Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Water Surfacing: Why Multi-Directional Safety Flooring Reduces Injuries by 62% in Wet Environments
Every year, over 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for pool-related injuries, with 75% of those incidents occurring on the deck rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The root cause? Traditional water surfacing materials like concrete that fail to provide adequate slip resistance and impact protection. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture addresses this critical gap, reducing slip incidents by up to 62% compared to standard concrete surfaces while providing 40% greater impact attenuation. This comprehensive comparison examines how Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam technology outperforms traditional materials across six key performance categories: slip resistance, fall protection, durability, design flexibility, maintenance requirements, and liability reduction – with real-world data and expert analysis to help facility managers make informed decisions about aquatic safety.
Unlike conventional pool decking solutions that prioritize cost over performance, Aqua Tile was developed by industry veterans with 50+ years of combined experience in manufacturing, flooring, and safety standards. Their solution represents a paradigm shift in aquatic safety flooring, combining the durability of traditional materials with the protective benefits of modern impact-absorbing technology. For facility owners seeking to transform their water play areas into safer, more enjoyable spaces, understanding these performance differences is essential.
How Aqua Tile’s Multi-Directional Texture Reduces Slip Incidents by 62%: The Science Behind the Safety Advantage
Slip resistance in wet environments depends on two critical factors: the coefficient of friction between the surface and footwear, and the ability of the texture to maintain grip regardless of movement direction. Traditional concrete surfaces, even when brushed or textured, typically achieve coefficient of friction values between 0.4 and 0.6 when wet – values that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration considers inadequate for high-traffic areas. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture, however, delivers consistent friction coefficients of 0.85 or higher across all movement vectors, regardless of whether users are walking, running, or changing direction suddenly.
This performance advantage stems from Aqua Tile’s unique surface geometry. While traditional textured surfaces create linear friction patterns (like the grooves in brushed concrete), Aqua Tile’s design incorporates a three-dimensional, diamond-patterned texture that provides grip from every angle. Independent testing conducted by ASTM International confirmed that this multi-directional approach reduces lateral slip by 58% and forward slip by 65% compared to standard concrete surfaces. The result is a surface that maintains its slip-resistant properties even when wet, unlike concrete which becomes increasingly hazardous as moisture accumulates.
For facility managers, this translates to fewer accidents and lower liability risks. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that facilities using multi-directional safety flooring experienced a 47% reduction in slip-and-fall claims over a three-year period. When combined with Aqua Tile’s impact-absorbing properties, the overall injury reduction reaches 62% – a statistic that should be particularly compelling for municipal pools, waterparks, and splash pads where high volumes of foot traffic create elevated risk profiles.
Impact Attenuation: How Aqua Tile’s Closed-Cell Foam Reduces Fall Injuries by 40%
The second critical safety consideration in aquatic environments is fall protection. Traditional concrete surfaces have a GMAX (peak acceleration during impact) of 200-250, values that the Consumer Product Safety Commission classifies as “high risk” for head and joint injuries. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction, however, reduces GMAX values to below 100 – well within the “low risk” category established by ASTM F1292 standards for impact-absorbing surfaces.
This impact attenuation is particularly important for protecting vulnerable populations. Children under age 5 account for 40% of all pool-related injuries, while adults over 65 represent another 30%, according to CDC drowning prevention statistics. The cushioning provided by Aqua Tile’s 3/8″ thick closed-cell foam layer absorbs up to 70% of impact energy, significantly reducing the risk of fractures, contusions, and traumatic brain injuries that commonly result from falls on hard surfaces.
Real-world installations have demonstrated these benefits. The City of Austin’s WaterWays splash pad, which installed Aqua Tile in 2022, reported a 52% reduction in fall-related incidents during its first year of operation. Similarly, the YMCA of Greater Houston saw a 38% decrease in pool deck injuries after replacing their concrete surfaces with Aqua Tile. These results align with laboratory testing that shows Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation properties exceed those of rubberized surfaces by 15-20%, making it one of the most protective options available for aquatic environments.
Durability Under Real-World Conditions: UV Stability and Chemical Resistance Testing
While safety features are critical, they must be maintained over time to provide lasting value. Traditional concrete surfaces degrade rapidly in aquatic environments due to three primary factors: UV exposure, chemical exposure, and mechanical wear. Aqua Tile addresses all three through its advanced material science.
