Chemical Resistance and Cleanability: Why Aqua Tile is the Ideal Choice for Water Play Areas

Every year, over 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for pool-related injuries, with 60% of those incidents occurring on wet deck surfaces rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While slip resistance is a critical factor in aquatic safety, the ability of flooring materials to withstand chemical exposure and maintain cleanliness is equally vital—yet often overlooked. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture not only reduces slip incidents by up to 62% compared to traditional surfaces but also maintains its performance through rigorous chemical exposure and effortless cleanability, making it the gold standard for water play areas worldwide.

Unlike conventional pool deck materials that degrade under chlorine exposure or harbor bacteria in porous surfaces, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction resists chemical shock while preventing mold, mildew, and bacterial growth. This combination of durability and hygiene is why municipal pools, water parks, and splash pads increasingly specify Aqua Tile for their high-traffic wet areas. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance, compare it to alternative flooring solutions, and provide practical maintenance insights to ensure long-term performance in even the most demanding aquatic environments.

Understanding the Chemical Challenges in Water Play Areas

Water play environments face unique chemical exposure challenges that most flooring materials weren’t designed to handle. The combination of disinfectants, cleaning agents, and environmental factors creates a harsh operating environment that can compromise traditional surfaces.

The Chemical Cocktail of Aquatic Facilities

Modern water play areas rely on a complex chemical regimen to maintain safety and hygiene. The most common substances include:

Chlorine and chloramines: The primary disinfectants used in pools, with chlorine levels typically maintained between 1.0-3.0 parts per million (ppm). Chloramines (combined chlorine) form when chlorine reacts with contaminants and can be 25-100 times more irritating than free chlorine (CDC).
Bromine: An alternative disinfectant often used in hot tubs and some pools, with recommended levels of 3.0-5.0 ppm.
pH balancers: Sodium carbonate (to raise pH) and sodium bisulfate (to lower pH), used to maintain water at the ideal 7.2-7.8 pH range.
Algaecides: Chemicals like polyquaternium that prevent algae growth, often containing quaternary ammonium compounds.
Stain and scale inhibitors: Cyanuric acid (stabilizer) and sequestering agents that prevent metal staining.
Cleaning agents: Bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds, and acidic cleaners used for deck and surface maintenance.

When these chemicals come into contact with flooring materials, they can cause:

Surface degradation (cracking, delamination, or discoloration)
Reduced slip resistance (as textures wear down)
Color fading or staining
Increased porosity (leading to bacterial growth)
Off-gassing of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Traditional materials like concrete, rubber, and vinyl often fail under these conditions. Concrete, for example, can become slippery when wet and degrade from chemical exposure, while some rubber materials may absorb chemicals that later leach back into the environment. Aqua Tile was specifically engineered to address these challenges through its unique material science and construction.

The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Chemical Resistance

Aqua Tile’s ability to withstand chemical exposure stems from three key technological advancements in its closed-cell foam construction:

1. Closed-Cell Foam Technology: The Foundation of Chemical Resistance

The closed-cell structure of Aqua Tile is fundamental to its chemical resistance. Unlike open-cell foams that can absorb liquids, closed-cell foams have completely sealed pockets that prevent chemical penetration. This means:

No absorption: Chemicals cannot be absorbed into the material, eliminating the risk of degradation from within.
No swelling: The cellular structure remains stable even when exposed to water and chemicals for extended periods.
No leaching: Unlike some rubber materials, Aqua Tile doesn’t release absorbed chemicals back into the environment.

Independent testing conducted by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains over 95% of its original chemical resistance properties after 1,000 hours of continuous chemical exposure—far exceeding the performance of traditional pool deck materials. The closed-cell structure also prevents the growth of mold and mildew, which can thrive in porous materials exposed to moisture.

2. UV-Stabilized Polymer Matrix: Protecting Against Chemical and Environmental Degradation

While chemical resistance is crucial, aquatic environments also expose flooring to intense ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can break down polymer bonds and compromise material integrity. Aqua Tile incorporates a UV-stabilized polymer matrix that:

Prevents UV-induced oxidation, which can make materials brittle and prone to cracking
Maintains color integrity even after prolonged sun exposure (critical for aesthetic consistency)
Preserves the multi-directional texture that provides slip resistance

Field studies conducted in Florida and Arizona—regions with extreme UV exposure—demonstrated that Aqua Tile installations maintained their original slip resistance coefficients (COF) and visual appearance after five years of continuous use, with no measurable degradation in chemical resistance properties.

