Installing pool waterline tile

[JD]

I'm replacing the waterline tile on my pool and need to know what would be the best type of product to use to level the concrete surface under the tile. After removing the old tile which was 6" square tiles the suface is very irregular. I am installing a tile that is mounted on a mesh backer so the surface needs to be a smoother so that all the little pieces look flat. How long should I wait before I apply the tile after I level the surface? I bought my tile from a tile company that specializes in pool tile. They sold me everything I need except this. Please help!!

Thanks,
JD

[John Bridge]

Hi JD, Welcome.

Have you drained the pool or simply lowered the waterline?

If when you removed the old tiles they pulled the thin set along with them, I would use mortar (mud) to fair out the substrate. I'm talking about brick mortar now. You must rough up the existing mortar, dampen it and then apply the new mud, keeping it on the loose or fluid side. It's an eye ball sort of operation.

If the old thin set is still in place I would use white thin set to patch and smooth it. Not being a pool guy, I'm not sure which product would be best. Check with the folks where you bought the tiles.

[Bri]

Hi
Why not just fix the area with the same thin set you will use with the tile? It may take a few coats if the area to be fixed has some big holes in it..but at least you know it will stick.