Introduction
This is part 6 of a story that documents how to build a gunite pool. Click these links for Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, or Part 5 of the story.
Day 7 – Tiling
During day 7, the tile at the top of the pool is installed. This work requires precision and an attention to details. The workers are highly skilled and experienced. It was very interesting to see how they did the work.
The day begins by building the scaffolding needed to reach the top of the pool in the deep end. A smooth layer of plaster is applied to the upper 8 to 10 inches of the pool, which is where the tile will be applied. A laser level is used to shoot a horizontal line onto the plaster base layer to properly place the tile. Based on this level line, a baseplate is hammered into gunite to support the tile as it dries. This baseplate is the black material shown in the photos below.
Once the plaster base layer is complete and the base plate is installed, the tiling begins and the proceeds around the pool. Spacers are used to ensure proper tile alignment. Detailed tile work is needed around the skimmer, as shown in the photos.
Once all the tiles are installed, the grout is applied in between the tiles. This job is meticulous and is a full day of work. It is a critical piece of building the pool and experience and skill is mandatory.
Upcoming In The Next Article
Day 8 – Concrete deck preparation