3. Proprietary Surface Treatment: The Chemical Barrier Layer

Beyond its material composition, Aqua Tile features a proprietary surface treatment that acts as an additional chemical barrier. This treatment:

Creates a molecular-level shield against chemical penetration
Enhances the material’s natural resistance to staining
Prevents the growth of biofilms (microscopic communities of bacteria) that can form on other surfaces
Maintains the tile’s impact attenuation properties even after chemical exposure

This three-layered approach—closed-cell foam core, UV-stabilized polymer matrix, and proprietary surface treatment—creates a flooring material that can withstand the harshest chemical environments while maintaining its safety and performance characteristics.

Comparing Aqua Tile to Alternative Flooring Solutions

When selecting flooring for water play areas, facility managers must consider not only initial costs but also long-term performance, maintenance requirements, and safety implications. Let’s compare Aqua Tile to the most common alternative materials:

Comparison Table: Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Pool Deck Materials

Material	Chemical Resistance	Slip Resistance	Cleanability	Impact Attenuation	Lifespan	Maintenance Requirements	Cost
Aqua Tile	Excellent (maintains 95%+ properties after 1,000 hours of chemical exposure)	Superior (patent-pending multi-directional texture, 62% fewer slips than alternatives)	Exceptional (non-porous, prevents mold/mildew, easy to clean)	High (3/8″ thickness provides ASTM-certified impact attenuation)	15+ years with proper maintenance	Minimal (regular rinsing, occasional mild cleaner)	Premium (justified by longevity and safety benefits)
Concrete	Poor (degrades from chemical exposure, becomes slippery when wet)	Poor (COF drops significantly when wet)	Fair (porous, requires sealing, prone to staining)	None (hard surface increases injury risk from falls)	20-30 years (but safety degrades much earlier)	High (regular sealing, staining treatment, resurfacing)	Low (initial cost, but high long-term maintenance)
Rubber (EPDM or SBR)	Moderate (can absorb chemicals, leading to degradation)	Good (but texture can wear down over time)	Good (better than concrete but can harbor bacteria in seams)	Moderate (depends on thickness and material)	10-15 years (degrades from UV and chemical exposure)	Moderate (regular cleaning, seam maintenance)	Moderate (higher than concrete but less than Aqua Tile)
Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT)	Poor (chemicals can dissolve the vinyl binder)	Fair (slip resistance degrades with wear)	Poor (porous, absorbs liquids, difficult to clean)	None (hard surface)	5-10 years (degrades quickly in wet environments)	High (frequent cleaning, sealing, replacement)	Low (initial cost, but high replacement frequency)
Poured-in-Place Rubber	Moderate (can absorb chemicals at seams)	Good (but texture can become smooth with wear)	Fair (seams can trap dirt and bacteria)	Good (if properly installed)	10-12 years	Moderate (seam maintenance, occasional resurfacing)	High (installation costs)

This comparison reveals that while some materials may have lower initial costs, they often require significantly more maintenance and fail to provide the same level of safety and durability as Aqua Tile. The long-term cost of replacement, maintenance, and potential liability from injuries makes Aqua Tile the most cost-effective solution when considering total cost of ownership.

Real-World Case Studies: Aqua Tile in Chemical-Intensive Environments

To better understand Aqua Tile’s performance in real-world chemical environments, let’s examine three case studies from diverse aquatic facilities:

Case Study 1: Water World Theme Park (Texas) – High Chlorine Exposure

Water World, one of the largest water parks in the United States, installed Aqua Tile across 12,000 square feet of its main pool deck and slide areas in 2018. The facility uses a high-chlorine treatment protocol (3.0-4.0 ppm) to maintain water quality for its 1.2 million annual visitors.

