Pool tiles and coping may add aesthetic value, but they are also functional in that they provide an additional sealant by helping to secure the foundation of your pool. So, when it comes to looking after your investment and pool safety, it simply makes sense that it’s just as important to attend to pool surround maintenance as it is to keep the water blue.
Pool Surround Maintenance Tips
Most of us with outdoor pools are quite aware of how the coping or tiles surrounding our pool edges tend to get dirty and sometimes, a bit tatty. And, since prevention is better than cure, regular cleaning of your pool surround is the best way to maintain its glory.
But let’s say you were handed the baton or dropped the ball on your pool surround maintenance for a time, the first step back in the right direction is to enlist a bit of elbow grease.
To start, clean off as much surface dirt or other debris from the coping and grout as is possible. At that point, you can then ascertain where further cleaning action needs to be taken.
For a deeper and all over clean, a water-based power washing system can be used to get rid of most stains and stubborn dirt. As a power washer, such as a Karcher, uses water under pressure, make sure to avoid hitting any noticeably broken or cracked tiles as this may only exacerbate any existing damage.
To smarten up particularly problematic spots, mix up a 20% bleach solution and apply using a spray bottle. Then get stuck in with a toothbrush or rag.
In areas where the dirt appears to be set into a tile or the coping, you may wish to use a chemical acid wash. Be very careful when applying this as the chemicals are harmful to human skin. It’s a good idea to do a spot test first on a small area to check that your coping or tiles can handle an acid wash. If you have stone coping it would be wise to consult your pool care expert before going ahead with an acid wash.
When all is said and done with your restorative pool surround maintenance efforts, remember to make a note of any tiles or coping that are cracked, damaged or loose. The sooner these are repaired the better, as not only can cracked coping affect the integrity of your pool but sharp edges and loose tiles can become a safety hazard too. Also, check on the state of the grouting and sealant as some areas may also need to be attended to at the same time.
Should your pool surrounds seem a little dull, especially if you have stone coping, consider giving them a new lease on life by applying a colour enhancer which includes a stain-protector and sealer.
Going forward, keep up with a good routine for cleaning of your pool surrounds and regularly sweep away any leaves, dirt and other debris. Doing this should greatly assist in both prolonging the life of your tiles and coping and keep the edge of your pool looking in tip-top shape.
Pool Spa has knowledgeable staff who can both provide you with great advice and assist you with all your pool surround maintenance needs. Chat to one of our experts today. Visit us at www.poolspa.co.za
