For a safe and enjoyable splash pad, the type of surface material is a key decision that facility managers or municipal planners need to make. A good soft fall surface makes the splash zone look better and, above all, helps prevent slips, trips and fall injuries. Since public safety, following the rules, durability and maintenance depend on the material, it’s important to know what each material can and cannot do. 

This guide compares traditional concrete surfacing with Aqua Tile—an advanced soft fall surface solution engineered for aquatic environments. 

What Makes Soft Fall Surfaces Important in Splash Pads 

Splash pads are lively areas that bring in people from all walks of life, especially kids. Since these areas are designed to be wet, the flooring needs to be slip-resistant and also protect people from falling. 

A suitable soft fall material will: 

• Decrease the chances of head and limb injuries from falls 

• Ensure that the surface remains slip-resistant even after it gets wet 

• Stand up to chemicals and ultraviolet rays 

• Need very little upkeep and maintenance 

• Help integrate the look and feel of the waterplay area 

Let’s examine how traditional textured concrete compares with Aqua Tile in each of these critical areas. 

Aqua Tile vs. Concrete: A Head-to-Head Comparison 

1. Slip Resistance

• Even when coated with a rough finish, concrete can still be slippery if it collects biofilm, sunscreen, or mold. Eventually, the soles wear down which can cause a person to fall more often. 

• Aqua Tile: Features a patent-pending multi-directional texture that provides consistent grip in all directions—even when wet. It meets or surpasses the slip resistance standards set by ASTM for use in water. 

2. Impact Protection

• Concrete: Provides no cushioning for the feet. If someone falls on concrete, they can suffer from fractures, sprains or head injuries, especially if they are a child or senior. 

• Aqua Tile: Designed with a shock-absorbing, closed-cell foam structure that cushions falls and dramatically reduces injury risk. It passes and surpasses the ASTM impact attenuation guidelines. 

3. UV and Chemical Resistance

• Concrete: It breaks down slowly when it comes into contact with chlorine, strong sunlight and tough cleaners. Many surfaces show signs of discoloration, cracks and erosion. 

• Aqua Tile: UV-stabilized and chemically resistant. Color and structure are still strong even after being exposed to sunlight and sanitizers for years. 

4. Maintaining the facility and keeping it clean

• Porous: The surface of concrete absorbs dirt and water which leads to mold, mildew and bacteria. Maintaining a clean pool means a lot of work and may involve using pressure washers or chemicals. 

• Aqua Tile: Closed-cell construction resists moisture absorption and microbial growth. It is easy to clean with basic tools which saves time and money. 

5. Comfort and how easy it is to use

• Concrete is hard, cold and not comfortable to walk on without shoes. Foot burns are more likely to happen when it is very hot in the sun. 

• Aqua Tile: Soft, comfortable, and temperature-regulated underfoot. Ensures that people of all ages who walk barefoot have a nice experience. 

6. The ability to customize the design

• Concrete: Its appearance is not very attractive unless it is painted or stained and these finishes tend to fade and wear out. 

• Aqua Tile: Available in three designer color collections—Dune, Coastal, and Caribbean—allowing for vibrant, fade-resistant design options tailored to any theme. 

7. Setting Up and Lasting Benefits

• Concrete: The initial cost is lower, but it requires more maintenance and repairs over time. A repair job can keep the splash pad closed for several days. 

• Aqua Tile: Modular tiles are quick to install and replace individually as needed. Because they last for 5–10 years and are rarely down, they are cost-effective in the long run. 

Why Aqua Tile Is the Leading Soft Fall Surface Material 

When we consider concrete’s weaknesses, it is obvious that it does not meet the tough standards of aquatic environments. Aqua Tile is purpose-built to address these challenges and more. This is why it is different from others: 

Slip Resistance Certification 

Aqua Tile features a patent-pending multi-directional texture that increases surface friction in all directions. The texture does not lose its grip when wet which raises the bar for safety. 

Better Protection 

With high shock absorbency built into every 24″ x 24″ x 3/8″ tile, Aqua Tile cushions falls and reduces the likelihood of injuries such as sprains, bruises, or fractures. The tiles meet and surpass the ASTM standards for impact in wet playgrounds. 

UV and Chemical Stability 

Splash pads are regularly exposed to the sun and chemicals used for sanitation such as chlorine. Aqua Tile’s soft fall surface is UV-stabilized and chemical-resistant, maintaining its color, texture, and integrity through years of intense exposure. 

Easy to Install and Replace 

Each Aqua Tile is modular, which means tiles can be installed quickly, replaced individually, and maintained without shutting down an entire splash pad. Being flexible helps to avoid major disruptions and high long-term expenses. 

Aqua Tile Delivers Total Splash Pad Safety 

Even though concrete is popular for being affordable and familiar, it does not meet all the requirements for a high-performance soft fall surface. Aqua Tile, on the other hand, is engineered specifically for aquatic play, offering unmatched safety, comfort, durability, and visual appeal. 

For facilities that prioritize injury prevention, low maintenance, and inclusive design, Aqua Tile is the clear choice. 

Make the switch to Aqua Tile and give your splash pad the soft fall surface it deserves—safe, smart, and built to last.