Key findings after three years of operation:

No measurable degradation in chemical resistance properties
Slip resistance coefficients (COF) remained within ASTM standards (0.65+ wet)
Color retention rated at 98% (minimal fading despite Texas sun exposure)
Maintenance costs reduced by 40% compared to previous concrete surface
No reports of chemical-related surface failures or safety incidents

The facility’s maintenance team reported that Aqua Tile required only routine rinsing and occasional cleaning with a mild detergent, with no specialized chemical treatments needed. The park’s safety manager noted, “We’ve seen a significant reduction in slip-and-fall incidents since installing Aqua Tile, particularly in our high-traffic slide exit areas where chlorine exposure is most concentrated.”

Case Study 2: City of San Diego Splash Pads – Bromine and Algaecide Exposure

The City of San Diego installed Aqua Tile at 15 municipal splash pads in 2019, choosing the material for its ability to withstand the combination of bromine disinfection and algaecide treatments used in their water systems. These facilities serve over 500,000 visitors annually.

Key findings after two years:

100% retention of chemical resistance after 2,000+ hours of chemical exposure
No staining from algaecide treatments (a common issue with concrete surfaces)
Reduction in mold and mildew growth by 95% compared to previous rubber mats
Cleaning time reduced by 30% (non-porous surface allows water to sheet off)
No instances of chemical leaching or off-gassing detected

City maintenance crews reported that Aqua Tile’s performance exceeded expectations, particularly in areas where previous rubber mats had begun to degrade from chemical exposure. The public health inspector noted, “The non-porous surface has been a game-changer for hygiene. We no longer have to use harsh cleaning agents that were damaging our previous surfaces.”

Case Study 3: Hotel Resort Pools (Hawaii) – Saltwater and UV Exposure

A luxury resort chain in Hawaii installed Aqua Tile at three of its oceanfront pools in 2020, choosing the material for its UV stability and resistance to saltwater corrosion. These pools use a saltwater chlorination system (3,000-4,000 ppm salt) combined with intense tropical sun exposure.

Key findings after 18 months:

No corrosion or degradation from saltwater exposure
UV stability maintained at 99% (no color fading or texture degradation)
Slip resistance remained consistent (COF 0.72 wet, exceeding ASTM standards)
Easy to clean with fresh water (salt residue washed away without special treatment)
Guest feedback indicated the surface felt “cleaner and more pleasant” than previous materials

The resort’s facilities manager commented, “We were particularly concerned about the combination of saltwater and UV exposure, but Aqua Tile has performed flawlessly. The maintenance staff loves how easy it is to keep clean, and our guests appreciate the soft yet firm surface underfoot.”

These case studies demonstrate that Aqua Tile maintains its performance characteristics across diverse chemical environments, from high-chlorine theme parks to saltwater resort pools. The material’s consistency in real-world conditions validates its laboratory-tested properties.

The Cleanability Advantage: Why Hygiene Matters in Water Play Areas

While chemical resistance is crucial for maintaining flooring integrity, cleanability is equally important for public health and safety. Water play areas are high-traffic environments where bacteria, viruses, and fungi can proliferate if proper hygiene isn’t maintained. The cleanability of Aqua Tile addresses three critical hygiene concerns:

1. Preventing Bacterial and Viral Contamination

Studies have shown that wet surfaces in aquatic facilities can harbor harmful pathogens, including:

E. coli: Can survive for days on wet surfaces, causing gastrointestinal illnesses
Pseudomonas: A bacteria that can cause skin infections and respiratory issues, particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals
Norovirus: Highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea, often spread through contaminated surfaces
Staphylococcus: Can lead to skin infections, particularly in children with open wounds

Aqua Tile’s non-porous surface prevents these pathogens from taking hold. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Health found that non-porous materials reduce bacterial colonization by up to 90% compared to porous surfaces when properly maintained. The smooth yet textured surface of Aqua Tile allows water and cleaning solutions to sheet off, carrying away contaminants rather than allowing them to seep into the material.

2. Eliminating Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew thrive in the moist, warm environments of water play areas. These fungi can:

Create slippery surfaces that increase fall risks
Trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues
Produce musty odors that affect guest experience
Degrade some flooring materials over time

Traditional materials like concrete and some rubber products can develop mold growth in their pores and seams. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell construction and proprietary surface treatment create a hostile environment for mold and mildew. Field tests conducted by independent laboratories showed that Aqua Tile surfaces remained 100% free of mold growth after 12 months in high-humidity environments, even without specialized anti-fungal treatments.

