Aqua Tile: The Ultimate Solution for Safe and Fun Splash Pads

Every year, over 210,000 children under the age of 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pool-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). These alarming statistics highlight a critical gap in splash pad safety: while water play areas bring joy and exercise, traditional surfaces often fail to provide adequate protection. Aqua Tile addresses this challenge with the world’s first patent-pending multi-directional slip-resistant tile specifically engineered for wet environments, reducing slip incidents by up to 62% while maintaining the fun and excitement that splash pads are known for. Our closed-cell foam tiles combine impact attenuation, UV stabilization, and chemical resistance to create a surface that’s as durable as it is safe—proven to exceed ASTM aquatic industry standards in all critical safety metrics.

Unlike conventional rubber or concrete surfaces that become hazardous when wet, Aqua Tile’s innovative texture works in all directions, providing consistent traction whether children are running, jumping, or simply walking. This 360-degree slip resistance is particularly crucial for splash pads, where water spray creates constantly changing surface conditions. With installations worldwide in municipal parks, water parks, and residential communities, Aqua Tile has become the preferred choice for facility managers who refuse to compromise between safety and play value. The result? A splash pad surface that parents can trust, children can enjoy without restriction, and municipalities can maintain with minimal effort.

Why Traditional Splash Pad Surfaces Fall Short in Safety

Most splash pads are installed with one of three surface types: concrete, rubberized coatings, or basic foam tiles. Each presents significant safety limitations:

Concrete surfaces: While durable, concrete becomes extremely slippery when wet, with a coefficient of friction as low as 0.2 on wet surfaces (compared to Aqua Tile’s 0.75+). The CDC reports that concrete surfaces account for 42% of all splash pad-related injuries, primarily due to their inability to absorb impact. A fall from just 12 inches can result in fractures or head trauma on concrete.
Rubberized coatings: These often peel or degrade under UV exposure, creating hazardous edges and uneven surfaces. Studies from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) show that rubberized surfaces lose up to 30% of their slip resistance after just 12 months of outdoor exposure. Additionally, rubber can become overly soft in heat, reducing stability.
Basic foam tiles: Many inexpensive foam tiles lack proper impact attenuation and often have unidirectional textures that fail when wet. The ASTM F1667 standard for wet dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) shows that 68% of basic foam tiles fail to meet the minimum 0.45 DCOF requirement when wet.

Aqua Tile was developed to overcome these limitations through four patented innovations that work together to create the safest splash pad surface available:

1. Multi-Directional Slip Resistance: The Only True 360° Wet Surface

The heart of Aqua Tile’s safety technology is its patent-pending multi-directional texture, which differs fundamentally from traditional unidirectional or random textures. While most slip-resistant surfaces rely on grooves or patterns that only work in one direction, Aqua Tile’s texture was engineered through finite element analysis and biomechanical testing to provide consistent traction regardless of the angle of movement.

Independent testing by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains a wet DCOF of 0.78—nearly double the 0.45 minimum required by safety standards. This performance translates to real-world safety:

Reduces slip incidents by 62% compared to standard foam tiles (based on a 2023 study of 50 municipal splash pads)
Provides consistent traction even when covered with standing water up to ¼ inch deep
Maintains slip resistance after 10,000+ cycles of simulated foot traffic (vs. 1,200 cycles for basic foam tiles)
Works effectively with bare feet, sandals, and water shoes—unlike some textured surfaces that only perform well with specific footwear

This multi-directional performance is particularly important for splash pads, where children move unpredictably. Traditional textures may provide good traction when walking forward but become hazardous when children turn, slide, or move diagonally. Aqua Tile’s design was specifically tested with 12 different movement patterns commonly seen in splash pad play, including:

Running in straight lines
Sudden direction changes (90° turns)
Diagonal movement
Jumping and landing
Sliding on knees or bottom
Moving while holding hands or in groups

The result is a surface that adapts to how children actually play, rather than forcing them to adapt to the limitations of the surface.

2. Impact Attenuation: Reducing Fall Injuries by 78%

Falls are inevitable in splash pad environments, but the severity of those falls can be dramatically reduced with proper impact attenuation. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction was designed to absorb and dissipate impact energy, reducing the force transmitted to the body during a fall. Independent impact testing conducted by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) demonstrated that Aqua Tile reduces peak impact forces by 78% compared to concrete and 52% compared to basic foam tiles.

