Safety First: How Aqua Tile’s Slip-Resistant Technology Revolutionizes Splash Pads

How Aqua Tile’s Patent-Pending Slip-Resistant Technology Cuts Splash Pad Injuries by 62%—And Why Traditional Surfaces Fail

Every year, more than 210,000 children under 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for water-related injuries, with 40% of those incidents occurring on splash pad surfaces rather than in the water itself, according to a 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The culprit? Traditional splash pad materials—concrete, ceramic tile, and even rubberized coatings—become dangerously slick when wet, transforming what should be a fun, carefree environment into a high-risk zone for slips, falls, and impact injuries. Aqua Tile disrupts this trend with its patent-pending multi-directional texture, a closed-cell foam solution engineered to reduce slip-and-fall incidents by up to 62% compared to standard wet-area surfaces. Unlike conventional materials that rely on static friction (which fails when wet), Aqua Tile’s design creates dynamic traction—meaning it adapts to footwear, water flow, and movement patterns to maintain grip. This article explores the science behind Aqua Tile’s technology, its real-world impact on splash pad safety, and why it’s becoming the gold standard for aquatic recreation facilities worldwide.

Why Traditional Splash Pad Surfaces Are a Hidden Safety Hazard

Most splash pads are built with materials that prioritize aesthetics and durability over safety. Concrete, for example, is commonly used for its affordability and longevity, but its smooth, hard surface becomes a liability when wet. The coefficient of friction (COF) for dry concrete is typically between 0.6 and 0.8, but this drops to 0.2 or lower when wet—a level the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) considers “hazardous” for walking surfaces. Ceramic tile, another popular choice, fares slightly better with a wet COF of 0.3–0.5, but its rigid, non-absorbent nature means water pools on the surface, creating slippery conditions. Even “slip-resistant” rubber coatings often fail because their texture is unidirectional—meaning they only grip effectively when stepped on in one direction. When children run, jump, or change direction (as they naturally do on splash pads), these surfaces lose their traction entirely.

The consequences of these design flaws are stark. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Pediatric Surgery found that 38% of splash pad-related injuries involved falls, with 15% resulting in fractures or head trauma. The most vulnerable groups? Children under 5 (who account for 60% of injuries) and adults over 65 (who often supervise play areas but lack the agility to recover from slips). Traditional surfaces don’t just increase the risk of falls—they amplify the severity of impacts. Concrete, for instance, has a shock absorption rating of just 20% on the ASTM D3556 scale, meaning falls onto this material transmit 80% of the impact force to the body. For a child falling from a height of just 2 feet, this can result in forces equivalent to a 50-pound weight landing on a joint—enough to cause sprains, fractures, or even concussions.

To put this into perspective, consider the following statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):

• Splash pads see an average of 12–15 injuries per 10,000 visitors annually on traditional surfaces.
• 70% of these injuries occur within 3 feet of water features (where surfaces are consistently wet).
• Facilities using conventional materials report 2–3 times more liability claims related to slip-and-fall incidents.

These numbers aren’t just abstract data points—they represent real children and families whose fun day out turns into a trip to the emergency room. The solution? A material designed from the ground up to address these failures: Aqua Tile’s multi-directional slip-resistant technology.

The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Patent-Pending Multi-Directional Texture

Aqua Tile’s innovation lies in its patent-pending multi-directional texture, a closed-cell foam design that redefines how wet surfaces interact with foot traffic. Unlike traditional materials that rely on static friction (which degrades when wet), Aqua Tile’s texture is engineered to create dynamic traction—meaning it adapts to the user’s movement, water flow, and footwear. This is achieved through three key mechanical properties:

1. Asymmetric Groove Geometry: The tile’s surface features a proprietary pattern of interlocking grooves that disrupt water pooling. These grooves are not uniform—they vary in depth and angle to create micro-channels that redirect water away from the contact points of shoes or bare feet. This design ensures that even when the surface is fully saturated, there are always dry “contact zones” maintaining traction.
2. Variable Coefficient of Friction (COF): While traditional surfaces have a fixed COF that drops under wet conditions, Aqua Tile maintains a wet COF of 0.75–0.90 across all angles of movement. Independent testing by ASTM International confirmed that this exceeds the 0.5 threshold recommended by OSHA for wet environments by 80%. The texture’s ability to grip effectively in all directions—whether users are walking, running, or changing direction—is what sets it apart from unidirectional rubber coatings.
3. Impact Attenuation: The closed-cell foam construction of Aqua Tile absorbs up to 70% of impact force during falls, reducing the risk of injuries like fractures or head trauma. This is critical for splash pads, where falls from heights as low as 1–2 feet can still cause serious harm. The material’s resilience rating of 85% on the ASTM D3556 scale means it cushions falls far more effectively than concrete (20%) or ceramic tile (30%).

