How Much Does Pool Tile Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $2,500 - $7,500
Retiling your pool costs $2,500 to $7,500, or $3,500 on average.
Retiling your pool can turn your dreams of lounging next to a sparkling, selfie-worthy pool into a reality. Pool tiling costs can depend on how big your pool is and what type of tiles you use. Overall, expect to pay an average of about $3,500 to replace tiling in a standard-sized pool, but it can range between $2,000 and $50,000—or estimate about $25 per square foot.
- Average
- $3,500
- Low end
- $2,000
- high end
- $50,000
Pool Tile Installation Cost Factors
When budgeting for your pool tile installation project, here are the important cost factors to keep in mind.
Pool Size
Whether you’re replacing pool tiling to repair damage or just to give your pool a fresh new look, it can cost anywhere from $1 to $100 per square foot to replace the tiling in a pool. Overall, the average cost to replace pooling tiling is about $25 per square foot, but the final price depends on what type of tile you use.
Porcelain and ceramic pool tiles cost around $1 and $35 per square foot. Pricier glass and mosaic pool tiles can cost between $35 and $100 per square foot. But no matter what kind of tiling you choose, the end result will be a spotless pool that you can enjoy all summer long.
Type of Tile
Whether you choose a wallet-friendly ceramic tile or an expensive glass mosaic, the type of tile is another significant cost factor. Mosaic tile starts at $75 and goes up to $100 per square foot, while ceramic starts at $1 and goes up to $35 per square foot.
Materials
Pool tile replacement costs are anywhere from $1 to $100 per square foot. Standard tiling options like porcelain and ceramic are more affordable, while specialty materials like glass and mosaic tiles cost more.
Labor
Labor for pool tile installation costs between $30 and $120 per hour, but can become more expensive depending on the size and surface material of your pool.
Waterline Pool Tile vs. Full Pool Tile Installation
Waterline pool tiles cost $25 per linear foot. These are usually 6 inches wide and go around the perimeter of your pool. Without waterline pool tiles, you’ll eventually notice your pool yellowing at the waterline.
Full pool tile installation, on the other hand, is a lot more costly since the tiles cover the entire pool. So if your budget won’t allow for a full tile installation, going with at least the waterline tiles is a great idea. Installing waterline pool tiles for a 10-by-20-foot pool will cost about $1,500.
Other Pool Repairs
If you need to replace pool tiling, odds are your pool may be due for some other repairs. For example, repairing or replacing the vinyl liner can cost between $350 and $4,100.
| Repair Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Fixing leaks | $10–$3,500 |
| Pool beam repair | $4,000–$5,000 |
| Pool lights repair | $65–$150 per light |
| Pool heater repair | $160–$730 |
| Vinyl liner repair | $350–$4,100 |
Cost to Install or Replace Pool Tiling by Type
Whether you’re dedicated to your morning swim or just like cooling off on warm summer afternoons, replacing your pool tile can make lazing poolside an even more enjoyable activity. Pool tiling types include porcelain, marble, glass, and more.
| Tile Type | Price Range (Per Square Foot) |
|---|---|
| Ceramic | $1–$35 |
| Porcelain | $2–$56 |
| Limestone | $2–$11 |
| Travertine | $3–$30 |
| Granite | $5–$6 |
| Marble | $10–$20 |
| Glass | $7–$50 |
| Mosaic | $75–$100 |
Ceramic
Ceramic pool tiles cost between $1 and $35 per square foot. This type of tile is one of the more affordable options while still coming in plenty of different attractive color combinations to suit any style. Ceramic tiles are also very durable and easy to maintain.
Porcelain
At $2 to $56 per square foot, porcelain is another relatively affordable option. Porcelain tiles are denser and even more durable than ceramic tiles. Porcelain pool tiles come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can customize your pool’s look.
Limestone
Limestone pool tiles cost an average of $2 to $11 per square foot. Limestone is extremely durable and comes in a variety of beautiful natural colors.
Travertine
Travertine is another type of stone tile that’s a popular option for pool tiling. Travertine tiles typically cost somewhere between $3 and $30 per square foot. They have a smooth, natural stone appearance, and are also often used for pool steps and decks.
Granite
Granite pool tiles cost an average of $5 to $6 per square foot. This affordable and long-lasting tiling option features bold textures that are sure to make a statement in your pool. Granite pool tiles are also very durable, making them a sturdy and long-lasting option for your pool.
Marble
If you’re going for a sleek, sophisticated pool look, marble tiling is a great option. These tiles typically cost between $10 and $20 per square foot. Marble is less durable than some other materials like granite and limestone.
Glass
Glass tiles are a luxury tiling option with an average cost of $7 to $50 per square foot. Glass is less durable and more expensive than other tiling options, but if you have a generous budget, glass tiles are a great way to make your pool stand out.
Mosaic
Mosaic tiling costs between $75 and $100 per square foot. While more expensive than other types of tiling, mosaic tiles can create a unique and eye-catching pattern for your pool.
Cost to Replace Pool Tiling Yourself
Thinking about cutting your pool tile costs by taking a DIY approach? Since labor costs an average of $30 to $120 per hour, you could potentially save several hundred dollars by installing pool tiles yourself.
That said, we don’t recommend tackling this project on your own, just like we don’t recommend trying to learn how to build a pool on your own. Having a professional install your pool tiles can help ensure that the project is successful and you don’t end up with crooked or uneven tiles. A pool tile repair company near you will be able to give you a more personalized quote and figure out services within your budget.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIYing your pool tile installation can save you plenty of money on your inground pool costs, but unless you have extensive experience working on pools, it’s better to hire a pro. For example, if you use the wrong mortar or grout, your tiles could fall off. If you don’t properly level the cement underneath, your tile won’t be flush against the pool walls. In some cases, poor tile installation can contribute to damage to the pool shell.
A pool is a big investment, and pool repair costs can surpass hundreds of dollars quickly, so it’s best to hand this job off to a pro who can get it done safely and correctly.
Margaret Wack contributed to this piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pool remodel costs are pricey, so you want to make sure you do it right. The best pool tile for you is one that looks great and fits your budget. If you have your heart set on a particular tile but can’t afford to tile your whole pool in that style, consider tiling only a small area or portion of your pool with specialty tile.
Whether it’s worth it to tile your pool will depend on your needs and wants. The most obvious advantage to tiling a pool is that your swimming area will be eye-catching. Also, tile is fairly low-maintenance and highly durable. However, it might not be worthwhile for you if you’re happy with how your pool already looks or if you’re prioritizing saving money on the cost of building a pool.
Your pool tiles will last five to 10 years, depending on how well you maintain them. The best thing you can do to help increase your tiles’ life span is to keep a close eye on the chemical levels in the water. Clean away any deposits, keep your waterline clean, and reseal your tile grout every three to five years.
Because replacing pool tiles requires fully draining your pool, it’s a great opportunity to complete other projects. You may want to replace your pool’s vinyl liner or repair cracks. You might also replace your swimming pool heater or even take on the cost of resurfacing your pool. Resurfacing, although relatively costly, can help prolong the life span of your pool.
Proper pool maintenance is essential to extend the life of your pool and make sure that your tiles look shiny new for years to come. Regular pool maintenance can also help to ensure that you and your guests are safe when swimming. You should be sure to clean your pool on a weekly basis, adjust your pool’s chemistry when needed, and make sure that water is circulating properly.