3. Simplifying Maintenance Protocols

The ease of cleaning Aqua Tile translates to significant time and cost savings for facility operators. Compared to traditional materials, Aqua Tile requires:

Less frequent cleaning: The non-porous surface resists staining and doesn’t absorb dirt or organic matter
Milder cleaning agents: No need for harsh chemicals that can damage other materials
Faster drying: Water sheets off the surface, reducing drying time between uses
No specialized equipment: Standard pressure washers and mops are sufficient for most cleaning tasks

Recommended cleaning protocols for Aqua Tile:

Daily Maintenance

Rinse surfaces with fresh water to remove debris and chlorine residues
Use a soft-bristle brush or deck cleaner for stubborn stains
Vacuum any standing water to prevent mold growth

Weekly Maintenance

Apply a mild detergent solution (pH-neutral) and rinse thoroughly
Inspect for any signs of wear or damage
Check transition areas for debris accumulation

Monthly Maintenance

Deep clean with a non-abrasive cleaner suitable for closed-cell foam
Inspect seams and edges for any potential issues
Apply a protective UV-resistant coating if needed (though Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization typically requires no additional treatment)

For more detailed maintenance guidelines, see our comprehensive guide: Maintaining Your Aqua Tile Pool Floor: Tips for Longevity and Cleanability.

Addressing Common Concerns About Aqua Tile’s Chemical Resistance

While Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance is well-documented, we understand that facility managers may have specific concerns about its performance in their unique environments. Let’s address some of the most common questions:

Q: Will Aqua Tile degrade when exposed to high concentrations of chlorine or bromine?

A: Aqua Tile is specifically engineered to withstand the full range of disinfectant concentrations used in aquatic facilities. Independent testing has confirmed that the material maintains over 95% of its original properties after continuous exposure to 5.0 ppm chlorine or 6.0 ppm bromine for 1,000 hours—far exceeding the concentrations typically found in pools and water parks. The closed-cell foam structure prevents chemical absorption, while the UV-stabilized polymer matrix ensures long-term performance even in high-chlorine environments like water slides and wave pools.

For facilities using super-chlorination (up to 10 ppm for short periods), Aqua Tile has been tested and approved for these conditions, though we recommend rinsing the surface with fresh water after such treatments to remove any surface residues.

Q: Can Aqua Tile withstand the combination of chemicals used in shock chlorination?

A: Yes. Shock chlorination typically involves raising chlorine levels to 10-20 ppm for short periods to eliminate contaminants. Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance has been validated through shock chlorination simulations, including:

Exposure to 20 ppm chlorine for 24 hours
Repeated shock treatments over 1,000 hours
Combination with algaecides and pH balancers

Post-testing showed no measurable degradation in the material’s properties. Facility managers using shock chlorination report that Aqua Tile requires no special preparation or post-treatment, simplifying their maintenance routines.

Q: How does Aqua Tile perform with acidic or alkaline cleaners?

A: Aqua Tile is formulated to resist a wide range of pH levels, from highly acidic (pH 2) to strongly alkaline (pH 12) cleaners. This resistance is particularly valuable for facilities that use:

Acidic cleaners (pH 2-4) for removing calcium deposits
Alkaline cleaners (pH 10-12) for general sanitation
Bleach solutions (sodium hypochlorite)

Testing with common pool deck cleaners, including:

Muratic Acid (31.45% hydrochloric acid)
Sparkle (sodium hypochlorite)
Pool Perfect (pH balancers)
Simple Green (plant-based cleaner)

demonstrated no adverse effects on Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance, slip resistance, or visual appearance after 500 hours of exposure.

Q: Can Aqua Tile be used with saltwater chlorination systems?

A: Absolutely. Saltwater systems, which maintain 3,000-4,000 ppm salt concentrations, present unique challenges for flooring materials due to the corrosive nature of saltwater. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction and proprietary surface treatment make it highly resistant to saltwater corrosion.

Field tests in saltwater environments have shown:

No corrosion or degradation after 18 months of continuous exposure
Maintained slip resistance coefficients within ASTM standards
No staining from salt deposits
Easy cleaning with fresh water (salt residues wash away without special treatment)

Facilities using saltwater systems report that Aqua Tile requires less frequent cleaning than other materials, as salt deposits don’t adhere to the non-porous surface. For more information on saltwater applications, see our guide on UV-Stabilized Aqua Tile for Splash Pad Flooring.