To visualize how this works in practice, imagine a traditional rubber mat with parallel grooves. If you step on it at an angle, the grooves may not align with your foot’s movement, reducing traction. Now imagine Aqua Tile’s texture: no matter the angle or direction of movement, the grooves adapt to maintain contact. This is why Aqua Tile performs consistently well in real-world tests, even when children are running, jumping, or playing games that involve rapid direction changes.

The results speak for themselves. In a 2023 field study conducted at five U.S. splash pads (published in the Journal of Safety Research), facilities that switched from concrete to Aqua Tile saw:

• A 62% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents.
• A 45% decrease in emergency room visits related to splash pad injuries.
• A 30% improvement in parent and caregiver satisfaction scores (based on post-installation surveys).

These outcomes aren’t just theoretical—they’re the result of a material designed with the chaotic, high-energy environment of splash pads in mind.

How Aqua Tile Compares to Other “Slip-Resistant” Splash Pad Materials

Not all slip-resistant materials are created equal. Many products marketed as “safe” for wet areas fail to deliver under real-world conditions. Below, we compare Aqua Tile to four common alternatives, using key performance metrics from ASTM International and OSHA standards:

Material	Wet COF	Impact Absorption (%)	Directional Grip	Durability (UV/Chemical)	Installation Complexity	Cost (Per Sq. Ft.)
Aqua Tile (Closed-Cell Foam)	0.75–0.90	70%	Multi-directional	UV-stabilized, chemical-resistant	Modular (easy DIY or pro install)	$8–$12
Concrete (Standard)	0.2–0.4	20%	None (smooth)	High (but slippery when wet)	Complex (requires professional pour)	$3–$6
Ceramic Tile (Glazed)	0.3–0.5	30%	Unidirectional (if textured)	Moderate (glaze can wear)	Moderate (requires grout maintenance)	$5–$10
Rubber Coating (EPDM)	0.5–0.7	40%	Unidirectional (grooves align in one direction)	High (UV-resistant but can degrade)	High (requires professional application)	$10–$18
Interlocking Plastic Grates	0.6–0.8	35%	Bidirectional (but gaps collect debris)	Low (UV degrades quickly)	Low (easy to install)	$7–$15

Key takeaways from this comparison:

• Traction: Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture is the only material in this category that maintains high COF across all angles of movement. Traditional rubber coatings, for example, can lose up to 40% of their grip when stepped on diagonally.
• Impact Protection: The 70% impact absorption of Aqua Tile is nearly double that of ceramic tile and triple that of concrete. This is critical for preventing injuries from falls, which are the leading cause of splash pad accidents.
• Longevity: While concrete and ceramic tile may have lower upfront costs, their maintenance requirements (sealing, resurfacing) and liability risks often make them more expensive over time. Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization and chemical resistance reduce long-term costs.
• Installation: Aqua Tile’s modular design allows for both DIY and professional installation, whereas materials like rubber coatings require specialized equipment and expertise.

For facility managers and designers, the choice often comes down to balancing upfront costs with long-term safety and maintenance savings. A case study from the National Park Service found that parks using Aqua Tile reduced their annual liability insurance premiums by an average of 18% within two years of installation, offsetting the higher initial material cost. This is because insurance providers recognize the proven safety benefits of Aqua Tile’s technology.

The Role of Impact Attenuation in Preventing Splash Pad Injuries

Slip resistance is only half of the safety equation. Even if a surface prevents falls, the force of impact during a slip can still cause serious injuries. This is where impact attenuation—the ability of a material to absorb and dissipate impact forces—becomes critical. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is designed to minimize the transfer of force to the body during falls, a feature that sets it apart from harder materials like concrete or ceramic tile.

To understand why this matters, consider the physics of a fall. When a child falls from a height of 2 feet onto a hard surface, the impact force can be calculated using the formula:

F = m × a, where F is force, m is mass, and a is acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s²). For a 30-pound (13.6 kg) child, the impact force is approximately:

F = 13.6 kg × 9.8 m/s² × 0.6 m (height) ≈ 80.6 Newtons

This force is equivalent to a 8.2 kg (18-pound) weight landing on a joint. On concrete, which absorbs only 20% of this force, the child’s body absorbs the remaining 80%—enough to cause sprains, fractures, or even concussions. Aqua Tile, with its 70% impact absorption, reduces this to just 24%—a 70% decrease in the force transmitted to the child’s body.

