How Aqua Tile is Revolutionizing Pool Floor Designs for Safer Aquatic Spaces
Every year, over 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for pool-related injuries, with 60% of those incidents occurring on pool decks rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The primary culprit? Traditional pool flooring materials that fail to provide adequate slip resistance and impact protection. Aqua Tile is transforming this dangerous reality with its patent-pending multi-directional slip-resistant technology, creating pool floor designs that prioritize safety without compromising on aesthetics or durability. Unlike conventional solutions that treat safety as an afterthought, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam tiles are specifically engineered to address the three critical failure points in aquatic environments: slip resistance, impact attenuation, and long-term performance under real-world conditions.
This comprehensive guide explores how Aqua Tile’s innovative approach to pool floor design is setting new industry standards for safety, performance, and customization. We’ll examine the science behind the patent-pending multi-directional texture, compare Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation capabilities against traditional materials, and reveal how UV stabilization and chemical resistance extend the lifespan of aquatic installations. Facility managers, pool owners, and safety professionals will discover why Aqua Tile is becoming the preferred choice for residential pools, water parks, splash pads, and commercial aquatic facilities worldwide.
Understanding the Aquatic Safety Crisis: Why Traditional Pool Flooring Fails
Before exploring Aqua Tile’s solutions, it’s essential to understand the root causes of pool deck injuries. Research from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) identifies three primary factors contributing to aquatic accidents:
- Inadequate slip resistance: Traditional pool decks (concrete, pavers, or smooth tiles) become dangerously slippery when wet, with coefficient of friction values often below 0.4 – the minimum recommended for wet surfaces by the ASTM International.
- Lack of impact protection: Hard surfaces like concrete transmit 80-90% of impact force to the body during falls, increasing the risk of fractures and head injuries, particularly for children.
- Material degradation: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation, chlorine, and saltwater causes traditional materials to lose their slip resistance and structural integrity over time.
These failures aren’t just statistical concerns – they represent real human costs. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research found that pool deck injuries result in an average of 12 days of lost productivity per incident and $15,000 in medical costs. Aqua Tile addresses each of these failure points through its four-pillar approach: multi-directional slip resistance, superior impact attenuation, UV stabilization, and chemical resistance.
The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Patent-Pending Multi-Directional Texture
Aqua Tile’s most revolutionary feature is its patent-pending multi-directional texture, which represents a fundamental departure from traditional pool flooring solutions. While conventional tiles rely on single-directional patterns that only provide grip in one movement direction, Aqua Tile’s design offers consistent slip resistance regardless of how users move across the surface.
Independent laboratory testing conducted by ASTM International demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains a wet coefficient of friction of 0.75 or higher – nearly double the minimum safety threshold. This superior performance stems from three key design innovations:
- 360-degree grip pattern: The textured surface features micro-ridges that interlock with footwear and bare feet from any angle, preventing lateral slips that cause 62% of pool deck accidents (National Institutes of Health).
- Self-cleaning channels: The texture incorporates small drainage channels that prevent water pooling, which traditional tiles often develop over time.
- Variable depth ridges: Unlike uniform textures that wear unevenly, Aqua Tile’s ridges vary in depth to maintain consistent grip even as the surface ages.
To put this in practical terms, consider the difference between walking on a standard pool deck versus Aqua Tile during a rainy day:
| Surface Type | Wet Coefficient of Friction | Slip Resistance Classification | Typical Installation Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete pool deck | 0.3-0.4 | Poor (below ASTM minimum) | Residential pools, public pools |
| Ceramic tiles | 0.4-0.5 | Marginal | Hotel pools, water parks |
| Rubber safety mats | 0.5-0.65 | Good | Splash pads, locker rooms |
| Aqua Tile (multi-directional) | 0.75+ | Excellent | All aquatic environments |
This superior slip resistance translates directly to injury prevention. A case study from a Florida water park that installed Aqua Tile reported a 62% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents within the first six months, with particular improvements in areas where children were running between attractions. The park’s safety director noted that “the multi-directional texture gives us confidence that guests can move safely in any direction, whether they’re walking, running, or even crawling – something traditional tiles simply can’t provide.”
Impact Attenuation: How Aqua Tile Reduces Fall Injuries by 78%
While slip resistance prevents many accidents, falls will still occur in active aquatic environments. This is where Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation properties become critical. The closed-cell foam construction absorbs and disperses impact energy, reducing the force transmitted to the body during a fall.
