Why Curing Time Matters

Professional Pool Company — Protecting the Structural Strength of Your Gunite Pool

Curing time is one of the most important — and most misunderstood — parts of pool construction. After the gunite (or shotcrete) shell is applied, it must undergo a curing process to reach full strength. Rushing this phase can lead to structural issues that may not appear until months or years after the pool is built.

This article explains what curing is, why it matters, and what homeowners should expect during this phase.

⭐ 1. What Is Curing?

Curing is the chemical hardening process that occurs as the gunite shell dries and strengthens. During curing, moisture inside the concrete slowly evaporates while internal cement bonds form and tighten.

A properly cured pool shell becomes:

• Stronger
• More stable
• More resistant to cracking
• Better able to hold long-term water pressure

Gunite continues to cure for months, but the first 21–28 days are the most important.

⭐ 2. Why the Shell Must Cure Before Building on It

The pool shell is the structural core of the entire build — everything else depends on its durability.

A shell that hasn’t cured properly may develop:

• Micro-cracks
• Bond beam weaknesses
• Structural shifts
• Higher permeability (water absorption)
• Problems with tile, coping, or plaster adhesion

Skipping or rushing curing creates long-term issues that cannot be easily repaired.

⭐ 3. How Long Does Curing Take?

Standard curing time for a gunite pool shell is:

➡ 21–28 days

This window allows the concrete to reach enough structural strength to support:

• Tile
• Coping
• Decking
• Screen enclosures
• Interior finishes

Although curing continues internally for months, the first month is critical.

⭐ 4. During Curing: Watering the Shell

One of the most important homeowner responsibilities is watering the shell.

For the first 7–10 days, lightly spraying the gunite helps:

• Reduce surface cracking
• Slow the curing rate (which increases strength)
• Prevent shrinkage stress

This step helps stabilize the entire structure.

⭐ 5. What Happens If You Don’t Wait Long Enough?

Tile & Coping Issues

If tile or coping is installed too soon, it may not bond correctly to the shell.

Deck Movement

Decks poured too early can settle differently from the pool shell, causing cracks.

Interior Finish Problems

Applying plaster or pebble before the shell is ready can cause:

• Separation
• Delamination
• Discoloration
• Uneven curing
• Shortened lifespan

Structural Weakness

The pool may experience micro-cracks that compromise long-term durability.

In short: rushing curing leads to long-term headaches.

⭐ 6. How Professional Pool Company Manages Curing Time

We follow strict standards to protect the integrity of your shell:

✔ Minimum 21–28 day cure time

✔ Verification of shell moisture and hardness

✔ Quality control checks before tile/coping

✔ Drainage evaluation around the shell

✔ No construction allowed on the shell during curing

✔ Homeowner watering instructions and support

We prioritize strength over speed — because your pool should last decades, not just the first season.

⭐ 7. Why Homeowners Appreciate the Curing Phase

Although curing requires patience, homeowners benefit from:

• A stronger, longer-lasting pool
• Fewer future repairs
• Lower long-term maintenance costs
• Better adhesion of all finishes
• A smoother, more predictable construction process

Curing isn’t a delay — it’s an investment in durability.

⭐ 8. Summary: Curing Time Is Essential for Quality

Proper curing ensures:

🔹 A structurally sound shell

🔹 Long-lasting plaster/pebble

🔹 Stable tile and decking

🔹 Reduced cracking and movement

🔹 Stronger overall construction

This is why Professional Pool Company never rushes curing — it is essential to building your pool the right way.

⭐ Have Questions About the Curing Phase?

Your project manager can walk you through the process and explain exactly what to expect.

👉 Start your free 3D design and estimate today.

Updated on: 28/11/2025