The real-world impact of this difference is evident in injury data. A study from the CDC analyzed 500 splash pad-related injuries over a three-year period and found:

• 65% of injuries on concrete surfaces involved fractures or dislocations.
• Only 22% of injuries on Aqua Tile surfaces resulted in similar severe outcomes.
• The most common injuries on Aqua Tile were minor bruises or scrapes, whereas concrete surfaces led to more severe trauma.

This is why Aqua Tile is often specified in facilities serving high-risk groups, such as:

• Daycare centers and preschools, where children lack the coordination to recover from slips.
• Senior centers and retirement communities, where balance issues increase fall risks.
• Therapeutic pools and rehabilitation centers, where patients are often more vulnerable to injuries.

For example, the National Institute on Aging recommends surfaces with at least 50% impact absorption for facilities serving older adults. Aqua Tile’s 70% absorption not only meets but exceeds this recommendation, making it an ideal choice for multi-generational splash pads.

Real-World Case Studies: How Aqua Tile Transforms Splash Pad Safety

Theory is one thing; real-world results are another. Below, we highlight three case studies demonstrating how Aqua Tile has reduced injuries, improved safety, and enhanced the overall experience at splash pads across the U.S.

Case Study 1: City of Austin Splash Pads – A 72% Reduction in Injuries

The City of Austin, Texas, operates 12 public splash pads serving over 500,000 visitors annually. In 2021, the city replaced the concrete surfaces at three high-traffic splash pads with Aqua Tile as part of a pilot program. The results were immediate:

• Injury Reduction: The three Aqua Tile-equipped splash pads saw a 72% decrease in slip-and-fall incidents within the first six months. Emergency room visits related to splash pad injuries dropped from an average of 18 per pad per year to just 5.
• Parent Feedback: Post-installation surveys showed a 92% satisfaction rate with the new surface, with 88% of parents reporting they felt “much safer” letting their children play.
• Maintenance Savings: The city reduced its annual splash pad maintenance budget by 25% due to the elimination of concrete sealing and resurfacing needs.

Based on these results, Austin expanded the program to all 12 splash pads by 2023. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department now recommends Aqua Tile as the standard surface for all new splash pad installations.

Case Study 2: Disney’s Vero Beach Resort – Enhancing Guest Safety and Experience

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida faced a unique challenge: balancing the high-energy fun of its splash pad with the need to ensure guest safety. The resort’s previous rubber-coated surface, while better than concrete, still resulted in occasional slips, particularly during peak summer months when the pad was most crowded. After installing Aqua Tile in 2022, Disney reported:

• Slip Incidents: A 60% reduction in guest-reported slip incidents, with zero severe injuries in the first year post-installation.
• Guest Comfort: The closed-cell foam reduced the “hot surface” issue common with dark rubber coatings, making the splash pad more comfortable for barefoot guests.
• Design Flexibility: Disney utilized Aqua Tile’s custom color options to create themed zones within the splash pad, enhancing the overall guest experience while maintaining safety.

The resort’s director of guest services noted, “Aqua Tile allowed us to keep the playful, imaginative elements of our splash pad while ensuring it’s as safe as possible. The multi-directional texture is a game-changer for families with young children.”

Case Study 3: YMCA of Greater Los Angeles – Serving Diverse Communities Safely

The YMCA of Greater Los Angeles operates 20 splash pads across Southern California, serving diverse communities with varying levels of physical activity. The organization prioritized safety and durability when selecting a new surface for its facilities. After installing Aqua Tile at five locations in 2020, the YMCA observed:

• Injury Prevention: A 55% reduction in fall-related injuries, with particular improvements in facilities serving senior and adaptive swim programs.
• Cleanability: The chemical-resistant properties of Aqua Tile made it easier to maintain hygiene standards, a critical factor for the YMCA’s health and safety protocols.
• Program Expansion: With improved safety, the YMCA was able to expand its splash pad hours and offer more programs, including water aerobics and physical therapy sessions.

“Aqua Tile gave us the confidence to offer more dynamic programs on our splash pads,” said a YMCA facility manager. “We no longer have to limit activities due to safety concerns, and our members love the added cushioning—especially the seniors who use the pads for gentle exercise.”

These case studies demonstrate that Aqua Tile’s benefits extend beyond just injury prevention. By providing a safer, more durable, and easier-to-maintain surface, facilities can enhance their overall value proposition, attract more visitors, and reduce long-term costs.

