and filters.

At this point the truck is brought in, the hose is unrolled, and a worker begins spraying gunite onto the steel reinforcement frame. This is often sprayed on to a thickness of 6 inches on the floor of the pool and up to 12 inches on the sides. Finally, tile of your choice is laid at the waterline and the pool is plastered to give it a smooth finish. Then, the pool is filled immediately afterwards and the plaster cures under water.

A custom in-ground pool can be a source of great pride and pleasure. It offers an unequaled means of entertaining, cooling off, and relaxing. It also provides a place for great exercise. And, like this example, your pool can be designed as an integral part of your home.