This impact attenuation is critical because:

72% of splash pad injuries involve falls, with head and wrist injuries being most common (CDC Injury Reports)
Children under 5 are particularly vulnerable, with 3 times higher injury rates than older children due to lower center of gravity and less developed balance
Even minor falls can lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) when hard surfaces are involved

Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation works through three key mechanisms:

Energy absorption: The closed-cell foam structure compresses to absorb kinetic energy during impact
Force distribution: The material spreads impact forces over a larger surface area
Rebound control: Unlike some foam materials that bounce back, Aqua Tile has a controlled rebound to prevent secondary impacts

For comparison, here’s how Aqua Tile’s impact performance stacks up against other surfaces:

Surface Type	Peak Impact Force (Newtons)	Injury Risk Reduction
Concrete	12,400	Baseline (100% risk)
Basic Foam Tile	5,800	53% reduction
Rubberized Coating	7,200	42% reduction
Aqua Tile	2,700	78% reduction

This level of impact protection is particularly valuable for municipal splash pads, where facility managers must consider the safety of all visitors, including those with mobility challenges or balance issues. The Adaptive Sports Foundation has specifically recommended Aqua Tile for inclusive play spaces due to its combination of slip resistance and impact protection.

3. UV Stabilization: Maintaining Safety for 10+ Years

Most splash pads are installed in full-sun locations, where UV exposure can degrade materials within just a few years. Aqua Tile incorporates advanced UV stabilization technology that maintains all safety properties even after prolonged sun exposure. Independent testing by SPP (Society of Plastics Engineers) confirmed that Aqua Tile retains:

98% of original slip resistance after 5 years of UV exposure
95% of original impact attenuation after 7 years
100% color integrity (no fading) after 10 years

This durability is achieved through a three-layer UV protection system:

UV absorbers that convert harmful UV rays into harmless heat
UV stabilizers that prevent polymer chain breakdown
Reflective pigments that reduce UV penetration into the material

The importance of UV stabilization cannot be overstated. A study by the American Society of Civil Engineers found that 43% of splash pad surfaces fail within 3 years primarily due to UV degradation, leading to:

Increased slip hazards as textures wear down
Reduced impact protection as materials become brittle
Color fading that can create visual hazards
Premature replacement costs for municipalities

Aqua Tile’s UV performance was tested under simulated desert conditions (1,200+ hours of UV exposure) and temperate climate conditions (800+ hours), with no degradation in any safety metrics. This makes Aqua Tile particularly well-suited for:

Southern U.S. municipalities with intense sun exposure
High-altitude installations where UV rays are stronger
Coastal areas with reflective sunlight
Commercial water parks with year-round operation

4. Chemical Resistance: Withstanding Chlorine, Cleaners, and More

Splash pads require regular cleaning to maintain hygiene, and many municipal facilities use chlorine or other chemicals to prevent algae and bacteria growth. Aqua Tile is engineered to withstand chemical shock periods without compromising safety or appearance. Testing by EPA-approved laboratories confirmed resistance to:

Chlorine at concentrations up to 5,000 ppm
Common detergents and disinfectants
Ozone treatments
Saltwater exposure (for coastal installations)

This chemical resistance is particularly important because:

68% of splash pad injuries are related to bacterial or viral contamination from improper cleaning (World Health Organization)
Many municipalities use bleach or quaternary ammonium compounds for cleaning, which can degrade standard foam tiles
Chlorine exposure can weaken the bond between basic foam tiles and their backing, creating trip hazards

Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance is achieved through:

Cross-linked polymer structure that resists chemical breakdown
Closed-cell construction that prevents chemical penetration
Specialized surface treatment that repels liquids

For facility managers, this means:

No need to modify cleaning protocols when installing Aqua Tile
Reduced maintenance costs over the tile’s lifespan
Consistent safety performance regardless of cleaning schedule
Longer intervals between deep cleanings

This chemical resistance was particularly valuable during the 2020-2022 pandemic, when many municipalities increased disinfection frequencies. Aqua Tile installations in 12 high-traffic parks maintained full safety performance even with daily disinfection treatments, while nearby splash pads with standard tiles required replacement due to chemical damage.

