What happens if your pool tiles start cracking, chipping, or just not looking their best? Often, this means it's time to consider pool tile replacement. Maintaining the condition of your pool tiles is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for the structural integrity of your pool.
So, whether you need help deciding whether to take this step or want to learn more about choosing the right tile, this blog post will provide everything you need to know.
Can Pool Tiles Be Replaced?
Yes, you can absolutely replace tiles in a pool, and this should be done as soon as possible. Making this decision now can save you significant money down the line when and if the damage gets worse.
With proper care and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of your pool tiles. Eventually, however, you will need to replace one, several, or even all of them.
When Is Tile Replacement Necessary?
When your pool tiles start deteriorating, you will need to decide whether to repair or replace them.
As a good rule of thumb, if your pool tiles are seriously damaged or have fallen off completely, you should replace them. Repairing them could provide a temporary fix, but replacing them when you can is best for the long run. Replacing the tiles is also often the most straightforward solution, especially if they are discolored or loosening.
How Often Do Pool Tiles Need to Be Replaced?
Generally speaking, pool tiles last 5-10 years. How long pool tiles are maintained will depend on varying conditions and the level of care of the pool maintenance.
The lifespan of pool tiles depends on several factors, including:
- Material: Different tile materials suit different parts of your pool better. For example, porcelain pool tiles are popular for the pool’s waterline and pool floors.
- High traffic: Is your pool the neighborhood hangout? If it's a busy place with a lot of foot traffic, your tiles may need to be replaced more often because of the extra stress on swimmers and general wear and tear. Durability is especially important in this case.
- Maintenance: Keep your pool clean and the chemical balance correct to protect the tiles. You might also use expansion joints to protect your pool deck tiles and extend their lifespan.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Pool Tiles?
If your pool tile is damaged and needs to be replaced, it can cost more than tiling a new pool. Often, damaged pool tiles result from cracks in the foundation or hollow spots. Both can be expensive to fix, so the cost can end up higher.
Some pool tile replacement projects also involve concrete removal. In this case, you can expect to add at least $1,000 to the total cost. If you only need to replace small sections, a good average price to keep in mind is around $25 per square foot of pool tile.
If you are just replacing your pool's waterline tiles, this will also cost less than installing new pool tiles or replacing all of them. Replacing waterline tiles tends to be a less intensive job, and the whole pool doesn't need to be drained to do it. In this case, it typically costs about $25 per linear foot plus the cost of other materials.
Can You Replace Pool Tiles Without Draining The Pool?
This depends on the whereabouts of the tiles in your pool and the extent of the work that needs to be done.
- The entire pool doesn't need to be drained for waterline tiles.
- For tiles on the bottom of your pool, it may be possible to repair or replace a few using a special underwater adhesive.
- For bigger jobs, expect to need to drain the entire pool in order to complete the work.
DIY vs. Pro: How Hard Is It to Replace Pool Tiles?
Replacing pool tiles can be challenging, depending on the project's scope. Here’s a comparison between professional replacement and a DIY approach:
Do-It-Yourself (DIY)
For handy people who enjoy home improvement projects, replacing pool tiles yourself can be a cost-saving option. However, it requires a good understanding of the process, the right tools, and a significant time investment. This is also generally best if you only need to replace one or a few tiles rather than retile the entire pool. Y
Always weigh the potential cost savings against the complexity and effort involved and the long-term consequences of not having professional work done.
Learn about replacing pool coping yourself here: What to Know About Replacing Pool Tile & Coping.
Professional
Hiring professional pool tile installers is your best bet for expertise, efficiency, and longer-lasting results. Professionals will have the tools and experience needed to handle the job efficiently and address any unknown or unexpected factors that may arise.
When hiring a tile installer, it's crucial to conduct a thorough interview to ensure they meet your standards. There are key things you need to know when hiring a tile installer, the main ones include:
- Interview Process: Ask about their employees, qualifications, and experience installing tiles.
- Insurance and Compliance: Inquire about their insurance coverage for property damage and third-party injuries, worker’s compensation for employees, and compliance with local codes.
- Professional Affiliations and References: Check if they belong to industry organizations and request references to assess their past work quality and client satisfaction.
- Certifications: Verify if the installer is certified and has sufficient experience as a lead installer.
- Written Agreement: Ensure all terms, scheduling, payments, and responsibilities are documented in a written agreement to avoid misunderstandings.
- Quality Indicators: Look for installers who use premium bonding materials, ensure flat installation surfaces, incorporate movement accommodation joints, and allow proper curing time for tiles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tile Replacement
When buying new tiles to replace the old ones, there are important decisions you will need to make. Here are a few factors to consider to help you get a durable and beautiful result:
- Types of Pool Tiles: Each type has its pros and cons regarding durability, cost, and appearance. For example, porcelain tiles can be more affordable, and glass tiles tend to be low-maintenance but should be reserved for low-traffic areas.
- Aesthetic Considerations: Consider the tiles' color, pattern, and texture to match your pool's aesthetic and personal design preferences. The size of the pool tile can also affect its longevity. Smaller tiles tend to last longer and are more durable than big swimming pool tiles.
- Durability and Maintenance: Choose tiles that can withstand the pool’s chemical environment and require minimal maintenance.
- Safety Features: Consider factors like slip resistance if you’re choosing pool deck tiles.
Explore Pool Tiles at Oasis
Now that you know more about the cost of replacing your tiles, how to replace pool tiles without draining your pool, and waterline tile replacement, it's time to start exploring our best-selling pool tiles!
Choose from this year's top pool tile trends and order pool tile samples today to find the perfect fit.
