Swimming pool refurbishment. Find the fault, repair what needs it.

Checking for hollow-sounding tiles

When the pool is safely drained and accessible, we can check tiled areas methodically with a light tap, comparing the sound of neighbouring tiles and noting changes across the surface. A different, dull or drummy sound can be a warning sign of a void or a possible loss of bond. We map the areas so the findings can be discussed against visible cracks, loose edges, grout condition and the pool’s history.

• A tap test is a screening check, not proof on its own that a tile has failed.
• Tile size, substrate, membranes and the original fixing method can all affect the sound.
• Where the cause or boundary is uncertain, a selective lift or test opening may be needed to inspect the adhesive bed and background.

Cut out and replace damaged tiles

Loose, cracked or missing tiles around pool floors, walls, steps, corners, channels and outlets can often be repaired locally when the surrounding work and substrate are sound. We carefully remove the failed tile and grout, protect adjoining tiles, take out weak or contaminated bedding and inspect the area before rebuilding it.

• Repair boundaries are set by what is found beneath the tile.
• Replacement tile, bedding and joint materials are selected for the location and pool conditions.
• Movement and perimeter joints are kept as flexible joints; they are not simply filled with rigid grout.

Repairing local render or uneven areas

If the background is damaged, loose or out of plane, it needs suitable preparation before new tiles go back. We remove unsound material and rebuild the repair to a stable, tile-ready finish using a system chosen for the substrate, thickness and whether the area will be immersed. For suitable pool-wall render repairs, ARDEX AM 100 is one example listed by its manufacturer for swimming pool use. Product choice and application must follow the current technical data sheet and the site specification. See common pool problems for how we deal with debonded render and weak screed.

Restore joints without defaulting to a full retile

Where tiles remain securely bonded and the underlying system is suitable, worn grout can sometimes be removed to the required depth and replaced. The joint is cleaned and prepared, filled fully and finished neatly to the tile face. Regrouting is not a fix for loose tiles, failed render, structural movement or a leaking pool shell; those issues need to be assessed separately.