Pool Coping Repair | Guide to Common Issues and What You Can Do
If you’re planning to repair your pool coping or install a new pool deck, there are a lot of decisions to make. Learn common signs of pool coping problems and possible ways to repair it.
Updated: July 1, 2024
Pool coping repair isn’t something you should put off for later. Cracks, leaks, and other pool coping problems can start as small issues. But if they’re not fixed, they’ll eventually lead to big (and expensive!) problems.
- So what are some of the most common issues with damaged pool coping?
- What can you do to repair your swimming pool coping?
- Should you try to repair the coping yourself, or hire a professional?
In this 5-minute read, you’ll get the basics on pool coping repair and tips, so you can make the right decision for your pool. Let’s look at several of the most common pool coping problems homeowners are likely to encounter. This will help you decide when it’s time for replacement pool coping.
Tip! – If you want to learn more about different types of pool coping, check out our article Pool Coping Guide: What Is It & Why Do You Need It?
Problem #1 - Poorly Installed Pool Coping
- Problem:
All pool coping will need maintenance from time to time. But, if your pool coping tiles move or develop cracks soon after installation, you need to get the tile checked right away. This likely means that something was not done properly during installation and could quickly lead to serious problems that could even damage your concrete pool
- Repair
This is not a DIY repair you can perform. Call a pool or masonry company to properly diagnose the problem and perform the work safely. If you’re in the Garland, Texas area, give us a call at Alexander and Xavier Masonry for a FREE consultation.
Problem #2 - Loose or Missing Mortar
- Problem:
This is a common issue, especially with natural stone pool coping with large mortar joints. As the mortar or grout between the coping stones gets wet, dries, freezes, and thaws, it will expand and contract. Over time, this weakens the mortar and can cause it to crack, loosen, and even fall out.
- Repair
Grind out the mortar joints around the edge of the pool and replace it with new mortar. This is a dirty job so many leave it to the professionals. Smaller areas of missing mortar are easily filled by handy DIYers.
Problem #3 - Loose Pool Coping Stones
- Problem:
Check each pool coping stone or tile. Is it loose? Can you see the material moving when you step on it? If you tap the surface of each with a hammer, does it sound solid or hollow? Do you see cracks around the stones? Does the bond to the concrete beam underneath seem loose?
- Repair
Loose stones and tile can have a variety of causes. If there’s no flexible joint between the coping and the deck, the expansion and contraction of the concrete pool and deck will cause extra wear and tear. With time, this can actually pop the stones or tiles loose. Another possibility is that the incorrect adhesive material was used to bond the pool coping materials to the concrete beam underneath.
If you’re not sure if the problem is with your pool coping or the concrete beam underneath, it’s best to contact an expert so they can identify and fix the cracks, loose coping pieces and any of the underlying issues.
Problem #4 - Damaged Pool Mastic
- Problem:
Check the joint that separates the pool coping from the rest of the swimming pool deck. If there is damage on the flexible mastic or caulk, it’s deteriorating, or even missing, it’s time to have it repaired. This prevents water damage to the pool and pool deck.
- Repair
Pool mastic repair is one of the most common pool maintenance tasks for concrete swimming pools and pool coping. In fact, for most pools, you will need to replace the caulk around the edge of the coping about once every 5 years. Fortunately, these materials are easy to purchase and the repair is something most “handy” homeowners can tackle without having to call a professional pool company.
Problem #5 - No Expansion Joint
- Problem:
If your pool doesn’t have a caulk or other expansion joint between the pool coping and the pool deck, you may need to get this addressed immediately! This can put extra stress on the pool deck, coping stones, and can even compromise the structural integrity of your pool walls over time.
NOTE! If you have a poured concrete pool deck with cantilevered coping and/or a fiberglass pool, you may not have and need an expansion joint. However, if you have an inground concrete pool with any kind of coping stone — pavers, travertine, brick, flagstone, etc.— then you 100% need expansion joints.
- Repair
This is one of the many pool coping structural repairs you shouldn’t tackle yourself. To fix it, the coping stones will likely need to be removed, cut, and reinstalled. It’s best to hire a professional for this big job.
If you’re in the Dallas – Fort Worth, TX area, give us a call today at A&X Masonry for a FREE consultation and estimate. (972) 217-0296
Problem #6 - Water Leaking Underneath Pool Coping
- Problem:
If you live in an area with frequent freeze/thaw cycles, water that seeps into the ground around the pool can gradually weaken the materials that hold the pool’s coping in place. The likely cause is damage to the caulking, mastic, or grout.
- Repair
The damage needs to be identified and repaired. Small areas of cracked grout or caulking can be a relatively easy fix. Just remove the damaged mortars or caulk and fill it with new. But if the coping stones are loose and there are large areas of grout and mastic you need replacement, you may need to call professional masons with experience working with pools so they can install new coping or repair the existing coping.
Problem #7 - Sunken or Raised Pool Decks
- Problem:
Over time you may notice a growing difference in the height of the pool deck and coping. This is a common sign that either the pool or the deck is shifting and settling. Usually, this is caused by improper ground compacting and site preparation during installation.
- Repair
If this is the case with your pool, it likely will require major repairs. It’s time to call the experts. They’ll be able to diagnose the problem and offer the best possible solution for your pool.
Got a Problem With Your Pool Coping?
Trying to DIY pool coping repairs is ok for small problems and routine maintenance. But if you notice more serious damage, don’t wait to call in the experts. Removing pool coping and replacing pool coping is a dirty and challenging job. And if it’s not done right, it can cause expensive problems down the road.
Be sure to ask what experience they’ve had with pool installation. Also ask about previous repairs they performed. And work together to find the best possible solution for your swimming pool. They’ll help you save money and provide a safe place for your family for years to come.
If you’re in the Garland, Texas area, give us a call today at A&X Masonry. Don’t wait, get your FREE consultation.
Pool Coping Repair FAQs
Can you replace pool coping without draining the pool?
Yes, you can replace pool coping without draining the pool. Skilled professionals can perform the necessary repairs while the pool remains filled, ensuring minimal disruption to your pool usage.
Is it normal for pool coping to crack?
Yes, it is normal for pool coping to crack over time due to factors like weather conditions, ground movement, and regular wear and tear. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent extensive damage.
What kind of mortar do you use for pool coping?
The best type of mortar for pool coping is a high-quality, flexible thin-set mortar or a specialized pool coping mortar designed to withstand moisture, temperature changes, and movement.