How to Easily Fix Loose Side Mounted Pool Coping: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of constantly having to deal with loose pool coping? Loose pool coping can be a frustrating and dangerous issue that can cause injuries and damage to your pool. Fortunately, fixing loose side mounted pool coping doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of knowledge and effort, you can easily fix your loose pool coping and restore the safety of your pool.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the process of fixing your loose side mounted pool coping, from identifying the problem to finishing touches. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY-er or a beginner, this guide is designed to be easy to follow and accessible to everyone. You don’t have to be a professional to fix your pool coping – all you need is a willingness to learn and a little bit of patience.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to tackle your loose pool coping and restore the safety and beauty of your pool area. So, let’s get started!

Ready to learn how to fix your loose side mounted pool coping? Keep reading for a step-by-step guide that will take you through the entire process.

Identifying the Problem

If you’re a pool owner, you know how important it is to maintain your pool. One of the most common issues is loose side mounted pool coping. Coping is the material that is placed on the edge of the pool to finish the look and provide a smooth surface to touch. Loose coping is not only unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. Here are a few signs that your pool coping may be loose:

Uneven edges: If you notice that the edge of your pool is no longer even, this could be a sign of loose coping. This can be especially dangerous for children and pets, who may trip and fall.

Movement: If you notice that the coping around your pool is moving, this could be a sign of loose coping. Coping should be firmly in place, and any movement could indicate that it needs to be repaired.

Cracks: If you see cracks in your pool coping, this could be a sign of damage. Cracks can occur due to weather, age, or regular wear and tear.

Debris: If you notice that debris is getting caught in the gap between the coping and the pool, this could be a sign that the coping is loose. This can be especially dangerous if the debris is sharp, as it can cause injury.

Now that you know how to identify a loose pool coping, it’s time to gather the materials you’ll need for the repair process. Keep reading to learn more!

Checking for Loose Coping

1. Visual Inspection: The first thing to do is to visually inspect the pool coping. Look for any cracks, gaps or shifts in the stones or tiles. Loose coping will often be visibly separated from the pool wall or have a gap between the pool and coping.

2. Physical Check: Run your hand along the coping to check for any movement or rocking. Loose coping will often have gaps between the stones or tiles and the pool deck. If you feel any movement or notice any gaps, the coping needs to be repaired.

3. Tap Test: Take a rubber mallet or the end of a broom handle and gently tap along the coping. Listen for any hollow or loose sounds. If you hear any, this means that the coping is loose and needs to be repaired.

By performing these simple checks, you can easily identify whether your pool coping is loose and in need of repair. If you find that your coping is indeed loose, it’s important to take care of the problem as soon as possible to prevent any further damage or accidents. In the following sections, we’ll show you step-by-step how to fix loose side-mounted pool coping.

Assessing the Damage

Once you’ve identified the loose coping, it’s essential to assess the extent of the damage to determine the best approach for repair. Look for any cracks or missing pieces in the coping, as well as any damage to the surrounding pool area. The type and severity of the damage will help determine the necessary repair materials and methods. Thoroughly inspect the coping and surrounding area to ensure that all damage is accounted for before proceeding with repairs.

One common issue with loose side mounted pool coping is damage caused by water penetration. Water that gets behind the coping can cause damage to the underlying pool structure, leading to bigger problems in the future. Inspect the pool structure carefully for any signs of damage or deterioration, such as cracks, leaks, or rust stains.

If the damage is extensive or appears to be beyond repair, it may be necessary to call in a professional for an assessment. In some cases, a complete pool renovation may be necessary. However, if the damage is minor, you may be able to tackle the repairs yourself with a few basic tools and materials.

Gathering Materials

Before you start fixing the loose pool coping, you need to gather all the materials required for the job. Some of the essential tools and supplies that you will need include a hammer, chisel, mortar mix, trowel, goggles, gloves, and a bucket.

If you do not have any of these tools, you can purchase or rent them from your local home improvement store. It’s important to have all the materials at hand before starting the repair process to ensure that you complete the project in one go without having to make frequent trips to the store.

