Pools are in constant contact with water and most pools are located in outdoor areas. Therefore, they require regular maintenance and cleaning.
In this blog post, we want to share some information about the types of tiles used for pools, how to clean them, and how to maintain healthy and beautiful tiles best all year round.
To make your swimming pool tiles last longer and continue looking amazing as their first day, you need to clean and maintain them. And make sure that you do it the right way.
You will need some cleaning solutions, but stay away from chemical and adhesive products. Simple available solution such as vinegar and dishwashing liquid can be a great choice instead.
What tools do you need?
You will need a simple brush and perhaps to better clean the tiles you could use a pumice stone. Use gloves for better protection and make use of sponge for better cleaning.
Types of Residues in a Swimming Pool
Some residues build up on your tiles over time. It’s good to know the different types of pool tiles residues to know how to remove them.
In general, there are three types of buildups and why you need to clean your pool tiles:
- Calcium - This is a very common buildup and it is caused by a high pH rate that indicates alkaline water (which is also known as hard water).
- Dirt, grease, and scale - This category of buildups can be caused by several different reasons such as organic matter, body oil, and leaves.
- Algae - This will form on the surface of the water. It is often caused by poor maintenance and filtering system, ineffective water circulation, or lack of chlorine levels or it can be brought to the pool by natural causes such as wind or rain.
Types of Swimming Pool Tiles
There are generally three types of tiles used for pools. Here we touch on them briefly.
Glass mosaics are not the cheapest option for swimming pools, but they are certainly one of the favourites, and for good reason.
Glass mosaics bring out a lively and elegant look to your swimming pool.
Traditionally ceramic tiles were the top option for swimming pools and they were painted on for some design. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are probably the most cost-effective option you can find.
Porcelain tiles are great for many different spaces in your home. The technology has advanced over the years and now there are tons of options, finishes, and looks for porcelain tiles.
Having marble, travertine, or limestone tiles is your other option. This will not be very cheap, but having some high-quality natural stone tiles will make your swimming pool look magnificent.
Also, natural products have a great texture that manufactured products simply can not obtain.
Note that you can always use a mixture of these products. Having water line tiles is a very common concept.
This is where different tiles are used below and above the water line. A common combination is having glass mosaic tiles below the water line where it looks gorgeous and to reduce the cost you can have porcelain tiles above the tiles. This will also make it easier for you to know how much water to fill in the swimming pool.
Best Practices for Maintaining Swimming Pool Tiles
How often should you clean your pool tiles?
Swimming pool tiles should be cleaned at least twice a year. The best time to clean the tiles is when you are about to close the pool for a long period of time, such as in winter.
Generally, whenever you see residues building up, it’s a good time to give your pool a clean. It is easier to clean up the residues as they build up rather than waiting for them to accumulate and give them a hard clean.