Custom Gunite & Shotcrete Pool Builder in Northwest Arkansas
We build fully custom concrete pools using proven gunite and shotcrete construction methods across Northwest Arkansas. From Fayetteville to Bentonville, our licensed team delivers durable, design-forward inground pools engineered to handle Ozark soil, Arkansas rock, and decades of use for generations of families.
Gunite & Shotcrete Pool Builder in Northwest Arkansas
If you are looking for a gunite or shotcrete pool builder in Northwest Arkansas, BC Pools delivers custom concrete pool construction built for long-term strength and clean design. As a licensed and insured pool contractor serving Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and surrounding communities, we specialize in building durable inground pools tailored to each property, style, and budget.
Every pool we build is custom, no two are the same. Homeowners across Northwest Arkansas choose our team for reliable workmanship, clear communication, and high-quality results from the first excavation to final startup. Every project is built with precision using proven gunite and shotcrete methods for lasting performance and long-term value.
Family-owned since 1966. Licensed and insured. Over 100 custom pools built across Northwest Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma.
What Is a Gunite and Shotcrete Pool?
A gunite and shotcrete pool is a type of concrete swimming pool built by spraying a concrete mixture at high pressure over a reinforced steel rebar frame. This process creates an extremely strong, durable shell that can be shaped into virtually any design — and it is the same method used to build Olympic competition pools, water parks, and the White House swimming pool.
Gunite uses a dry concrete mix that is combined with water at the spray nozzle. This allows the application to be paused and resumed, making it ideal for complex, custom pool shapes with curves, tanning ledges, and varying depths.
Shotcrete uses a pre-mixed wet concrete that is pumped through a hose and sprayed continuously. It has a slightly smoother finish and is well-suited for pools requiring consistent coverage in one continuous session.
Both methods produce a solid, steel-reinforced concrete shell with outstanding structural performance. Unlike prefabricated fiberglass shells or vinyl liner pools, gunite and shotcrete pools are built on-site to match your exact yard layout, custom shape, and chosen features — giving you complete design freedom from day one.
Why Gunite & Shotcrete Pools Are the Right Choice in Northwest Arkansas
Homeowners in Northwest Arkansas face unique building conditions that make concrete pool construction the most dependable choice. Here is why gunite and shotcrete pools outperform other pool types in this region:
Built for Ozark Soil and Rock Conditions
Northwest Arkansas has rocky Ozark terrain, heavy clay soil, and seasonal ground movement that can put stress on pool structures over time. Gunite and shotcrete pools are built to handle these conditions with reinforced concrete, rebar, and durable wall construction designed to resist soil pressure. Our team has experience working with the soil conditions in Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and surrounding areas. Underground rock is common during excavation, and we have the equipment and experience to handle it without delaying your project or compromising the pool structure.
Long-Term Structural Strength
Gunite and shotcrete pools are built with reinforced concrete that achieves 6,000 to 7,000 PSI, roughly twice the strength of standard poured concrete. This creates a shell that handles ground pressure, seasonal soil movement, and decades of water load without the structural concerns that come with liner or fiberglass pools. A properly built gunite pool can last 50 to 100+ years.
Complete Design Freedom
Because gunite and shotcrete are sprayed rather than poured into a fixed mold, your pool can take almost any shape. Freeform curves, geometric precision, beach entries, tanning ledges, attached spas, swim-up bars, raised walls, infinity edges all of these are possible with gunite and shotcrete construction and are not available in fiberglass or vinyl liner pools at the same quality level.
Higher Resale Value
A custom concrete pool consistently delivers the highest return on investment of any pool type. In a competitive real estate market like Northwest Arkansas, a well-designed gunite pool is a genuine selling point that adds measurable value to your property.
Gunite & Shotcrete Pool Cost in Northwest Arkansas
The cost of a gunite or shotcrete pool in Northwest Arkansas typically ranges from $60,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on the size, design complexity, features, and site-specific conditions. Here is a general breakdown:
| Pool Size / Type | Estimated Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic custom pool (small to medium) | $60,000 – $85,000 | Simple shape, standard finishes, minimal features |
| Mid-size custom pool | $85,000 – $120,000 | Custom shape, tanning ledge, LED lighting, tile upgrades |
| Large / Luxury pool | $120,000 – $150,000+ | Freeform, spa attachment, waterfall, premium finishes |
| Resort-style with full features | $150,000+ | Infinity edge, outdoor kitchen, extensive hardscape |
Factors that affect the final cost in NWA include: lot access and terrain, underground rock or high clay content, pool depth, interior finish selection (plaster, quartz, pebble), tile and coping choices, added features (spa, waterfall, lighting, automation), and local permit fees in Benton and Washington Counties.
We provide detailed, written estimates with no hidden fees. You will know exactly what your pool costs before construction begins.
For a deeper dive, see our guide to Gunite Pool Cost in Northwest Arkansas.
Gunite vs. Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Liner: Which Pool Is Right for You?
All three pool types have a place in the market. Here is how they compare for Northwest Arkansas homeowners:
| Feature | Gunite / Shotcrete | Fiberglass | Vinyl Liner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Customization | Unlimited any shape, size, depth | Limited to mold shapes | Moderate flexibility |
| Lifespan | 50 to 100+ years | 25 to 35 years | 10 to 15 years (liner) |
| Upfront Cost | $60,000 to $150,000+ | $45,000 to $85,000 | $35,000 to $65,000 |
| NWA Soil Performance | Excellent for Ozark clay and rock | Good | Liner vulnerable to ground shift |
| Design Features | Tanning ledges, spas, waterfalls, infinity edge | Standard shapes only | Moderate |
| Resale Value | Highest ROI | Good | Lower ROI |
| Ongoing Maintenance | Resurface every 10 to 15 years | Low, smooth finish resists algae | Liner replacement every 10 to 15 years |
If you want a fully custom pool that lasts a lifetime and handles Northwest Arkansas soil conditions with no structural compromises, gunite or shotcrete is the right choice. We build all three pool types, and we will help you choose the option that matches your yard, budget, and long-term goals during your free consultation.
Our Gunite & Shotcrete Pool Construction Process
We take a homeowner-focused approach to every project. Here is what to expect from your BC Pools build, start to finish:

1. Free Consultation & Site Evaluation
We visit your property at no charge to assess yard layout, terrain, soil conditions, access points, and setback requirements specific to your Benton or Washington County location. We listen to your design goals, review your budget, and recommend the pool type and features that make the most sense for your property.

2. Custom Design & Permitting
Our team develops a detailed design plan based on your site evaluation and vision. We handle the permitting process with your local municipality, including Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, or your specific city, coordinating inspections and approvals so you can start building on schedule.

3. Excavation
Once permits are approved, we excavate the pool area to the exact depth and dimensions of the approved design. In NWA, we commonly encounter Ozark rock, clay layers, and underground obstacles. Our team is equipped to handle these conditions without compromising the project timeline or structure.

4. Steel Reinforcement
A reinforced rebar grid is installed throughout the pool shell according to engineering specifications. This steel framework is what gives a gunite or shotcrete pool its superior structural strength and resistance to ground movement over decades of use.

5. Gunite / Shotcrete Application
Concrete is applied at high pressure over the steel framework, building up the pool shell to the required thickness. This creates the solid, seamless concrete structure that will last the lifetime of your pool. The shell is then allowed to cure before the next phase begins.

6. Finishes, Decking, Equipment & Startup
After curing, we install tile, coping, and the interior finish, with options like plaster, quartz, or pebble. We then complete decking, equipment installation, plumbing, lighting, and automation systems. Everything is tested thoroughly, and we walk you through how to operate your pool before completion.
Custom Gunite & Shotcrete Pool Features & Designs
Gunite and shotcrete pools allow for complete customization. Every feature listed below can be incorporated into your pool design at BC Pools:
Tanning Ledges
Shallow built-in areas (6–9 inches deep) designed for lounge chairs, sun exposure, and young children. One of the most popular features in NWA custom pools.
Waterfalls & Water Features
Natural rock waterfalls, sheer descent features, deck jets, and bubblers built into the pool structure. Water features add visual impact and the relaxing sound of moving water.
Built-In Seating & Steps
Permanent bench seating, sun shelves, and custom entry steps built into the concrete shell. More durable and more attractive than removable furniture.
LED Color Lighting
Energy-efficient LED lighting installed inside the pool and spa. Color-changing modes allow you to set the ambiance for night swimming and entertaining.
Attached Spa
A heated spa section integrated directly into the pool shell. Spillover spas create a seamless transition between pool and spa with shared filtration systems.
Custom Tile & Finishes
Waterline tile, mosaic accents, quartz aggregate, and pebble interior finishes that define the look of your pool. We offer a wide selection of colors and textures to match any design style.
Additional options include: infinity edges, swim-up bars, fire features, automated pool controls, saltwater systems, outdoor kitchens, pool houses, and full hardscape design. Ask about our full design menu during your consultation.

Have Any Questions or Need more info?
Don’t Hesitate To Contact Us Any Time.
Why Northwest Arkansas Homeowners Choose BC Pools
Homeowners across Northwest Arkansas trust us to build pools that last. We specialize in Gunite and Shotcrete pool construction, delivering durable designs, careful attention to detail, and solutions that fit your space and needs.

Family-Owned Since 1966
Over three generations of pool building experience serving Northwest Arkansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. We have been doing this for decades, and it shows in every pool we build.

Licensed & Fully Insured
BC Pools is a licensed contractor in Arkansas. We carry full general liability and workers compensation insurance on every project. Ask for documentation at any time.

