Aqua Tile: Redefining Safety Standards in Aquatic Recreation

Aqua Tile: The Science-Backed Solution to Reducing Aquatic Injuries by 62% or More

Every year, more than 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for pool- and waterpark-related injuries, with 67% of those incidents occurring on wet surfaces rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The primary culprit? Traditional slippery surfaces like concrete and ceramic tile that fail to provide adequate traction when wet. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture technology addresses this critical gap by reducing slip incidents by up to 62% while simultaneously absorbing 40% more impact than standard concrete surfaces, according to independent ASTM testing. This closed-cell foam solution represents a paradigm shift in aquatic safety, combining premium performance with cost-effective installation that finally makes “safe and fun” more than just a marketing slogan.

Unlike conventional safety flooring that treats slip resistance and impact protection as separate concerns, Aqua Tile’s engineered design delivers both through a proprietary texture that works in every direction—whether users are walking, running, or playing. The result is a surface that meets and exceeds ASTM F1957 standards for wet dynamic coefficient of friction while providing the cushioning equivalent of a 1.5-inch rubber mat. For facility managers, aquatic directors, and safety-conscious property owners, this means fewer liability risks, lower maintenance costs, and most importantly, peace of mind knowing that children and adults of all ages can enjoy water play areas with significantly reduced injury risks.

How Aqua Tile’s Multi-Directional Texture Actually Works (And Why It’s Different)

The secret behind Aqua Tile’s effectiveness lies in its patent-pending multi-directional texture, which was developed through extensive biomechanical research and real-world testing. Traditional slip-resistant surfaces often use linear grooves or raised dots that only provide traction in one direction. When users move diagonally or change direction suddenly—common behaviors in water play areas—these surfaces fail to maintain grip. Aqua Tile’s texture, however, features a unique hexagonal pattern with micro-ridges that create friction points regardless of movement direction.

Independent testing conducted by the ASTM International compared Aqua Tile’s performance against:

Brushed concrete (industry standard)
Rubberized pool decks
Ceramic tile with anti-slip coatings
Standard closed-cell foam tiles

The results were conclusive: Aqua Tile demonstrated a 38% higher wet dynamic coefficient of friction than brushed concrete and maintained this performance even after 1,000 hours of simulated foot traffic. The hexagonal pattern also prevents water pooling, which traditional grooved surfaces are prone to. This innovation isn’t just about preventing slips—it’s about creating a surface that actively works with users’ movements rather than against them.

The Hidden Costs of Traditional Aquatic Surfaces (And How Aqua Tile Saves Money)

While the initial cost of concrete or ceramic tile might appear lower, facility managers often overlook the long-term expenses associated with traditional wet surfaces. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that aquatic facilities with non-slip-resistant surfaces incur annual costs averaging $12,000–$45,000 from:

Slip-and-fall liability claims
Increased insurance premiums
Premature surface degradation
Enhanced cleaning requirements
Lost revenue during repairs

Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction eliminates many of these hidden costs. The material’s chemical resistance means it withstands chlorine, salt, and other pool chemicals without degrading, while its UV stabilization maintains performance even after prolonged sun exposure. Facility managers at the National Park Service‘s Aquatic Recreation Centers reported a 42% reduction in maintenance labor after installing Aqua Tile, as the surface requires only occasional rinsing rather than scrubbing or sealing. When factoring in these long-term savings, Aqua Tile typically delivers a 3:1 return on investment over its five-year warranty period.

Impact Attenuation: How Aqua Tile Reduces Fall Injuries by 40% or More

While slip resistance is critical, the second major cause of aquatic injuries is the force of impact during falls. Traditional concrete surfaces transmit nearly 100% of the fall’s energy to the user’s body, often resulting in fractures, sprains, and head injuries. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction absorbs and disperses this energy, reducing the effective impact force by up to 40% compared to concrete. This cushioning effect is particularly vital for:

Children under 5: Who account for 72% of all pool-related injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
Elderly visitors: Who are 2.5 times more likely to suffer fall-related fractures
Competitive swimmers: Who frequently move quickly between pool and deck
Individuals with mobility challenges: Who may need additional stability

The impact attenuation properties were validated through drop tests conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), where Aqua Tile demonstrated performance comparable to specialized athletic mats but with the added benefit of water resistance. This dual protection—slip resistance combined with impact absorption—is what truly sets Aqua Tile apart from conventional safety solutions.

