Common Pool Tile Discoloration and Ways of Dealing with Them

Over the years, one of the main problems pool owners deal with is tile discoloration. More often than not, discoloration occurs on glass tiles, especially those which are transparent or translucent. And the back coated glass is not an exception. There are many causes of discoloration. Determining the exact cause of discoloration will help you find the most suitable solution to the problem. Some of the leading causes of pool tile discoloration include microbial growth, back coating erosion, effects of glue or mesh on tiles, and thin-set shading/marks/voids. Knowing how to deal with each of these problems can be mind-consuming.

Dealing with causes of pool tile discoloration

Thin-set shading

Even though you may notice pool tile discoloration on the exterior surface, the problem’s primary cause usually results from underneath the tile. In particular, the problem’s source often originates from the adhesive under the tile or the thin-set. The tiles may appear extraordinarily beautiful, but the aesthetics get ruined once the tile starts developing stain patches. You can choose to either live with this problem or remove the entire tile. Removing tiles can be costly; so, it would be best to look for other ways to deal with this problem. Alternatively, ensure that you install a high-quality, durable thin-set that offers excellent functionality.

Now that you know that the problem often stems from the thin-set, you have to use a color-consistent thin-set. What does this mean? Make sure you purchase the thin-set from the same manufacturer to avoid any disparities. Also, ensure that the thin-set came from the same material/plant and got manufactured on the same day. It also has to have a guarantee that it is color consistent.

Additionally, the thin-set should be uniquely designed to complement glass tiles. During the installation process, you should also leave the thin-set to cure completely. Otherwise, you’d experience issues with your glass tiles.

Degradation of back-coated glass

Typically, a back coated glass is a transparent glass that contains a coating underneath it. Such tiles offer excellent aesthetics due to the back coating. But you’ll barely notice that the coating is on the underside. The back coating also gives the tile an intensified depth level.

Over time, back coated glass tends to wear out after some time. Also, back coatings are vulnerable to degradation when exposed to harsh external conditions like ultraviolet rays and extreme alkalinity. If a back coating is not installed correctly, it becomes more prone to damage.

Therefore, it would be best to ensure that the back coating has a quality and durable material. I mean, you don’t want to spend all your money on tile repairs and replacement. The back coating also has to be resistant to the damaging effects of UV rays and harsh chemicals.

One of the main advantages of back coatings is that they offer high longevity. Even so, you have to purchase this material from a reliable manufacturer. Failure to do so would be setting yourself up for disaster. However, note that different types of back coatings offer different types of functionality. Be careful not to overlook functionality because of aesthetics. Ensure that you understand all the advantages and disadvantages of each back coating. From there, you can select the most suitable option that caters to all your needs.

Microbial growth

Pool tile discoloration can also result from microbial growth. Often, when moisture accumulates in your tiles, it leads to microbial growth, which in turn leads to tile discoloration. Moisture could come from anywhere; spills, humid conditions or frequent contact with water. Therefore, if you have a pool, you cannot afford to install the regular kitchen tiles.

You have to purchase pool tiles that are specifically designed to withstand moisture for long periods. Pool tiles are highly resistant to harsh climatic conditions, rusting, abrasive pool chemicals, acids and they should be waterproof. And when you notice any microbial growth on the tiles, ensure you deal with the issue immediately. Otherwise, discoloration would spread to all the tiles.

Effects of mesh or glue on the back of the tile

When installing the tiles, you have to select the most suitable glue. The mesh or glue you will use depends on the type of tiles. For example, if you have ceramic tiles, you can either use a ready-mixed tile adhesive. If you have porcelain tiles, a powder adhesive would be a good bonding option. Note that if you have large tiles that exceed 20 by 20-centimetre tiles, it is best to apply glue on the wall and underneath the tile.

At present, both the pool and tile industry have made great efforts to deal with pool tile discoloration issues. Their efforts have not been futile; but better solutions are yet to be found. Finding the best solutions to dealing with pool tile discoloration often begins with understanding the cause of the problem. Once you do this, you extend the lifespan of your pool tiles and the entire pool.