A Helpful Guide to Replacing Pool Coping
Whether you’re a seasoned pool owner or a new enthusiast, maintaining the pristine look and safety of your pool is paramount. One key aspect that often requires attention is the pool coping – the material used to cap the pool shell wall. Over time, the coping may crack, fade, or lose its aesthetic appeal due to harsh weather conditions or natural wear. This guide offers a step-by-step process to help you understand the procedure involved in replacing pool coping. There are many DIY maintenance tasks for a pool owner. Some tasks like replacing the pool coping may be better left to professional pool builders.
Understanding Pool Coping
First, let’s clarify what pool coping is. Coping is the material installed over the top edge of the swimming pool wall. It functions as a protective layer between the pool structure and the deck and also provides a non-slip surface for swimmers to grab onto. Coping can be made of various materials, including brick, stone, concrete, and tile. Regardless of the type, pool coping will eventually require replacement to maintain the safety and look of your pool.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before beginning the replacement process, take time to assess the condition of your coping. If it’s slightly damaged, a repair might suffice. However, if it’s severely cracked, faded, or outdated, a full replacement would be the best option.
Step 2: Choose Your Material
Next, select the coping material that best suits your aesthetic preference and budget. Brick and stone coping provide a classic, timeless look, while concrete and tile deliver a more modern aesthetic.
Step 3: Removal of Old Coping
The replacement process begins with the removal of the old coping. This step should be handled with care to avoid damaging the pool shell or deck. The coping is usually broken up into smaller pieces using a chisel and hammer or power tools for larger jobs, then carefully removed.
Step 4: Preparing the Surface
After the old coping has been removed, the next step is surface preparation. This typically involves cleaning the area and leveling it to ensure the new coping fits perfectly. The underlying pool beam should be in solid condition to support the new material.
Step 5: Installation of New Coping
Next, apply a thick layer of mortar mix on the pool beam, then carefully place the new coping pieces onto the mortar, ensuring each piece is level and snugly fits the next. For smaller materials like tile, an adhesive is used instead of mortar.
Step 6: Sealing the Joints
Once the coping is installed, the joints between each piece need to be sealed. This is usually done using a mixture of sand and cement or a specialized pool caulking. This step is crucial to prevent water from slipping behind the coping and causing damage.
Step 7: Final Touches
After the joints have been sealed, the new coping should be allowed to cure for 24 to 48 hours. Once cured, any additional clean-up or finishing touches, such as grouting for tile coping, can be completed.
Replacing your pool coping can be a complex task, especially if you haven’t undertaken a similar project before. It requires patience, precision, and a good understanding of the materials involved. Although it’s possible to do it yourself, hiring a pool professional can ensure the job is done correctly and safely. Furthermore, professionals often provide warranties for their work, adding an extra layer of security for your investment.
In conclusion, replacing your pool coping not only refreshes the look of your pool, but it also boosts its safety and durability. Reliable and quality tradesmen can be found at TradieLink. Get your next project started today.