How to Replace Cracked Swimming Pool Tiles
A cracked pool tile is both unsightly and dangerous to your swimmers. Allowing a cracked tile to not be repaired can cause water to seep into your pool's support structure, causing costly damage. Swimmers can cut themselves on sharp edges caused by the continuous chipping of the tiles. Repairing a pool tile can be done in a weekend and does not require any special equipment. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Drain the water level of the pool to below the location of the cracked tile. For tiles located on the bottom of the pool you will need to fully drain the water. Allow the area to fully dry before beginning work on the tile replacement.
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2
Remove the cracked tile with a hammer and a chisel. Use the tools to break any remaining bits of the tile away from the area.
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3
Smooth out the surface by chipping away at the grout that held the tile in place. Use a hammer and chisel to remove enough of the material that your new tile will fit into place without protruding outwards. You can use sandpaper to clean up any leftover material.
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4
Mix your marcite plaster and apply the mix onto the area where the new tile will sit. Apply only enough plaster to hold the tile. The plaster should measure 1/8 inch in depth when it has been smoothed over.
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Place the replacement tile over the plaster and gently push it into place. You may need to adjust the tile so that its borders are equal on all sides. If the pool tile is sticking out after being placed, remove it and create a deeper area using your chisel.
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6
Attach a piece of duct tape so that one end is in the center of the pool tile and the other is affixed to the edge of the pool. This will hold the tile in place during the drying process. It is not necessary if the tile as on the bottom of the pool. Allow the tile to dry for 24 hours.
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Mix your grout and apply a layer over the tile. Make sure the grout fills the space around the tile, as this will prevent it from shifting as well as prevent water from damaging the inside of your pool liner. Allow the grout to dry and then wash over the tile to remove excess material.
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Refill your pool water after the tile has dried completely and is securely in place.
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Tips & Warnings
If cracks are present beneath the tile of your pool, contact a professional to examine the cause of this damage. Don't attempt to fix structural damage on your own.