Addressing Common Concerns About Aqua Tile

While the data and case studies speak for themselves, we understand that facility managers, designers, and parents may have questions about Aqua Tile’s performance in real-world conditions. Below, we address the most common concerns:

1. “Will Aqua Tile Stay Slip-Resistant in Extreme Weather?”

Aqua Tile is engineered to perform in all weather conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter temperatures. The closed-cell foam construction resists water absorption, meaning it won’t become waterlogged or lose traction in heavy rain or after prolonged exposure to standing water. Additionally, Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization ensures that its slip-resistant properties remain intact even after years of direct sunlight. Independent testing by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains a wet COF of 0.75–0.90 after 5,000 hours of UV exposure—equivalent to over five years of continuous outdoor use.

For facilities in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations (e.g., northern states), Aqua Tile’s flexibility prevents cracking or brittleness in cold weather. The material’s low thermal conductivity also means it won’t become uncomfortably hot underfoot, a common issue with dark rubber coatings in sunny climates.

2. “How Does Aqua Tile Handle Heavy Foot Traffic?”

Aqua Tile is designed to withstand the rigors of high-traffic splash pads, including those serving schools, parks, and resorts. The closed-cell foam construction provides exceptional durability, with a compression set rating of less than 10% after 100,000 cycles—meaning it retains its shape and traction even after extensive use. In real-world tests, Aqua Tile has been used in splash pads serving up to 10,000 visitors per month without showing signs of wear.

To put this into perspective, consider the traffic patterns of a typical splash pad:

• Peak hours see 50–100 children per hour.
• Each child may step on the same tile 5–10 times during a visit.
• Over a summer season, a single tile may endure 50,000+ “steps.”

Aqua Tile’s durability ensures it can handle this volume without losing its slip-resistant properties or developing hazardous wear patterns.

3. “Is Aqua Tile Easy to Clean and Maintain?”

Yes. Aqua Tile’s chemical-resistant properties make it easy to clean with standard janitorial products, including bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, and degreasers. The closed-cell foam construction prevents mold, mildew, and bacterial growth, which are common issues with porous materials like concrete or some rubber coatings. Facility managers report that Aqua Tile requires 30–50% less maintenance than traditional surfaces, saving both time and labor costs.

For example, the City of Austin found that its Aqua Tile splash pads required only quarterly cleaning to maintain their appearance and performance, compared to the monthly cleaning needed for the concrete pads. This reduction in maintenance time allowed staff to reallocate resources to other high-priority tasks.

4. “Can Aqua Tile Be Customized to Match Facility Aesthetics?”

Absolutely. Aqua Tile offers a wide range of color options through its Dune, Coastal, and Caribbean Collections, allowing facilities to create visually appealing designs that align with their branding or theme. For instance:

• Beach-themed splash pads can use the Dune Collection’s Driftwood, Sand, and Pebble colors to mimic natural sand and rock.
• Ocean-themed pads can incorporate the Coastal Collection’s Marine, Pacific, and Tide blues for a watery effect.
• Tropical or fantasy-themed pads can use the Caribbean Collection’s vibrant hues like Reef, Splash, and Tropic.

Additionally, Aqua Tile offers custom color matching for facilities with specific branding requirements. The material’s UV stabilization ensures that colors remain vibrant and true even after prolonged sun exposure.

Design flexibility extends beyond colors. Aqua Tile’s modular system allows for creative installation patterns, such as:

• Ribbon or river designs using contrasting colors to guide foot traffic.
• Thematic inlays (e.g., dolphins, crabs, starfish) to enhance the play experience.
• Depth markers and safety signage integrated directly into the tile surface.

For example, a splash pad in Orlando, Florida, used Aqua Tile’s Tropic and Splash colors to create a “river” design that wound through the play area, encouraging children to follow a path while staying safe. The facility reported a 20% increase in visitor engagement after the redesign.

5. “What About the Longevity of Aqua Tile Compared to Traditional Surfaces?”

Aqua Tile is built to last, with a five-year limited warranty that covers defects in workmanship and materials. However, real-world performance data suggests that the material often exceeds this warranty period. For example:

• Facilities using Aqua Tile since 2018 report no degradation in slip resistance or impact attenuation.
• The closed-cell foam construction resists UV degradation, chemical damage, and water absorption, which are the primary causes of failure in traditional materials.
• Unlike concrete, which may require resurfacing every 5–7 years, or rubber coatings that degrade in 3–5 years, Aqua Tile maintains its performance for a decade or more with minimal maintenance.

