Pool Tile Problems

Pool tile problems can include cracking, popping, deposits and tiles falling off. The cause of these problems may differ and may be hard to diagnose without professional advice. In some cases, the tile may be cleaned or repaired. In other cases, the tile may need to be replaced.

  1. Falling Off

    • The tile in or around a pool may be falling off due to a bond failure of the mud used to put the tile in place originally. To ensure this is the problem, lift or look underneath of the tile for a crack. This crack is usually a sign of a cracked beam that needs to be repaired.

    Popped Tile

    • A tile that seems to have popped off could be caused by too little caulking. The caulking is set in between the coping and deck. Without enough caulking, water is able to build up and run behind the tile. If this water freezes, the area behind the tile will expand and thus cause the tile to pop off the surface.

    White Deposits

    • White deposits, known as efflorescence, may also build up on the pool tile. These deposits come from the grout or settling mud, which are found underneath the tile. The deposits may also come from the water found in the pool. The best way to get rid of this problem is to scrape or burn off the deposits.

    Cracked

    • Another common pool tile problem is cracking. This cracking may be caused by a cracked bond beam or the pressure of freezing water against the tile. If it is an outdoor pool, the tile should have been front free pool tile. In this case, the tiles will have to be replaced.

    Replacement

    • In some cases, tiles cannot simply be fixed or repaired. They may need to be replaced. This replacement can cost around $20 per linear foot. Along with that, you'll have to pay around $100 for a skimmer. The tile can range in colors and patterns.