Father and two sons swimming in an immaculately clean swimming pool

Making An Aging Pool Look New Again: 4 Clever Tips

Everyone loves a swimming pool that looks clear and inviting. A pool that looks clean can add a great deal of value to a home, but what can be done when the water is cloudy? In fact, there are some clever tricks you can use to get your water looking crystal clear again. No one wants to swim in a pool that’s full of algae and other debris, but the truth is it happens.

Fortunately, it’s not time to close up the pool for good. Algae grow rapidly in warm water and can be difficult to control if you don’t know how or have the right tools. Luckily, there are some simple things you can do that will keep your pool clean and clear for years to come.

1. Replace Tile

Tile is a common feature in older pools and can be the source of most problems. As tiles become older they begin to deteriorate which can allow water to seep under them, providing a breeding ground for algae. The pool gets dirty quickly when this happens because there’s always constant moisture underneath the tile that promotes growth.

If you see dark spots forming on the tiles, it’s time to replace them. Purchase new pieces of tile that are slightly larger than the current ones, remove the stains if there are any, and make sure they can fit properly with no gaps. When you’re finished replacing the tiles, ensure they are even with the surrounding surface. Tile also has to be the right material for the pool because some types will break down in certain chemicals. Replace any tile that’s broken or eroded, even if it doesn’t appear to be dirty.

2. Change Coping

The coping is the material that lines the edge of your pool. Over time, coping begins to erode and crumble which can allow water to sneak underneath it. This creates a clinging, damp environment where algae can thrive. Eventually, dirt accumulates on top of the coping around the edges of the pool which also gets into the water by way of rain, wind, rain gutters, and sprinklers.

If you see dirt building up around the edges of your pool or in line with the coping, it’s time to remove all the old coping tiles and replace them. They’re easy to remove by chipping away at them with a hammer then cleaning off any excess debris. When you’re finished, lay down new coping tiles and mortar, ensuring they are even with the surrounding surface.

3. Clean The Pool Filter

A pool filter is a powerful tool that can make or break your water quality. If clogged up, it will not strain out debris from the water which allows algae to grow quickly. In fact, a clogged filter is usually one of the main reasons why pools turn green.

Clean the filter by removing it from the pool and giving it a good scrub down with a stiff brush. Check for any cracks or signs of wear and replace them at once. When you’re finished cleaning the filter, ensure it’s dry before putting it back into the pool. You can use a hairdryer to speed up this process, just keep it on low heat and aim away from the filter itself so you don’t damage it.

When filters get clogged up with debris, they have to work harder to remove water from the pool which can waste a lot of energy and money. Backwashing the filter allows for a more efficient cleaning process that filters out dirt and other debris then sends it back into the pool water.

Child in swimming cap using inflatable toy in a clean swimming pool

4. Apply Mosaics

Mosaics are colourful tiles that can be applied to the bottom or sides of your pool for a vibrant, eye-catching look. They come in several different styles and colours so you’ll have no trouble finding some that work well with your home decor. Mosaics are also relatively inexpensive and can make a pool look brand new after they’ve been installed.

Mosaics are great for covering up unsightly waterline marks leftover from everyday elements like rain, wind, sprinklers, etc. They’re not just decorative either because they can be used as tiles to walk on, to prevent slipping. Smaller mosaics are designed for the bottom of pools while larger tiles can be used around the waterline.

These are just 4 clever tips to help restore your pool back to what it once was. There are other ways to achieve a clearer, pristine pool but these tips will get you the best results. Once you’ve finished restoring your pool, take a moment to invest in your backyard by purchasing high-quality outdoor furniture and accessories for it!