I'm starting my owner builder pool and keep getting different answers whether I need tile at the waterline or not. I have an18" raised bond beam on the back that ties into a 18" raised spa. We are using 6" x 24" natural stone veneer panels for the raised parts. I've asked the masonry worker if I could just take the stone all the way to the water line and he said I might get a leak this way because the stone will be permeable. I don't get how this would cause a leak? His plan was to use the stone then do 3" tiles at the waterline. How is that any different? Any body used veneer stone at the waterline? Any problems? Thanks for any advice and answers.
Pool tile or no pool tile
- Thread starter Bhoffmanrfd
- Start date
Welcome to the forum. 
Water line tile is often referred to as scum line tile. Keeping your surface clean and pristine looking at the waterline is no small task and tile is simply the best.
Stone could work fine but a rough, uneven surface attracts dirt and grime and will likely increase your maintenance more than you realize. It is a prime spot for calcium scale. Super hard to get rid of on stone.....not so bad on ceramic
Forget the leaking comment.....that just doesn't hold water.
That said, weigh the functionality of the two surfaces and if you REALLY want stone, use it and be prepared to have some possible extra cleaning duties.
Water line tile is often referred to as scum line tile. Keeping your surface clean and pristine looking at the waterline is no small task and tile is simply the best.
Stone could work fine but a rough, uneven surface attracts dirt and grime and will likely increase your maintenance more than you realize. It is a prime spot for calcium scale. Super hard to get rid of on stone.....not so bad on ceramic
Forget the leaking comment.....that just doesn't hold water.
That said, weigh the functionality of the two surfaces and if you REALLY want stone, use it and be prepared to have some possible extra cleaning duties.