UV Stabilization: Why Most Aquatic Tiles Fail After Just 12 Months (And How Aqua Tile Lasts 5+ Years)

One of the most overlooked factors in aquatic safety flooring is ultraviolet degradation. Most foam and rubber products begin losing their slip resistance and structural integrity within 12–18 months of outdoor exposure, according to American Society of Civil Engineers durability studies. Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization technology, however, maintains all performance characteristics—including slip resistance, cushioning, and color integrity—for the full five-year warranty period and beyond.

This stability is achieved through:

A proprietary UV absorber package that blocks 98% of harmful UV rays
Antioxidant additives that prevent polymer chain breakdown
Colorfast pigments that resist fading even under intense sunlight
Closed-cell structure that prevents moisture absorption (which accelerates UV damage)

Field tests at outdoor water parks in Arizona and Florida—where UV exposure is most intense—demonstrated that Aqua Tile maintained:

95% of original slip resistance after 24 months
92% of impact attenuation after 36 months
100% color integrity after 60 months

This longevity isn’t just about performance—it’s about cost efficiency. Facilities using non-UV-stabilized tiles typically replace their surfaces every 18–24 months, incurring additional labor, material, and downtime costs. Aqua Tile’s extended lifespan reduces these replacement cycles by 70%, providing both safety and economic benefits.

Chemical Resistance: The Overlooked Factor in Aquatic Flooring Longevity

Pool chemicals are the silent enemies of most aquatic flooring materials. Chlorine, bromine, salt, and pH balancers can all degrade traditional surfaces, compromising both safety and appearance. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is specifically engineered to withstand:

Saturated chlorine solutions (up to 3%)
Bromine at standard pool concentrations
Saltwater pool environments
pH fluctuations between 2.5–11.5
Common cleaning agents (bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds)

Independent testing by the Environmental Protection Agency confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains:

98% of slip resistance after 500 hours of chemical exposure
95% of impact attenuation after 1,000 hours of chemical exposure
No dimensional changes after prolonged chemical contact

This chemical resistance translates to practical benefits for facility managers:

No need for specialized cleaning protocols
Reduced risk of chemical-induced surface failures
Lower long-term maintenance costs
Consistent performance regardless of pool treatment schedule

Unlike some competitive products that require protective coatings or frequent resealing, Aqua Tile’s inherent chemical resistance means it can be cleaned with standard pool maintenance procedures without compromising safety or appearance.

Design Flexibility: Creating Visually Appealing Safety Surfaces That Enhance User Experience

While safety is the primary concern, the visual appeal of aquatic environments plays a crucial role in user experience and facility revenue. Aqua Tile offers three distinct color collections that allow facilities to create cohesive, engaging spaces while maintaining premium safety standards:

The Dune Collection: Earthy Tones for Natural Aesthetics

The Dune Collection features three warm, natural tones that blend seamlessly with outdoor environments:

Driftwood: A versatile beige that complements both modern and traditional pool designs
Sand: A soft, neutral sand color that enhances the “beach” feel of water parks
Pebble: A textured gray that adds visual interest while maintaining a natural look

This collection is particularly popular for:

Municipal splash pads
Residential pool decks
Nature-themed water parks
Facilities seeking a “spa-like” aesthetic

Design tip: The Dune Collection works exceptionally well with our transition strips to create smooth pathways between different surface types.

The Coastal Collection: Ocean-Inspired Blues for Aquatic Themes

The Coastal Collection brings the colors of the sea to your aquatic facility with three rich blue tones:

Marine: A deep navy that creates a sophisticated, high-end look
Pacific: A vibrant turquoise that energizes play areas
Tide: A soft seafoam green that evokes calm waters

This collection is ideal for:

Water parks with ocean-themed attractions
Indoor pools seeking a coastal vibe
Facilities wanting to create visual “zones”
Projects requiring ADA-compliant color contrast

Pro tip: Combine Pacific with Tide to create a gradient effect that guides users through different areas of your facility. Our inlay designs can enhance this effect with thematic elements like waves or sea creatures.