Make sure you have measured the length and width of the coping area that needs repair. You’ll need to purchase enough mortar mix and coping stones to replace the damaged ones. It is better to buy some extra coping stones to account for any breakages that may occur during the repair process.

Lastly, it’s important to purchase the right type of mortar that matches your existing pool coping. If you’re not sure what type of mortar to use, consult with a professional before starting the repair process. Using the wrong type of mortar can lead to a weak bond between the stones, and you may end up having to redo the entire project.

Tools You’ll Need

• Masonry chisel: This will be used to remove any damaged coping that needs to be replaced.
• Hammer: You’ll need a hammer to use with the chisel when removing the damaged coping.
• Trowel: This tool will be used to apply the new mortar or adhesive when repairing the coping.

Make sure you have these tools before starting the repair process. Having the right tools will make the job easier and ensure a better end result.

Prepping the Area

Clear the Work Space: Before starting the repairs, make sure the area around the loose coping is clean and free from any debris. Clear the area of any furniture or pool accessories to provide a clear workspace. This will make it easier to maneuver around the pool and prevent any accidents.

Drain the Pool: To ensure proper repairs, it’s essential to drain the pool water to a level that is below the loose coping. This will give you easier access to the damaged area, and it will prevent water from interfering with your repairs. Remember to turn off any pool equipment, including pumps and filters before draining the pool.

Prepare the Mortar Mix: Use a mixing tray to prepare the mortar mix, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Mixing the mortar to the correct consistency is vital for a long-lasting repair. It should have a thick, peanut butter-like consistency, so it doesn’t sag or slump when applied to the pool coping.

Apply the Bonding Agent: To help the mortar adhere to the coping, apply a bonding agent using a paintbrush. A bonding agent will help the mortar to stick better, creating a stronger bond. Apply a thin, even layer of the bonding agent over the damaged area, ensuring that it’s completely covered.

Draining the Pool

The first step to prepping the area is to drain the pool to the appropriate level. This will ensure that the area around the coping is completely dry and free of any water, which can interfere with the repair process.

Using a submersible pump, remove the water until it’s below the level of the coping. It’s important to note that you should never completely drain a vinyl-lined pool, as it can cause the liner to shrink and crack. Consult with a professional if you have any concerns about draining your pool.

After draining the pool, use a hose or pressure washer to clean the area around the coping. This will remove any debris, dirt, or algae that has accumulated, ensuring a clean surface for the repair process.

Cleaning the Coping and Surrounding Area

The next step is to clean the pool coping and the surrounding area. This is important to ensure proper adhesion of the new mortar or caulk to the surface.

Begin by using a wire brush to remove any debris or loose material from the coping. Then, use a pressure washer or garden hose to rinse the area and remove any remaining dirt or debris.

Once the area is clean and dry, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the coping and remove any remaining debris. Make sure the area is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Removing Old Mortar

• Step 1: Start by using a small chisel or hammer to remove the loose or cracked mortar from the joints.

• Step 2: Wear safety goggles and a dust mask before using a power grinder to remove the stubborn mortar.

• Step 3: Be sure to work carefully and slowly to avoid damaging the surrounding tiles or coping.

Once you have removed all the old and damaged mortar, use a stiff-bristled brush and a vacuum to clean the area thoroughly before starting to apply new mortar.

Repairing the Coping

Applying New Mortar: Once the old mortar has been removed, apply a layer of new mortar to the exposed surface of the coping. Use a trowel to spread the mortar evenly and ensure that it adheres properly.

Filling Gaps: If there are any gaps between the coping stones, use the mortar to fill them. Ensure that the mortar is level and smooth to prevent water from seeping through.

Smoothing the Surface: Once the mortar has been applied, smooth the surface with a trowel or a float. This will ensure that the surface is level and that there are no bumps or rough spots that could cause injury.

Allowing the Mortar to Dry: Allow the mortar to dry for at least 24 hours. This will ensure that it sets properly and can withstand the weight of people and furniture.

Sealing the Coping: Finally, apply a coat of sealant to the surface of the coping. This will help to protect it from water damage, UV radiation, and other types of wear and tear.