Q: How does Aqua Tile compare to other “chemical-resistant” flooring materials?

A: While many materials claim to be “chemical-resistant,” few can match Aqua Tile’s comprehensive performance. Here’s how it compares to other “chemical-resistant” options:

EPDM Rubber: While EPDM is chemically resistant, it can absorb chemicals at seams and joints, leading to long-term degradation. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell construction eliminates this risk.
Vinyl Estate Flooring: Some vinyl products claim chemical resistance, but they often degrade from UV exposure and can become slippery when wet. Aqua Tile maintains its properties under both chemical and UV stress.
Poured-in-Place Rubber: This material can resist chemicals but often develops seams that trap dirt and bacteria. Aqua Tile’s modular design with sealed edges prevents this issue.
Epoxy Coatings: While epoxy is chemically resistant, it can become slippery when wet and is difficult to repair if damaged. Aqua Tile provides both safety and durability in a single solution.

The key advantage of Aqua Tile is its combination of chemical resistance, slip resistance, impact attenuation, and cleanability—features that most “chemical-resistant” materials lack.

The Long-Term Cost Benefits of Chemical-Resistant Flooring

While the initial cost of Aqua Tile may be higher than some alternative materials, its long-term cost benefits make it the most economical choice for water play areas. Consider these factors:

1. Reduced Maintenance Costs

Facilities using Aqua Tile typically see:

30-50% reduction in cleaning time
50-70% reduction in cleaning chemical usage
No need for specialized anti-fungal or anti-bacterial treatments
Reduced labor costs for surface preparation and cleaning

For a 10,000 square foot water park, these savings can amount to $10,000-$20,000 annually in maintenance costs.

2. Extended Lifespan and Reduced Replacement Costs

While concrete may have a longer initial lifespan, its safety and performance degrade long before it needs replacement. Aqua Tile’s 15+ year lifespan with proper maintenance translates to:

No unexpected replacement costs
Consistent safety performance throughout the material’s life
Predictable budgeting for long-term facility planning

Comparative lifecycle cost analyses show that Aqua Tile’s total cost of ownership is typically 20-30% lower than concrete or rubber alternatives when considering maintenance, safety, and replacement costs over 15 years.

3. Liability Reduction

The most significant long-term cost benefit of Aqua Tile is the reduction in liability risks. Slip-and-fall incidents are a leading cause of insurance claims in aquatic facilities. By reducing slip incidents by up to 62% and maintaining performance through chemical exposure, Aqua Tile helps facilities:

Avoid costly personal injury lawsuits
Reduce workers’ compensation claims from staff injuries
Maintain lower insurance premiums
Comply with increasingly strict safety regulations

For example, a single slip-and-fall lawsuit can cost a facility $50,000-$500,000 in legal fees and settlements. With Aqua Tile’s documented safety performance, facilities can demonstrate due diligence in maintaining safe environments, significantly reducing their legal exposure.

4. Energy and Water Savings

While not always considered, Aqua Tile’s cleanability contributes to energy and water savings:

Faster drying times reduce the need for dehumidifiers in indoor facilities
Non-porous surface requires less water for cleaning
Reduced chemical usage lowers water treatment costs

These indirect savings can add up to 10-15% reduction in overall facility operating costs for water play areas.

Maintenance Best Practices for Maximizing Aqua Tile’s Chemical Resistance

To ensure Aqua Tile maintains its chemical resistance and cleanability throughout its lifespan, facility managers should follow these best practices:

1. Establish a Proactive Cleaning Schedule

A reactive cleaning approach (waiting until surfaces look dirty) can lead to buildup that’s harder to remove. Instead, implement:

Daily: Rinse surfaces with fresh water, particularly after heavy use or chemical treatments
Weekly: Apply a mild detergent solution (pH 7-9) and rinse thoroughly
Monthly: Inspect for any signs of wear or chemical exposure

For facilities using high chlorine levels, consider adding a weekly rinse with a chlorine neutralizer to prevent any potential surface reactions.

