Seasonal Care Tips for Gunite Pool Owners
Owning a gunite pool is one of the best ways to enhance your home’s value and outdoor lifestyle. Known for their strength, durability, and custom design, gunite pools are built to withstand the test of time. However, to preserve their beauty and performance, seasonal maintenance is essential.
From spring openings to winter closings, each season brings unique maintenance needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best seasonal care tips for gunite pool owners to ensure your investment stays in top shape year-round.
🌸 Spring: Reopen and Refresh Your Pool
As the weather warms, it’s time to prepare your pool for the swimming season. Spring is the ideal season to inspect, clean, and rebalance your pool after winter dormancy.
✅ Spring Care Checklist:
Remove Pool Cover Carefully
Clear any debris and water from the cover before removing.
Clean and store the cover in a dry place to avoid mildew.
Inspect Pool Structure
Look for any cracks, chips, or plaster damage on the gunite surface.
Address small issues with a DIY patch kit, and contact a professional for larger repairs.
Reconnect and Inspect Equipment
Reconnect pump, heater, filter, and skimmer lines.
Look for leaks, rust, or signs of wear.
Lubricate O-rings and replace worn-out gaskets.
Clean and Fill Pool
Skim out debris and scrub walls and floor.
Top off water to the proper level.
Balance Water Chemistry
Test and adjust pH (7.2–7.8), alkalinity (80–120 ppm), and calcium hardness (200–400 ppm).
Shock the pool to eliminate any lingering bacteria or algae.
Run Filtration System
Let the system run continuously for 24–48 hours during reopening.
Backwash or clean the filter afterward.
🌿 Tip: Spring is also a good time to plan upgrades like resurfacing, installing LED lights, or adding water features.
☀️ Summer: Maintain Clean, Clear Water
Summer is when your pool is in full use. Regular upkeep is key to keeping the water crystal clear, safe, and refreshing—especially during heavy usage or heatwaves.
✅ Summer Care Checklist:
Test Water Weekly
Check chlorine levels, pH, and stabilizer to maintain chemical balance.
Skim and Brush Often
Skim debris daily and brush walls and steps at least once a week to prevent algae buildup.
Vacuum the Pool
Use a manual vacuum or automatic cleaner to remove dirt and sediment.
Monitor Water Level
Evaporation and splash-out can lower water levels—top off as needed.
Clean Filters Regularly
Backwash sand and DE filters; rinse cartridge filters to maintain efficiency.
Run the Pump Daily
Operate for 8–12 hours to ensure proper circulation and filtration.
Inspect for Wear and Tear
Check pool plaster for surface wear, rough spots, or discoloration.
☀️ Pro Tip: Schedule professional inspections in mid-summer to catch issues early and avoid peak repair season delays.
🍂 Fall: Prepare for the Off-Season
As leaves begin to fall and temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare your gunite pool for the colder months. A proper fall routine protects your pool and saves time during spring reopening.
✅ Fall Care Checklist:
Skim Leaves Daily
Prevent leaves from staining the plaster or clogging the filter.
Trim Back Nearby Trees
Reduce future debris and leaf drop by trimming overhanging branches.
Balance Chemistry for the Off-Season
Adjust pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness to ideal levels.
Add a winterizing algaecide or pool enzyme product.
Lower the Water Level
Drop below skimmer and tile line to prevent freeze damage.
Blow Out and Plug Lines
Use an air blower to remove water from pipes and plug the lines to avoid freezing.
Drain and Store Accessories
Remove ladders, lights, toys, and floating devices. Clean and store them properly.
🍁 Tip: If you live in a mild climate, consider keeping the pool open and covered, with reduced filtration and chemical maintenance.
❄️ Winter: Protect and Preserve
Even though you’re not swimming, winter care is critical to avoid costly damage from freezing temperatures and neglect. A properly closed pool will weather the season without algae growth, cracking, or plumbing issues.
✅ Winter Care Checklist:
Use a Quality Pool Cover
Secure it tightly to keep out debris, light, and moisture.
Opt for a mesh or solid winter cover designed for your pool size.
Monitor Water Level and Freezing
Check periodically to ensure water hasn’t risen above the skimmer.
Use pool pillows or freeze protectors in cold climates.
Clear Snow and Debris from the Cover
Use a broom or pool cover pump to remove heavy snow, water, or leaves.
Inspect Equipment Area
Make sure pumps, heaters, and pipes are dry and winterized.
Add Algaecide Mid-Winter
In warmer regions, apply a second dose of algaecide to prevent early algae growth.
❄️ Important: Even in winter, don’t forget your pool. A quick check every 2–3 weeks can prevent spring surprises.
🧰 Must-Have Tools for Year-Round Gunite Pool Maintenance
Equip yourself with these essentials for year-round DIY pool care:
Pool test kit (or digital tester)
Pool skimmer and leaf net
Nylon or stainless steel brush
Pool vacuum or robotic cleaner
Backwash hose and filter cleaner
Cover pump or siphon
Winterizing plugs and pool pillow
Algaecide, shock, and stabilizer chemicals
🏊♂️ Trust Harpeth Valley Hardscape for Pool Maintenance and Upgrades
At Harpeth Valley Hardscape, we design and build custom gunite pools that are made to last—but even the most durable pools need seasonal care. Whether you need help with pool openings, closings, resurfacing, equipment upgrades, or just expert advice, our team is here to help.
We understand Tennessee’s seasons and tailor our services to keep your pool safe, clean, and beautiful all year.
📅 Fill out the form below to schedule seasonal service or a maintenance consultation today!