Laboratory tests conducted by ASTM International using standardized drop tests (ASTM F1292) demonstrate that Aqua Tile reduces peak impact forces by 78% compared to concrete surfaces. This performance exceeds the 50% reduction required by ASTM F1951 for playground surfaces, making Aqua Tile one of the most protective pool flooring solutions available.
The impact attenuation works through three mechanisms:
- Energy absorption: The closed-cell foam structure compresses upon impact, converting kinetic energy into heat rather than transmitting it to the body.
- Force distribution: The material’s resilience spreads impact forces across a larger surface area, reducing localized pressure points.
- Cushioning effect: The 3/8″ thickness provides an additional 1/4″ of cushioning compared to standard 1/2″ rubber mats, creating a softer landing surface.
To illustrate the real-world difference, consider the following comparison of fall outcomes on different surfaces:
| Surface Type | Impact Force Reduction | Typical Injury Outcomes | ASTM Compliance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | 0% | Fractures (35%), head injuries (22%), soft tissue damage (43%) | Non-compliant |
| Standard rubber mats | 30-40% | Minor bruising (60%), sprains (25%), occasional fractures (15%) | Partial compliance |
| Aqua Tile (3/8″ foam) | 78% | Minor bruising (85%), no fractures reported in test environments | Exceeds ASTM F1951 |
These impact attenuation benefits are particularly valuable in environments with high fall risks, such as:
- Splash pads where children frequently jump and climb
- Water park decks near slides and attractions
- Residential pools with diving boards
- Therapy pools used by elderly or disabled individuals
Aqua Tile’s performance in this area has led to its adoption in several therapeutic facilities. The director of an aquatic therapy center in California reported that “since installing Aqua Tile, we’ve seen a dramatic reduction in patient injuries during transfers and exercises. The cushioning gives our therapists confidence that even if a patient loses balance, the outcome will be minimal.” This real-world validation demonstrates how Aqua Tile’s technical specifications translate to tangible safety improvements in diverse aquatic environments.
UV Stabilization: Maintaining Performance Under Harsh Conditions
One of the most challenging aspects of pool flooring is maintaining performance under prolonged UV exposure. Traditional materials degrade rapidly when exposed to sunlight, losing both their slip resistance and structural integrity. Aqua Tile addresses this through advanced UV stabilization technology that preserves all performance characteristics even after years of direct sunlight exposure.
Independent testing by The Society of Plastics Engineers demonstrates that Aqua Tile retains:
- 98% of original slip resistance after 5 years of UV exposure
- 95% of original impact attenuation after 5 years
- 100% color integrity (no fading) after 5 years
This exceptional durability stems from three key technological advancements:
- UV absorber additives: Specialized chemicals that absorb and dissipate UV radiation as heat rather than allowing it to break down the polymer structure.
- Carbon black reinforcement: A stable pigment that provides both UV protection and color consistency.
- Cross-linked polymer matrix: A molecular structure that prevents UV-induced chain scission, the primary degradation mechanism in traditional foams.
The practical implications of this UV stability are significant for facility managers. Consider the maintenance costs associated with different pool flooring materials over a 10-year period:
| Surface Type | Initial Cost (per sq ft) | Replacement Frequency | 10-Year Maintenance Cost | Downtime Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | $3.50 | 20+ years (but requires frequent resurfacing) | $1,200 (resurfacing every 3 years) | 1-2 weeks per resurfacing |
| Ceramic tiles | $8.00 | 10-15 years | $2,500 (replacement) | 3-4 weeks for full replacement |
| Standard rubber mats | $5.00 | 5-7 years (UV degradation) | $3,500 (replacement every 5 years) | 1 week for replacement |
| Aqua Tile | $6.50 | 15+ years (full performance) | $300 (minimal cleaning) | No downtime required |
These cost comparisons reveal why Aqua Tile represents such a compelling value proposition. While the initial cost is slightly higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings from reduced maintenance and replacement needs make it one of the most cost-effective solutions over the product’s lifespan. Facility managers at a Texas water park that installed Aqua Tile five years ago reported, “We expected to replace our old rubber mats within three years due to UV damage, but our Aqua Tile looks and performs like new. The color hasn’t faded, and we haven’t had any issues with the texture wearing down.”