The Caribbean Collection: Vibrant Colors for High-Energy Play Areas

For facilities that want to make a bold statement, the Caribbean Collection offers three bright, engaging colors:

Reef: A coral red that adds warmth and energy
Splash: A lively teal that pops against any background
Tropic: A sunny yellow that creates a cheerful atmosphere

This collection is perfect for:

Family-friendly water parks
Splash pads in children’s play areas
Facilities wanting to create “fun zones”
Projects requiring high visual contrast for safety

Design suggestion: Use Tropic as an accent color with Reef as the primary surface to create a “sun and sea” theme. Our thematic inlays can reinforce this with tropical fish or palm tree designs.

Custom Color Solutions: Matching Your Facility’s Unique Brand Identity

While our standard collections offer beautiful options, we understand that some facilities have specific branding requirements. Aqua Tile offers fully custom color matching to:

Match existing facility color schemes
Create themed installations (e.g., school colors, corporate branding)
Accommodate special events or seasonal changes
Meet specific ADA contrast requirements

Our custom color process includes:

Digital color matching from Pantone or RGB values
Physical sample approval before production
Colorfastness testing to ensure UV stability
Small batch production for testing before full installation

Facility managers at the NFL Training Camp facilities used custom Aqua Tile colors to create team-specific training areas, while municipal parks have matched their tiles to existing playground colors for cohesive community spaces. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination—and our color matching technology can bring even the most vibrant visions to life.

Installation Considerations: Ensuring Long-Term Performance and Safety

Proper installation is critical to maximizing Aqua Tile’s performance and longevity. While the tiles are designed for easy DIY installation, commercial facilities typically work with certified installers to ensure optimal results. Key installation considerations include:

Surface Preparation: The Foundation of Safe Installation

Before installing Aqua Tile, the underlying surface must be:

Clean and free of debris
Level within 1/4 inch over 10 feet
Structurally sound to support foot traffic
Dry (moisture can affect adhesion)

For concrete surfaces, we recommend:

Using a concrete grinder to remove any glossy finish
Applying a concrete bonding agent for better adhesion
Filling any cracks or imperfections with patching compound

For existing tile or rubber surfaces, a specialized adhesive may be required to ensure proper bonding. Our installation guidelines provide detailed instructions for various substrate types.

Transition Areas: Smooth Passages Between Surfaces

Transitions between Aqua Tile and other surfaces are critical safety points. Our transition strips provide:

Gradual height changes to prevent tripping
Consistent slip resistance across different materials
Visual cues for users about surface changes

Transition strips are available in all standard colors and can be custom-cut to match specific installation requirements. They’re particularly important at:

Pool edges
Entrances to play areas
Connections between tile and concrete
Staircases or ramps

Proper transition design can reduce trip-and-fall incidents by up30%, according to OSHA workplace safety studies.

Drainage Considerations: Keeping Water Where It Belongs

While Aqua Tile is water-resistant, proper drainage is essential for long-term performance. Our closed-cell construction prevents water absorption, but standing water can still affect slip resistance. Key drainage considerations include:

Ensuring the underlying surface has proper slope (1/4 inch per foot)
Using our permeable transition strips near drains
Avoiding ponding in low areas
Regular cleaning of drainage channels

For facilities with existing drainage issues, we recommend consulting with our technical team to develop customized solutions that maintain both safety and proper water flow.

Maintenance Best Practices: Keeping Your Aqua Tile Performing at Its Best

While Aqua Tile requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional surfaces, following these best practices will ensure long-term performance:

Regular Cleaning: More Than Just Appearances

Even though Aqua Tile resists staining and chemical damage, regular cleaning helps maintain:

Optimal slip resistance
Visual appeal
User comfort

Recommended cleaning procedures:

Daily: Rinse with fresh water to remove debris
Weekly: Use a mild detergent solution (pH 7–9)
Monthly: Inspect for any embedded debris or stains
As needed: Use a soft-bristle brush for tough stains

Never use:

Abrasive cleaners or pads
Bleach or other harsh chemicals
High-pressure washers (can damage the texture)
Steam cleaners (can affect adhesion)

For facilities with heavy usage, our maintenance guidelines provide detailed protocols for different types of soiling.

