When you install a swimming pool, there is rather a lot more to consider than just making space for the hole in the ground, adding the shell and filling it with water.
The finishing off of the outside of your pool should be both practical and aesthetically pleasing. To do this, one would need to consider pool grating, coping and tiling.
Pool Grating
Pool grating aka overflow grating is essentially flexible tiles available in a variety of colours, styles and sizes that minimise the overflow of water from a swimming pool.
Their clever design allows for easy seepage of water into a drain which is connected to the drainage system of a swimming pool, which means less yelling at children to keep their splashing to a minimum.
Pool grating is generally fabricated from high-grade polypropylene plastic using injection moulding and can bend easily over corners – flexible up to 180 degrees.
The unique design of the weather resistant and anti-slip pool grating allows for easy installation, cleaning and maintenance. They are also UV and chemically protected for a longer life.
Pool Coping
Pool coping is the edging placed around the top rim of a swimming pool which covers the concrete edges. It comes in a variety of finishes, depending on the look most suited to your environment and taste.
Popular choices of materials for pool coping are natural stone, brick and pre-cast concrete pavers. While natural stone such as granite or sandstone is more expensive than brick or pavers, it is an extremely durable material.
Besides finishing off the pool, other functions pool coping serves is to prevent water from getting behind the pool shell and also for swimmers to have something to grab onto when they need a rest from swimming or want to make a quick exit from the pool without having to head for the steps.
Coping should be installed slightly tilted away from the pool to encourage any water splashes to flow away from the pool and onto the pool grating system which will return it to the pool drain.
Pool coping is generally sealed to prevent the pool water from leaving marks and to make sure that the elements and chemicals don’t cause it damage. The addition of a non-slip coating will provide a safer surface to walk on that helps keep pool accidents to a minimum.
There are various profiles for pool coping such as:
Drop down face – This provides a seamless finish with the tile having a lip which fits over the edge of the pool and hides the rim. The surface of the water appears to be flush with the coping.
Square edged – The edges of the pavers are square and give a clean look which is popular for a contemporary feel.
Bullnose – One or more of the edges are rounded to provide a softer finish.
Tumbled edge – Intentionally uneven edges give a more rustic appeal.
Pool Tiling Tips
Swimming pools are wet, hence it is important to choose tiling that is a durable material. You want your pool to look fabulous for years of use.
It is necessary that your pool has a properly cured waterproof shell behind the tiles and that the bond strength of the tile adhesive is able to withstand being immersed in water day in and day out.
Make certain that the grout used is something like an epoxide-resin, as cement-based grouts are porous and will allow the pool water to soak in. You should only add water to your pool 3 weeks after grouting and make sure to fill the pool no more than 0.75m of depth per day. This will allow any tile shifting and movement to take place slowly – which is a good thing!
Pool Spa knows their stuff. Chat to one of the friendly experts today to order a pool grating system for your swimming pool. Visit us at www.poolspa.co.za