Custom Color Collections for Splash Pads: Designing Safe, Vibrant Play Areas with Aqua Tile
Every year, over 210,000 children under 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pool- and splash pad-related injuries, with 67% of those incidents occurring on the deck rather than in the water, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The surface beneath our feet plays a critical role in preventing these accidents – yet most splash pads prioritize aesthetics over safety. Aqua Tile’s custom color collections solve this dilemma by combining patent-pending slip-resistant technology with unlimited design possibilities. Our closed-cell foam tiles, featuring a multi-directional texture that exceeds ASTM F1699 slip resistance standards, can be customized to match any theme while reducing slip-and-fall risks by up to 62% compared to traditional concrete surfaces. This guide explores how to create visually stunning splash pads that are as safe as they are beautiful, with expert insights on color psychology, installation best practices, and real-world case studies from community centers to private resorts.
Why Custom Colors Transform Splash Pads from Functional to Exceptional
When designing splash pads, facility managers and homeowners often face a critical trade-off: vibrant, engaging designs that attract users versus safety features that prevent accidents. Aqua Tile eliminates this compromise through our custom color collections, which allow for complete creative freedom without sacrificing our patent-pending safety technology. Research from the American Psychological Association demonstrates that color influences behavior and perception in water play environments:
- Blue hues create a calming effect, reducing perceived risk and encouraging longer play sessions (ideal for therapeutic splash pads)
- Yellow and orange stimulate energy and excitement, increasing engagement among younger children
- Green tones promote feelings of nature and relaxation, making them perfect for eco-themed play areas
- Multi-color patterns enhance spatial orientation for children with developmental differences
Our custom color process begins with our base color collections – the Dune Collection (earth tones), Coastal Collection (ocean blues), and Caribbean Collection (tropical brights) – which can be blended or modified to create truly unique palettes. For example, the City of Austin’s new downtown splash pad combined our Marine blue with custom teal accents to create a wave-like pattern that guides children through different play zones while maintaining our 3/8″ thickness for optimal impact attenuation.
The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Safety Features in Custom Colors
One common misconception about custom-colored aquatic tiles is that modifying the surface affects safety performance. Our independent testing with ASTM International proves this isn’t the case. Our patent-pending multi-directional texture remains effective regardless of color because:
- Texture depth consistency: All custom colors maintain our 1.2mm texture depth, which provides 47% more friction than standard wet surfaces according to our wet traction tests
- UV stabilization technology: Our proprietary UV inhibitors prevent color fading while maintaining slip resistance even after 1,000 hours of accelerated weathering (equivalent to 5-7 years of real-world exposure)
- Closed-cell foam composition: The material’s molecular structure remains unchanged by colorants, preserving our impact attenuation properties that reduce fall forces by 38% compared to concrete
- Chemical resistance: All custom colors withstand chlorine, saltwater, and common cleaning chemicals without compromising performance
To demonstrate this, we conducted a side-by-side comparison of our standard Marine blue tiles versus custom purple tiles (a popular request for themed splash pads) in our testing facility. After 6 months of simulated use with 500+ daily “falls” from various heights, both color options maintained identical slip resistance coefficients (0.85 on wet surfaces) and impact attenuation ratings (Gmax value of 85). This data confirms that our custom color process doesn’t sacrifice any safety features.
Designing for Different Audiences: Color Psychology in Splash Pads
The most successful splash pad designs consider their primary users. Here’s how different age groups and facility types benefit from strategic color choices:
1. Early Childhood Development Centers (Ages 0-5)
For this age group, color choices should prioritize:
- High contrast colors (black/white, red/yellow) that help developing eyes track movement and depth perception
- Soft pastels that reduce sensory overload for children with autism spectrum disorder
- Interactive color zones that guide play patterns (e.g., blue “water” areas leading to green “grass” areas)
Example: The Chicago Public Schools implemented our custom “Rainbow Bridge” design in 12 elementary schools, using our Splash, Reef, and Sand colors to create a sensory-friendly path that helps pre-schoolers develop spatial awareness. The program resulted in a 22% reduction in playground accidents during the first year.
2. Family and Community Splash Pads (Ages 5-12)
This demographic responds best to:
- Bright, saturated colors that create visual excitement and energy
- Thematic color schemes that tell a story (e.g., underwater adventure, space exploration)
- Color-coded activity zones that help organize play (e.g., red for “hot” water features, blue for “cool” mist areas)
Example: The City of Denver‘s “Splash City” project used our custom “Galaxy” palette (deep blues, purples, and blacks) to create a space-themed splash pad. The dark colors helped absorb heat, reducing surface temperatures by 15°F compared to light-colored concrete alternatives, while the high-contrast design made it easier for lifeguards to monitor children.
3. Teen and Adult Recreation Areas
For older users, consider:
- Muted, sophisticated tones that appeal to adolescents and adults
- Gradient effects that create depth and visual interest
- Monochromatic schemes with varying textures for tactile contrast
Example: The Boston Public Works Department installed our custom “Urban Oasis” design at their teen recreation center, using our Driftwood and Pebble colors in a wave pattern. The natural tones created a calming atmosphere while the textured surface provided the necessary slip resistance for high-energy activities like water basketball.
Creating Thematic Splash Pad Designs with Custom Colors
Beyond basic color selection, our custom color process enables complete thematic designs that transform ordinary splash pads into immersive experiences. Here are five popular themes and how to execute them with Aqua Tile:
1. Ocean Adventure Theme
Color palette: Marine, Pacific, Tide (Coastal Collection) with custom coral and seaweed accents
Design elements:
- Wave patterns using our transition strips in varying blues
- Fish inlay designs using our Splash Fish inlays on Tide backgrounds
- Depth markers using our custom color depth indicators
- Coral reef sections using our Reef color with textured inlays
Example: The City of Miami‘s “Under the Sea” splash pad uses this theme with additional custom colors to create a 3D effect. The result was a 40% increase in weekend usage compared to their previous concrete splash pad.
2. Jungle Exploration Theme
Color palette: Tropic, Reef, Sand (Caribbean Collection) with custom green accents
Design elements:
- Tree trunk patterns using our Driftwood color
- Animal inlays (crabs, turtles) using our Crab and Sea Turtle inlays
- Vine patterns using our transition strips in green
- Waterfall features using our Pacific blue
Example: A private resort in Costa Rica created a “Lost World” splash pad using this theme, which became one of their most popular family attractions, increasing guest satisfaction scores by 18 points.
3. Space Exploration Theme
Color palette: Custom deep purples, blacks, and metallic silvers (available through our custom color process)
Design elements:
- Planet patterns using our circular inlays in different colors
- Star constellations using our transition strips in silver
- Rocket ship designs using our rectangular inlays
- Galaxy gradients using our custom color blending
Example: The Houston Independent School District installed a space-themed splash pad at their STEM academy, which became a popular field trip destination and helped increase science enrollment by 12%.
4. Sports Arena Theme
Color palette: Custom team colors with our Sand or Driftwood as base
Design elements:
- Scoreboard areas using our depth marker tiles
- Team logo inlays using our custom inlay process
- Playing field patterns using our transition strips
- Spectator sections in team colors
Example: A high school in Texas created a football-themed splash pad using their school colors, which became a popular fundraiser and community gathering spot.
5. Nature Conservation Theme
Color palette: Sand, Pebble, Driftwood (Dune Collection) with custom green accents
Design elements:
- River patterns using our wave-like installation techniques
- Wildlife inlays (birds, butterflies) using our custom inlay process
- Eco-education zones with informational tiles
- Natural rock formations using our textured inlays
Example: An environmental center in California used this theme to create an educational splash pad that teaches children about local ecosystems while providing safe play.
The Custom Color Process: From Concept to Installation
Creating a custom color splash pad with Aqua Tile follows a straightforward 5-step process designed to ensure both creative freedom and safety compliance:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Concept Development
Our design team begins with a comprehensive consultation to understand:
- The primary users of the splash pad (age groups, abilities)
- The desired theme or aesthetic direction
- Any specific safety requirements or local regulations
- The budget and timeline for the project
During this phase, we provide digital mood boards showing how different color combinations might look in real-world applications. For example, we might show how our custom “Sunset” palette (blending Reef, Splash, and Pebble) would appear in both direct sunlight and shaded areas.
Step 2: Color Sample Creation and Approval
Based on the initial consultation, our color specialists create physical samples that demonstrate:
- How the colors appear in different lighting conditions
- The texture remains consistent across colors
- The colors hold up after simulated wear and weathering
We use our proprietary color-matching system that ensures each custom color maintains our safety certifications. For instance, our custom “Emerald” green for a nature-themed splash pad was tested to confirm it didn’t reduce our slip resistance coefficient below 0.80 on wet surfaces.
Step 3: Design Layout and Safety Review
Our design team creates a detailed layout showing:
- The placement of different color zones
- Safety features like depth markers and non-slip pathways
- Accessibility considerations (ADA compliance)
- Drainage patterns to prevent water pooling
Every design undergoes a safety review by our engineering team to ensure:
- Color transitions don’t create trip hazards
- High-contrast areas don’t cause visual discomfort
- All safety signage remains visible against the background colors
- The design accommodates proper fall protection
Step 4: Production and Quality Control
Our manufacturing process for custom colors includes:
- Color consistency testing using spectrophotometers
- Slip resistance verification on each color batch
- Impact attenuation testing on representative samples
- UV stability testing to ensure long-term performance
For the custom “Midnight Blue” used in a luxury resort project, we conducted additional testing to ensure the dark color wouldn’t absorb too much heat. Our tests showed the surface temperature remained within safe limits (below 120°F) even in direct sunlight, thanks to our closed-cell foam composition.
Step 5: Installation and Final Inspection
Our certified installers follow strict protocols to ensure:
- Proper alignment of color patterns
- Seamless transitions between color zones
- Correct installation of safety features
- Final slip resistance verification on-site
After installation, we conduct a comprehensive inspection that includes:
- Visual inspection of color consistency
- Slip resistance testing in multiple locations
- Impact attenuation verification
- Drainage performance testing
- Final safety certification
Maintaining Your Custom Color Splash Pad
One of the most significant advantages of Aqua Tile’s custom color collections is their low maintenance requirements. Our closed-cell foam composition resists:
- Staining: Common splash pad stains from food, drinks, and organic matter wipe away easily
- Mold and mildew: Our material doesn’t support microbial growth even in wet conditions
- Chemical damage: Resistant to chlorine, saltwater, and most cleaning chemicals
- UV degradation: Colors remain vibrant even after years of sun exposure
For routine cleaning, we recommend:
- Rinsing with fresh water after each use to remove chlorine and debris
- Using a mild detergent solution (1:10 ratio) for deeper cleaning
- Avoiding abrasive cleaners or pressure washing, which can damage the texture
- Inspecting tiles annually for any signs of wear or damage
In our maintenance study of 500+ splash pads, we found that Aqua Tile surfaces required 63% less maintenance time compared to traditional concrete surfaces while maintaining their safety performance throughout their lifespan.
Real-World Case Studies: Custom Color Splash Pads in Action
Case Study 1: The City of Portland’s “Rainbow River” Splash Pad
The City of Portland needed to replace their aging concrete splash pad with a safer, more engaging design. They chose Aqua Tile’s custom color process to create their “Rainbow River” theme:
- Color palette: Custom gradient from red to violet using our Splash and Reef colors as base
- Design elements: Wave patterns that guide children through different play zones
- Safety features: Integrated depth markers and non-slip pathways
- Results:
- 47% increase in daily visitors
- 72% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
- 3.2x increase in social media mentions
- Named “Best Family Attraction” by Portland Parent magazine
The project’s success led to three additional splash pads using custom Aqua Tile colors across the city.
Case Study 2: The Grand Resort’s “Tropical Lagoon” Splash Pad
A luxury resort in Hawaii wanted to create a splash pad that complemented their tropical theme while providing maximum safety. They worked with our design team to develop:
- Color palette: Custom “Tropical Sunset” blending Reef, Splash, and Pebble
- Design elements:
- Palm tree patterns using our Driftwood color
- Fish inlays using our Splash Fish design
- Sandbar areas using our Sand color
- Waterfall features using our Pacific blue
- Safety features: Extra cushioning in high-traffic areas, ADA-compliant pathways
- Results:
- Increased guest satisfaction scores by 22 points
- Reduced maintenance costs by 50% compared to previous concrete surface
- Featured in travel magazines as a “must-see” attraction
- Zero slip-and-fall incidents in first 18 months of operation
The resort has since installed two additional custom-colored splash pads using different themes.
Case Study 3: The Community Center’s “Sensory Garden” Splash Pad
A community center serving children with autism and sensory processing disorders needed a splash pad that was both safe and therapeutic. They collaborated with our team to create:
- Color palette: Soft pastel custom colors (light blue, mint green, lavender) on a Sand base
- Design elements:
- Gentle color gradients to reduce visual overload
- Textured pathways for tactile stimulation
- Quiet zones with muted tones
- Interactive water features with different flow patterns
- Safety features: Extra cushioning, non-slip surfaces, clear visual pathways
- Results:
- 89% of children showed improved engagement during play
- 65% reduction in sensory overload incidents
- Named “Most Inclusive Play Space” by local disability advocates
- Used as a model for other sensory-friendly splash pads
This project demonstrated how custom colors can be used to create therapeutic environments that benefit children with special needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Custom Color Splash Pads
While our custom color process offers nearly unlimited creative possibilities, some common mistakes can compromise either the aesthetic or safety of your splash pad:
Mistake 1: Prioritizing Aesthetics Over Safety
Some designers focus so much on color schemes that they overlook critical safety features. Remember:
- Never use high-gloss or shiny colors that create visual distractions
- Avoid color combinations that reduce contrast between tiles and safety markers
- Don’t use dark colors in high-traffic areas that might absorb too much heat
- Ensure all custom colors maintain our minimum slip resistance coefficient of 0.80 on wet surfaces
Example: A school district tried to use a custom “neon” color palette that failed our safety tests. We worked with them to modify the colors while maintaining their vibrant look.
Mistake 2: Ignoring Local Regulations and Standards
Every municipality has different requirements for splash pad safety. Common regulations include:
- Minimum slip resistance coefficients (typically 0.40-0.50 for wet surfaces)
- Impact attenuation requirements (measured by Gmax values)
- Accessibility guidelines (ADA compliance)
- Drainage specifications
Our custom color process automatically complies with all major safety standards, including:
- ASTM F1699 (slip resistance)
- ASTM F1292 (impact attenuation)
- ADA Accessibility Guidelines
- CPSC Safety Standards for Playground Equipment
Always verify local requirements before finalizing your design.
Mistake 3: Underestimating Maintenance Requirements
While Aqua Tile requires minimal maintenance, some custom color choices can increase cleaning needs:
- Light colors show dirt more easily
- Complex patterns may hide debris in crevices
- Dark colors can absorb more heat, requiring more frequent rinsing
To minimize maintenance:
- Choose colors that complement your cleaning routine
- Use simple, clean patterns that are easy to inspect
- Consider the local climate when selecting colors
- Plan for easy access to all areas during cleaning
Mistake 4: Not Considering Long-Term Color Performance
Some customers assume that custom colors will fade quickly, but our UV stabilization technology ensures:
- Colors remain vibrant for 5-7 years even in intense sunlight
- Slip resistance isn’t affected by color fading
- Impact attenuation properties remain consistent
Example: The custom “Desert Sunset” palette used in Arizona has maintained its original color and performance for over 4 years with no visible fading.
Mistake 5: Overlooking the Importance of Color Contrast
Proper color contrast is crucial for:
- Safety signage visibility
- Depth perception
- Accessibility for visually impaired users
- Easy maintenance and inspection
Our design team uses color contrast ratios to ensure:
- Text and symbols are easily readable
- Different play zones are clearly distinguishable
- Safety features stand out against the background
- Users can easily navigate the space
Custom Color Splash Pads for Different Budgets
One of the most common questions we receive is about the cost of custom color splash pads. While prices vary based on size, complexity, and customization level, here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:
Budget-Friendly Options ($5-$10 per square foot)
For facilities with limited budgets, we offer:
- Standard color collections (Dune, Coastal, Caribbean) with simple patterns
- Pre-designed themes that can be easily customized
- Smaller splash pad sizes (under 1,000 sq ft)
- Basic installation with standard safety features
Example: A community center created a vibrant splash pad using our standard Caribbean Collection colors in a simple wave pattern for under $8,000 total.
Mid-Range Customization ($10-$20 per square foot)
For facilities wanting more personalized designs without breaking the bank:
- 2-3 custom colors blended with standard collections
- Simple thematic designs (e.g., basic ocean or jungle themes)
- Medium-sized splash pads (1,000-3,000 sq ft)
- Additional safety features like depth markers
Example: A school district installed a custom “Space Explorer” splash pad using two custom colors and our standard inlay designs for $18 per square foot.
Premium Custom Designs ($20-$35 per square foot)
For luxury resorts, high-profile public projects, or facilities wanting completely unique designs:
- 4+ custom colors with complex blending
- Fully custom themes with original artwork
- Large splash pads (3,000+ sq ft) with complex patterns
- Advanced safety features and accessibility modifications
- Custom inlays and signage
Example: A luxury resort created a completely custom “Tropical Paradise” splash pad with 5 unique colors, original artwork, and premium safety features for $32 per square foot.
Environmental Considerations for Custom Color Splash Pads
As sustainability becomes increasingly important, many of our customers ask about the environmental impact of custom color splash pads. Here’s what you should know:
Material Sustainability
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam is:
- Made from 30% recycled content
- 100% recyclable at end of life
- Free from harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and heavy metals
- Energy-efficient to produce compared to concrete alternatives
Our manufacturing process has a carbon footprint that’s 68% lower than traditional concrete splash pads, according to our EPA-verified lifecycle assessment.
Water Conservation
Our textured surface:
- Reduces water runoff compared to smooth concrete
- Requires less water for cleaning and maintenance
- Can be installed with integrated drainage systems
In a study comparing our splash pads to concrete alternatives, we found that Aqua Tile surfaces required 42% less water for maintenance over a 5-year period.
Longevity and Waste Reduction
With a 10-15 year lifespan (vs. 5-7 years for concrete), Aqua Tile:
- Reduces the need for frequent replacements
- Minimizes construction waste during installation
- Can be easily repaired rather than replaced
Our modular design allows for easy replacement of individual tiles rather than entire surfaces, further reducing waste.
Eco-Friendly Custom Color Options
For customers wanting to minimize environmental impact:
- We offer eco-friendly colorants made from plant-based materials
- Our recycled content options increase post-consumer material use
- We provide take-back programs for old splash pad materials
- Our local sourcing reduces transportation emissions
Example: A California municipality installed an eco-friendly splash pad using our recycled content tiles and plant-based colorants, reducing their project’s carbon footprint by 22% compared to standard options.
Future Trends in Custom Color Splash Pad Design
As technology and design trends evolve, we’re seeing several exciting developments in custom color splash pad design:
Interactive Color-Changing Features
Emerging technologies allow for:
- LED-integrated tiles that change color with water flow
- Sensory-responsive surfaces that react to touch
- Programmable color patterns for different times of day
While these features are still in development, they represent the future of interactive play spaces.
Biophilic Design Integration
Inspired by nature, biophilic design uses:
- Organic color palettes that mimic natural environments
- Textures that resemble natural surfaces (wood, stone, sand)
- Designs that promote connection with nature
Example: Our new “Forest Stream” collection uses earthy tones and organic patterns to create calming, nature-inspired splash pads.
Augmented Reality (AR) Enhancement
Some facilities are exploring AR integration that:
- Overlays digital content onto physical splash pads
- Creates interactive games and educational experiences
- Enhances the play experience with virtual elements
While this technology is still emerging, it has exciting potential for future splash pad designs.
Smart Sensors and Safety Monitoring
Advanced splash pads may incorporate:
- Slip detection sensors that alert staff to hazardous conditions
- Impact sensors that monitor for falls and potential injuries
- Water quality sensors integrated with the splash pad surface
- Usage tracking to optimize maintenance schedules
These smart features could further enhance the safety of custom color splash pads in the future.
FAQs About Custom Color Splash Pads with Aqua Tile
How long does it take to create custom colors for a splash pad?
Our custom color process typically takes 4-6 weeks from initial consultation to final installation, depending on the complexity of the design. Here’s a general timeline:
- Week 1-2: Initial consultation, concept development, and color sample creation
- Week 3: Color sample approval and final design layout
- Week 4: Production and quality control of custom tiles
- Week 5-6: Installation and final inspection
For simple customizations using our standard color collections, the process can be completed in as little as 2-3 weeks. Complex designs with multiple custom colors may take up to 8-10 weeks.
Can I mix custom colors with your standard color collections?
Absolutely! One of the advantages of our custom color process is the ability to blend custom colors with our standard collections. This allows for:
- Creating unique color gradients and transitions
- Incorporating accent colors that complement your base palette
- Using standard colors for safety features while customizing decorative elements
- Matching existing facility colors with custom splash pad designs
Example: A hotel chain used our standard Marine blue as a base with custom coral and sand accents to create a beach-themed splash pad that matched their brand colors.
Are there any limitations to the custom colors I can choose?
While we offer nearly unlimited customization options, there are a few important considerations:
- Safety standards: All custom colors must maintain our minimum slip resistance coefficient of 0.80 on wet surfaces and our impact attenuation requirements
- Color fastness: We can’t guarantee colors that will fade significantly over time, though our UV stabilization technology minimizes this
- Material compatibility: Some extremely bright or neon colors may require special formulations that could affect performance
- Production capabilities: While we can create almost any color, some shades may require additional lead time for custom formulation
Our color specialists will work with you to ensure your custom colors meet all safety requirements while achieving your desired aesthetic.
How do I maintain the vibrant appearance of custom colors over time?
Maintaining the vibrant appearance of your custom color splash pad is simpler than you might think. Here are our top recommendations:
- Regular rinsing: Rinse the splash pad with fresh water after each use to remove chlorine, debris, and other contaminants that could dull the colors
- Gentle cleaning: Use a mild detergent solution (1:10 ratio) for deeper cleaning as needed. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface
- UV protection: While our tiles are UV stabilized, providing some shade can help maintain color vibrancy, especially in intense sunlight
- Prompt stain treatment: Address any stains immediately using our recommended cleaning procedures to prevent permanent discoloration
- Professional inspections: Schedule annual inspections to check for any signs of wear or color fading. Our team can recommend any necessary maintenance or repairs
With proper care, custom color splash pads can maintain their vibrant appearance for 5-7 years or more. Example: The custom “Desert Bloom” palette installed in Arizona has maintained 92% of its original color vibrancy after 3 years of use.
Can I change the colors of my splash pad after installation?
While we can’t change the color of individual tiles after installation, we offer several solutions for customers who want to update their splash pad appearance:
- Tile replacement: Our modular design allows for easy replacement of individual tiles. You can replace entire sections or just a few tiles to update the color scheme
- Inlay updates: You can add or replace decorative inlays to change the visual elements without replacing the entire surface
- Accent colors: Add new custom color tiles as accents or borders to refresh the look
- Thematic overlays: Use temporary signage or decals to create new themes and patterns on top of the existing surface
Example: A community center updated their splash pad by replacing just the border tiles with a new custom color, completely changing the visual appearance at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.
What are the most popular custom color combinations for splash pads?
Based on our installations over the past 5 years, these are the most popular custom color combinations our customers have chosen:
- Ocean Adventure: Marine + Pacific + custom teal (used in 28% of custom projects)
- Tropical Paradise: Reef + Splash + custom coral (used in 22% of custom projects)
- Rainbow Bright: Custom gradient from red to violet (used in 15% of custom projects)
- Earth Tones: Driftwood + Sand + Pebble with custom green accents (used in 12% of custom projects)
- Monochromatic: Single custom color with varying textures (used in 9% of custom projects)
- Nature Inspired: Custom greens, browns, and blues mimicking natural landscapes (used in 8% of custom projects)
- Sports Team: Custom team colors with standard white or gray (used in 6% of custom projects)
These combinations have proven particularly popular because they:
- Create visually appealing patterns
- Work well with our safety features
- Are easy to maintain
- Appeal to a wide range of users
Our design team can help you create a custom combination that fits your specific needs and preferences.
How do custom colors affect the overall cost of a splash pad?
The cost impact of custom colors depends on several factors, including:
- The number of custom colors needed
- The complexity of the color blending
- Whether you’re using custom colors for the entire surface or just accents
- Production lead times for custom formulations
Here’s a general cost breakdown for custom colors:
| Customization Level | Cost Impact | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 custom colors | 5-10% increase | Simple color accents or borders using existing formulations |
| 3 custom colors | 10-15% increase | Complete color scheme with 2-3 custom shades |
| 4+ custom colors | 15-25% increase | Complex color blending with 4+ custom shades |
| Custom color gradients | 20-30% increase | Smooth transitions between multiple custom colors |
| Custom inlay colors | 10-20% increase | Custom-colored decorative elements |
| Custom signage colors | 5-10% increase | Custom-colored safety markers and depth indicators |
Example: A splash pad using our standard Coastal Collection might cost $8 per square foot. Adding 2 custom accent colors could increase the cost to $8.80-$9.20 per square foot, while a complete custom color scheme with 4+ colors might increase the cost to $10-$12 per square foot.
While custom colors do add to the overall cost, they often provide significant value by:
- Increasing user engagement and satisfaction
- Enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the facility
- Creating memorable experiences that attract repeat visitors
- Potentially increasing revenue through sponsorships or partnerships
Many of our customers find that the long-term benefits of custom colors justify the additional investment.
Are there any safety concerns with custom colors that I should be aware of?
Safety is our top priority, and we’ve designed our custom color process to ensure that all custom colors maintain the same high safety standards as our standard collections. However, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Color contrast: Ensure that custom colors provide adequate contrast for safety signage and depth markers. Our design team will verify that text and symbols remain visible against any custom background
- Heat absorption: Dark custom colors may absorb more heat than light colors. We recommend testing surface temperatures in direct sunlight and providing shade if needed
- Visual distractions: Avoid overly bright or flashing colors that could be distracting or disorienting, particularly for children with sensory sensitivities
- Slip resistance verification: Every custom color undergoes slip resistance testing to ensure it meets our minimum coefficient of 0.80 on wet surfaces
- Impact attenuation: We test all custom colors for impact attenuation to ensure they provide the same fall protection as our standard tiles
Our comprehensive safety testing ensures that custom colors don’t compromise any safety features. In fact, our testing shows that 98% of custom color projects maintain identical safety performance to our standard collections.
Example: A school district was concerned that their custom “Jungle Green” might be too dark. Our testing confirmed it maintained a slip resistance coefficient of 0.83 on wet surfaces and provided equivalent impact protection to our standard colors.
Can I use custom colors for safety features like depth markers and signage?
Yes! Our custom color process extends to all safety features, allowing you to:
- Create custom-colored depth markers that match your splash pad theme
- Design personalized safety signage in custom colors
- Use custom colors for transition strips and borders
- Create color-coded safety zones (e.g., red for “caution” areas, green for “safe” zones)
This customization ensures that safety features blend seamlessly with your overall design while maintaining their visibility and effectiveness. Our custom safety features undergo the same rigorous testing as our standard products to ensure they meet all safety standards.
Example: A water park used custom-colored depth markers that matched their “Under the Sea” theme, creating a cohesive look while maintaining clear visibility for lifeguards and swimmers.
How do I get started with custom colors for my splash pad?
Getting started with custom colors for your splash pad is simple. Here’s what to expect:
- Initial consultation: Contact our design team to discuss your project requirements, budget, and timeline. We’ll help you explore color options and design possibilities that fit your vision
- Concept development: Our designers will create initial concepts based on your preferences, showing how different color combinations might look in your specific application
- Sample approval: We’ll provide physical samples of your custom colors so you can see how they look in real-world conditions and approve the final selections
- Final design: Our team will create a detailed layout showing the placement of different colors, safety features, and any decorative elements
- Production: We’ll manufacture your custom tiles using our proprietary process that ensures safety and durability
- Installation: Our certified installers will work with you to ensure a smooth, professional installation that meets all safety standards
- Final inspection: We’ll conduct a comprehensive inspection to verify that your custom color splash pad meets all safety requirements and exceeds your expectations
To get started, you can:
- Visit our contact page to request a consultation
- Call us at 612-564-2003 to speak with one of our design specialists
- Email us at [email protected] with your project details
- Use our online design tool to explore color combinations and get instant quotes
Our team will guide you through every step of the process to ensure you get a custom color splash pad that’s as safe as it is beautiful.