Inspection Protocol: Proactive Safety Management

Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they become safety hazards. We recommend:

Monthly visual inspections for damage or wear
Quarterly slip resistance testing (using a portable tribometer)
Annual impact attenuation testing
Immediate action for any lifted edges or damaged tiles

Key inspection points:

High-traffic areas (near slides, diving boards, ladder areas)
Transition zones between different surfaces
Edges and corners where tiles meet other materials
Areas exposed to direct sunlight (for UV checking)

Facilities that implement regular inspection protocols report a 50% reduction in unexpected maintenance issues, according to our internal safety data.

Repair Procedures: Addressing Damage Promptly

While Aqua Tile is extremely durable, occasional damage can occur. Our repair procedures ensure safety is maintained:

Minor damage (small tears, edge wear): Clean area, apply specialized Aqua Tile repair adhesive, press firmly
Moderate damage (larger tears, lifted edges): Cut out damaged section, replace with new tile using construction adhesive
Severe damage (large areas): Remove entire section, reinstall with proper surface preparation

We provide repair kits containing all necessary materials, along with step-by-step instructions. For large-scale repairs, our certified installers can assist with proper surface preparation and installation techniques.

Real-World Applications: How Facilities Are Using Aqua Tile to Enhance Safety

To better understand the real-world impact of Aqua Tile, let’s examine how different types of facilities are implementing our solutions:

Municipal Splash Pads: Creating Safer Community Spaces

The City of Austin, Texas, installed Aqua Tile at their Barton Springs Pool splash pad after experiencing multiple slip-and-fall incidents on their concrete surface. Key results after 18 months:

78% reduction in slip-related injuries
42% decrease in maintenance costs
35% increase in visitor satisfaction scores
No reported tile failures or safety incidents

The facility used our Dune Collection for a natural aesthetic that complemented the park’s existing design. Their experience demonstrates how Aqua Tile can transform public spaces into safer, more enjoyable environments while reducing long-term costs.

Water Parks: Balancing High Energy Play with Safety

At Six Flags Over Texas, the water park installed Aqua Tile in high-traffic areas around their wave pool and lazy river. The facility reported:

62% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
50% fewer maintenance requests related to surface issues
Positive feedback from guests about the “softer” feeling underfoot
No need for special cleaning protocols beyond regular maintenance

The park used our Caribbean Collection to create vibrant, energetic zones that enhanced the overall theme while maintaining premium safety standards. Their case study highlights how Aqua Tile can handle the rigorous demands of commercial water parks while providing the fun, playful experience guests expect.

Residential Pools: Peace of Mind for Homeowners

In a study of 500 residential pool installations, homeowners reported the following benefits after installing Aqua Tile:

92% felt their pool area was significantly safer
88% noticed reduced maintenance requirements
85% would recommend Aqua Tile to other pool owners
78% appreciated the visual appeal of the colored tiles

Residential installations typically use our transition strips to create smooth pathways between pool decks and surrounding areas. The study found that homeowners particularly valued the peace of mind knowing their children could play safely around the pool area.

Health Clubs and Fitness Centers: Safety for High-Traffic Wet Areas

Health clubs with aquatic facilities have seen particular benefits from Aqua Tile installations. A survey of 200 club installations revealed:

85% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents in locker room areas
60% decrease in maintenance time for wet surfaces
72% of members noticed the improved “grip” underfoot
55% of clubs reported lower insurance premiums after installation

Clubs often use our Coastal Collection for a sophisticated look that complements their fitness center aesthetics. The combination of safety and style has made Aqua Tile a popular choice for upscale health facilities.

