An Introduction to Waterline Tile Selection

Waterline tile is the stripe of tile around the inner perimeter of your pool that protects and beautifies the pool. Waterline tiles are formulated to handle pool chemicals, harsh sunlight and the long term effects of being constantly underwater. 

Here are some of the reasons a pool needs waterline tile:

To prevent mineral buildup

Hard water is harsh on clothing, skin, and plumbing, but it is also hard on the waterline of a pool--literally. Over time, hard water forms an unsightly white crust, which is wretchedly challenging to remove. Tile at the waterline makes this task possible.

To prevent scum buildup

In addition to hard water encrustation, the surface of the pool is a thick haze of materials ranging from body oil to suntan lotion, to pollen and more. This mix combines with the mineral buildup on the waterline and creates an even uglier ring! Having a line of waterline tile offers some protection against the mixture of scum and mineral deposits.

Color and beauty

Waterline tiles bring a pool to life. They add great sparkle and a dash of color. Selecting the color will depend on the type of tile the homeowner wants, which is often closely tied to the budget. The waterline tile should establish or reinforce the pool’s theme and looks good with the coping and other features of the pool. 

Choosing a material

As part of the selection process, the pool owner should learn the different types of tile available. 

Types of tile include the most common waterline tile, which is porcelain. Porcelain is durable and smooth, so it’s easy to clean. Stone is an option if there is another stone in the pool features. Stone gives a pool an earthy feel, but softer varieties aren’t suitable. Mosaic tiles offer color and interest. They come in a variety of materials, but porcelain is typical. Glass is a luxury material for a waterline tile, because it is labor-intensive, but comes in a myriad of colors, and the results are gorgeous.

Matching the coping and theme of the pool

Matching the waterline tile with the coping and the theme of the pool ensures that the pool has a cohesive, attractive finish. For example, many people opt to use a stone for a waterline tile when their coping is stone. The combination creates an oasis of beauty.

Professional help

Perhaps the number of options and colors is overwhelming, particularly for a homeowner who hasn’t had a lot of experience in selecting waterline tile. A professional designer can help! By focusing on the wishes and color choices of the homeowner, and the pool theme, a professional can guide the homeowner through the selection process. With a little professional help, the homeowner will soon be swimming in the pool of his dreams, complete with sparkling, sensational waterline tile.

North Valley Stone is a family-owned and operated company serving Phoenix and surrounding areas. We strive to bring our customers natural stone and quality materials at affordable prices.  Call us today at (623)244-8657.