Common Causes of Damaged Pool Coping & What You Need to Do

Pool coping is a critical step in your pool building; it is part of the swimming pool that protects it against water damage. 


It also makes it look more attractive and inviting for swimmers and sunbathers! Unfortunately, over time, pool coping can suffer from various types of damage that require your pool coping repair and replacement


Having a pool in your backyard is always great fun—but what's not so much fun is when the coping around your pool starts to suffer damage.


Causes of Damages in the Pool Coping

Often the cause of pool coping damage is environmental factors and poor maintenance practices. Here is a closer look at each common cause of why pool coping begins to wear and tear.

1. Cracks and Chips from Foot Traffic and Heavy Use

Pool coping takes a lot of abuse, and it can crack, chip, warp or discolor over time due to several factors. The good news is that with regular pool maintenance and repair work, you can often prevent severe damage from occurring.

2. Pool Chemistry

Pool chemistry is also one reason why a pool coping might degrade. A specialist must concoct the PH components of your pool water, and too many chemicals would destroy the pool edging and covering materials.

3. Exposure to Outdoors Elements

One issue that commonly affects pool coping is exposure to the elements. Pool salts, chlorine, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures all contribute to wear and tear on the edging material surrounding your swimming area. 


If left unchecked, this can lead to cracks and chips in the coping that can compromise the structural integrity of your pool. The best way to avoid this issue is to inspect your pool regularly for signs of wear. If any damage occurs, make sure you get it fixed quickly by a qualified professional.

4. Improper Installation

Another problem that commonly arises with pool coping is improper installation. Pool edging needs to be installed correctly for it to be effective at keeping water where it belongs. 


Suppose the coping needs to be adequately secured, or there are gaps between sections. In that case, water will seep through and cause serious damage over time. 


It's vital to ensure that your coping was installed according to the manufacturer's specifications. If there's any doubt, have Heintz Pool & Spa professional come and look.

What to Do About Pool Coping Damage? 

Construction worker using brush won wet cement forming coping around new pool

Now it is important to remember that pool coping is flexible. Even with the best maintenance and repair efforts, it may eventually become necessary to replace your pool edging entirely.


If you find yourself in this situation, make sure to use a quality material that is fit for purpose and properly installed by an experienced pool & spa professional.


It is crucial to assess the damage in your pool and spa materials to find the right system to treat it.

Pool Coping Repair vs. Replacement Options

Pool coping refers to the material used to seal the edge of a pool, most commonly tile and concrete. Coping can become damaged by weather conditions, pool chemistry, or poor installation or maintenance practices.


Pool edging needs to be repaired promptly to prevent further damage that could compromise the pool's structural integrity.


If you notice any wear on your coping, it is important to assess the extent of the damage before deciding whether a repair or replacement is necessary. 


Pool coping repairs usually seal cracks and chips with an epoxy-based filler and grout. This serves as a waterproof sealer for loose sections on the coping layers of the pool before it gets filled with water, 



In some cases where significant areas are affected, a complete replacement may be necessary to protect your pool from water damage adequately.


Pool coping repair and replacement can be costly but will help ensure your swimming area remains safe and secure for years to come. 

The Wrap-up

So there you have it! Pool edging repairs and maintenance might not always be glamorous, but taking care of it is essential. It is also wise to hire pool builders and specialists, like Heintz Pool & Spa, if you want to keep your pool looking its best over time. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and proper installation will let you enjoy your swimming pool for years.


Related article: What to Avoid When Opening the Pools for Spring

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