So you’ve decided to tile your pool. Congrats! You made the right decision, and we’re here to help with some tips on how to make it happen. Whether you have a small pool in the backyard or a hot tub in the center of your living room, we’ve got some advice for you on what type of grout to use. Below, you’ll learn about the pros and cons of each type of grout, as well as some alternatives that may be better suited for your needs. Happy tiling!
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Traditional Cement Or Concrete Splinter Spackling
Traditional cement or concrete splinter spackling is the go-to option for most people when it comes to grouting their pool. It’s easy to use, cheap, and extremely durable. Many homeowners choose to spackle their pool instead of paying for a professional pool tile installation because they think it will save them money in the long run. This is quite possibly because they don’t know any better or because they’re intimidated by the idea of hiring contractors.
The biggest downside to traditional cement or concrete splinter spackling is that it gets chipped, scratched, or broken down easily. This makes it a poor choice for pools that are going to be outside or are heavily used. It also makes it a poor choice if you plan on cleaning the pool frequently because it will chip or break down easily when submerged in water.
For these reasons, many pool builders will either recommend against using this type of grout for tile installations or will only use it as a temporary fix until the tile is replaced. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, then concrete slab-on-slash-tile is the way to go.
Self-Leveling Concrete
Self-leveling concrete is a combination of cement and sand with water. It can be easily poured into the pool and leveled with a bit of a spade (or your finger, if you’re extra-talented). After it’s dry, you can walk on it to make sure it’s flat and smooth. It’s a great choice because it doesn’t require any additional tools or equipment for installation, and it’s relatively easy to use. You don’t need an expert to install it either. It’s very doable for even the most inexperienced DIY-er.
The biggest downside to self-leveling concrete is that it gets dirty very easily. If you plan on cleaning your pool often, then this type of grout is probably not for you because the water will eventually settle at the bottom, and it will become murky. If this is a problem for you or if you’re planning on keeping the pool for recreational purposes only, then self-leveling concrete may not be the best option.
It’s also worth mentioning that it is not entirely stable. It can become weak and chip when over-sealed with tile or vinyl. This is why many people choose to use mesh over-sealing instead, which offers better stability.
Vinyl Or Epoxy-Based Coating
Another popular choice when it comes to coating pools is vinyl or epoxy-based coatings. These are easy-to-use, affordable, and long-lasting. They are also very flexible, which allows you to easily bend and contort the material when applying it to the pool surface. Vinyl or epoxy-based coatings are ideal for use with pools since they can be easily removed and cleaned if needed. Additionally, they are easily applied with tools commonly found at home, such as a roller, a paint brush, or even your bare hands. Most homeowners choose to utilize vinyl or epoxy-based coating for their pools because it’s simple and hassle-free.
The biggest downside to vinyl or epoxy-based coating is that they deteriorate easily when exposed to water or chemicals. If you plan on cleaning your pool with chemicals frequently, then try out this type of grout first and see how it works out for you. If you have children or pets that like to play in or around the water, then this type of grout is probably not for you since it can become easily contaminated. Vinyl or epoxy-based coating can also become brittle or peel away, which will make it more susceptible to cracking and breaking down.
Drainage Tile
Drainage tile is a type of tile that allows for easy water drainage. This makes it ideal for use in or around swimming pools. It is also used in plumbing areas to prevent flooding. Most homeowners choose to install this type of tile in their toilet areas and near the water line to keep water from flowing on to the floor during a thunderstorm or heavy rain. This type of grout is also perfect for use with a planted tank since it can help keep the soil moist and fresh.
The downside to using this type of grout in your pool is that it can become easily damaged. This type of tile is more susceptible to chipping, breaking down, and becoming loose. It’s also worth mentioning that this type of tile requires additional tools for installation. If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, then this type of grout isn’t for you since it could end up being a pain to fix if it breaks down.
Keep in mind that the quality and material used to make the tile matter. Poorly made or thin flooring can cause serious damage to your pool or spa. Avoid this by ensuring that the tile you pick is of good quality and thick enough to withstand the occasional heavy foot or dog jump.
As you can see, there are quite a few different options when it comes to choosing the right grout for your pool or spa. It’s important to keep in mind the type of use the pool will get and how often you plan on cleaning it. If you decide to go with cement or concrete splinter spackling, then make sure you choose high-quality material and finish it with a protective coating. If you decide to use mesh or vinyl over-sealing, then look for a solution that has high abrasion resistance to avoid any damage to your pool. If safety around water is a concern, then choose an epoxy-based coating that can prevent any exposure to toxic substances. Choose a solution that has been specifically designed for use with a pool or spa and that can stand up to the elements for years of durable service.