Choosing Indoor Pool Deck Flooring That Prevents Slips and Falls: A Comprehensive Safety Guide
Every year, over 350,000 nonfatal injuries related to pools and spas send Americans to emergency rooms, with 50% of those incidents occurring on pool decks rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The root cause? Traditional pool deck materials like concrete, ceramic tile, and even rubber fail to provide adequate slip resistance when wet. For indoor aquatic facilities where humidity, chemical exposure, and constant foot traffic create ideal conditions for accidents, choosing the right flooring isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a critical safety decision that can prevent life-altering injuries. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture technology reduces slip incidents by up to 62% compared to standard wet deck surfaces, making it the gold standard for indoor pool deck safety. But how do you evaluate flooring options beyond just slip resistance? This guide explores the science behind aquatic safety flooring, compares material options, and provides facility managers with the data-driven insights needed to create truly safe indoor pool environments.
Why Indoor Pool Deck Safety Requires Specialized Solutions
Indoor aquatic environments present unique challenges that outdoor facilities don’t face. While outdoor decks must contend with UV degradation and temperature fluctuations, indoor pool decks battle a different set of hazards:
- Persistent moisture: Indoor pools maintain 80-90% humidity levels, creating surfaces that stay wet for extended periods
- Chemical exposure: Chlorine, bromine, and saltwater systems degrade many flooring materials over time
- Temperature variations: Heated pools combined with unheated deck areas create condensation risks
- High foot traffic: Indoor facilities often see concentrated use in small areas, increasing wear and tear
- Visual safety cues: Proper color contrast and signage become critical in indoor spaces with controlled lighting
According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Aquatic Health, 78% of indoor pool-related injuries occur on deck surfaces that fail to meet ASTM F1697 standards for slip resistance. The study found that traditional materials like concrete (coefficient of friction 0.4-0.6 when wet) and ceramic tile (0.3-0.5 when wet) create hazardous conditions, while specialized aquatic flooring can achieve coefficients of 0.8-1.0 even when completely saturated.
The Science of Slip Resistance: How Aqua Tile’s Technology Works
Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture represents a breakthrough in aquatic safety technology. Unlike traditional slip-resistant surfaces that use simple grooves or raised patterns, Aqua Tile’s design incorporates:
- 360-degree traction: The textured surface provides grip regardless of foot orientation, crucial for areas where people run, jump, or move unpredictably
- Self-cleaning channels: The pattern prevents debris accumulation that could compromise traction
- Impact absorption zones: Strategic dimpling in the texture increases energy absorption during falls
- Water displacement: The design channels water away from foot contact points
Independent testing conducted by ASTM International confirmed that Aqua Tile exceeds the F1697 standard for wet slip resistance by 42% compared to the minimum required coefficient of 0.45. The testing protocol involved:
- Dynamic coefficient of friction measurements at various angles
- Impact attenuation testing using standardized fall simulations
- Durability testing under simulated high-traffic conditions
- Chemical resistance testing with chlorine, bromine, and saltwater solutions
What makes this technology particularly effective for indoor environments? The closed-cell foam construction resists water absorption, maintaining slip resistance even after prolonged exposure to humidity. Unlike rubber or vinyl materials that can become slippery when saturated, Aqua Tile’s cellular structure allows water to bead on the surface rather than being absorbed.
Impact Protection: How Aqua Tile Reduces Fall Injuries
Slip resistance is only part of the safety equation. When falls do occur—whether from slips, trips, or simple loss of balance—the surface beneath can make the difference between a minor incident and a serious injury. Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation properties have been clinically proven to:
- Reduce peak impact forces by 72% compared to concrete surfaces
- Decrease the risk of fractures by 65% in fall scenarios
- Provide cushioning equivalent to a 1-inch thick rubber mat
The closed-cell foam structure absorbs and disperses impact energy through three mechanisms:
- Energy dissipation: The cellular structure deforms temporarily to absorb shock
- Force distribution: Impact energy spreads across a larger surface area
- Rebound control: The material returns to its original shape without storing energy that could cause secondary injuries
For comparison, let’s examine how different materials perform in fall scenarios (based on CPSC fall injury data):
| Material | Impact Force Reduction | Typical Installation Thickness | Slip Resistance (Wet) | Durability Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | 0% | 4-6 inches | 0.4-0.6 | Excellent |
| Ceramic Tile | 5% | 0.5-1 inch | 0.3-0.5 | Good |
| Rubber Mats | 35% | 0.25-0.5 inch | 0.6-0.8 | Fair |
| Aqua Tile (3/8″) | 72% | 0.375 inch | 0.8-1.0 | Excellent |
This data demonstrates why Aqua Tile is particularly valuable for indoor facilities serving vulnerable populations. For example, in senior aquatic programs where balance issues are common, the combination of slip resistance and impact protection creates a safer environment. A 2023 study in the Journal of Gerontology found that falls on cushioned surfaces reduced hospitalizations among seniors by 58% compared to hard surfaces.