This longevity translates to significant cost savings over time. A life-cycle cost analysis by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) found that while Aqua Tile may have a higher upfront cost than concrete or ceramic tile, its lower maintenance and replacement costs result in a 20–30% lower total cost of ownership over a 10-year period.

Designing a Safer Splash Pad: Best Practices for Aqua Tile Installation

Installing Aqua Tile isn’t just about replacing an old surface—it’s about designing a splash pad that maximizes safety, fun, and functionality. Below, we outline best practices for planning and executing an Aqua Tile installation:

1. Site Assessment and Layout Planning

Before installation, conduct a thorough site assessment to identify:

• High-traffic areas: Where children run, jump, or play games. These zones should use Aqua Tile’s highest-traction colors (e.g., Driftwood or Marine for better contrast and visibility).
• Water features: Ensure proper drainage around fountains, sprays, and pools to prevent water pooling on the tiles.
• Access points: Use transition strips to create smooth passages from grass, concrete, or other surfaces into the splash pad area.
• Safety signage: Incorporate Aqua Tile’s NO DIVING and depth markers directly into the tile layout for visibility and consistency.

For example, a splash pad with a central fountain should use Aqua Tile’s Tide color in the fountain area to create a visual cue for depth, while surrounding the feature with higher-contrast colors like Splash or Reef to define boundaries.

2. Color and Pattern Selection

The right color scheme can enhance both safety and aesthetics. Consider the following tips:

• Contrast for visibility: Use lighter colors (Sand, Tide) for high-traffic areas to make spills or debris easier to spot. Darker colors (Marine, Driftwood) can define edges or create focal points.
• Thematic consistency: Align colors with the splash pad’s theme. For example, a pirate-themed pad might use Driftwood for “sand” and Marine for “water,” while a tropical pad could use Tropic and Reef.
• Safety zones: Use high-contrast colors to mark areas requiring caution, such as near water features or deep zones. For instance, a NO DIVING sign on a Splash background stands out against a Tide or Pacific surround.

Facilities can also use Aqua Tile’s inlays to create interactive elements, such as:

• Fish or dolphin inlays in water zones to encourage imaginative play.
• Crab or starfish inlays in shallow areas to guide younger children.
• Depth markers with integrated inlays (e.g., a Sea Turtle inlay at the 1-foot depth mark).

3. Drainage and Water Management

Proper drainage is critical for maintaining Aqua Tile’s slip resistance. During installation, ensure that:

• The sub-base is properly graded to direct water away from the splash pad.
• Drainage gaps (if used) are kept clear of debris to prevent water pooling.
• Water features are equipped with overflow drains to handle peak usage times.

For example, the City of Austin installed Aqua Tile with a slight crown in the center of each pad, allowing water to flow toward the edges and into dedicated drainage channels. This design prevented standing water and maintained traction even during heavy use.

4. Transition Zones

Transitions between Aqua Tile and other surfaces (e.g., concrete, grass, or rubber mats) should be smooth to prevent tripping hazards. Use Aqua Tile’s transition strips to create a gradual slope between materials. These strips:

• Are 3 inches wide and available in all Aqua Tile colors.
• Can be cut to fit custom transitions.
• Provide a cushioned passage that reduces the risk of ankle rolls or falls.

For instance, a splash pad adjacent to a concrete walkway should use a transition strip in a contrasting color (e.g., Driftwood on Sand) to make the boundary visible while ensuring a safe step-down.

5. Maintenance and Upkeep

While Aqua Tile requires minimal maintenance, a few best practices can extend its lifespan and performance:

• Regular cleaning: Use a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the foam over time.
• Debris removal: Clear leaves, branches, or other debris that could accumulate in drainage gaps or on the tile surface.
• Inspections: Conduct quarterly inspections to check for signs of wear, such as flattened edges or faded colors. Address any issues promptly to maintain safety.
• UV protection: While Aqua Tile is UV-stabilized, reapplying a UV protectant spray (recommended by the manufacturer) can help maintain color vibrancy in extreme climates.

For example, the YMCA of Greater Los Angeles schedules bi-weekly cleanings for its Aqua Tile splash pads during peak summer months, ensuring that the surface remains safe and inviting for guests.

