How to Pressure Wash a Gunite Pool

Gunite pools are a popular choice for homeowners because they can be customized to fit any shape or size. However, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.

One of the most important steps in maintaining a gunite pool is regularly washing it with a pressure washer. In this post, we’ll show you how to do it safely and effectively. Keep reading to learn more!

What is a Gunite Pool?

Gunite is a mix of sand, water and cement that is sprayed onto surfaces to create a hard, durable finish. The word “gunite” comes from the fact that the mixture is sprayed from a gun-like device. The waterproof finish it creates after it dries lends to an ideal material for swimming pools.

Though not delicate by any means, gunite can be damaged by sharp objects or chemicals. In addition, gunite can be cracked if it dries too quickly or is not properly mixed. Unless your gunite pool was not fabricated or maintained properly in the past, it should last for many years and can withstand a blast from a pressure washer.

Gunite pools have a number of advantages over other types of in-ground pools:

1. Gunite is extremely durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
2. Gunite pools can be customized to any shape or size, making them ideal for small or oddly-shaped yards.
3. Gunite pools have a smooth surface that is comfortable to swim on and easy to clean.
4. Finally, gunite pools are relatively low-maintenance, as they do not require annual resurfacing like concrete or fiberglass pools.

For all these reasons, gunite pools are a popular choice for homeowners looking to add an in-ground pool to their property.

Why Pressure Wash a Gunite Pool?

A pressure washer increases the water pressure from a garden hose to more than 60 times its original pressure. The higher water pressure allows you to clean surfaces much faster than with a regular hose.

Pressure washing is an effective way to clean Gunite pools because it removes all the dirt, bacteria, and algae from the surface of the pool without damaging the Gunite itself.

In addition, pressure washing can also remove any build-up of calcium carbonate, which can cause the Gunite to deteriorate over time.

As a result, pressure washing is an essential part of maintaining a Gunite pool and keeping it looking like new.

What Kind of Pressure Washer is Best to Clean a Gunite Pool?

If you’re reading this article, you likely have a home with a pool. If that’s the case, you probably have a home that has several areas that require a thorough pressure washing. A pressure washer might be a good investment if you don’t have one already.

If you’re in the market for a general purpose pressure washer that can handle a wide variety of cleaning jobs around the house, we like the Stanley SHP2150 Portable Electric Pressure Washer

This pressure washer is great whether you’re washing your car, the siding on your house, or your gunite pool. For most people, an electric pressure washer is all that’s needed around the house.

You also might consider a gas powered pressure washer if you see yourself needing a variety of heavy duty cleaning jobs around the house.

Though a gas powered pressure washer isn’t necessary for most light duty cleaning jobs, you’d likely find its worth additional expense if you have a large driveway or patio that accumulates stubborn stains.

Additionally, If your pool hasn’t been drained and cleaned in some time, you may find that it’s accumulated some stains that require more power to clean.

Here’s the gas powered pressure washer we like from Simpson

Renting a Pressure Washer for Your Gunite Pool

If this is the only job around the house you need a pressure washer for. Or if it’s the only job you need a high powered gas pressure washer for, you probably shouldn’t buy one.

Renting one for the day from Home Depot for around $100 per day is probably the way to go if you’re only going to use a pressure washer once every 2-3 years.

Step by Step Guide to Pressure Wash a Gunite Pool

Here are the steps you need to take to pressure wash your gunite pool:

1. You’ll want to drain you pool completely and allow it to dry completely. If you’ve never drained your pool, be sure you research that process carefully. Here’s one helpful guide we found https://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-drain-a-gunite-swimming-pool.
2. Once your pool is drained & dry, sweep up any loose debris on the pool floor and cover any exposed pumps or electrical units with plastic (speakers, pumps, etc).
3. Fill the pressure washer with water. You’ll want to use clean water, so if your tap water is hard (high in dissolved minerals), you may want to use distilled water instead.
4. Add a mild detergent to the pressure washer’s tank. This will help to break down any stubborn dirt or debris. Be sure to consult your pressure washer manual for specifics on detergent
5. Put on your swimsuit and goggles so you’re prepared in case any water gets on you while you’re working.
6. Set the pressure washer to the lowest PSI setting. Some washers have removable nozzle tips to achieve this. Consult your pressure washers manual if you need assistance.
7. Turn on the pressure washer and hold it about a foot away from the surface of the pool. Slowly move it around the entire pool, working in sections.
8. At this point you can adjust the PSI of the pressure washer to a higher setting to remove any stubborn stains. Increase pressure gradually and monitor closely to avoid causing permanent damage to your pool surface.
9. Once you’ve gone over the entire pool, turn off the pressure washer and let the pool drain.
10. Refill the pressure washer with clean water and rinse off any detergent that may have been left behind.
11. Finally, sweep up any debris that may have been loosened during the pressure washing process.

By following these steps, you can effectively pressure wash your gunite pool and keep it looking its best. You can even pressure wash your diving board if it’s starting to look dingy.

Hiring a Professional

If you’ve read this and are thinking that you’re a little in over your head, there are professional pool cleaners who can take this headache off your shoulders.

Professional pool cleaners have the experience and knowledge to keep your pool looking great, and they can also spot potential problems before they become big issues.

In addition, professional pool cleaners can save you time and, in some cases money, by using the most efficient methods and products available.

So if you’re thinking about hiring a professional pool cleaner, there are definitely some benefits to consider.

A Helpful Video on Pressure Washing a Pool

Conclusion

Pressure washing your gunite pool is a great way to keep it looking its best. But if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, there’s no shame in hiring a professional to take care of it for you. Either way, by following these tips you can be sure your pool will stay clean and inviting all season long.