Swimming Pool Tiling & Grouting in London

At The Swimming Pool Company, we are specialists in luxury swimming pool tiling and grouting services in London. With years of expertise, we help you select and install the perfect pool tiles to balance durability, aesthetics, and performance.

We primarily use porcelain and glass mosaic tiles, both considered the finest choices for swimming pools:

Porcelain tiles – highly durable, cost-effective, and resistant to wear.
Glass mosaic tiles – unmatched brilliance, versatility, and design flexibility, adding a luxurious finish to any pool.

Modern swimming pool with dark tile and clear water Swimming Pool Tiling.

Pool Tiling Process

The process for tiling a swimming pool involves meticulous surface preparation, waterproofing, and proper application of specialized tile adhesive and grout. These steps are critical to prevent leaks and ensure the tile installation withstands constant water immersion and chemical exposure.

Step 1: Prepare the pool surface

The success of the tiling job depends heavily on the condition of the substrate.

Drain and clean the pool: Completely drain the pool and allow it to dry thoroughly. Clean the surface with a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris, algae, and any existing adhesive.
Repair damage: Use a suitable filler to repair any cracks, chips, or imperfections in the pool shell.
Level the surface: The surface must be clean, smooth, and structurally sound. For uneven concrete, a leveling compound or screed may be required.
Curing time:New concrete shells must cure for at least 28 days before tiling begins.

Step 2: Apply a waterproof membrane

A waterproofing layer is essential to create a watertight seal and protect the pool structure from moisture damage.

Prime the surface: Before applying the waterproof membrane, a primer may be needed.
Apply the membrane: Apply at least two coats of a high-quality, flexible, cementitious waterproof membrane to the entire pool surface, overlapping at corners and seams.
Allow to cure: Let the membrane cure for the manufacturer's recommended time—often several days—before proceeding.

This step is critical to protect the structure and prevent future leaks.

Step 3: Tile Layout & Planning

Careful planning ensures a balanced and symmetrical appearance.

Choose the right tiles: Select pool-specific tiles, such as porcelain or glass, that are designed to be resistant to water absorption and chemicals.
Dry layout: Arrange the tiles on a dry, flat surface to confirm the pattern and layout.
Establish a baseline: Use a plum line or level to establish a straight line for the first row of tiles, typically working from a focal point like the waterline.

Step 4: Tile Adhesive Application & Fixing Tiles

Working in small sections is crucial to prevent the adhesive from drying too quickly.

Mix adhesive: Use a tile adhesive specifically formulated for underwater applications, mixing it according to the manufacturer's directions.
Apply adhesive: Spread the adhesive onto the prepared surface with a notched trowel. For maximum adhesion, many professionals recommend "back-buttering" the back of each tile before placement.
Place tiles: Press each tile firmly into the adhesive with a slight twisting motion. Insert tile spacers to maintain consistent joint widths.
Cut tiles: Use a wet saw to precisely cut tiles for corners, edges, and curved sections.
Cure time: Allow the tile adhesive to cure for the recommended time, which can be up to 72 hours, before grouting.

Step 5: Grout the joints

Grouting seals the joints and completes the finished look.

Choose the right grout: Use an epoxy-based grout or a high-performance, polymer-fortified cementitious grout for durability in wet environments. Epoxy grout is highly recommended for its chemical resistance, especially in saltwater pools.
Apply grout: Use a rubber float to press the grout firmly into the joints at a 45-degree angle.
Remove excess: After 15–20 minutes, or as soon as the grout begins to set, use a damp sponge to wipe away excess grout from the tile surface. Rinse the sponge frequently.

Step 6: Cure, seal, and fill the pool

Patience at this final stage is vital for the longevity of the installation.

Final cure: Allow the grout to cure completely for up to two weeks before exposing it to water.
Apply sealant: A tile sealer can be applied to protect the grout and tiles from staining.
Inspect and fill: Perform a final inspection of the tiling. Then, you can fill the pool with water at a slow, controlled rate.
Balance water chemistry: Pay close attention to maintaining proper water chemistry, as improperly balanced water can damage the new tile and grout.

Indoor swimming pool with green water and modern design, Swimming Pool Tiling.

Serving clients all over London