Grout/mortar repair

[PaulaT]

Advice please..I have about a 30 year old pool in FL. We are pretty new to the pool game and are doing pretty well. However quite a bit of out grout at the water line is missing. No tiles have fallen out-yet. these gaps are very black-algae I'm assuming. So what is the best way to;
1) clean the gaps...bleach? and a toothbrush?
2) what exactly is the product I need to replace the missing grout/mortar? I see many kinds out there but does anyone have a first hand experience using any of them.
I want to do this once and do it right.
ALSO- specific techniques and tools I'll need for this project? We are pretty good DIY-ers but have never done anything like this so tips would be great.
one last thing- how much do we have to worry about what falls into the pool? Just do our best and scoop it out with a skimmer I assume?
Thanks In Advance

 

[ajw22]

Welcome to TFP.

I use..

Tile

e-zpatch.com

Post pics of your tile and bad grout areas and we can discuss tools and techniques.

 

[PaulaT]

 

[PaulaT]

Here is a good idea of the grout missing and filled with black algae

 

[ajw22]

• Good surface preparation is key to good results. You need to clean out the algae with chlorine and a wire brush and loose grout with a grout saw
• Raise your FC level so you have 2 days of FC demand.
• Lower the water level below the tile. That will be below your skimmer so turn off your pump.
• Mix the grout in a plastic cup or small bucket. I mix a small batch and work on an area then mix another batch. Grout should be the consistency of mashed potatoes. If it is too watery then add a bit more power; too thick dribble in a bit of water. You will get the feel of it after a few batches.
• I use a latex gloved hand and smooth the grout into the lines
• Let the grout harden a bit and wipe down the tiles using a large sponge with clean water
• Any grout that falls into the water dissolves and your filter will handle.
• Let the grout set for 24 hours before raising the water level.

The prep work is 70% of the effort.

 

[PaulaT]

All great advice. Thanks so much! I'll let you know how it turns out.