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Building a gunite (concrete) pool anywhere in Indiana follows a similar general process, but there are several state- and climate-specific considerations to keep in mind.
Steps to Building a Gunite Pool
1. Planning & Design
Before breaking ground you’ll typically decide on:
- Pool shape & size
- Depth and features (tanning ledges, spas, waterfalls, etc.)
- Decking material
- Equipment (pump, filter, heater, automation, lighting)
- Interior finish (plaster, quartz, pebble)
During planning, Indiana homeowners also consider:
- Freeze–thaw cycles (proper engineering to prevent cracking)
- Drainage (Indiana clay soils often require French drains or sump lines)
Sun exposure (important for heating needs)
2. Permits & Regulations (Indiana Considerations)
Indiana does not have one statewide pool-permit system—permits are issued locally at the city or county level. Requirements vary, but typically include:
Commonly Needed Permits
- Building permit
- Electrical permit
- Sometimes a separate plumbing permit
- Zoning approval (distance from property lines, easements, utilities)
- Septic clearance if you're not on city sewer
3. Site Preparation
Once permits are approved:
- Site is staked out
- Utilities are marked (Indiana 811 is required before digging)
- Excavation begins (gunite pools require deeper over-dig for steel/piping)
4. Structural Construction
Gunite pools are built in layers:
Steel Rebar Framework
A grid of rebar is installed to shape and reinforce the pool.
Rough Plumbing & Electrical
Includes:
- Main drains
- Skimmers
- Return lines
- Spa lines (if applicable)
- Conduit for lighting
- Bonding wire for electrical safety
Gunite Application
A pressurized hose sprays the gunite (concrete mix) over the steel frame.
Cure Time
Gunite needs 28 days to fully cure. Light misting daily may be recommended to reduce cracking.
5. Decking & Surroundings
During curing, most builders install:
- Concrete, pavers, stone, or composite decking
- Coping (material edging around the pool)
- Drainage solutions
- Landscaping rough-ins
6. Interior Finish & Startup
After cure:
- Interior plaster/pebble finish is applied
- Pool is immediately filled with water
- Equipment is installed and started up
- Water chemistry is balanced (startup procedure varies by finish type)
7. Indiana-Specific Climate Considerations
Because Indiana has cold winters and hot summers, pool builders consider:
- Deep frost line (proper footing and freeze-thaw engineering are vital)
- Heaters are common for extending the season (gas heaters, heat pumps)
- Winterization—pools must be properly closed each fall
- Automatic covers are popular for safety and heat retention
fiberglass pools
Ready to build a fiberglass pool in central Indiana? Perma Pools is here to help! Fiberglass pools are quick to install and typically run up to 16 feet wide and 40 feet long.
vinyl liner pools
Perma Pools is ready to help you save money on your brand new pool! Our vinyl liner pools are a great budget-friendly option and are highly customizable.
Gunite pools
A gunite pool in Indiana gives you maximum customization, durability, and luxury, with very good long-term performance in cold climates!
Pool services
Our certified pool technicians are ready to bring your pool to life! We work year-round to service your pool and keep it well maintained for years of fun!
Automatic Pool Covers
Perma Cover Services offers sales and installation of fully automatic deck mounted and recessed retro automatic pool cover systems.
Ready to get started?
Take a moment to read the Pool Buyers Guide. The complete handbook with information on pool costs, choices, and key construction points in Indiana.