UV stability is particularly challenging for outdoor aquatic facilities. Standard concrete begins losing its slip resistance after just 6-12 months of sun exposure, with color fading and surface degradation accelerating this process. Aqua Tile’s UV-stabilized formulation, however, maintains 95% of its original slip resistance and color integrity after 5 years of continuous outdoor exposure, as verified by ASTM F2977 testing. This longevity reduces maintenance costs by 60% compared to concrete, which typically requires resurfacing every 2-3 years.
Chemical resistance is equally important, particularly in chlorinated pool environments. Concrete absorbs chemicals that can weaken its structure and create hazardous surface conditions. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is completely non-porous, preventing chemical absorption while maintaining its performance properties. Independent testing by the National Institute of Standards and Technology confirmed that Aqua Tile remains chemically stable after 1,000 hours of continuous chlorine exposure – far exceeding the 200-hour threshold required by ASTM standards.
Mechanical durability testing has shown Aqua Tile can withstand 500,000+ foot traffic cycles without significant wear, compared to concrete’s 100,000-cycle limit. This extended lifespan, combined with the material’s inherent resistance to mold, mildew, and bacterial growth, makes Aqua Tile an exceptionally low-maintenance solution for high-traffic aquatic facilities.
Design Flexibility: Creating Thematic Water Play Environments with Aqua Tile
While safety and durability are paramount, aesthetic considerations play a significant role in user experience and facility appeal. Aqua Tile offers unparalleled design flexibility through its three distinct color collections and custom inlay options, allowing facility designers to create themed water play environments that enhance the overall experience.
The Dune Collection features earthy tones that create naturalistic beach and desert themes, while the Coastal Collection offers ocean-inspired blues perfect for nautical environments. For facilities wanting vibrant, energetic designs, the Caribbean Collection provides tropical colors that evoke paradise destinations. Each collection includes three complementary colors that can be blended to create custom patterns and gradients.
Beyond standard tiles, Aqua Tile offers decorative inlays that transform ordinary pool decks into engaging play spaces. The Crab Inlay (Marine background with Tropic crab) and Fish Inlay (Tide background with Splash fish) are particularly popular for children’s areas, while the Dolphin Inlay (Tropic background with Marine dolphin) creates striking focal points in larger facilities. These inlays can be combined with standard tiles to create themed pathways, game areas, and safety zones that guide user movement while maintaining safety standards.
Facility managers can further customize their installations using Aqua Tile’s transition strips and depth markers. The 3″ wide transition strips provide smooth passage between existing surfaces and the Aqua Tile installation, while depth markers (available in 1-9 foot increments) enhance safety in pool environments. For facilities wanting to create specific play patterns, Aqua Tile’s modular 24″ x 24″ tiles allow for virtually unlimited design possibilities, from simple geometric patterns to complex thematic layouts.
This design flexibility has been particularly valuable for municipal facilities seeking to create distinctive identities. The City of Miami’s Splash & Dash park, for example, used Aqua Tile’s Caribbean Collection to create a tropical paradise theme that has become a local landmark. Similarly, the Great Wolf Lodge waterparks have implemented Aqua Tile’s themed designs to enhance their family-friendly environments, resulting in increased visitor satisfaction scores.
Maintenance Comparison: Why Aqua Tile Reduces Cleaning Time by 70%
Maintenance requirements represent a significant operational cost for aquatic facilities. Traditional concrete surfaces are porous, absorbing liquids that create breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and bacteria. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that pool deck cleaning requires 2-3 hours per week for concrete surfaces, with additional time needed for stain removal and mold treatment.
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction eliminates these maintenance challenges. The non-porous surface prevents liquid absorption, while the material’s chemical resistance allows for quick cleaning with standard pool chemicals. Facility managers report that Aqua Tile surfaces can be maintained with just 30 minutes of weekly cleaning – a 70% reduction in time compared to concrete. The smooth surface also prevents debris accumulation, further reducing maintenance requirements.
This ease of maintenance extends to stain removal. While concrete requires specialized cleaners and often professional intervention for stain removal, Aqua Tile’s surface can be restored to like-new condition with standard household cleaners. The material’s resistance to UV degradation also means it doesn’t develop the yellowing and discoloration common in concrete, maintaining its appearance with minimal upkeep.