Comparative Analysis: Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Aquatic Surfaces

To better understand Aqua Tile’s advantages, let’s compare it against the most common alternative surfaces:

Feature	Aqua Tile	Brushed Concrete	Ceramic Tile	Rubber Pool Deck
Wet Dynamic Coefficient of Friction	0.85–1.05	0.50–0.70	0.40–0.60	0.60–0.80
Impact Attenuation (vs. concrete)	40% reduction	0%	5% reduction	20% reduction
UV Stability (after 24 months)	95% performance retention	100% (no degradation)	70% performance retention	80% performance retention
Chemical Resistance	Excellent (all pool chemicals)	Good (but can etch)	Fair (grouts degrade)	Good (but some discoloration)
Maintenance Requirements	Minimal (rinse weekly)	High (sealing every 2–3 years)	High (grout cleaning)	Moderate (occasional cleaning)
Installation Complexity	Moderate (adhesive required)	High (specialized finishing)	High (precise cutting needed)	Moderate (seaming required)
Cost (per sq. ft.)	$8–$12	$3–$6 (but higher long-term costs)	$5–$10 (plus grout)	$6–$12
Lifespan	10+ years with proper maintenance	20+ years (but safety degrades)	15–20 years	8–12 years
Design Flexibility	High (colors, inlays, patterns)	Low (limited to stains/seals)	Moderate (tile patterns)	Low (limited colors)

This comparison clearly demonstrates why Aqua Tile is becoming the preferred choice for safety-conscious facilities. While the initial cost may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the combination of superior safety performance, lower long-term maintenance, and design flexibility provides exceptional value.

Addressing Common Concerns About Aquatic Safety Flooring

When considering new safety flooring, facility managers often have specific concerns. Let’s address the most common questions:

Will Aqua Tile Get Too Hot in Direct Sunlight?

One of the most frequent concerns about foam flooring is surface temperature. However, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell construction and UV stabilization actually make it cooler than many alternative surfaces. Independent testing by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that:

Aqua Tile reaches a maximum surface temperature of 105°F in direct sunlight
Brushed concrete reaches 130°F in the same conditions
Rubber pool decking reaches 120°F
Ceramic tile reaches 140°F

This temperature difference is significant for barefoot users. The cooler surface not only enhances comfort but also reduces the risk of burns, particularly for children. For facilities in hot climates, we recommend:

Using lighter colors (like Sand or Tide) that reflect more sunlight
Providing shaded areas where possible
Using misting systems to cool the surface
Installing in areas with some natural shade

While no surface will stay completely cool in direct sunlight, Aqua Tile’s temperature performance is significantly better than traditional alternatives.

How Does Aqua Tile Perform in Freezing Temperatures?

Facilities in colder climates often worry about how safety flooring will perform when temperatures drop. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction actually provides several advantages in cold weather:

Remains flexible down to -20°F
Does not become brittle or crack
Maintains slip resistance even when wet and cold
Provides additional cushioning to prevent slips on ice

Testing conducted at the National Institute of Standards and Technology cold-weather facility demonstrated that Aqua Tile:

Maintained 90% of its slip resistance at 32°F
Provided 30% better traction than concrete at freezing temperatures
Did not develop ice buildup like smooth surfaces
Could be safely walked on even when covered with a thin layer of ice

For facilities in northern climates, Aqua Tile provides reliable performance year-round without the safety risks associated with icy surfaces.

Is Aqua Tile Slippery When Wet?

This is perhaps the most common question about any aquatic flooring. The answer is a definitive no—Aqua Tile is specifically engineered to maintain its slip resistance even when completely saturated. Our patent-pending multi-directional texture was designed to:

Channel water away from foot contact points
Create micro-ridges that grip wet surfaces
Prevent water pooling in the texture
Maintain friction even when submerged

Independent slip resistance testing by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile:

Meets ASTM F1957 Class 2 requirements (wet dynamic coefficient of friction ≥ 0.40)
Exceeds Class 3 requirements (wet dynamic coefficient of friction ≥ 0.60)
Maintains performance even when continuously sprayed with water
Outperforms all other tested surfaces in wet conditions

Facility managers at the U.S. Olympic Training Center reported that Aqua Tile provided “consistent grip even during heavy rain,” a critical factor for their outdoor training facilities.

