Swimming Pool Builders

One of the most widely used and abused materials in Residential Construction is concrete.

When you choose to put tile on your pool, there are several factors to bear in mind. For instance, you want to consider your pool type, type of tile you want to install and the costs involved. One other crucial factor to bear in mind is longevity. How long should pool tile last?

How Long Should Pool Tile Last?

In this post, we’ll discuss the different types of pool tile, their respective benefits as well as the expected useful life of pool tile for when you’re looking to choose a new pool tile.

Waterline Tile vs. Inlaid Tile

As the names imply, inlaid tile is installed underwater while waterline tile is adhered to the surface of the pool. Inlaid tile is recessed into the mold of the pool to ensure it’s flush with the surface of the pool. While there’s no harm in tiling the surface of the floor, walls, seats and steps, that’s not a common practice anymore because it requires costly repair or replacement.

Waterline tile, on the other hand, is usually just a narrow strip (about 6 inches) of tile running across the waterline. Since the tile is above the pool, it’s easier to repair and doesn’t require the pool to be drained completely for repairs.

Types of Pool Tile

• Glass tile is quite popular right now.
• Mosaic tile is also huge – different pieces of tile are brought together to form a unique design.
• Stone tile provides a natural, earthy appeal that can work well to match your goal aesthetic.

Bear in mind that any tile larger than 2 inches runs the risk of not fitting in your pool.

How Long Does Pool Tile Last?

• Waterline tiles should last anywhere between 5 and 10 years if you care for your pool and maintain your water chemistry.
• Glass tile will last longer as it’s more durable.
• Overall, tile will typically last longer on a fiberglass pool than on concrete pools.

What Are the Benefits of Pool Tile?

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. 

Glass tile is especially durable and nonporous. It looks nice and shiny when it catches the sun and is also frost-proof, heat-, UV- and fire-resistant.

How Much Tiling Your Pool Cost?

The cost of tile depends on the surface area you’re tiling, your location, your installer and the tile material. On average, tiling your pool should cost about $3,000. Glass tile is more expensive, usually costing about $500-$600 more for a pool. Cost is a very important aspect to consider when you’re planning a pool remodeling project or are planning on building a brand new pool. 

Bottom Line

How long should pool tile last? Pool tile should last an average of 5 to 10 years if the water chemistry is well maintained and the pool is cared for. However, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of tile and overall pool maintenance when estimating or trying to determine the expected useful life of your pool tile. If you have any additional questions pertaining to building a new pool, our professionals at Richard’s Total Backyard Solutions have the experience and knowledge to help. 

What’s all the buzz with saltwater pools in Southwest Florida? Are chlorine pools a thing of the past?

The fact is, a number of chlorine pool owners are converting their existing pools to salt water system. It is also estimated by the pool industry, over half of new installations of in-ground pools have this new and upcoming, technology.

Think the cost may be too steep?

The initial installation cost of a saltwater pool is more than a chlorine. But when you add up the cost for chemicals, chlorine pucks, and maintenance, by the third year a salt water pool should make up for the cost.

Converting an existing chlorine pool is easier than you think. Plumbing needs to be installed to accommodate the saltwater generator, which will pay for itself, in just a couple of years.

Keeping a saltwater pool afloat is easy!

Since handling the harsh effects of chlorine and other chemicals, dispensing, storing, and swimming in chlorine, can have negative consequences. A saltwater pool uses only a small amount of chlorine as a disinfectant. A generator naturally produces chlorine from salt, through electrolysis. As the salt is dissolved in the water, the electrolysis separates the sodium, to form chlorine (sodium hypochlorite). This process of creating chlorine is continually being regenerated, then before it re-enters the pool, it is converted back to salt.

Traditional chlorine pools take a lot of maintenance and testing of the water. The harmful by products of chloramines, which builds up over time, is responsible for lung irritation, itchy skin and eyes, and that all familiar pool smell.

Saltwater pools have free chlorine that breaks down this buildup, leaving behind a more natural feel and a positive pH. Eliminating the harsh chemical feel, incorporating a friendly ecological pool, that is easier on the skin, hair, and body. Because the chlorine levels are constantly being replenished, the swimming pool owner won’t need to test or add chlorine to the water.

An essential part of keeping a swimming pool for years of family fun involves proactive maintenance. Regularly tending to your pool’s upkeep ensures its longevity, while protecting yourself, family, and others who may use your pool during a backyard event. Always, keep safety as a top priority as you clean your pool and see that it runs properly and efficiently.

Keep a constant eye on your filter.

Filters are electric pool devices, and if left unattended, may cause injury and death. To avoid costs and personal risks associated with malfunctioning filters, see that the filter pressure gauge functions properly. Refer to your swimming pool owner’s manual in checking that you’re setting the filter pressure at a safe, efficient level. Other areas needing attention are filters’ O-rings, whether they seal properly, and if large objects block the filter. Monitoring your filter ensures that the pool operates and cleanses properly, while preventative measures lower the likelihood of serious accidents.  

Make sure vents are free of obstructions and combustibles.

Heater top vents and pump motor air vents stand vulnerable to hazards posed by blockages and flammable materials, including hazardous chemicals such as pool oxidizers. Scan the entire swimming pool for any debris and other obstructions, clearing them from the area immediately. The pool’s main drain cover remains a popular area for obstructions to accumulate. During and after cleanup, see that you safely store chemicals away from the pool in an enclosed space with suitable temperatures.

Monitor the heater for any gas odors.

Inhaling toxic chemicals wreaks havoc on your health, often leading to long-term injury and death. Like car engines, swimming pool heaters produce carbon monoxide, and most receive heating through propane or natural gas. If you smell an odor resembling rotteng eggs, you’re probably experiencing a gas leak, which requires the immediate intervention of your closest gas supplier.

Swimming pool ownership is a fine privilege, coupled with great responsibility. Diligent maintenance ensures safety, quality, and durability of your backyard pool. For more information on keeping your pool safe and clean, contact us today.

Cliff answers the question: What is pool coping?, and discusses how different pool coping styles and materials can enhance the beauty of your swimming pool.