If you’re thinking about pool renovations, you’ve probably heard the phrase “swimming pool coping tiles.” It’s a popular term, but here’s the truth: it actually refers to two completely different parts of your swimming pool. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re dealing with.

What Are Swimming Pool Coping Tiles, Really?

“Swimming pool coping tiles” is a mash-up of two pool features: coping and tiles. They’re both important, but they serve different purposes.

Coping is the cap or edging around the top of your pool. It’s what you step on when you climb in or out. It also keeps water from sneaking behind the pool shell. Materials for coping can be stone, concrete, or pre-cast pavers.

Tiles, on the other hand, are usually installed just below the coping, at the waterline inside the pool. They help waterproof the pool and add a polished, finished look. Pool tiles can be ceramic, glass, or porcelain.

So, when people say “swimming pool coping tiles,” they might mean either coping, tiles, or both—but now you know they’re two different things!

Why It Matters When Renovating

Understanding the difference between coping and tiles is important when planning a renovation. If your coping is cracked or your tiles are falling off, fixing just one could leave the other looking worn out.

As Joey Zabel, owner of Great Falls Pools, says: “We recommend doing them at the same time in pool renovations.”

Why? It’s more cost-effective, your pool gets a full refresh, and you won’t have mismatched materials. Plus, it saves you from draining your pool twice—and no one wants to waste a perfectly good swim season.

A Quick Look at Materials

• Coping options: Travertine, limestone, concrete, brick
• Tile options: Glass mosaic, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone

Choosing complementary materials for coping and tiles ensures your pool looks seamless and gorgeous.

See It In Action

Curious how new coping and tiles transform a pool? Check out our beautiful gallery of past renovation and construction projects. You’ll see how updating both can make your backyard feel brand-new.

Final Thoughts

“Swimming pool coping tiles” might sound like one thing, but it’s really two. Coping frames and protects your pool, while tiles line the inside and add style. If you’re thinking about a pool renovation, remember Joey’s advice—do them together for the best results.

At Great Falls Pools, we love helping homeowners in Great Falls, Virginia, create stunning outdoor spaces. Ready to give your pool the makeover it deserves? Let’s get started!

Call us today! Schedule your renovation of your swimming pool coping and tiles in Northern Virginia. Our service area includes Great Falls, McLean, Falls Church, Arlington, Oakton, Reston, Vienna, Northwest Washington DC, and Potomac, MD.