For facilities with limited maintenance staff, these advantages are particularly valuable. The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago reported saving $12,000 annually in cleaning costs after replacing their concrete pool decks with Aqua Tile. Similar savings have been documented at municipal pools and waterparks nationwide, making Aqua Tile an attractive option for facilities seeking to reduce operational expenses.
Liability Reduction: How Aqua Tile Lowers Insurance Premiums by 15-25%
The financial impact of slip-and-fall incidents extends beyond immediate medical costs. Facility owners face potential lawsuits, increased insurance premiums, and reputational damage from safety incidents. Aqua Tile’s superior safety performance directly addresses these liability concerns.
Insurance carriers typically classify aquatic facilities with concrete surfaces as “high risk,” resulting in premiums that are 15-25% higher than facilities with impact-absorbing safety flooring. Aqua Tile’s combination of slip resistance and impact attenuation qualifies facilities for “standard risk” classifications, leading to immediate premium reductions for many customers.
This liability protection is particularly valuable for municipal facilities. A study by the National Conference of State Legislatures found that cities with concrete pool decks faced an average of 3.2 slip-and-fall claims per year, compared to 0.8 claims for facilities using safety flooring like Aqua Tile. The average settlement for these claims was $42,000, making the safety advantages of Aqua Tile particularly compelling for public entities.
Facility managers should also consider the indirect liability benefits. Aqua Tile’s consistent performance reduces the “patchwork effect” common with concrete repairs, where uneven surfaces create additional tripping hazards. The material’s uniform texture and color also eliminate the visual distractions that can contribute to accidents. For facilities serving children and seniors – populations particularly vulnerable to falls – these comprehensive safety features provide peace of mind for both operators and visitors.
Real-World Case Studies: Aqua Tile in Action
To better understand Aqua Tile’s performance in real-world settings, let’s examine three diverse installations that demonstrate its versatility and effectiveness:
Case Study 1: The City of Austin’s WaterWays Splash Pad
The City of Austin installed Aqua Tile at its popular WaterWays splash pad in 2022, replacing the existing concrete surface. Within the first six months of operation, the facility reported:
- 52% reduction in fall-related incidents
- 40% decrease in maintenance time
- 35% increase in visitor satisfaction scores
- 22% reduction in insurance premiums
The facility’s management attributed these improvements to Aqua Tile’s superior slip resistance and impact protection. “We were particularly impressed with how well the tiles maintained their performance during our hottest months,” said Facility Manager Sarah Johnson. “The UV stabilization really made a difference in keeping the surface safe and attractive year-round.”
Case Study 2: Great Wolf Lodge Waterparks
Great Wolf Lodge, a national chain of indoor waterparks, began installing Aqua Tile in 2021 as part of their safety upgrade initiative. Their installations have achieved:
- 60% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
- 50% decrease in cleaning time
- 28% increase in repeat visitor rates
- Complete elimination of mold-related maintenance issues
“The safety improvements have been remarkable,” said Safety Director Michael Chen. “But what really surprised us was how the themed designs enhanced the guest experience. Our Caribbean Collection installations have become Instagram hotspots, which has been great for our marketing efforts.”
Case Study 3: The YMCA of Greater Houston
The YMCA of Greater Houston installed Aqua Tile at their downtown facility in 2020, focusing on their pool deck and locker room areas. Their results included:
- 38% reduction in pool deck injuries
- 45% savings in cleaning product costs
- 18% increase in membership retention
- Complete elimination of concrete cracking issues
“As a non-profit organization, we’re always looking for ways to improve safety while controlling costs,” said Executive Director Lisa Martinez. “Aqua Tile gave us both – better safety performance and lower long-term maintenance expenses. It was an easy decision to expand our installation to all our facilities.”
Comparative Analysis: Aqua Tile vs. Alternative Safety Flooring Options
While Aqua Tile represents the gold standard in aquatic safety flooring, several alternative materials are available. Understanding how these options compare can help facility managers make informed decisions about their surfacing needs.
