Gunite Pool Builders in Murfreesboro, TN: What to Know About Custom Pool Construction

Homeowners in Murfreesboro who are considering a new inground pool and want a fully custom configuration — a specific shape, a particular depth profile, or features that go beyond what a manufactured shell catalog offers — often find that gunite is the right construction method for their project. This guide explains how gunite pools are built, what distinguishes them from fiberglass, and what the site evaluation and construction process looks like for a Murfreesboro property.

How Gunite Pools Are Built

A gunite pool is constructed entirely on-site. After excavation, a reinforced steel framework is assembled in the shape of the pool. Gunite — a dry mixture of sand and cement applied pneumatically through a high-pressure hose — is then sprayed over the steel framework to form the shell. Because the structure is built in place rather than delivered as a pre-formed unit, the shape, depth and layout of a gunite pool can be designed around the specific conditions and dimensions of the property.

This on-site construction method is what gives gunite its design flexibility. There is no catalog of available models to choose from — the pool is designed and built to the homeowner's specifications, within the constraints of the site.

Interior Finish Options

Unlike a fiberglass shell, which has a gel-coat surface that is part of the manufactured unit, a gunite pool's interior finish is applied on-site after the shell is formed. Finish options may include plaster, aggregate blends and tile. Each option has different appearance, texture and maintenance characteristics. The finish is selected as part of the design process.

Custom Features

Because the pool is built in place, custom features can be incorporated into the design from the beginning. These may include:

• Tanning ledges and beach entries
• Integrated steps and benches
• Attached spas
• Custom depth profiles and deep-end configurations
• Water features such as spillways, deck jets and waterfalls
• Tile accents and custom coping

Features like these are generally more cost-effective to plan during the initial design phase than to add after construction is underway.

Gunite vs. Fiberglass: A Qualitative Comparison

Gunite and fiberglass are both legitimate new-construction pool types, and each suits different homeowners and properties. The key differences are in how the pool is built, how the design is determined, and what the finished surface looks like.

Fiberglass: The shell is manufactured off-site and delivered to the property as a pre-formed unit. Homeowners select from the manufacturer's available models — shape, size and depth are determined by the shell design. The interior surface is a smooth, non-porous gel coat. The on-site installation process is generally more streamlined than gunite because the shell arrives as a finished unit.

Gunite: The pool is constructed entirely on-site. Shape, depth, layout and features are designed around the specific property and homeowner's goals. The interior finish is applied on-site. The on-site construction process is more extensive than setting a manufactured fiberglass shell — multiple trades and phases are involved in forming and finishing the structure.

Gunite is particularly relevant when a homeowner wants a highly customized pool configuration — a shape, depth or feature set that falls outside the available fiberglass model range, or a design that needs to be built around specific property conditions. For homeowners whose design goals can be met by an available fiberglass model, fiberglass may be the more straightforward option. For more detail on fiberglass construction, visit our gunite pools page for the gunite perspective, or our fiberglass pools page for a direct comparison.

Site Evaluation for Murfreesboro Gunite Projects

Before a gunite pool project begins, the property needs to be evaluated. Several site factors affect how the project is planned and how the pool is positioned.

Available Space and Pool Placement

The available backyard space and its relationship to the house are the starting point for any pool placement discussion. How the pool is positioned affects the deck and patio area around it, circulation paths, and where pool equipment will be located. For a custom gunite pool, the shape and layout can be designed to work with the available space rather than being constrained by a fixed shell dimension.

Excavation and Site Conditions

Excavation for a gunite pool involves removing material to the depth and shape of the designed pool. Grade and slope affect how the site is prepared and how drainage is managed around the finished pool. Underground utility locations are identified before excavation begins. If rock or limestone is encountered during excavation, specialized equipment may be required, which can affect the excavation process. These factors are evaluated during the site consultation.

Equipment Access

Construction equipment needs a clear path to the work area. The extent of the on-site construction process for a gunite pool — which involves multiple phases including excavation, steel work, gunite application and finishing — means that site access is a practical consideration throughout the project.

Permitting and Inspections

Pool projects must comply with applicable local permitting, inspection and safety requirements. Specific requirements can vary by property and jurisdiction, and Marlin Exteriors coordinates applicable project requirements as part of the construction process. Permitting and inspection requirements are discussed during the consultation so homeowners understand what is involved before the project begins.

Designing the Surrounding Backyard

A gunite pool project is most successful when the pool and surrounding outdoor space are planned together from the beginning. The deck and patio area, coping selection, outdoor living features, equipment placement, plumbing runs and lighting are all part of the planning conversation. Decking material choices — concrete, pavers, natural stone — affect both the appearance and the long-term use of the space. Energy-efficient equipment options, including variable-speed pumps, heat pumps and automation systems, are also addressed during the design process.

For a look at completed pool and outdoor living projects, visit our project gallery.

Choosing a Gunite Pool Builder in Murfreesboro

When evaluating gunite pool builders in Murfreesboro, the relevant questions are about construction experience, how the builder approaches site evaluation and design, and how the project is managed from consultation through completion.

Marlin Exteriors is based in Mt. Juliet and serves homeowners in Murfreesboro and throughout Rutherford County. We bring more than 20 years of construction experience to every project. We build custom gunite pools as well as fiberglass and vinyl liner pools, and we approach each project as a full backyard build — planning the pool alongside the decking, patio, equipment placement and surrounding outdoor space from the initial consultation through final installation. We are BBB A+ rated and offer a free site consultation for homeowners in Murfreesboro and Rutherford County.

For homeowners planning a new inground pool in Murfreesboro, our Murfreesboro pool builder page covers the full range of pool types we build in Rutherford County, the site evaluation process and what to expect from start to finish.

Ready to discuss your project? Contact Marlin Exteriors to schedule a free site consultation.