Lap Pool Renovation with Aquabright

Hi Amy, I feel that your tile prep will be just fine as is. The mortar that was there withstood chipping the old tile off its face so that should count for something in regards to its integrity. Adding more mortar just to add it seems like a bad idea and is unecessary.

I've yet to see an installer use an expansion joint for the waterline tile but if you feel you must have one, it could be as simple as using a polyurethane caulk in the corners instead of grout. It doesn't need to be much more complex than that.

Thank you Brian!! Do you think we need expansion joints where the planes of the tiled bench/steps/tiled wall meet? Shouldn't expansion joints be cut into the mortar - then filled with caulk?

Many thanks again. I've been in a panic for 24 hours, as I wasn't here yesterday when the work was done and decisions were made without me!

THANK YOU -
Amy
 
It certainly wouldn't hurt but I've not seen it done like that. The pool shell is monolithic and really shouldn't have too much expansion and contraction going on. Waterline tiles are more susceptible for failure because of the waterline freezing and expanding and even then an expansion joint may not be enough to stop that from happening.
 
It certainly wouldn't hurt but I've not seen it done like that. The pool shell is monolithic and really shouldn't have too much expansion and contraction going on. Waterline tiles are more susceptible for failure because of the waterline freezing and expanding and even then an expansion joint may not be enough to stop that from happening.

Thank you. It means a great deal that you took the time to respond this evening!! This forum is so great. Wish I could return the favors, but my pool knowledge is so limited. But anything you ever need to know about design or furniture- just let me know!! [emoji4]
 
Thank you. It means a great deal that you took the time to respond this evening!! This forum is so great. Wish I could return the favors, but my pool knowledge is so limited. But anything you ever need to know about design or furniture- just let me know!! [emoji4]

Hi Brian - Oceanside agreed with you about the existing mortar bed and prep - although I was asked why it wasn't perfectly smooth. Um, maybe because no one mentioned using a smooth trowel until working with the final thinset, perhaps?? In any case, it seems we ARE good to go, but a "backer tape" with a final expansion joint is recommended every where the tile changes planes on the step/bench situation - plus waterline tile, of course.

So ....... secondary Waterproofing next weekend ..... plus WE FINALLY GET TO TILE!!!!!! OMG, there are several complete pool builds that have been completed while we've been waiting and waiting for our little patches and little new step to cure. Crazy!!!!
 
I have this vision of everyone rolling their eyes [emoji849] and saying ENOUGH ALREADY!!!

It truly IS funny the stress I've had over such a tiny project. [emoji12]
 
Hi AmyJo,
I have been saying exactly the same thing....some have started after my build started and finished. :swim: But we are one step closer to being finished....Yeah! It may not be until October, but we will finish.

As for the stress...I know exactly how you feel...We want it done right...the first time. No one wants to pay for something they are not happy with. And the truth of the matter is sooo many things can go wrong. And with the horror stories we've heard, it would make anyone a nervous wreck. I don't know what I would have done if I hadn't found TFP. Even if I am not asking a lot of questions, just reading everyone else experiences has been extremely beneficial. Hang in there, the finish line is near. :D
 
Last progress step before tile! [emoji119] BUT - wouldn't it have made sense to put this Waterproofing/Membrane in the joints where the different planes change of the tile area? [emoji848]
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These tiles are rough cut to begin with - so straightening them means literally adjusting all grout lines and every tile. THIS must be why glass tile is more expensive to install!?
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WOWER! That is very pretty! What a difference the background color makes in the colors!

Let me guess that he is making sure each and EVERY title is straight and on point! Has he had to cut any out to move them how he wanted them?

Kim:kim:
 
Gorgeous! What grout color did you end up picking?

Hi! Thank you. [emoji4] We are going with Laticrete Sterling. Fingers crossed it looks good! I originally selected Natural Gray, but worried it would be too dark. What did you decide to do?
 

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