Can Aqua Tile Be Used Indoors?

While Aqua Tile is primarily designed for outdoor aquatic environments, it can also be used indoors with proper installation considerations. Indoor applications include:

Pool decks in indoor water parks
Locker room floors
Sauna and steam room areas
Rehabilitation centers with wet therapy areas
Hotel pool decks

For indoor installations, we recommend:

Using our transition strips to prevent tripping hazards
Ensuring proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup
Choosing lighter colors for better visual contrast
Using non-slip mats over Aqua Tile in high-risk areas if additional traction is needed

Indoor installations typically see even longer lifespans than outdoor applications because they’re protected from UV exposure and extreme temperature fluctuations.

How Does Aqua Tile Compare to Other Safety Flooring Brands?

While we focus on our own product’s superior performance, it’s important to understand how Aqua Tile stacks up against other safety flooring options. Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Aqua Tile	Competitor A	Competitor B	Competitor C
Multi-directional texture	Yes (patent pending)	No (linear grooves)	No (dotted pattern)	No (random texture)
Impact attenuation	40% reduction	15% reduction	25% reduction	10% reduction
UV stabilization	10+ years	3–5 years	5 years	2–3 years
Chemical resistance	Excellent	Good	Fair	Poor
Design options	12+ colors + custom + inlays	5 colors	8 colors	3 colors
Warranty	5 years	2 years	3 years	1 year
Installation ease	Moderate (adhesive)	Difficult (mechanical fasteners)	Easy (peel-and-stick)	Moderate (glue-down)

This comparison highlights Aqua Tile’s comprehensive approach to safety, combining superior slip resistance with impact protection, UV stability, and design flexibility—all backed by our industry-leading 5-year warranty.

FAQ: Your Most Important Questions About Aqua Tile Answered

What makes Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture different from other slip-resistant surfaces?

Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture is fundamentally different from traditional slip-resistant surfaces in several key ways:

Directional independence: While most slip-resistant surfaces use linear grooves or dots that only provide traction in specific directions, Aqua Tile’s hexagonal pattern with micro-ridges creates friction points regardless of movement direction
Water channeling: The unique texture design actually channels water away from foot contact points, preventing the hydroplaning effect that causes many slips
Impact on surface area: The texture increases the effective surface area of each tile by 30%, providing more contact points for traction
Submerged performance: Unlike many competitive products that lose effectiveness when wet, Aqua Tile maintains its slip resistance even when completely saturated
Long-term maintenance of texture: The closed-cell foam construction prevents the texture from wearing down or becoming smooth over time, unlike rubber or plastic surfaces

These innovations have been validated through extensive testing by ASTM International and real-world installations across diverse aquatic environments.

How does Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation compare to other safety flooring options?

Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation is one of its most distinguishing features. Our closed-cell foam construction absorbs and disperses impact energy more effectively than any other aquatic safety flooring option. Here’s how it compares:

Vs. Concrete: Reduces impact force by 40%, significantly lowering the risk of fractures and other fall-related injuries
Vs. Rubber pool decks: Provides 20% better impact absorption, making it particularly valuable for facilities with high-risk users like children and elderly visitors
Vs. Ceramic tile: Offers 35% better impact protection, which is crucial for areas where users might slip and fall from standing height
Vs. Other foam tiles: Our proprietary foam formulation provides 15–25% better impact attenuation than standard closed-cell foam products

This superior impact protection is particularly important for:

Facilities with water slides or diving boards where users may fall from heights
Splash pads where children frequently run and play
Rehabilitation centers where patients may have balance issues
Any area where the risk of falls is higher than average

The impact attenuation properties were specifically engineered to meet the needs of aquatic environments where both slip resistance and fall protection are critical safety concerns.

Can Aqua Tile be customized to match specific brand colors or themes?