Applying New Mortar

Prepare the Mortar: Follow the instructions on the mortar packaging to create a mixture that has a thick, paste-like consistency. Add water gradually to avoid making it too runny.

Apply the Mortar: Apply the mortar to the area where the old mortar was removed using a trowel. Make sure to press the mortar firmly into the joints and smooth the surface with the trowel. Repeat until all the joints are filled with mortar.

Cure the Mortar: Allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before using the pool. Cover the area with plastic sheeting to protect it from rain or direct sunlight. After 24 hours, remove the plastic sheeting and inspect the area for any cracks or gaps.

Securing the Coping

Once the new mortar has been applied and allowed to dry for 24-48 hours, it’s time to secure the coping in place. Construction adhesive is the best option for this step. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the underside of each coping stone, and carefully set them in place. Press down firmly to ensure a secure bond.

After all of the coping stones are in place, use masonry sand to fill in the gaps between the stones. Be sure to use enough sand to completely fill the gaps, but avoid overfilling, as this can cause the stones to shift.

Once the sand has been added, use a broom to sweep away any excess sand. Next, use a garden hose to mist the coping and surrounding area, which will help to settle the sand into place. Let the sand settle for a few hours, and then mist the area again. Repeat this process until the sand is fully settled.

Finishing Touches

Step 1: Cleaning

After securing the coping, clean the entire pool area thoroughly. Sweep or blow away any debris, and remove any remaining construction materials.

Step 2: Caulking

Apply a bead of silicone caulk between the coping and the deck. This will prevent water from seeping underneath and causing damage.

Step 3: Sealing

Apply a sealant to the coping to protect it from water and other elements. Make sure the sealant is appropriate for your specific coping material.

Step 4: Refilling the Pool

Finally, refill the pool with water and balance the chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Test the water regularly to ensure it stays balanced and clean. Remember, maintaining your pool’s coping is an important part of keeping your pool safe and beautiful. Regular inspections and repairs can help prevent more significant issues down the line.

Smoothing Out the Mortar

Once the new mortar has been applied and allowed to dry for a day, it’s time to smooth out any rough spots or uneven areas. Trowels and sponges are essential tools for this step. Use a small trowel to smooth out any large bumps or ridges in the mortar, then use a damp sponge to gently rub down the entire surface to even out any remaining imperfections.

Be sure to work carefully and gently during this step to avoid removing too much mortar or creating new imperfections. If you accidentally remove too much mortar, simply apply a small amount of fresh mortar to the area and repeat the smoothing process.

After the surface is smoothed to your satisfaction, allow the mortar to dry completely before moving on to the final step.

Sealing the Coping

Step 1: Choose the right sealer for your pool coping material, whether it’s stone, concrete, or tile.

Step 2: Clean the coping thoroughly to remove any debris or stains. Allow it to dry completely before applying the sealer.

Step 3: Apply the sealer with a brush, roller, or sprayer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure to apply an even coat and avoid overlapping.

Step 4: Allow the sealer to dry completely before exposing the coping to water or foot traffic. It may take several hours or even a day for the sealer to cure completely.

Refilling the Pool

Once the coping repair and sealing is complete, it is time to refill the pool. Before refilling, it is important to check the chemical balance of the water. The water should have a pH level between 7.2 and 7.8 and total alkalinity between 80 and 120 parts per million. Adjusting the chemical balance may take some time, but it is essential to ensure the pool is safe and healthy to swim in.

When refilling the pool, it is important to take care not to damage the new coping or any surrounding areas. Use a garden hose to slowly fill the pool to the appropriate level. If necessary, use a pool brush to gently push any wrinkles or folds out of the pool liner. Once the pool is full, turn on the pump and filter system and let it run for several hours to circulate and clean the water.

Finally, test the chemical balance of the water again after a few hours of circulation to ensure it is safe and healthy for swimming. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the chemical balance of the water will keep the pool clean and safe for enjoyment throughout the swimming season.

It is important to note that while the pool is refilling, it is also a good time to inspect the rest of the pool and make any necessary repairs or upgrades. This includes checking for any leaks, cracks, or damage to the pool walls or floor, as well as ensuring the pump, filter, and other equipment are in good working order.

Frequently Asked Questions