October 28, 2025
Building a dream pool is one of the most exciting investments you can make for your home. At Pool Smart Texas, we've helped countless homeowners in Marble Falls, Horseshoe Bay, and surrounding Texas areas turn their outdoor living dreams into reality. Understanding the pool construction process helps you make informed decisions and sets realistic expectations for your pool project. Let's dive into what makes a quality gunite pool and why choosing the right pool builder matters for creating your perfect backyard oasis.
The pool building process involves multiple critical steps that transform an empty yard into a stunning concrete swimming pool. Each phase requires expertise, precision, and attention to detail. When you hire Pool Smart Texas, we guide you through every stage, from initial pool design to the final inspection.
The construction process typically takes 8-12 weeks, depending on weather, pool shape, and design preferences. Here's what you can expect:
Every pool we build meets the highest standards set by the PHTA (Pool & Hot Tub Alliance), ensuring your pool installation meets the highest quality benchmarks.
Gunite pools typically offer unmatched durability and customization options. A gunite pool uses a mixture of cement, sand, and water sprayed at high pressure onto the rebar framework. This shotcrete or gunite application creates an incredibly strong pool shell that can last decades with proper care.
The gunite application process is one of the most crucial days in your pool build. Our experienced crew works quickly to spray the entire pool surface in a single day, ensuring uniform strength throughout the floor and walls. This method allows us to create any pool shape you can imaginefrom classic rectangles to freeform designs with beach entries and tanning ledges.
Why choose a concrete pool? A concrete pool means:
"The beauty of gunite is that we're not limited by pre-made molds. We build a pool that perfectly fits your vision and your yard."
Before we start digging, we carefully mark your pool's perimeter. The excavation phase removes soil to create the foundation for your inground pool. Our excavator operators have years of experience navigating Texas soil conditions, including managing ground water issues common in the Marble Falls and Horseshoe Bay areas.
Once excavation is complete, we install the steel rebar framework. The rebar creates a cage-like structure throughout the entire pool that reinforces the gunite. This steel framework prevents cracks and ensures your pool's structural integrity for years to come.
Key considerations during excavation:
The rebar must be properly spaced and secured. Any compromise to the structural integrity during this phase could lead to problems down the road. That's why Pool Smart Texas never rushes these first steps.
The plumb work happens before gunite application and determines how well your pool circulates water. We install the plumbing lines that connect your pool to the pump and filter system, returns, drains, and any additional features like fountains or spa jets.
Our plumber ensures:
The pool equipment pad houses your pump, filter, heater, and other building materials necessary for pool operation. We position this equipment area for easy access while keeping it visually discreet from your main entertainment areas.
After the gunite cures, we move to the aesthetic elements that make your pool stunning. The waterline tile serves both functional and decorative purposes. It creates a beautiful border at the edge of the pool while making cleaning easier and protecting the plaster.
Tile options include:
The tile and coping work together to define your pool's style. Coping is the cap along the perimeter of the pool that provides a finished edge and a comfortable grip surface.
The pool deck expands your outdoor living space dramatically. Whether you choose paver, stamped concrete, or natural stone, your deck should complement your home's architecture while providing a safe, slip-resistant surface. Pool Smart Texas helps you select materials that withstand Texas heat and look beautiful year after year.
Plaster gives your pool its smooth, waterproof surface. We apply plaster directly over the pool shell after all tile work is complete. The plaster application must happen quickly and smoothly to create a uniform surface of the pool.
The cure period is critical. Once we fill the pool with water, the plaster begins its curing process. During the first 28 days:
Don't drain your pool during this period! The pool water must stay in contact with the plaster for proper curing. Removing water too soon can compromise the finish and create problems.
Different plaster options include:
A concrete swimming pool offers advantages that make it ideal for our Texas climate. Unlike fiberglass pools with size limitations or vinyl liners that need replacement, a properly built gunite pool provides:
Durability in Texas Weather Our intense sun, temperature swings, and occasional freezes don't phase a well-constructed concrete pool. The gunite creates a monolithic structure that flexes slightly with ground movement without cracking.
Unlimited Customization Want a beach entry for easy access? A sun shelf for lounging? Built-in seating or a connected spa? We build a pool that matches your exact vision. Every pool we create is unique to the homeowner's needs.
Long-Term Value While the initial investment in a concrete pool may be higher than other types, the longevity and minimal maintenance make it cost-effective over time. A gunite pool can last 50+ years with proper care, making it an excellent investment for your Marble Falls or Horseshoe Bay property.
Integration with Landscape Concrete pools blend seamlessly with your outdoor living design. We coordinate with landscapers to create a cohesive backyard oasis that feels natural and inviting.
Choosing the right pool builder makes all the difference between a smooth construction process and a frustrating experience. Pool Smart Texas brings years of experience to every pool project in the Marble Falls and Horseshoe Bay communities.
What sets us apart:
The best time to contact pool contractors is during fall or winter for spring completion. This timing allows you to enjoy your pool during peak swimming season. However, we work year-round to accommodate your schedule.
Red flags when choosing pool contractors:
Your backyard oasis starts with understanding how you'll use your pool. Do you want a pool for exercise laps? A gathering spot for entertaining? A peaceful retreat for relaxation? Pool Smart Texas designs each pool around your lifestyle.
We consider:
Creating an oasis means more than just the actual pool. We help you envision the complete outdoor living space, including the deck, landscaping, lighting, and optional features like a screen enclosure or shade structures.
"Our pool has transformed how we use our backyard. Pool Smart Texas understood exactly what we wanted and delivered beyond our expectations." – Satisfied Marble Falls Homeowner
As your pool nears completion, we install and test all pool equipment. This includes:
The final inspection ensures everything works correctly and meets all local building codes. Pool Smart Texas coordinates with inspectors and handles all necessary documentation.
Once approved, we provide comprehensive training on:
We don't just build your pool and walk away. Pool Smart Texas offers ongoing pool service and pool repair to keep your pool in pristine condition year after year.
Building your pool of your dreams in Marble Falls or Horseshoe Bay doesn't have to be overwhelming. Pool Smart Texas handles every aspect of the pool construction process, from initial pool design through final inspection and beyond.
Our experienced team has built hundreds of pools throughout the Texas Hill Country. We understand local regulations, soil conditions, and what works best in our climate. When you choose Pool Smart Texas, you're choosing:
✓ Transparent pricing with no hidden surprises ✓ Quality construction using the best building materials ✓ Expert guidance through every decision ✓ Timely completion with realistic schedules ✓ Ongoing support for service and repairs
Your new pool awaits! Contact Pool Smart Texas today to schedule your free consultation. Let's discuss your vision and create a custom pool design that transforms your backyard into the oasis you've always wanted.
Call to speak with our team. We're ready to build a pool that you'll enjoy for decades to come.
Pool Smart Texas – Your trusted pool builder, pool service, and pool repair company serving Marble Falls, Horseshoe Bay, and surrounding Texas areas.
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