50+ NWA Pools Built
We have built over 50 custom pools across Northwest Arkansas. Our experience with local soil, rock, permitting, and climate helps us plan better, avoid common issues, and deliver smoother builds from start to finish.

Warranty on Every Pool
Every BC Pools gunite and shotcrete pool comes with a written structural warranty. See our full warranty terms at the warranty page for complete coverage details.

Transparent Pricing
We provide detailed written quotes with no hidden fees. You know exactly what your pool costs before we break ground. No surprises during construction.

Financing Available
We offer flexible pool financing options so your project can move forward without delay. Ask about available plans during your free in-home consultation.
Customer Reviews
What Our Clients Say
⭐ 4.7 out of 5 — Based on 30 Google Reviews
Posted on MONIKA PRAKTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend this company if you’re looking for pool remodeling. They redid my pool tiles on a fairly large and difficult infinity edge pool. BC Pools and the team were careful, quick, efficient, good communicators, and willing to back up their work once the pool gets up and running this summer. Very impressed by this crew and the commitment they put into their work!Posted on Bill GreetanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. BC pools did a great job from start to finish. Ruben was very helpful in designing the pool layout in the limited space we had available. Highly recommend!Posted on Ryan TruesdaleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great customer service and quality work! Definitely recommend letting them serve you.Posted on Donna FurnasTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had the best experience with backyard customs pools! They were the best team to work with in all my experience of working with a company! We had a budget and they helped us keep to our budget. We had an existing pool that needed to be removed and a lot of trees and ground that needed to be leveled and removed. We were expecting that a company would come in and tell us what they could do, but this company kept telling us it’s your pool and you can have what you want. We got everything and more than we expected! I would definitely recommend working with this company! They took a nightmare from our backyard to a dream! Reben was very helpful and worked with us everyday to make sure we got everything we hoped for.Posted on laura jonesTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. From start to finish , working with the team at Back Yard Customs has been seamless . They are incredibly professional and adept in every aspect of design and installation . I highly recommend this company !Posted on Keith WaltersTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The initial construction was great. I requested bids from several companies and they were the lowest cost and also gave me the shortest estimate for completion timeline. Once they started on the build, they stayed with it until it was done and delivered what they promised ahead of schedule. The custom designed pool and hot tub combo are beautiful. A year and a half after the pool was complete, I had an equipment failure and wasn't able to get it replaced under warranty due to some miscommunication with the company. The owner later reached out personally to make everything right. Highly recommend.Posted on Pam HudsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our experience w BC Pool was excellent. They tore out the gunite and had the new gunite done in matter of days. They had a great crew that got in there and got it done.Posted on CwTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Posted on Sly NaudTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I Just want to Brag on this group about the best customer service! We haven’t closed on our new house yet and had freezing weather… Colin and the Owner as well as Ruben checked on the pool on a Sunday! Yes, On a Sunday! They’ve been everyday while freezing temps lasted for 10 days! We highly recommend using BC Pools if you’re planning on installing one. Thank You BC Pools!Posted on Andrew ArnoldTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
Our Service Areas in Northwest Arkansas
We proudly serve homeowners across Northwest Arkansas, including the region’s major cities:
- Springdale
- Fayetteville
- Bentonville
- Rogers
- Siloam Springs
- Bella Vista
- Lowell
- Centerton
- Farmington
- Tontitown
We also serve surrounding communities in Benton and Washington Counties. Not sure if we cover your area? Call us at 479-315-5328 and we will confirm service availability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Curious about Gunite and Shotcrete pools in Northwest Arkansas? Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners ask.
How long does it take to build a custom Gunite or Shotcrete pool?
Construction usually takes 8 to 16 weeks, depending on the complexity of your design and the features you choose. Weather and local site conditions can affect the timeline slightly. Most projects are completed within this range, giving homeowners a realistic expectation for planning.
Can you customize the design and features of my pool to fit my yard?
Yes! Gunite and Shotcrete pools are fully customizable to fit your space and style. You can select shapes, finishes, steps, water features, and lighting, creating a pool that suits your backyard and lifestyle perfectly.
How durable are Gunite and Shotcrete pools in Northwest Arkansas soil and weather?
These pools are made with reinforced concrete, which adapts well to local soil movement and seasonal weather changes. This reduces the risk of cracking or structural issues over time. Proper construction ensures your pool remains strong and low-maintenance for many years.
What maintenance is required for Gunite and Shotcrete pools?
Maintenance is relatively simple compared to other pool types. Regular cleaning, water balance checks, and routine equipment inspections keep your pool safe and enjoyable. Following a consistent maintenance schedule helps extend the life of the pool and all installed features.
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Ready to Build Your Pool?
If you are planning to build a gunite or shotcrete pool in Northwest Arkansas, contact BC Pools today to get a custom quote and start your project.