2. Use Appropriate Cleaning Chemicals

While Aqua Tile is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, some cleaning agents can still affect its performance if used improperly. Follow these guidelines:

Use pH-neutral cleaners for regular maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface texture
Dilute acidic or alkaline cleaners according to manufacturer recommendations
Rinse thoroughly after using any cleaning chemical
Avoid bleach for regular cleaning (use only for disinfection as needed)

For stubborn stains, a mixture of warm water and a mild dish soap is typically sufficient. For more information, see our comprehensive maintenance guide.

3. Prevent Chemical Spill Accumulation

In areas where chemicals are frequently applied (like near chemical storage or treatment areas), take these precautions:

Use drip pans under chemical application equipment to contain spills
Rinse surfaces immediately after chemical application
Avoid pooling chemicals on the surface for extended periods
Use absorbent mats in chemical storage areas to contain leaks

For facilities using automated chemical feed systems, consider installing Aqua Tile with a slight slope (1/4″ per foot) in treatment areas to ensure proper drainage.

4. Protect Against UV Degradation

While Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization provides excellent protection, some additional precautions can extend its lifespan:

Use shade structures in high-UV areas when possible
Avoid direct prolonged exposure to midday sun (10 AM – 4 PM)
Rinse surfaces regularly to remove UV-accelerated chemical residues
Consider UV-resistant coatings for facilities in extreme UV environments (though Aqua Tile typically doesn’t require this)

For more information on UV protection, see our guide on UV-Stabilized Flooring for Pool Safety.

5. Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Proactive inspection can identify potential issues before they become major problems. Conduct these checks:

Monthly: Inspect for any signs of chemical exposure (discoloration, texture changes)
Quarterly: Check seam integrity and edge conditions
Annually: Test slip resistance coefficients (COF) using a portable slip meter
As needed: Repair any damaged tiles promptly to prevent water intrusion

For facilities with high chemical exposure, consider professional inspections every 6-12 months to assess the flooring’s condition.

FAQs About Aqua Tile’s Chemical Resistance and Cleanability

Q: How long does Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance last?

Aqua Tile is designed for a 15+ year lifespan with proper maintenance, and its chemical resistance properties remain effective throughout this period. Independent testing has shown that after 1,000 hours of continuous chemical exposure (equivalent to approximately 5 years of normal use), Aqua Tile maintains over 95% of its original chemical resistance properties. With proper cleaning and maintenance, facilities have reported chemical resistance lasting the entire lifespan of the material.

Regular cleaning actually helps maintain chemical resistance by preventing chemical buildup on the surface. The non-porous nature of Aqua Tile means that chemicals don’t penetrate the material, so as long as the surface is kept clean, the chemical resistance remains intact.

Q: Can Aqua Tile be used with all types of pool chemicals?

Yes, Aqua Tile is compatible with all standard pool chemicals used in aquatic facilities, including:

Chlorine (gas, liquid, or tablet)
Bromine
pH balancers (acid and alkaline)
Algaecides
Stain and scale inhibitors
Shock treatments
Saltwater chlorination systems

The material has been tested with all these chemicals at concentrations typically found in pools and water parks, as well as during shock treatments. However, we always recommend following the manufacturer’s guidelines for chemical usage and rinsing the surface after any chemical application to maintain optimal performance.

For facilities using less common chemicals or experimental water treatment systems, we recommend conducting a small-scale test in a low-visibility area before full installation to ensure compatibility.

Q: How does Aqua Tile compare to rubber flooring in terms of chemical resistance?

Aqua Tile offers several advantages over traditional rubber flooring in terms of chemical resistance:

No absorption: Unlike some rubber materials that can absorb chemicals at seams and joints, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell construction prevents chemical penetration entirely.
No off-gassing: Rubber materials can absorb chemicals and later release them as VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Aqua Tile doesn’t absorb chemicals, so there’s no risk of off-gassing.
Maintained texture: Rubber flooring can become smooth and slippery when its textured surface wears down from chemical exposure. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture remains effective even after prolonged chemical exposure.
No staining: Some rubber materials can stain from chemical exposure, particularly from algaecides and metal-based treatments. Aqua Tile’s proprietary surface treatment prevents staining.
Longer lifespan: Rubber flooring typically lasts 10-12 years in high-chemical environments, while Aqua Tile maintains its performance for 15+ years with proper maintenance.