FAQs About Aqua Tile for Splash Pads

1. How does Aqua Tile’s slip resistance compare to other wet-area flooring options?

Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture provides superior slip resistance compared to traditional materials. While concrete has a wet COF of 0.2–0.4 and ceramic tile ranges from 0.3–0.5, Aqua Tile maintains a wet COF of 0.75–0.90—exceeding OSHA’s recommended minimum of 0.5 for wet environments. Unlike unidirectional rubber coatings, which lose traction when stepped on at an angle, Aqua Tile’s texture grips effectively in all directions, making it ideal for high-energy splash pad environments where children run, jump, and change direction frequently. Independent testing by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile reduces slip-and-fall incidents by up to 62% compared to standard wet-area surfaces.

2. Can Aqua Tile be installed over existing splash pad surfaces?

Yes, Aqua Tile can be installed over most existing splash pad surfaces, including concrete, ceramic tile, and rubber coatings, provided the sub-base is properly prepared. The installation process involves:

• Removing any loose or damaged material from the existing surface.
• Ensuring the sub-base is level, dry, and free of debris.
• Laying down a thin layer of adhesive (recommended by Aqua Tile) to secure the tiles.
• Pressing the tiles firmly into place and allowing them to cure for 24–48 hours before use.

For concrete surfaces, a light grinding may be required to create a textured base for better adhesion. Aqua Tile’s modular design allows for both professional and DIY installation, though facilities with complex layouts may opt for professional assistance to ensure proper alignment and drainage. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines for best results.

3. How long does it take to install Aqua Tile on a splash pad?

The installation time for Aqua Tile depends on the size of the splash pad and the complexity of the design. As a general guideline:

• Small splash pads (under 500 sq. ft.): 1–2 days for a professional team.
• Medium splash pads (500–2,000 sq. ft.): 2–4 days.
• Large splash pads (over 2,000 sq. ft.): 4–7 days, depending on custom designs or inlays.

DIY installations may take longer, particularly for those new to modular flooring. However, Aqua Tile’s lightweight and easy-to-cut tiles make the process straightforward. For example, a 1,000 sq. ft. splash pad with a simple 3-color blend (e.g., Sand, Driftwood, Pebble) can typically be installed by a team of two in 2–3 days. Custom designs with inlays or complex patterns may require additional time for precise cutting and placement.

4. Is Aqua Tile suitable for indoor splash pads or water play areas?

Yes, Aqua Tile is an excellent choice for indoor splash pads and water play areas, offering several advantages over traditional materials:

• Slip resistance: Indoor environments often have higher humidity and moisture levels, which can make surfaces slippery. Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture maintains traction even in these conditions.
• Impact protection: Indoor splash pads may have harder flooring underneath (e.g., concrete or tile), increasing the risk of injuries from falls. Aqua Tile’s 70% impact absorption reduces this risk significantly.
• Cleanability: Indoor play areas require frequent cleaning to maintain hygiene. Aqua Tile’s chemical-resistant properties make it easy to sanitize with standard cleaners, and its closed-cell foam construction prevents mold and mildew growth.
• Design flexibility: Indoor splash pads often have unique layouts or themed designs. Aqua Tile’s custom color options and inlays allow for creative installations that enhance the play experience.

For example, an indoor splash pad at a children’s museum used Aqua Tile’s Caribbean Collection to create a tropical-themed play area with fish and dolphin inlays. The museum reported a 40% increase in visitor engagement after the installation, as children were drawn to the vibrant colors and interactive elements.

5. What warranty covers does Aqua Tile offer for splash pad installations?

Aqua Tile offers a limited five-year warranty on its 3/8″ standard tiles, covering defects in workmanship and materials from the date of delivery. This warranty includes:

• Slip resistance: Guaranteed wet COF of 0.75–0.90 for the duration of the warranty.
• Impact attenuation: Maintained 70% impact absorption rating.
• UV stabilization: No degradation in color or performance due to sun exposure.
• Chemical resistance: No compromise in slip resistance or structural integrity from exposure to cleaners or chemicals.

It’s important to note that the warranty does not cover damage resulting from improper installation, misuse, or modifications not approved by Aqua Tile. Facilities should follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines and maintenance recommendations to ensure warranty coverage. For example, using harsh chemicals not listed on Aqua Tile’s approved cleaner list could void the warranty. Additionally, the warranty applies only to tiles installed by certified professionals or according to Aqua Tile’s DIY instructions.

To file a warranty claim, facilities should contact Aqua Tile’s customer service team at [email protected] or call 612-564-2003. The team will guide you through the claims process, which typically involves submitting photos or videos of the issue, as well as documentation of the installation date and any maintenance records. Most claims are resolved within 1–3 business days.