What is does it mean to resurface the tiles of a pool?
Question:We will be moving into a house that has a pool that has been empty for a year. The owner said that it is functional, but the tiles may have to be resurfaced. What is this and is it something we can do ourselves? If not, what is the cost? It is a kidney-shaped pool (not very large). Any help at all would be great - I've never been a pool owner.
Answers:
Resurfacing the tiles can mean a couple different things when it comes to pools.
Usually it's resealing and filling pits in the tiles, grout, or the entire pool. Sometimes it means doing an acid wash on the entire pool. It's generally not best to do a resurface yourself, it can be done but it's always best to let the professionals do it. At least that way you have someone to replace stuff if they mess it up.
However, many pools don't need resurfacing even though it's suggested. Many times resurfacing is done to fix cosmetic defects like a stubborn stain (acid washing). Other times resurfacing is done to fix defects, like cracks, and these are required (full resurface).
If it's been suggested then call your local pool company for suggestions on who does this type of work in your area.
i think its when they put stuff that protects the tile over them
If you are purchasing this house, you should have a pool inspection done prior to signing a contract. For about $200 (sometimes you can get the seller to pay for them) someone from a pool maintenance company will come out, test the equipment, take a look at the pool, and let you know what is really going on with it.
I would be leery if the pool as been empty for a year. First of all, with an in-ground pool, it should not be kept empty. The pressure from the ground and/or water-table can crack the pool or even "float" it out of the ground. Second, you have no idea if there are problems, such as leaks.
Generally "resurfacing" means that you have the surface of the pool re-done. They basically put a new coat of concrete or whatever surfacer they are using on it. This can be pricy. If the owner is saying that just the tiles need to be resurfaced, is he talking about the tile border at the top of the pool? If so, I'm not sure what he means. It could be that they are loose or need to be regrouted. You can tell if they are loose by taking a close look to see if any areas are raised and knocking on them to hear if they sound hollow.
I would ask he owner to tell you specifically what he means.
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