Dreaming about upgrading your old, cracked concrete pool into something that will make you talk of the neighbourhood. A nice natural stone swimming pool may be in soothing colours like blue or silver that’ll make you feel like you’re at a tropical resort every time you take a dip.
But tiling a pool requires a step-by-step guide for proper installation. Don’t worry! We will walk you through everything you need to know when installing swimming pool tiles.
Prepare the Area Around the Pool (Excavation)
The first step in the process is preparing the area. To do so, you should start by cleaning and smoothing the surface. Remove dirt, debris, weeds and organic components, like decay or oil. Begin with sweeping the area, followed by pressure washing to get rid of all the particles and dirt. If you’re renovating an old pool area, then you will first need to remove the existing swimming pool tiles, before proceeding with the cleaning steps mentioned above. Also, ensure the area has a slight gradient or slope, allowing water to drain off the pavements effectively.
Lay The Base for a Solid Foundation
The next step is to lay the base material. The foundation material is commonly crushed rock, such as 3/4-minus gravel. The crushed rock contains various-sized stones with sharp edges. The sharp edges and size variation allow for simple compaction. Using crushed gravel with a little moisture makes compaction considerably simpler. The foundation material should be put to the appropriate thickness for the intended usage, which is determined by the sub-base material and the weight to be placed on the paved surface.
If your base is sand mortar or concrete, you’ll need a thicker layer. Spread them evenly throughout the area. Once it’s uniformly distributed, use a plate compactor to go over the area many times to level them. Make sure the compacted base is flat, sloping and graded to your desired height.
Start Paving the Swimming Pool Tiles
The next phase in the installation process is to lay swimming pool tiles. We recommend going with dry paving first. It helps you understand if you need to take a trip or cut the tiles for proper installation. Lay the stones out one at a time, beginning at the corner. Assume you’re starting at the point of a triangle and working your way out. When laying the stones, place them directly onto the solid foundation and fit them together snugly. Make sure that you are not dragging the swimming pool tiles across the base and never stomp one in place.
Use Grout for a Seamless Finish
Once the base has been set up and the swimming pool tiles are securely in place, the grout should be applied to the seams between them. Mix the grout according to the instructions on the package. To apply the grout, press it into the gaps with a rubber grout float, and then clean any excess grout from the surface with the help of a moist scrubber or sponge.
Allow the grout to be cured for the time stated on the container, then buff the tiles with a clean cloth to eliminate any lingering grout haze. Following tile installation, wait 14 days before filling the pool with water.
Inspect Everything Once the Steps are Done
Your swimming pool tile installation instructions conclude with an inspection. Check to see if the pool tiles, particularly those around the corners, were put correctly. In general, checking your pool regularly will help it last longer.
To Seal or Not to Seal?
While these swimming pool tiles and paves are naturally durable, sealing them can provide an extra layer of protection and enhance their appearance. Here’s why we strongly advocate sealing.
- Strain Resistant: Natural stone is porous, so it absorbs spills and stains quickly. Sealing produces a barrier that helps to prevent this absorption, ensuring that your pavers remain clean.
- Enhanced Colour and Vibrancy: Sealing may enhance the colour of your pavers and tiles for swimming pools to highlight their inherent beauty.
- Increased Longevity: Sealing protects them from the elements, such as UV rays, rain and frost, which can cause fading and degradation over time.
We recommend dip-sealing the tiles before laying them. It also enhances the bonding between the tiles and the surface, creating a stronger, more secure installation.
To Wrap Up
With careful planning, the correct equipment and the right techniques, you can design a stunning pool with your favourite tiles for swimming pool. Successful installation necessitates meticulous attention to detail, from selecting the best placement to ensuring you’re using the proper materials, so do your research before you start. From preparation to the final steps, every aspect is critical. Remember, proper preparation and the appropriate procedures are essential for successful installation.
