We have a new in-ground gunite pool. As we live on a hill, part of the pool on the downhill side is above the ground (3-5'). We won't ever see the downhill exterior side (nor will our neighbors). Right now it's just exposed gunite. Is there a need to plaster the exterior or put any type of sealant or something to the gunite, or can we just leave it exposed. Thanks!
Plaster Exterior or Not?
- Thread starter tfpforanderson
- Start date
- May 23, 2015
- 25,718
- Pool Size
- 16000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-60
Yes, it needs to be sealed. Gunite is not waterproof and so it will wick up ground water or soak up rain then it will be covered in ugly efflorescence. Colored stucco finishes are cheap and, if a water barrier is applied first, they can remain efflorescence free for a long time. Paint would be my least favorite idea as it will fade, crack and look ugly.
- Jul 21, 2013
- 65,466
- Pool Size
- 35000
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Pentair Intellichlor IC-60
PoolBrews
Well-known member
- Oct 16, 2019
- 590
- Pool Size
- 6750
- Surface
- Plaster
- Chlorine
- Salt Water Generator
- SWG Type
- Hayward Aqua Rite Pro (T-15)
If left unsealed will water penetrate the concrete and seep down behind the finish lower on the wall? Seems to me like it would.
It has nowhere to puddle if the 2 surfaces are mated properly. It also won't peentrate the waterproof plaster to stain it. Think of how many pools have a high water table and would float like a boat if drained without a hydrostatic valve. They are probably pretty ugly on the outside, but you can't see it. OP will see his outside. Err. The back.