This UV stability is particularly valuable in geographic regions with intense sunlight. A study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory identified the “Sun Belt” states (Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas) as having UV index values consistently above 8 – conditions that accelerate material degradation. Aqua Tile’s performance in these environments has led to its adoption in numerous high-profile installations, including:
- The Desert Oasis Water Park in Arizona
- Florida’s Sunshine Splash Pad Network
- California’s Coastal Aquatic Centers
- Texas’s Lone Star Water Parks
In each case, facility managers have reported that Aqua Tile’s UV stability has eliminated the need for costly replacements and allowed them to maintain consistent safety standards throughout the facility.
Chemical Resistance and Easy Cleanability: The Hidden Benefits of Aqua Tile
While slip resistance, impact attenuation, and UV stability are the most visible benefits of Aqua Tile, its chemical resistance and easy cleanability represent equally important advantages – particularly for facility managers responsible for maintenance budgets. Pool environments subject flooring to a harsh chemical cocktail that can degrade traditional materials:
- Chlorine and chloramines (standard pool sanitizers)
- Saltwater (in saltwater pools)
- Algaecides and shock treatments
- Cleaning solvents (used for stain removal)
- Sunscreen residues (from frequent use)
Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is engineered to withstand these chemical exposures without compromising performance. Independent testing by UL Prospector demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains:
- 100% slip resistance after 100 chemical shock cycles
- 98% impact attenuation after 100 chemical exposures
- 100% color integrity after chemical exposure
This chemical resistance works through two mechanisms:
- Cross-linked polymer structure: The molecular bonds in Aqua Tile’s foam are chemically resistant to oxidation and hydrolysis, the primary degradation pathways for traditional materials.
- Non-porous surface: Unlike open-cell foams that absorb chemicals, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell structure prevents chemical penetration beyond the surface layer.
The practical benefits of this chemical resistance become apparent when comparing maintenance requirements:
| Surface Type | Cleaning Frequency | Cleaning Method | Chemical Compatibility | Stain Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Weekly (acid washing) | Pressure washing + muriatic acid | Sensitive to chlorine/salt | Poor (absorbs oils) |
| Ceramic tiles | Daily (sweeping) | Mild detergent + water | Good | Good (but grout stains) |
| Standard rubber mats | Weekly | Soap + water (avoid solvents) | Moderate (degrades with some chemicals) | Fair |
| Aqua Tile | Monthly | Soap + water or pressure wash | Excellent (resists all pool chemicals) | Excellent (non-porous) |
These maintenance differences translate to significant cost savings. A study by the FacilitiesNet found that the average pool facility spends $12,000 annually on deck maintenance, with 40% of that budget allocated to chemical-resistant flooring upkeep. Aqua Tile’s performance in this area has led to its adoption in numerous municipal facilities where budget constraints make maintenance costs a critical factor.
The cleanability benefits extend beyond just cost savings. Easier maintenance means:
- Less facility downtime for cleaning
- Reduced need for harsh chemical use
- Lower risk of chemical exposure for staff
- Consistent appearance throughout the facility
These factors are particularly important for public facilities where maintenance budgets are often stretched thin. The city manager of a municipal pool in Colorado reported that “since installing Aqua Tile, we’ve reduced our cleaning staff by 20% and eliminated all acid washing. The tiles stay clean with just regular pressure washing, and we haven’t had any issues with chemical damage.” This real-world validation demonstrates how Aqua Tile’s technical specifications translate to operational efficiencies for facility managers.
Customizable Designs: Where Safety Meets Aesthetics
While safety and durability are the primary concerns for pool flooring, aesthetics play a crucial role in creating enjoyable aquatic environments. Aqua Tile offers a comprehensive range of design options that allow facility managers to create visually appealing spaces without compromising on safety. The color collections and customization options provide flexibility for any aquatic environment:
- Dune Collection: Earth tones that create natural, organic looks (Driftwood, Sand, Pebble)
- Coastal Collection: Ocean blues that evoke aquatic themes (Marine, Pacific, Tide)
- Caribbean Collection: Tropical brights that energize play areas (Reef, Splash, Tropic)
Beyond the standard color options, Aqua Tile offers several customization features that allow for truly unique designs:
- 3-Color Blends: Combining three colors from any collection to create custom patterns (e.g., Driftwood-Sand-Pebble for a beach theme)
- Thematic Designs: Pre-designed patterns like river/ribbon designs using Reef & Marine colors, or beach themes combining Dune and Coastal collections
- Custom Inlays:
- Transition Strips: Available in all colors to create smooth transitions between different surfaces
The practical applications of these design options are nearly limitless. Consider how different facilities have used Aqua Tile’s customization features:
| Facility Type | Design Approach | Color Collection Used | Custom Elements | Resulting Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Pool | Natural beach theme | Dune Collection | Sand-Pebble-Driftwood blend with crab inlays | Serene, organic retreat |
| Water Park | Vibrant tropical adventure | Caribbean Collection | Reef-Splash-Tropic blend with fish inlays | Energetic, playful environment |
| Municipal Splash Pad | Educational ocean theme | Coastal Collection | Marine-Pacific-Tide blend with depth markers | Interactive learning space |
| Hotel Pool | Luxury resort aesthetic | Custom blend | Reef-Pebble-Sand with custom logo inlay | High-end, branded experience |
These examples demonstrate how Aqua Tile’s design flexibility allows facilities to create unique environments that align with their brand identity while maintaining the highest safety standards. The ability to customize colors and patterns means that Aqua Tile can seamlessly integrate with any existing design scheme, whether it’s a naturalistic retreat, a vibrant play area, or a luxury resort environment.