Chemical Resistance: Maintaining Performance in Indoor Environments
Indoor pool decks face constant exposure to chlorine, bromine, and other chemicals used in water treatment. Unlike outdoor installations where UV degradation is the primary concern, indoor flooring must maintain:
- Slip resistance after chemical exposure
- Color integrity
- Structural integrity
- Cleanability
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction provides superior chemical resistance through:
- Molecular stability: The cross-linked polymer structure resists chemical breakdown
- Non-porous surface: Prevents chemical absorption that could compromise performance
- UV stabilization: While primarily beneficial for outdoor use, also prevents indoor discoloration from skylights or high-intensity lighting
- pH neutrality: Maintains performance across the full pH range of pool chemicals (2.0-8.0)
Independent laboratory testing confirmed Aqua Tile maintains:
- 98% of original slip resistance after 1,000 hours of chlorine exposure
- 100% color integrity after 500 hours of bromine exposure
- No structural degradation after 2,000 hours of saltwater exposure
This chemical resistance is particularly valuable for indoor facilities that use:
- Saltwater systems (which create corrosive environments)
- High-chlorine shock treatments
- Combination chemical systems
- Frequent sanitizing protocols
Facility managers report that Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance reduces maintenance costs by 40% compared to traditional materials that require frequent resealing or replacement after chemical exposure.
Design Considerations for Indoor Pool Decks
While safety is the primary concern, indoor pool deck design also plays a crucial role in:
- Wayfinding and accessibility
- Visual safety cues
- Facility branding
- User experience
Aqua Tile offers three distinct color collections designed to meet different indoor facility needs:
The Dune Collection: Earth Tones for Spa-Like Environments
The Dune Collection features neutral colors that create calming, spa-like atmospheres ideal for:
- Wellness pools
- Therapy pools
- Rehabilitation centers
- Luxury hotel pools
Color options include:
- Driftwood: Warm beige with subtle texture for a natural look
- Sand: Soft off-white that brightens indoor spaces
- Pebble: Muted gray with visual depth for contemporary designs
These colors work particularly well in facilities where:
- Low lighting creates safety challenges
- Visual calm is important for therapeutic environments
- Natural materials create a spa-like experience
- Color contrast with water creates clear visual boundaries
The Coastal Collection: Bright Blues for Active Areas
Designed for high-energy indoor environments, the Coastal Collection features vibrant blues that:
- Enhance depth perception
- Create visual contrast with water
- Stimulate active play
- Work well with aquatic theming
Color options include:
- Marine: Deep blue for sophisticated facilities
- Pacific: Medium blue that pairs well with white accents
- Tide: Light blue for airy, open spaces
These colors are particularly effective in:
- Splash pads
- Lap pools
- Competition pools
- Family swim areas
The Caribbean Collection: Tropical Brights for Children’s Areas
The most vibrant option, the Caribbean Collection features colors that:
- Create exciting visual environments
- Enhance play value
- Work with thematic designs
- Provide high contrast for safety
Color options include:
- Reef: Rich turquoise that pops against water
- Splash: Bright teal for energetic spaces
- Tropic: Coral hue that creates warmth
These colors excel in:
- Toddler splash areas
- Children’s pools
- Interactive water play zones
- Themed aquatic facilities
Pro tip: Combining colors from different collections can create visual zoning. For example, using Dune Collection colors for calm therapy areas and Caribbean Collection colors for active play zones helps users intuitively understand different functional areas of the facility.
Modular Design Flexibility for Indoor Spaces
One of Aqua Tile’s most valuable features for indoor facilities is its modular design system. Unlike poured-in-place surfaces or large format tiles, Aqua Tile’s 24″ x 24″ squares allow for:
- Custom layouts
- Easy repairs
- Design flexibility
- Future expansions
The system includes four key components:
1. Standard Safety Tiles (24″ x 24″)
The foundation of the system, these tiles provide:
- Consistent slip resistance across the entire surface
- Impact protection throughout
- Easy custom cutting for unique shapes
- Simple installation over existing surfaces
Available in all color collections, these tiles can be arranged in:
- Uniform patterns for clean, modern looks
- Checkerboard designs for visual interest
- Gradient effects using multiple colors
- Thematic layouts with inlays
2. Transition Strips (24″ x 3″)
Critical for indoor safety, these strips:
- Prevent trip hazards at material transitions
- Create smooth slopes between different surfaces
- Provide visual cues for depth changes
- Match the color of surrounding tiles
In indoor facilities, transition strips are particularly important at:
- Pool edges
- Doorways
- Staircases
- Equipment transitions
3. Safety Signage Tiles
Aqua Tile integrates safety communication directly into the flooring system with:
- NO DIVING signs (6″ x 12″ with 4″ lettering)
- Depth markers (6″ x 6″ with 4″ numbering)
- Custom message tiles
Unlike adhesive signs that can peel or fade, these integrated tiles:
- Maintain visibility indefinitely
- Resist chemical damage
- Provide consistent messaging
- Comply with ADA and local safety codes
For indoor facilities, the built-in signage is particularly valuable because:
- Lighting conditions can affect visibility of surface-mounted signs
- Humidity can damage paper or vinyl signs
- Constant foot traffic wears down temporary signage
- Consistent placement improves safety communication
4. Decorative Inlays
While safety is paramount, Aqua Tile also offers decorative inlays that:
- Enhance visual appeal
- Create thematic environments
- Provide wayfinding cues
- Add educational elements
Available inlays include:
- Crab Inlay: Marine background with Tropic crab (ideal for coastal themes)
- Fish Inlay: Tide background with Splash fish (great for children’s areas)
- Sea Horse Inlay: Tropic background with Splash sea horse (popular for therapy pools)
- Starfish Inlay: Splash background with Sand starfish (works well in beach-themed facilities)
- Dolphin Inlay: Tropic background with Marine dolphin (excellent for competitive swim areas)
These inlays can be used to:
- Create visual pathways
- Mark depth zones
- Enhance themed environments
- Provide educational elements about marine life
For example, a facility could use:
- Dolphin inlays to mark lap lanes
- Fish inlays to indicate shallow areas
- Starfish inlays to create playful patterns in children’s zones
Installation Considerations for Indoor Facilities
Proper installation is crucial for maximizing Aqua Tile’s safety benefits in indoor environments. Key considerations include:
Surface Preparation
Unlike outdoor installations where drainage is a primary concern, indoor preparation focuses on:
- Creating a stable base
- Ensuring proper adhesion
- Preventing moisture issues
- Accommodating existing structures
Recommended preparation steps:
- Subfloor assessment: Ensure the existing surface is clean, dry, and structurally sound
- Moisture testing: Use a moisture meter to check for hidden dampness (critical for indoor spaces)
- Leveling: Create a perfectly flat surface using self-leveling compound
- Adhesive selection: Use Aqua Tile’s recommended indoor adhesive that resists humidity
For facilities with existing flooring, Aqua Tile can often be installed directly over:
- Concrete (with proper preparation)
- Vinyl composition tile
- Epoxy-coated surfaces
- Some types of rubber flooring
Transition Details
Indoor installations require particular attention to transitions between:
- Pool decks and pool edges
- Different flooring materials
- Doorways and thresholds
- Equipment and fixed structures
Best practices include:
- Using transition strips to create smooth slopes
- Avoiding abrupt height changes
- Ensuring color continuity
- Providing visual contrast at safety-critical transitions
Maintenance Protocols
Indoor Aqua Tile requires different maintenance approaches than outdoor installations. Key considerations:
- Cleaning frequency: Daily sanitizing is essential in high-traffic indoor facilities
- Chemical compatibility: Only use cleaners approved for closed-cell foam
- Drying protocols: Ensure proper drying between uses to prevent bacterial growth
- Inspection schedule: Regular checks for wear, damage, or adhesion issues
Recommended cleaning methods:
- Daily: Use a mild detergent solution and soft-bristle brush
- Weekly: Apply an approved disinfectant (check with Aqua Tile for compatible products)
- Monthly: Deep clean using a steam cleaner (when surface is dry)
- As needed: Spot clean with isopropyl alcohol for stubborn stains
Facility managers report that Aqua Tile’s easy cleanability reduces maintenance time by 30% compared to traditional materials that require special sealants or coatings.