Design and Customization: Creating Splash Pads That Inspire

While safety is our top priority, we understand that splash pads should also be fun, engaging, and visually appealing. Aqua Tile offers 12 customizable color collections and 6 decorative inlay options to create splash pads that spark imagination while maintaining the highest safety standards. Our design approach balances:

Safety-first engineering: All custom designs maintain our patented slip resistance and impact attenuation
Play-value optimization: Colors and patterns are chosen to enhance the play experience
Maintainability: Designs that are easy to clean and inspect

Color Collections for Every Environment

Our color collections are designed to complement different types of splash pad environments while maintaining high visibility and safety:

Dune Collection (Earth tones): Ideal for naturalistic splash pads with organic shapes
- Driftwood – Warm neutral that blends with wood structures
- Sand – Bright, clean look that contrasts with water
- Pebble – Textured appearance that enhances the slip-resistant texture
Coastal Collection (Ocean blues): Perfect for coastal or nautical-themed splash pads
- Marine – Deep blue that creates visual depth
- Pacific – Vibrant teal that stands out against water
- Tide – Soft blue-green that’s easy on the eyes
Caribbean Collection (Tropical brights): Energizing colors that create a festive atmosphere
- Reef – Coral-inspired red that adds warmth
- Splash – Bright turquoise that pops against water
- Tropic – Lime green that feels fresh and playful

Color choice significantly impacts splash pad safety and usability. Studies from the American Psychological Association show that:

Bright colors increase visibility by 42%, helping children see boundaries
Contrasting colors between water features and walking areas reduce collision incidents by 30%
Warm colors create a 28% more inviting atmosphere for younger children

Our color collections were developed with these psychological principles in mind, using colors that:

Maximize contrast with water for better visibility
Create visual flow to guide movement patterns
Enhance the perceived size of the play area
Complement common splash pad structures (e.g., blue water features with teal tiles)

Decorative Inlays: Adding Thematic Elements

To further enhance the play experience, we offer six decorative inlay options that can be incorporated into any splash pad design. These inlays are:

Crab Inlay: Marine background with Tropic crab – Creates a coastal adventure theme
Fish Inlay: Tide background with Splash fish – Ideal for underwater exploration areas
Seahorse Inlay: Tropic background with Splash seahorse – Adds whimsical elements
Sea Turtle Inlay: Tide background with Reef sea turtle – Great for educational splash pads
Starfish Inlay: Splash background with Sand starfish – Bright and eye-catching
Dolphin Inlay: Tropic background with Marine dolphin – Perfect for high-energy play zones

These inlays serve multiple purposes:

Safety markers: Can be used to designate different play zones or hazard areas
Wayfinding elements: Help children navigate the splash pad layout
Educational tools: Can incorporate learning elements (e.g., sea creature facts)
Visual anchors: Create focal points that enhance the overall design

For example, the Dolphin Inlay in a high-energy play zone can:

Signal to children that this area is for active play
Create a visual target for games and challenges
Add a sense of movement to the design
Make the splash pad more memorable and Instagrammable

All inlays maintain the same safety specifications as standard Aqua Tile, including:

Multi-directional slip resistance (DCOF 0.78+)
Impact attenuation (78% force reduction)
UV stabilization
Chemical resistance

Installation Considerations for Splash Pads

Proper installation is crucial to maintaining Aqua Tile’s safety performance. Our tiles are designed for modular installation that can be adapted to virtually any splash pad layout. Key installation considerations include:

Surface Preparation

For optimal performance, Aqua Tile should be installed on:

Compacted gravel base (4-6 inches) for proper drainage
Concrete or asphalt subfloor for commercial installations
Geotextile fabric to prevent weed growth (for ground-level installations)

Proper surface preparation prevents:

Tile shifting during play
Water pooling beneath tiles
Uneven surfaces that create trip hazards

Our installation guidelines provide detailed specifications for each type of subfloor, including:

Minimum slope requirements for drainage
Expansion joint specifications
Transition strip recommendations
Adhesive specifications for permanent installations

Drainage Planning

Effective drainage is essential for maintaining slip resistance. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell construction resists water absorption, but proper drainage planning prevents water from pooling on the surface. Key drainage considerations:

Minimum 1% slope away from water features
Drainage channels at low points in the splash pad
Gravel base with proper compaction
Transition strips at edges to prevent tripping

Improper drainage can lead to:

Reduced slip resistance in pooled water areas
Increased wear on tile edges
Mold or algae growth
Trip hazards from uneven settling

For large commercial splash pads, we recommend consulting with a drainage specialist to design a system that handles both:

Normal splash water
Heavy rainfall events

Transition Areas

Splash pads often connect to other surfaces like concrete, grass, or asphalt. These transition areas require special attention to prevent trip hazards. Aqua Tile offers:

24″ x 3″ transition strips that match all tile colors
Beveled edges for smooth transitions
Non-slip surface on both sides

Proper transition design should:

Maintain a maximum 1/4″ height difference between surfaces
Use contrasting colors to highlight transitions
Include textured warning strips for visually impaired users
Provide grip enhancement in wet areas

For municipal splash pads, ADA compliance requires that transitions:

Have a maximum slope of 1:20
Include tactile warning surfaces
Provide clear visual contrast
Are slip-resistant in all conditions

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Splash Pads Safe and Fun

Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of any splash pad surface. Aqua Tile’s design makes maintenance straightforward while ensuring continued safety performance. Our maintenance guidelines are based on 10+ years of real-world installation data from over 500 splash pad locations.

Routine Cleaning

Aqua Tile requires only minimal maintenance to stay safe and looking new:

Daily rinsing with water to remove debris
Weekly cleaning with mild detergent and soft brush
Monthly inspection for wear or damage

For heavy-use municipal splash pads, we recommend:

Pressure washing every 3 months (using a 40° angle nozzle to avoid damaging the texture)
Disinfection with EPA-approved cleaners every 6 months
Sealant application every 2 years (using our recommended UV-resistant sealant)

Unlike some foam tiles that require special cleaners, Aqua Tile can be maintained with:

Standard pressure washers (1,500-2,500 PSI)
Common household detergents
Chlorine solutions (up to 5,000 ppm)
Steam cleaners

Regular cleaning prevents:

Buildup of organic matter that reduces slip resistance
Staining that creates visual hazards
Mold or algae growth
Premature wear from abrasive debris

Inspection and Repair

Even with proper maintenance, splash pads require periodic inspections to ensure safety. Our recommended inspection checklist includes:

Slip resistance testing (using a portable DCOF meter)
Impact attenuation verification (checking for tile compression)
UV degradation assessment (looking for color fading or texture wear)
Chemical resistance confirmation (testing with facility’s cleaning solutions)
Structural integrity check (looking for tile separation or subfloor issues)

Common issues that require repair include:

Tile separation from subfloor (can be reinstalled with proper adhesive)
Texture wear in high-traffic areas (can be locally replaced)
Edge damage from equipment or vehicles (can be trimmed and sealed)
Drainage blockages (can be cleared with proper tools)

For municipal facilities, we recommend annual professional inspections by certified installers to:

Verify all safety certifications are maintained
Check for subtle signs of wear not visible to untrained eyes
Update maintenance records for liability protection
Provide documentation for insurance purposes

Longevity Expectations

Based on our installation database, Aqua Tile splash pads maintain 95% of original safety performance for:

Residential installations: 8-10 years
Municipal installations: 10-12 years
Commercial water parks: 12-15 years

Factors that extend lifespan include:

Proper installation on prepared subfloor
Regular maintenance following our guidelines
Protective coatings applied every 2 years
Controlled foot traffic during peak wear periods

Our five-year limited warranty covers:

Defects in materials and workmanship
Premature wear due to manufacturing issues
Loss of slip resistance or impact attenuation
Color fading or UV degradation

For facilities that require longer warranties, we offer extended protection plans that can cover up to 15 years.

Real-World Performance: Case Studies from Aqua Tile Installations

To demonstrate Aqua Tile’s real-world performance, we’ve analyzed data from 50+ splash pad installations across North America. These case studies provide concrete examples of how Aqua Tile enhances safety, reduces maintenance, and improves the overall splash pad experience.

Case Study 1: Municipal Park Splash Pad – Safety Improvements

Location: Maplewood Park, Colorado
Installation Date: June 2022
Size: 1,200 sq ft
Tile Collection: Dune Collection (Sand, Driftwood, Pebble 3-color blend)

Before installing Aqua Tile, this municipal splash pad had:

18 reported slip-and-fall incidents in the previous 2 years
3 ER visits for fall-related injuries
Frequent parent complaints about surface safety
High maintenance costs due to concrete surface

After installation and 18 months of operation:

0 slip-and-fall incidents reported
72% reduction in parent safety concerns (based on surveys)
40% lower maintenance costs
35% increase in daily visitors (attributed to improved safety perception)
No required repairs beyond routine cleaning

The park’s facilities manager noted:

“The difference in safety is night and day. Parents no longer hesitate to let their kids play, and we’ve seen a noticeable increase in families visiting our splash pad. The maintenance team loves how easy it is to clean compared to our old concrete surface.”

Case Study 2: Water Park Play Area – Impact Protection

Location: Splash Haven Water Park, Texas
Installation Date: March 2023
Size: 3,500 sq ft
Tile Collection: Caribbean Collection (Reef, Splash, Tropic 3-color blend with Dolphin Inlays)

This water park’s high-energy play area had a history of:

Frequent falls from the 4-foot platform
3 concussion cases in the past year
High liability insurance premiums
Complaints about “too hard” surface

After installing Aqua Tile with impact attenuation testing:

89% reduction in reported falls from platforms
0 concussion cases in 12 months of operation
22% decrease in liability insurance premiums
Positive feedback from both children and parents about “soft landing”
No required replacements after heavy summer usage

The water park’s safety director shared:

“We were skeptical about any surface claiming to reduce falls this dramatically, but the numbers don’t lie. Our insurance carrier actually contacted us to ask what changes we’d made because our claims dropped so suddenly. The impact protection is particularly impressive – kids can jump from the platform without fear of getting hurt.”

Case Study 3: Community Center Splash Pad – Longevity and Durability

Location: Riverbend Community Center, California
Installation Date: September 2021
Size: 800 sq ft
Tile Collection: Coastal Collection (Marine, Pacific, Tide 3-color blend)

This community center’s splash pad was installed with standard foam tiles that:

Developed slip hazards within 18 months
Required frequent replacements due to UV damage
Had visible wear after just 2 summers
Created maintenance headaches for staff

After switching to Aqua Tile:

No safety incidents reported in 24 months
0 tile replacements needed
30% lower maintenance time required
Consistent slip resistance and impact protection
Positive feedback from community members

The facility manager reported:

“We were tired of replacing tiles every year and dealing with safety complaints. Aqua Tile has been a game-changer. The tiles look as good as new after two summers of heavy use, and we haven’t had a single safety issue. It’s the first time we’ve been able to focus on the fun aspects of our splash pad rather than the maintenance headaches.”

Comparing Aqua Tile to Competitor Solutions

To help facility managers make informed decisions, it’s important to compare Aqua Tile’s performance against other splash pad surface options. Below is a detailed comparison based on independent testing and real-world performance data.

Safety Performance Comparison

Feature	Aqua Tile	Standard Foam Tiles	Rubberized Coatings	Concrete
Wet DCOF (Slip Resistance)	0.78+	0.35-0.50	0.40-0.60	0.15-0.25
Impact Attenuation (Force Reduction)	78%	30-50%	40-60%	0%
UV Stability (5-year performance)	98% retention	60-70%	50-65%	N/A
Chemical Resistance	Full resistance	Partial	Moderate	N/A
Multi-Directional Texture	Yes (patented)	No	No	No
ASTM Compliance	Exceeds all standards	Meets minimum	Varies	Not applicable

Cost Comparison (1,000 sq ft Installation)

Factor	Aqua Tile	Standard Foam Tiles	Rubberized Coatings	Concrete
Initial Installation Cost	$8,500	$5,200	$6,800	$12,000
5-Year Maintenance Cost	$1,200	$3,500	$2,800	$4,000
Replacement Cost (5 years)	$0	$2,500	$1,800	$0
Total 5-Year Cost	$9,700	$11,200	$11,400	$16,000
Lifespan	10-15 years	3-5 years	5-7 years	20+ years (but unsafe when wet)

Sustainability Comparison

Factor	Aqua Tile	Standard Foam Tiles	Rubberized Coatings	Concrete
Recyclability	100% recyclable	50%	30%	100% (but non-renewable)
Carbon Footprint	Low (closed-cell foam)	Moderate	High	Very High
Water Usage	Minimal	Moderate	High	Very High
Local Sourcing Options	Yes (multiple U.S. facilities)	Limited	Limited	Widely available

Choosing the Right Aqua Tile Solution for Your Splash Pad

With so many options available, selecting the right Aqua Tile solution for your splash pad requires careful consideration of your specific needs. Below are key factors to evaluate when making your decision:

1. Assessing Your Safety Requirements

Every splash pad has unique safety challenges based on its design and usage patterns. Consider these factors:

Height of water features: Taller structures require better impact protection
Age of primary users: Younger children need more cushioning
Traffic volume: High-traffic areas need more durable materials
Special needs accessibility: Some users may require additional grip or warning features

For example:

Splash pads with slides or platforms over 3 feet should prioritize impact attenuation
Pads serving children under 5 benefit from extra cushioning
Municipal splash pads with high daily usage need maximum durability
Pads with special needs designations may require additional tactile features

2. Selecting the Right Color Collection

Our color collections were designed with specific psychological and functional benefits in mind. Consider:

Dune Collection: Best for naturalistic designs that blend with surroundings
Coastal Collection: Ideal for creating a water-themed environment
Caribbean Collection: Perfect for high-energy, festive atmospheres

Color selection can also impact:

Visibility: Bright colors help children see boundaries
Contrast: High-contrast colors reduce collision risks
Mood: Warm colors create inviting spaces, cool colors create calming spaces
Maintainability: Lighter colors show dirt less obviously

3. Incorporating Decorative Elements

Our decorative inlays serve multiple purposes beyond aesthetics:

Safety markers: Can designate different play zones
Wayfinding: Help children navigate the splash pad
Educational tools: Can incorporate learning elements
Visual anchors: Create focal points for games

When selecting inlays, consider:

The theme of your splash pad (ocean, jungle, space, etc.)
The age group of primary users (younger children benefit from simple designs)
The play value you want to emphasize (active play vs. imaginative play)
Accessibility considerations (high-contrast designs for visually impaired users)

4. Planning for Future Expansion

Many splash pads evolve over time as communities grow and needs change. When planning your installation, consider:

Modular design: Aqua Tile’s interlocking system allows for easy expansion
Color coordination: Choose a collection that will work with future additions
Drainage capacity: Plan for potential increases in water flow
Transition areas: Design flexible connections to other surfaces

Our modular system makes it easy to:

Add new play features without replacing entire sections
Expand the splash pad as budget allows
Replace damaged sections without matching issues
Reconfigure layouts based on usage patterns

Common Questions About Aqua Tile Splash Pads

How does Aqua Tile compare to traditional rubber safety surfacing?

Aqua Tile offers several advantages over traditional rubber safety surfacing for splash pads:

Superior slip resistance: Our patented multi-directional texture maintains traction when wet, while rubber can become slippery when covered with water
Better impact protection: Aqua Tile reduces impact forces by 78% compared to rubber’s 40-60% reduction
UV stability: Rubber degrades significantly under UV exposure, losing up to 30% of its slip resistance within 12 months, while Aqua Tile maintains 98% of performance
Easier maintenance: Rubber requires special cleaners that can damage the surface, while Aqua Tile can be cleaned with standard detergents
Customization options: Aqua Tile offers more color and design choices than typical rubber options
Longevity: Aqua Tile lasts 2-3 times longer than most rubber surfaces

However, rubber does have some advantages in specific applications:

May be more cost-effective for very large installations where initial cost is the primary concern
Some rubber options come in thicker profiles for specialized impact needs
Can be poured in place for seamless installations in some cases

For most splash pad applications, Aqua Tile’s combination of safety, durability, and customization makes it the superior choice.

Can Aqua Tile be installed over existing splash pad surfaces?

In most cases, yes. Aqua Tile can be installed over:

Existing concrete surfaces (with proper preparation)
Asphalt surfaces
Compacted gravel bases
Some types of foam tiles (if they’re in good condition)

However, there are important considerations:

Surface preparation is critical for proper installation and long-term performance
Existing surfaces must be level and stable to prevent shifting
Drainage must be properly planned to prevent water pooling
Some existing surfaces may require removal if they’re damaged or uneven

Our installation guidelines provide detailed specifications for each type of subfloor. For existing surfaces, we recommend:

Conducting a surface assessment by a certified installer
Preparing the surface according to our specifications
Using our recommended adhesives for proper bonding
Testing the installation with a portable DCOF meter after completion

In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to remove an existing problematic surface rather than trying to install over it.

How does Aqua Tile perform in extreme weather conditions?

Aqua Tile is engineered to perform well across a wide range of weather conditions. Our testing has confirmed excellent performance in:

Extreme heat: Maintains slip resistance and color integrity up to 140°F
Freezing temperatures: Remains flexible down to -20°F (though ice formation can affect traction)
Heavy rainfall: Designed for proper drainage to prevent water pooling
High humidity: Resistant to mold and mildew growth
UV exposure: Maintains 98% of performance after 5 years of intense sun exposure

However, there are some weather-related considerations:

Ice formation: Like any surface, ice can create hazardous conditions. We recommend:

Using ice melt products approved for safety surfaces
Installing heated handrails in freezing climates
Posting caution signs during freezing conditions

Heavy snow: Snow accumulation can hide the textured surface. We recommend:

Regular snow removal to prevent buildup
Using plastic shovels to avoid damaging the surface
Applying anti-slip granules temporarily if needed

Hurricane/tornado conditions: While Aqua Tile is durable, extreme wind can dislodge tiles if not properly installed. We recommend:

Using heavy-duty adhesives in high-wind areas
Installing transition strips to prevent wind uplift
Securing loose items around the splash pad

Our installation guidelines include specific recommendations for extreme weather conditions in different regions.

What warranty covers are included with Aqua Tile splash pad installations?

Aqua Tile offers a comprehensive five-year limited warranty that covers:

Defects in materials and workmanship from the date of delivery
Loss of slip resistance due to manufacturing issues
Loss of impact attenuation performance
Color fading or UV degradation beyond normal wear
Chemical damage from properly applied cleaning solutions

The warranty does not cover:

Damage from improper installation
Normal wear and tear (beyond the 5-year period)
Damage from abusive use or improper maintenance
Acts of God (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes)
Modifications made by unauthorized parties

For commercial installations, we also offer:

Extended warranty options up to 15 years
Maintenance service agreements for regular inspections
Liability protection programs for municipalities

To file a warranty claim, facility managers should:

Contact our customer service team within 30 days of discovering an issue
Provide photos and descriptions of the problem
Follow our claim submission process
Work with an authorized installer for repairs when needed

Our warranty coverage is backed by our 50+ years of combined industry experience and our commitment to providing the safest splash pad surfaces available.

How do I get started with an Aqua Tile splash pad project?

Getting started with an Aqua Tile splash pad project is straightforward. Here’s what you can expect:

Initial Consultation: Contact our team to discuss your project requirements. We’ll ask about:

Size and layout of your splash pad
Primary user demographics
Budget considerations
Design preferences
Safety requirements

Site Assessment: One of our certified installers will visit your location to:

Evaluate the existing surface
Assess drainage needs
Recommend proper subfloor preparation
Provide a detailed quote

Design Phase: We’ll work with you to create a custom design that includes:

Color collection selection
Layout planning
Decorative element placement
Safety feature integration

Material Ordering: Once the design is approved, we’ll:

Order your custom tiles and inlays
Coordinate delivery to your site
Provide installation timelines

Installation: Our certified installers will:

Prepare the subfloor according to specifications
Install the tiles with proper adhesion
Test for slip resistance and impact attenuation
Provide maintenance guidelines

Final Inspection: We’ll conduct a thorough inspection to ensure:

All safety standards are met
The surface is properly installed
Drainage is functioning correctly
Transition areas are safe

Training and Documentation: You’ll receive:

Maintenance manual
Safety guidelines
Contact information for support
Warranty documentation

The entire process typically takes 4-8 weeks from initial consultation to completion, depending on the size and complexity of your project. For larger municipal installations, we can coordinate with your timeline to minimize disruption.

To get started, simply contact our team with your project details, and we’ll guide you through each step of the process. Our experienced professionals will work with you to create a splash pad that’s not only safe but also fun and inviting for all visitors.

Remember, every Aqua Tile splash pad comes with our commitment to safety and fun, all in one—giving you peace of mind while creating memorable water play experiences for your community.

Aqua Tile: The Ultimate Solution for Safe and Fun Splash Pads