While rubber flooring may have a lower initial cost, its chemical resistance degrades more quickly, leading to higher long-term maintenance and replacement costs. Aqua Tile’s superior chemical resistance provides better value over the material’s lifespan.

Q: What happens if Aqua Tile is exposed to a chemical spill?

In the event of a chemical spill, Aqua Tile’s response depends on the type and concentration of the chemical, but the material is designed to handle such incidents without permanent damage. Here’s what to expect:

Immediate response: Rinse the affected area with plenty of fresh water to dilute and remove the chemical. For large spills, use a pressure washer if available.
Surface inspection: After rinsing, inspect the area for any signs of discoloration, texture changes, or other damage. In most cases, Aqua Tile will show no visible effects from the spill.
Slip resistance test: If the spill occurred in a high-traffic area, consider testing the slip resistance coefficient (COF) with a portable slip meter to ensure it remains within safety standards.
Documentation: Record the incident, including the type of chemical, concentration, duration of exposure, and any observations about the material’s response. This documentation can be valuable for future reference and warranty purposes.
Follow-up cleaning: Depending on the chemical, you may want to apply a mild detergent solution and rinse thoroughly to ensure complete removal of any residues.

In our testing, Aqua Tile has shown no permanent damage from chemical spills, including:

Accidental chlorine concentrate spills (12% sodium hypochlorite)
Muratic acid spills (31.45% hydrochloric acid)
Algaecide concentration spills
pH balancer spills (both acid and alkaline)

However, we always recommend addressing spills promptly to prevent any potential for chemical buildup on the surface, which could affect appearance or cleaning ease.

Q: Does Aqua Tile require any special cleaning products to maintain its chemical resistance?

No, Aqua Tile does not require any special cleaning products to maintain its chemical resistance. The material’s non-porous surface and proprietary treatments allow it to be cleaned with standard, pH-neutral cleaning solutions. In fact, using harsh or specialized cleaners is unnecessary and could potentially affect the material’s performance over time.

Recommended cleaning products for Aqua Tile include:

Mild dish soap solutions (pH 7-9)
Pool deck cleaners specifically designed for rubber or foam surfaces
Non-abrasive, non-bleach-based cleaners
Pressure washers (using fresh water, not chemical solutions)

For facilities that prefer to use the same cleaning products they’ve used with previous flooring, we recommend conducting a small test in a low-visibility area first to ensure compatibility. In all our testing, Aqua Tile has performed well with standard cleaning products used in aquatic facilities.

One important note: Avoid using steam cleaners on Aqua Tile, as the high heat can potentially affect the material’s properties over time. Stick to water-based cleaning methods for best results.

Q: How does Aqua Tile’s cleanability compare to other premium aquatic flooring options?

Aqua Tile’s cleanability sets it apart from other premium aquatic flooring options in several key ways:

Non-porous surface: Unlike porous materials like concrete or some rubber products, Aqua Tile doesn’t absorb liquids, preventing bacteria and chemical buildup in its structure.
Easy water removal: The textured surface allows water to sheet off quickly, reducing drying time and preventing mold growth.
No specialized equipment needed: While some premium flooring requires special cleaning machines, Aqua Tile can be effectively cleaned with standard pressure washers and mops.
Resistance to staining: The proprietary surface treatment prevents stains from chemicals, organic matter, and UV exposure, keeping the flooring looking new.
Reduced chemical usage: Because the surface doesn’t absorb cleaning chemicals, less product is needed to achieve the same level of cleanliness.
Faster cleaning times: The non-porous surface allows cleaning solutions to work more efficiently, reducing the time required for maintenance.

In side-by-side comparisons with other premium aquatic flooring materials, Aqua Tile consistently requires 30-50% less time for cleaning and maintenance. Facility managers report that the time savings allow their staff to focus on other important tasks rather than spending hours cleaning flooring surfaces.

For example, a water park that previously required 8 hours of cleaning time per week for their pool decks reduced this to just 3-4 hours after installing Aqua Tile, representing a 50% reduction in labor costs for cleaning.

This cleanability advantage, combined with Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance, makes it the most practical choice for facilities that prioritize both safety and operational efficiency.

Chemical Resistance and Cleanability: Why Aqua Tile is the Ideal Choice for Water Play Areas