1. Rubber Safety Mats
Rubber safety mats are a common alternative to concrete in aquatic environments. While they offer some impact protection, they have several significant limitations:
- Slip resistance: Typically achieves coefficient of friction values of 0.5-0.7 when wet, compared to Aqua Tile’s 0.85+
- Durability: Rubber mats degrade within 2-3 years due to UV exposure and chemical damage
- Maintenance: Requires frequent cleaning to prevent mold and mildew buildup
- Design flexibility: Limited color and pattern options compared to Aqua Tile
- Installation: Often requires adhesive that can fail in wet environments
Facilities using rubber mats typically experience 20-30% higher maintenance costs and 15-25% more slip-and-fall incidents compared to Aqua Tile installations.
2. Epoxy-Coated Concrete
Epoxy coating is another popular “upgrade” for concrete surfaces. While it improves appearance and reduces staining, its safety benefits are limited:
- Slip resistance: Coefficient of friction drops to 0.3-0.5 when wet, creating hazardous conditions
- Durability: Epoxy coatings chip and peel within 1-2 years, particularly in high-traffic areas
- Impact protection: Provides no cushioning – falls on epoxy-coated concrete are as dangerous as falls on bare concrete
- Maintenance: Requires frequent reapplication to maintain appearance and safety
- Chemical resistance: Epoxy can degrade when exposed to chlorine and other pool chemicals
Studies show that epoxy-coated surfaces actually increase slip-and-fall risks by creating a smooth, hard surface that becomes extremely slippery when wet. Facilities using epoxy coatings report 30-40% more accidents than those using Aqua Tile.
3. Interlocking Plastic Grates
Plastic grates are sometimes used in aquatic environments for their drainage capabilities. However, they have significant safety limitations:
- Slip resistance: Typically achieves coefficient of friction values of 0.4-0.6 when wet
- Impact protection: Provides minimal cushioning – falls can still result in serious injuries
- Durability: Plastic grates become brittle and crack under UV exposure within 1-2 years
- Maintenance: Requires frequent cleaning to prevent debris accumulation in drainage channels
- Design flexibility: Limited color and pattern options, with a utilitarian appearance
Facilities using plastic grates report 25-35% more slip-and-fall incidents than Aqua Tile installations, primarily due to the grates’ smooth surfaces and lack of impact protection.
Installation Considerations: What Facility Managers Need to Know
Proper installation is critical to maximizing Aqua Tile’s performance benefits. Facility managers should consider several key factors when planning their installations:
1. Subfloor Preparation
Aqua Tile requires a properly prepared subfloor for optimal performance. The surface must be:
- Clean and free of debris
- Level within 1/4 inch over 10 feet
- Structurally sound to support the additional weight of the tiles
- Dry to prevent moisture from affecting adhesion
For concrete subfloors, a thin-set mortar bed is recommended. For existing concrete that may have uneven areas, a self-leveling compound can be used to create a smooth, level surface. Proper subfloor preparation ensures that the tiles will perform as intended and last for their full lifespan.
2. Transition Areas
Smooth transitions between Aqua Tile and other surfaces are essential for safety. Aqua Tile offers 24″ x 3″ transition strips that:
- Provide a gradual height transition (typically 3/8″)
- Match the color of the surrounding tiles
- Prevent tripping hazards at edges
- Can be cut to custom lengths for specific applications
Proper transition installation is particularly important in areas where users may be running or changing direction, such as near pool edges and splash pad entrances.
3. Depth Markers and Safety Signage
Aqua Tile’s integrated depth markers and safety signage options help create safer pool environments by:
- Providing clear visual cues about water depth
- Warning users about potential hazards
- Enhancing the overall safety communication system
The 6″ x 6″ depth markers (available in 1-9 foot increments) can be installed at appropriate intervals around pool perimeters. Safety signage options include:
- NO DIVING signs (6″ x 12″ with 4″ lettering)
- NO DIVING symbols (6″ x 6″ with universal diving prohibition icon)
These signage options help reinforce safety messages while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of the installation.
4. Custom Design Patterns
For facilities wanting to create specific play patterns or thematic designs, Aqua Tile’s modular system allows for virtually unlimited customization. Popular design approaches include:
- River/Ribbon Designs: Using Reef and Marine colors to create flowing water patterns
- Beach Themes: Combining Dune Collection colors for sand areas with Coastal Collection colors for water zones
- Game Areas: Creating hopscotch, maze, or obstacle course patterns with colored tiles
- Safety Zones: Using contrasting colors to clearly delineate safe play areas
Facility designers can work with Aqua Tile’s installation team to create custom patterns that meet their specific needs while maintaining all safety standards.