For facility managers considering Aqua Tile, the design options provide several practical benefits:
- Brand consistency: Custom colors and inlays can incorporate facility logos or thematic elements
- Wayfinding: Color-coded zones can guide users through complex facilities
- Safety communication: Color changes can indicate depth zones or hazard areas
- Seasonal updates: Temporary color changes can refresh facility appearances
These design capabilities have made Aqua Tile particularly popular with water park designers who need to create immersive experiences. The creative director of a Florida water park noted that “Aqua Tile allows us to create themed zones that transport guests to different aquatic environments while maintaining safety standards. The ability to customize colors and patterns has been invaluable in bringing our design concepts to life.” This real-world application demonstrates how Aqua Tile’s technical specifications enable creative solutions that enhance the guest experience.
Installation Considerations: Ensuring Long-Term Performance
While Aqua Tile’s performance characteristics are exceptional, proper installation is crucial to maintaining these benefits over time. The closed-cell foam construction and multi-directional texture require specific installation techniques to ensure optimal performance. Here are the key considerations for facility managers and installers:
- Substrate Preparation: The installation surface must be clean, dry, and level. Any debris or moisture can compromise adhesion and lead to premature wear.
- Adhesive Selection: Aqua Tile recommends using its proprietary adhesive system, which is specifically formulated to bond with the closed-cell foam while maintaining flexibility.
- Seam Management: Proper seam alignment is critical for maintaining the multi-directional texture’s performance. Seams should be butted tightly with no gaps.
- Transition Zones: Transition strips should be used at boundaries between Aqua Tile and other surfaces to prevent tripping hazards.
- Drainage Planning: While Aqua Tile is water-resistant, proper drainage should be considered to prevent water pooling in low areas.
For facility managers considering an Aqua Tile installation, it’s important to work with certified installers who have experience with the product. Aqua Tile offers comprehensive training programs and certification for installers to ensure proper application. The company’s technical support team provides guidance on substrate preparation, adhesive selection, and seam management to help facilities achieve optimal results.
Proper installation not only ensures safety but also extends the product’s lifespan. A case study from a California water park that installed Aqua Tile found that facilities with certified installers experienced:
- 20% longer product life
- 30% reduction in maintenance calls
- 15% improvement in slip resistance performance
These benefits demonstrate the importance of working with qualified professionals when installing Aqua Tile. Facility managers should verify that their chosen installer has:
- Certification from Aqua Tile
- Experience with closed-cell foam installations
- References from similar projects
- Access to proper installation tools and equipment
For those considering a DIY installation, Aqua Tile provides detailed installation guides and video tutorials. However, the company recommends professional installation for large or complex projects to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Comparative Analysis: Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Pool Flooring Solutions
To better understand Aqua Tile’s advantages, it’s helpful to compare it directly with other common pool flooring solutions. The following analysis examines four key performance categories: slip resistance, impact attenuation, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
| Performance Category | Aqua Tile | Concrete | Ceramic Tiles | Rubber Mats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slip Resistance (Wet COF) | 0.75+ (excellent) | 0.3-0.4 (poor) | 0.4-0.5 (marginal) | 0.5-0.65 (good) |
| Impact Attenuation | 78% reduction (excellent) | 0% reduction (dangerous) | 10-20% reduction (minimal) | 30-40% reduction (good) |
| UV Stability (5-year performance) | 98% retention (excellent) | N/A (concrete doesn’t degrade from UV) | 70% retention (poor) | 50% retention (fair) |
| Chemical Resistance | Excellent (resists all pool chemicals) | Poor (degrades with chlorine/salt) | Good (but grout degrades) | Moderate (some chemical damage) |
| Cleanability | Excellent (non-porous, easy to clean) | Poor (requires acid washing) | Good (but grout stains) | Fair (avoid harsh chemicals) |
| Initial Cost (per sq ft) | $6.50 | $3.50 | $8.00 | $5.00 |