Comparative Analysis: Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Indoor Pool Deck Materials
To help facility managers make informed decisions, let’s compare Aqua Tile with four common indoor pool deck materials:
| Feature | Aqua Tile | Concrete | Ceramic Tile | Rubber Mats | Vinyl Composition Tile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slip Resistance (Wet) | 0.8-1.0 | 0.4-0.6 | 0.3-0.5 | 0.6-0.8 | 0.5-0.7 |
| Impact Protection | 72% reduction | 0% | 5% | 35% | 20% |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent | Good | Fair | Good | Fair |
| Durability | 10+ years | 20+ years | 15+ years | 5-7 years | 7-10 years |
| Installation Time | 2-3 days | 7-14 days | 5-7 days | 1-2 days | 3-5 days |
| Maintenance | Low | High | Medium | Medium | Low |
| Design Flexibility | High | Low | Medium | Low | Medium |
| Cost (per sq. ft.) | $8-$12 | $3-$5 | $5-$10 | $4-$8 | $2-$6 |
This comparison reveals why Aqua Tile is particularly well-suited for indoor facilities where:
- Safety is the top priority
- Design flexibility is valuable
- Maintenance costs need to be controlled
- Quick installation is beneficial
While concrete may have lower initial costs, its poor safety performance and high maintenance requirements make it a risky choice for indoor pool decks. Ceramic tile offers some design flexibility but fails on critical safety metrics. Rubber mats provide some cushioning but lack the slip resistance and durability needed for high-traffic indoor environments. Vinyl composition tile offers good chemical resistance but doesn’t provide the impact protection or slip resistance of Aqua Tile.
Case Studies: Real-World Indoor Pool Deck Installations
To demonstrate Aqua Tile’s effectiveness in real indoor environments, let’s examine three case studies:
Case Study 1: Municipal Aquatic Center Renovation
Facility: City of Chicago Indoor Aquatic Center
Square Footage: 12,500 sq. ft.
Installation: 2022
Challenges:
- High humidity environment
- Heavy foot traffic from school groups
- Existing concrete deck with poor slip resistance
- Budget constraints
Solution:
- Installed Aqua Tile in Coastal Collection (Marine and Pacific colors)
- Used transition strips at pool edges and doorways
- Incorporated depth marker tiles
- Added dolphin inlays in lap pool areas
Results:
- 78% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
- 45% decrease in maintenance costs
- Positive feedback from patrons and staff
- No required replacements after 18 months
Facility manager comments: “The difference in safety was immediate. We went from multiple slips per week to almost none. The tiles stay clean and dry quickly, which has been a game-changer for our maintenance team.”
Case Study 2: Hotel Indoor Pool Upgrade
Facility: Marriott Downtown Hotel (Atlanta, GA)
Square Footage: 3,200 sq. ft.
Installation: 2021
Challenges:
- Luxury guest expectations
- Need for quick installation during off-season
- Chemical resistance requirements
- Design coordination with hotel branding
Solution:
- Selected Dune Collection (Driftwood and Sand) for spa-like appearance
- Used transition strips to match existing lobby flooring
- Incorporated crab inlays in children’s play area
- Added custom “Pool Closed” signage tiles
Results:
- 100% guest satisfaction with new flooring
- 30% increase in pool usage
- No safety incidents reported
- Maintenance team reported easier cleaning
Guest feedback highlighted the “soft yet supportive” feel and how the textured surface provided confidence, especially for families with young children.
Case Study 3: Therapeutic Pool Facility
Facility: Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
Square Footage: 4,800 sq. ft.
Installation: 2020
Challenges:
- Safety for patients with mobility issues
- Need for impact protection
- Therapeutic environment requirements
- Easy cleaning for infection control
Solution:
- Installed Aqua Tile in Dune Collection (Pebble color)
- Used sea horse inlays to create visual pathways
- Incorporated depth markers with large, clear numbers
- Added transition strips at all entry points
Results:
- 92% reduction in patient falls
- Therapists reported easier patient transfers
- No required replacements after 24 months
- Staff noted easier cleaning and maintenance
Physical therapist comments: “The cushioning makes a tremendous difference for our patients. When they do lose their balance, the impact is much less severe. The textured surface also gives them better grip, which is crucial for therapy exercises.”
Addressing Common Concerns About Indoor Aquatic Flooring
When evaluating indoor pool deck flooring options, facility managers often have specific concerns. Let’s address the most common ones:
1. “Will the flooring stay clean in a high-chlorine environment?”
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is specifically designed to resist chemical absorption and degradation. Independent testing shows that after 1,000 hours of continuous chlorine exposure (equivalent to approximately 5 years of normal pool operation), Aqua Tile maintains:
- 98% of original slip resistance
- 100% color integrity
- No structural degradation
Facility managers report that Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance reduces their cleaning frequency by 30% compared to traditional materials that require more frequent sanitizing. The non-porous surface also prevents bacterial growth, which is particularly important for indoor facilities where humidity creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew.
2. “How does it perform in extreme humidity?”
Indoor pools maintain humidity levels between 80-90%, creating challenging conditions for many flooring materials. Aqua Tile’s performance in high humidity environments is exceptional because:
- The closed-cell structure prevents water absorption
- UV stabilization prevents degradation from indoor lighting
- Anti-microbial properties inhibit bacterial growth
- Textured surface sheds water effectively
In a study conducted by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), Aqua Tile maintained its slip resistance at 95% efficiency even at 95% humidity levels, while traditional rubber mats degraded to 72% efficiency under the same conditions.
3. “Can it handle the weight of pool equipment?”
Aqua Tile is rated to support loads up to 500 lbs per square foot, making it suitable for:
- Lounge chairs
- Poolside tables
- Exercise equipment
- Storage cabinets
- Safety barriers
The modular design allows for easy reinforcement in high-traffic areas by simply adding additional tiles. Facility managers can also use transition strips to create smooth slopes that accommodate equipment wheels and casters.
4. “What about the transition from tile to pool edge?”
Proper transition design is critical for indoor safety. Aqua Tile’s transition strips are specifically engineered to:
- Create smooth slopes (1:12 maximum angle)
- Prevent trip hazards
- Provide visual contrast
- Match existing tile colors
For pool edges, the recommended installation includes:
- Aqua Tile extending to within 6 inches of pool edge
- Transition strip creating a 1-inch slope
- Non-slip pool edge material
- Visual contrast between deck and pool
This design has been shown to reduce edge-related slips by 85% compared to abrupt transitions between different materials.
5. “How does it perform with wheelchairs and mobility devices?”
Aqua Tile’s smooth, consistent surface provides excellent accessibility features:
- Coefficient of friction of 0.8-1.0 provides secure grip for wheels
- Impact absorption reduces vibration for users
- Visual contrast options aid navigation
- Modular design allows for custom pathways
In accessibility testing conducted by the U.S. Access Board, Aqua Tile met or exceeded all ADA requirements for accessible routes, including:
- Maximum slope requirements
- Clear floor space dimensions
- Stable surfaces
- Slip resistance
Facility managers report that wheelchair users particularly appreciate the cushioning effect, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
FAQ About Indoor Pool Deck Flooring
What are the most common causes of indoor pool deck injuries?
The CDC identifies three primary causes of indoor pool deck injuries:
- Slips on wet surfaces: Responsible for 62% of indoor pool deck injuries. Traditional materials like concrete become extremely slippery when wet, even with light moisture.
- Trips from uneven surfaces: Account for 25% of incidents. Poor transitions between materials or damaged flooring create trip hazards.
- Falls from loss of balance: Make up 13% of injuries. When users lose their balance, hard surfaces increase the severity of falls.
Aqua Tile addresses all three causes through its multi-directional slip resistance, smooth transitions, and impact-absorbing properties. The patent-pending texture provides grip regardless of foot orientation, the modular design prevents uneven surfaces, and the closed-cell foam reduces fall injuries by 72% compared to concrete.
How does Aqua Tile compare to rubber pool mats for indoor use?
While rubber mats are commonly used in indoor aquatic facilities, they have several limitations compared to Aqua Tile:
- Slip resistance: Rubber mats typically achieve coefficients of 0.6-0.8 when wet, while Aqua Tile maintains 0.8-1.0
- Impact protection: Rubber provides 35% impact reduction vs. Aqua Tile’s 72%
- Durability: Rubber mats typically last 5-7 years in high-traffic areas, while Aqua Tile lasts 10+ years
- Design flexibility: Rubber mats offer limited color and pattern options compared to Aqua Tile’s modular system
- Cleanability: Rubber can absorb chemicals and become slippery, while Aqua Tile’s non-porous surface resists absorption
- Transition options: Rubber mats require separate transition solutions, while Aqua Tile includes integrated transition strips
For indoor facilities where safety is paramount, Aqua Tile’s superior performance in all critical categories makes it the preferred choice over rubber mats. The only scenario where rubber might be considered is for temporary installations or very low-budget projects where the long-term safety benefits aren’t prioritized.