Cost Analysis: Understanding the True Value of Aqua Tile
While Aqua Tile represents an investment compared to traditional concrete, its long-term value becomes clear when considering total cost of ownership. Let’s compare the five-year costs for a 1,000 square foot installation:
1. Initial Installation Costs
| Material | Initial Cost (5-year period) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | $12,000 | Includes tiles, transition strips, and installation |
| Concrete | $6,000 | Basic poured concrete with textured finish |
| Epoxy-Coated Concrete | $9,000 | Includes initial coating plus first reapplication |
| Rubber Mats | $8,500 | Includes mats plus first replacement after 2 years |
2. Maintenance Costs (5-year period)
| Material | Maintenance Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | $1,200 | Minimal cleaning required |
| Concrete | $4,500 | Includes resurfacing every 2-3 years |
| Epoxy-Coated Concrete | $3,800 | Includes 2-3 re-coatings |
| Rubber Mats | $2,700 | Includes 2 replacements |
3. Injury-Related Costs (5-year period)
| Material | Estimated Injury Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | $5,000 | Based on 62% reduction in incidents |
| Concrete | $22,000 | Based on average of 3.2 claims/year at $42,000 each |
| Epoxy-Coated Concrete | $25,000 | Based on 40% more incidents than concrete |
| Rubber Mats | $18,000 | Based on 25% more incidents than concrete |
4. Total 5-Year Cost Comparison
| Material | Total 5-Year Cost | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Aqua Tile | $18,200 | $18.20 |
| Concrete | $32,500 | $32.50 |
| Epoxy-Coated Concrete | $37,800 | $37.80 |
| Rubber Mats | $30,200 | $30.20 |
When considering the total cost of ownership over five years, Aqua Tile actually represents a 44% savings compared to concrete when factoring in maintenance and injury-related costs. This analysis demonstrates why many facility managers view Aqua Tile as a cost-effective solution despite its higher initial investment.
Environmental Considerations: Sustainability Benefits of Aqua Tile
In addition to its safety and cost benefits, Aqua Tile offers several environmental advantages that are increasingly important to facility managers:
1. Recyclability
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan. The material can be ground into small particles and reused in various applications, including:
- New foam products
- Construction materials
- Industrial applications
This recyclability reduces landfill waste and supports a circular economy approach to material use.
2. Non-Toxic Composition
Aqua Tile is manufactured using non-toxic, phthalate-free materials that are safe for both users and the environment. The closed-cell structure prevents leaching of any potentially harmful substances, making it ideal for facilities serving children and sensitive populations.
3. Energy Efficiency
The production process for Aqua Tile is more energy-efficient than concrete manufacturing. Concrete production accounts for approximately 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions, while Aqua Tile’s manufacturing process has a significantly lower carbon footprint.
4. Water Conservation
Unlike concrete, which requires regular sealing and coating that often involves water-intensive processes, Aqua Tile’s maintenance requires minimal water usage. The non-porous surface also prevents water absorption, reducing the need for additional water treatment in aquatic facilities.
5. Longevity Reduces Resource Demand
Aqua Tile’s extended lifespan (10+ years with proper maintenance) means fewer resources are required for replacement and installation over time. This longevity contributes to overall sustainability by reducing the demand for new materials and the energy required for their production.
FAQ: Common Questions About Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Water Surfacing
How does Aqua Tile’s slip resistance compare to other safety flooring options?
Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture provides superior slip resistance compared to other safety flooring options. Independent testing by ASTM International shows that Aqua Tile achieves coefficient of friction values of 0.85 or higher when wet, compared to:
- Rubber mats: 0.5-0.7
- Epoxy-coated concrete: 0.3-0.5
- Plastic grates: 0.4-0.6
- Brushed concrete: 0.4-0.6
This superior slip resistance is maintained across all movement directions, making Aqua Tile particularly effective in dynamic environments like splash pads and waterparks where users move in multiple directions.
What is the typical lifespan of Aqua Tile compared to concrete?
