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How do I Choose the Best Pool Tile Grout?

R.Chin
R.Chin

Pool tile grout is used to repair or replace pool tiles. The primary factors in choosing a grout are the scale of the project and the desired appearance of the grout. A waterproof, sanded epoxy or cement pool tile grout will be suitable for most projects.

There are two main types of grout that are frequently used as pool tile grout: classic Portland cement grout and epoxy grout. Epoxy is harder than cement, is stain resistant, and is very durable. On the other hand, it is much more expensive than cement. Thus, for large-scale pool renovation or repairs, concrete grout is generally the most cost-friendly. For smaller, intermittent projects, however, epoxy grout may be the better choice as its shelf life is virtually unlimited.

Pool tile grout may be used to repair or replace pool tiles.
Pool tile grout may be used to repair or replace pool tiles.

When grouting a pool, it is important to choose a waterproof grout to maximize longevity; unlike most cases in which grout is used, pool tile grout spends most or all of its time underwater. While normal grouts will still work, they will not be as durable in those conditions. In general, epoxy grouts are naturally waterproof — cement grouts with that property are less common and are usually specialized grouts.

Another consideration when choosing a grout is the color. A well-kept pool often adds significant value to a property, but patchy tile grout can negatively impact the appearance. Since grout fades over time and can stain, it is very likely that grout used for simple repairs will result in a color mismatch with the original. The only way to totally avoid this problem is to perform a complete retile. Many stores that sell grout will have color swatches which can be used to match grout colors.

If the grouting project involves filling gaps larger than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm), it is probably best to use grout with sand added to it, which helps the grout holds more strongly. Pool tiles are often spaced farther apart than other tiling and may be set vertically — they will thus usually require sanded grout.

Finally, it is best to pick a pool tile grout with a setting time appropriate to the size of the project and the skills of the grouter. If the setting time is too short, it may be very difficult for a first-time grout user to complete a major project before the grout becomes too difficult to work with. However, more experienced users may be frustrated by extended grout setting times.

Discussion Comments

pleonasm

@croydon - Honestly, it's not something I'd want to do myself, particularly if it's in an obvious place. It's too easy for someone without experience to make a messy repair that stands out like a sore thumb in the pool.

If you want to raise the value of your property, you'll definitely want to avoid that by using a professional for any repairs.

croydon

@bythewell - I think most of the time grout comes in a powder form and you add liquid to it in order to make it up. It should store for a while in the powder form.

When it comes to color, though, it's usually just dye mixed in with white grout, so it's probably more important to keep a supply of the dye handy, rather than worrying about the grout.

Likewise, you should keep some extra tiles handy, even if you didn't make the pool yourself. Pool tile designs come and go and even a decent pool repair engineer might not be able to find matching tiles if they go out of style.

bythewell

If you can get grout that will keep for a few years, I would definitely keep some back when making my pool. You'll almost certainly have to repair some tiles at some point and it's going to be more painless if you can get your hands on the right color of grout without having to search for it.

That goes double if you have used from kind of unusual color of swimming pool tile grout. There's no guarantee that it will still be sold in stores if you need it again five years down the track.

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    • Pool tile grout may be used to repair or replace pool tiles.
      By: Wolfgang Jargstorff
      Pool tile grout may be used to repair or replace pool tiles.