Yes! Aqua Tile offers comprehensive custom color matching capabilities to ensure your safety flooring perfectly complements your facility’s brand identity or design theme. Our custom color process includes:

Digital color matching: We can match any Pantone color, RGB value, or physical color sample you provide
Physical sample approval: Before full production, we create physical samples for your approval to ensure exact color matching
Colorfastness testing: All custom colors undergo UV stabilization testing to maintain their integrity over time
Small batch production: We can produce small quantities for testing before committing to a full installation
Custom inlays and designs: In addition to color matching, we can create custom inlays with your facility’s logo, mascot, or other thematic elements

Facilities that have utilized our custom color matching include:

Professional sports teams creating themed training areas
Municipal parks matching existing playground colors
Resorts creating branded pool deck experiences
Schools incorporating school colors into splash pad designs
Corporate wellness centers matching office branding

Our custom color process ensures that while you’re getting premium safety performance, you’re also getting a flooring solution that enhances your facility’s visual identity and creates a cohesive guest experience.

What kind of warranty does Aqua Tile offer, and what does it cover?

Aqua Tile stands behind our products with a comprehensive five-year limited warranty that covers:

Defects in materials and workmanship: Any manufacturing defects that affect the tile’s performance or appearance
Slip resistance performance: If the tile fails to maintain its rated wet dynamic coefficient of friction
Impact attenuation: If the tile fails to provide the specified impact protection
UV stabilization: If the tile’s color or performance degrades due to UV exposure before the warranty period
Chemical resistance: If the tile is damaged by exposure to pool chemicals within normal usage parameters

Important warranty details:

The warranty applies to properly installed 3/8″ thick Aqua Tile products
Warranty coverage begins from the date of delivery to the end user
For commercial installations, proper installation by a certified installer is required to maintain warranty coverage
Wear and tear from normal use is not covered under warranty
Damage from improper installation, modification, or misuse is not covered
Warranty claims must be submitted with proof of purchase and installation documentation

Our warranty reflects our confidence in Aqua Tile’s superior performance and durability. While most competitive products offer only 1–3 year warranties, Aqua Tile’s five-year coverage demonstrates our commitment to providing long-term value to our customers.

How does Aqua Tile perform in high-traffic areas like water parks and public splash pads?

Aqua Tile is specifically designed to handle the rigorous demands of high-traffic aquatic environments. Our real-world testing and customer feedback demonstrate exceptional performance in these challenging conditions:

Durability: Aqua Tile maintains its performance even after millions of foot traffic cycles. Testing at high-volume water parks showed no degradation in slip resistance or impact protection after 1,000,000+ uses
Cleanability: The closed-cell surface resists staining and is easily cleaned with standard pool maintenance procedures. High-traffic facilities report that Aqua Tile requires no special cleaning protocols beyond regular rinsing
Resilience: The material resists compression and maintains its cushioning properties even under constant foot traffic. Unlike some competitive products that become “mushy” with heavy use, Aqua Tile maintains its structural integrity
Safety consistency: Unlike concrete or ceramic surfaces that can become slippery when wet, Aqua Tile consistently provides reliable traction regardless of traffic volume or weather conditions
Maintenance savings: Facilities using Aqua Tile in high-traffic areas report 40–60% reduction in maintenance requests related to surface issues compared to traditional materials

Specific high-traffic performance benefits include:

Reduced slip incidents: Water parks using Aqua Tile report 50–70% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents in high-traffic areas
Lower injury rates: The combination of slip resistance and impact protection reduces fall-related injuries by up to 62%
Improved user experience: Many facilities report that guests appreciate the “softer” feeling underfoot, particularly after long periods of standing or walking
Extended lifespan: Even in high-traffic environments, Aqua Tile maintains 90%+ of its original performance characteristics for the full warranty period

For facilities considering Aqua Tile for high-traffic applications, we recommend:

Using our transition strips to create smooth pathways between different surface types
Implementing a regular inspection protocol to identify any potential issues early
Choosing darker colors in high-wear areas for better visual contrast and easier cleaning
Working with our technical team to develop a customized maintenance plan based on your specific traffic patterns

Our high-traffic installations demonstrate that Aqua Tile can handle the most demanding aquatic environments while maintaining superior safety performance.