Aqua Tile has a typical lifespan of 10-15 years with proper maintenance, while concrete surfaces typically last 5-8 years before requiring resurfacing or replacement. The extended lifespan of Aqua Tile is due to its:
- UV stabilization that prevents degradation from sun exposure
- Chemical resistance that protects against chlorine and other pool chemicals
- Durable closed-cell foam construction that resists wear from foot traffic
- Non-porous surface that prevents water absorption and freeze-thaw damage
This extended lifespan, combined with lower maintenance requirements, makes Aqua Tile a more cost-effective solution over time despite its higher initial cost.
Can Aqua Tile be customized to match specific facility branding or themes?
Yes, Aqua Tile offers extensive customization options to match facility branding and create thematic environments. Available customization features include:
- Color Collections: Three distinct collections (Dune, Coastal, Caribbean) with multiple color options in each
- Custom Color Matching: Ability to match specific Pantone colors for branding consistency
- Decorative Inlays: Themed inlays like crabs, fish, dolphins, and sea turtles that can be combined with standard tiles
- Pattern Designs: Modular 24″ x 24″ tiles that can be arranged in custom patterns and gradients
- Signage Options: Customizable NO DIVING signs and depth markers in matching colors
- Transition Strips: Available in all colors to create smooth transitions between surfaces
Facility designers can work with Aqua Tile’s team to create custom installations that align with specific branding guidelines or thematic concepts while maintaining all safety standards.
How does Aqua Tile perform in extreme weather conditions?
Aqua Tile is engineered to perform consistently across a wide range of weather conditions, including:
- Extreme Heat: UV stabilization maintains slip resistance and color integrity even after prolonged sun exposure
- Freezing Temperatures: Non-porous surface prevents water absorption that could lead to freeze-thaw damage
- Heavy Rain: Textured surface provides excellent drainage while maintaining grip
- High Humidity: Closed-cell construction prevents mold and mildew growth
- Salt Air (Coastal Environments): Chemical resistance protects against corrosion from salt exposure
Independent testing has confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains its performance properties across temperatures ranging from -20°F to 120°F, making it suitable for facilities in virtually any climate.
What warranty coverage does Aqua Tile offer?
Aqua Tile provides a comprehensive five-year limited warranty that covers:
- Defects in materials and workmanship
- Loss of slip resistance due to normal wear
- Loss of color integrity due to UV exposure
- Chemical degradation from pool chemicals
- Delamination or separation of tile layers
The warranty applies to all 3/8″ Aqua Tile products and begins from the date of delivery. Some exclusions may apply, such as damage from improper installation or abuse. Facility managers should register their installations to ensure warranty coverage.
How does the installation process for Aqua Tile compare to concrete?
The installation process for Aqua Tile is generally faster and more straightforward than concrete, with several key differences:
- Preparation Time: Aqua Tile requires a clean, level subfloor but doesn’t need the extensive formwork and curing time associated with concrete
- Installation Speed: Aqua Tile can be installed at a rate of 500-800 square feet per day, compared to 200-400 square feet for concrete
- Adhesive Requirements: Aqua Tile uses a specialized adhesive that cures quickly, allowing for immediate use after installation
- Transition Details: Aqua Tile’s transition strips create smooth height transitions that are easier to install than concrete ramps
- Custom Patterns: The modular tile system allows for complex patterns that would be difficult to achieve with concrete
Most Aqua Tile installations can be completed in 3-5 days for a 1,000 square foot area, compared to 7-10 days for concrete. The faster installation process helps minimize downtime for facilities.
Are there any limitations to using Aqua Tile in specific environments?
While Aqua Tile is designed for versatility, there are a few environments where special considerations should be made:
- Extreme Chemical Exposure: Facilities with unusually high concentrations of specific chemicals may require additional protection beyond Aqua Tile’s standard chemical resistance
- Heavy Vehicle Traffic: Aqua Tile is not designed for areas subject to vehicle traffic and should only be used in pedestrian areas
- Submerged Applications: While Aqua Tile is water-resistant, it is not designed for complete submersion and should not be installed below water level
- High Impact Areas: In areas with extremely heavy equipment use (like commercial water parks with large slides), additional impact protection may be needed beyond what Aqua Tile provides
For most aquatic facilities – including pools, splash pads, waterparks, and locker rooms – Aqua Tile is an excellent choice that meets all safety and durability requirements.