For those in the construction industry, there are several ways to go about mixing and applying concrete on the worksite. Two of the most frequently used methods are shotcrete and gunite. While they’re only slightly different, they each come with a couple of advantages and disadvantages. Here's a quick primer on these two concrete-spraying techniques. 

Shotcrete vs. Gunite 

Shotcrete

Shotcrete is a broad term used to describe the act of inserting wet-mixed concrete into a hopper and shooting the material via compressed air. Although shotcrete is a relatively straightforward process, because the concrete is already wet-mixed, contractors must work quickly to spray the mixture. 

Gunite

The gunite technique is a slight variation of shotcrete. Instead of inserting wet-mix concrete into a hopper to be sprayed, contractors will load dry-mix concrete into the machine. The concrete is only mixed with water when it's being shot out of the hopper's nozzle. Gunite is considered the more challenging technique because the contractor must get the proportions of water and concrete right while he's applying them, often by adjusting the nozzle. 

Choose Based on Experience 

There's no question that gunite is significantly harder to apply than shotcrete. But because it's less expensive and does not require the user to rush through the application process, it's the preferable choice for those experienced enough to handle its learning curve. 

Businesses and contractors who are looking for a top-tier foundation repair company should reach out to The Dwyer Company. Their highly experienced professionals specialize in foundation and structural work for commercial and residential properties, including concrete lifting and repair, helical piles, shotcrete, and steel piercing. Visit the company's website to learn more about their extensive specialty services for commercial clients, or call directly at (859) 231-0998 for its Lexington, KY location, (502) 489-5438 for Louisville, KY, or (513) 777-0998 for West Chester, OH.