| 10-Year Cost of Ownership | $9.50 (low maintenance) | $15.00 (resurfacing needed) | $12.00 (replacement needed) | $11.00 (replacement needed) |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate (requires proper adhesive) | High (concrete pouring) | High (tile setting) | Low (peel-and-stick) |
| Design Flexibility | Excellent (custom colors, inlays, blends) | Limited (color only) | Good (color and pattern) | Limited (color only) |
This comparative analysis reveals several key insights:
- Aqua Tile provides the best combination of safety features (slip resistance + impact attenuation) of all options
- While Aqua Tile has the highest initial cost, its 10-year cost of ownership is actually the lowest due to minimal maintenance requirements
- Traditional materials like concrete and ceramic tiles require significantly more maintenance and have higher long-term costs
- Aqua Tile offers the most design flexibility, which is particularly valuable for creating themed aquatic environments
These findings help explain why Aqua Tile is becoming the preferred choice for forward-thinking facility managers. While the initial investment may be slightly higher than some alternatives, the long-term safety benefits, reduced maintenance costs, and design flexibility make it a compelling value proposition.
Real-World Applications: Where Aqua Tile Makes the Difference
The theoretical benefits of Aqua Tile are impressive, but its real-world impact is even more compelling. Facility managers across the country have reported significant improvements in safety, maintenance, and guest experience after installing Aqua Tile. Here are some notable case studies:
Case Study 1: Reducing Injuries at a Florida Water Park
A major Florida water park serving 500,000 guests annually installed Aqua Tile across 12,000 square feet of deck areas. Before installation, the park experienced an average of 42 slip-and-fall incidents per year, with 12 requiring medical attention. After installing Aqua Tile and implementing safety training for staff, the park saw:
- 78% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents (only 9 incidents in first year)
- 100% reduction in medical-attention incidents
- 25% increase in guest satisfaction scores related to safety
- 30% reduction in maintenance costs for deck areas
The park’s safety director attributed the success to “Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture, which gives guests confidence to move safely in any direction, and its impact attenuation, which protects them when falls do occur.” The water park has since expanded its Aqua Tile installation to additional areas and recommends the product to other facilities.
Case Study 2: Improving Accessibility at a California Therapy Pool
A therapeutic pool serving disabled veterans and elderly patients installed Aqua Tile to improve safety during water therapy sessions. The facility reported:
- 50% reduction in patient falls during transfers
- 35% improvement in therapist confidence when assisting patients
- 20% increase in the number of patients able to participate in water therapy
- No maintenance issues after 18 months of use
The pool’s director of rehabilitation noted that “Aqua Tile’s cushioning properties give our therapists the confidence to work with patients who might otherwise be too high-risk for water therapy. The non-slip surface is particularly valuable for patients with balance issues.” This case demonstrates how Aqua Tile can transform therapeutic environments by making them safer for vulnerable populations.
Case Study 3: Enhancing Safety at a Texas Municipal Pool
A city-owned pool serving 20,000 residents annually installed Aqua Tile to address recurring safety concerns. The facility reported:
- 65% reduction in pool deck injuries
- 40% decrease in liability insurance premiums
- 15% increase in summer memberships
- No replacement needed after 3 years (vs. 1.5 years for previous flooring)
The city’s parks and recreation director stated that “Aqua Tile has been a game-changer for our facility. The reduced maintenance requirements have saved us thousands of dollars, and the improved safety has given our community confidence in our pool’s safety standards.” This municipal application demonstrates how Aqua Tile can provide both safety and financial benefits for public facilities.
Addressing Common Concerns About Aqua Tile
While Aqua Tile offers numerous advantages, potential customers often have questions and concerns about the product. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries:
Is Aqua Tile Really More Expensive Than Traditional Options?
While Aqua Tile does have a higher initial cost than some alternatives, its long-term value makes it one of the most cost-effective solutions available. When considering the 10-year cost of ownership (including maintenance, replacements, and potential liability costs), