Waterline tiles are not necessary to have a swimming pool, but they are very beneficial to have installed when designing your pool. There are three main benefits to having waterline tiles. These are: Keeping the pool shell or liner sealed.
Tile is the most durable interior finish for a concrete pool and it's much easier to clean and maintain than exposed aggregate. Because plaster will stain easily, concrete pools require waterline tiles. Fiberglass pools, on the other hand, don't necessarily need tile, but it does improve a pool's aesthetic appeal.
The majority of pool tile is manufactured from porcelain or glass featuring almost unlimited colors, sizes, and styles. Travertine, clay, and stone tiles are not recommended for waterline pool tile. All waterline tile needs to be rated for outdoor submersible use and be frost protected.
Different Types of Tile For Your Pool
"While all ceramic tiles are suitable for wet areas like showers, not all ceramic tiles are suitable for pools because any cracks in the glaze can allow moisture to penetrate the tile body. Choose a tile for your pool installation that is either impervious or vitreous.
It costs an average price of $25 per linear foot to replace waterline tiles, with respect to the additional cost of materials.
Ceramic and Porcelain have traditionally been the 'go-to' choice in swimming pool tiles and are great for those with a strict budget. The tiles can be hand painted with intricate designs or formed into a mosaic.
Porcelain tile is still the most common choice for swimming pools. It's a dense, durable swimming pool tile, easy to install and easy to clean.
A: Pool tile has been specially manufactured to stand up to sunlight, changing temperatures, an aquatic environment, and constant contact with the chemicals in swimming pool water. Regular household tile -- such as bathroom and kitchen tile -- isn't designed for outdoor use and may not offer the same durability.
There are three main benefits to having waterline tiles. These are: Keeping the pool shell or liner sealed. Preventing scum lines and build up around the pool's edge.
Each is a flat, pre-formed hard plate that is around one-quarter to three-eighths of an inch thick. Most pool tile comes in a sheet that measures six inches square when applied to a pool wall.
Glass mosaic tile used for waterlines won't completely change the color of your pool water, but it will give it a jolt. That's because waterline glass tile captures sunlight and mirrors the water's movement.
Some pool owners ask if waterline tiles can be added later, while although it is possible to install perimeter tile on the fiberglass at any time, it is still very hard to do it in a way that looks professional if done after the pool's coping has been done.
Slip-Resistant and Safe
Even when exposed to water, porcelain tiles won't become slippery or especially dangerous to walk on. This makes them invaluable as a pool decking material, especially if you're concerned about kids running and slipping when enjoying the swimming pool this summer.
Waterline pool tile is generally installed as a 6-inch wide border intended to help clear floating debris from your water's surface, including pollen, oils, etc.
The ceramic that is used in pools begins as a clay that's fired in a kiln at high temperatures until it becomes waterproof. Porcelain is a ceramic fired at even higher temperatures. This leaves it very hard and bakes the colors in so that they won't fade even when exposed to the sun or treated water.
Contrary to popular belief, pool glass tiles are specially designed to be slip-resistant. So, don't be afraid of buying glass tiles because you think they are slippery. Always consult your manufacturer on the best slip-resistant glass tile to purchase.
Why Most People Choose Blue Swimming Pool Tiles
Most swimming pool owners choose blue tiles for their pools to match the color that reflects the sky's blue color. Blue is also a highly desirable water color. In fact, many vacationers search for countries surrounded by blue ocean water and white sand beaches.
Well, pool tiles are available in various materials, and they all differ when it comes to their longevity. Waterline tiles can stay good for a good 5 to 10 years if they are well maintained. Glass tile will last a bit longer, averaging between 8 and 12 years when cared for properly.
Overall, the average cost to replace pooling tiling is about $25 per square foot, but the final price depends on what type of tile you use. Porcelain and ceramic pool tiles cost around $1 and $35 per square foot. Pricier glass and mosaic pool tiles can cost between $35 and $100 per square foot.
Chisel around the coping to pry it loose from the mortar bed, and use a reciprocating saw if grout is not coming off easily. As you remove the coping, take care not to drop chunks of stone or mortar into the pool. Remove the coping from the trim once it is loosened.