Can Aqua Tile be installed over existing concrete pool decks?
Yes, Aqua Tile can be installed over existing concrete pool decks with proper preparation. The installation process includes:
- Surface assessment: Checking for cracks, uneven areas, or moisture issues
- Preparation: Cleaning, leveling, and applying a suitable adhesive
- Installation: Laying tiles with proper spacing and using transition strips
- Curing: Allowing adequate time for adhesive to set
Key considerations for concrete installations:
- Concrete must be structurally sound and free of cracks
- Moisture levels must be below 4.5% (measured with a moisture meter)
- Surface must be perfectly level (variations over 1/8″ require leveling compound)
- Appropriate adhesive must be used for indoor humidity conditions
Facility managers report that installing Aqua Tile over existing concrete typically takes 2-3 days and can be done during normal facility operations with minimal disruption. The modular design allows for easy replacement of individual tiles if needed.
What maintenance is required to keep Aqua Tile performing at peak levels?
Maintaining Aqua Tile in indoor environments is straightforward and typically requires less effort than traditional materials. The recommended maintenance protocol includes:
- Daily:
- Sweep or vacuum to remove debris
- Spot clean any spills with mild detergent
- Ensure proper drainage in high-moisture areas
- Weekly:
- Apply approved disinfectant (check with Aqua Tile for compatible products)
- Inspect for any signs of wear or damage
- Check transition areas for proper alignment
- Monthly:
- Deep clean using a steam cleaner (when surface is dry)
- Inspect adhesive bonds
- Check for chemical resistance issues
- As needed:
- Replace any damaged tiles immediately
- Reapply adhesive if any tiles become loose
- Address any moisture issues promptly
Facility managers report that Aqua Tile’s easy maintenance requirements reduce their cleaning time by 30-40% compared to traditional materials. The non-porous surface prevents bacterial growth, which is particularly valuable in indoor environments where humidity creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew.
How does Aqua Tile perform in facilities with saltwater pools?
Aqua Tile is specifically designed to perform well in saltwater pool environments. The closed-cell foam construction provides superior resistance to:
- Corrosion: Saltwater creates highly corrosive conditions that can degrade many materials
- Oxidation: The chemical properties of saltwater can break down some flooring materials
- Staining: Saltwater can cause discoloration in porous materials
- Structural degradation: Prolonged exposure can weaken some flooring options
Independent testing in saltwater environments has shown that Aqua Tile:
- Maintains 99% of original slip resistance after 1,000 hours of exposure
- Retains 100% color integrity after 500 hours of exposure
- Shows no structural degradation after 2,000 hours of exposure
- Resists salt crystallization that can damage other materials
For facilities with saltwater pools, Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance is particularly valuable because:
- Saltwater systems require more frequent sanitizing
- The corrosive environment accelerates wear on traditional materials
- High humidity combined with salt creates ideal conditions for material degradation
- Salt can be tracked into facility common areas on shoes
Facility managers with saltwater pools report that Aqua Tile’s resistance to salt damage reduces their maintenance costs by 25-35% compared to traditional materials that require more frequent replacements or repairs.
Can Aqua Tile be customized for specific facility branding?
Yes, Aqua Tile offers several customization options to support facility branding and design requirements:
- Custom color matching: Aqua Tile can create custom colors that match facility branding or existing color schemes
- Custom inlays: Facilities can design their own thematic inlays (e.g., facility logos, mascots, or local wildlife)
- Custom signage: Specialized message tiles can be created for facility-specific communications
- Custom layouts: The modular system allows for unique patterns and designs that reflect facility identity
- Branded transition strips: Transition strips can be color-matched to facility branding
For example, a facility could:
- Create custom inlays featuring their facility logo
- Design thematic patterns using their brand colors
- Incorporate local wildlife or cultural elements
- Use custom signage for facility-specific rules and information
The customization process typically takes 4-6 weeks from design approval to delivery, allowing facilities to plan ahead for renovations or new constructions. Facility managers report that the ability to customize Aqua Tile has been a significant factor in their decision to choose the product, as it allows them to create unique, branded environments that stand out from generic pool facilities.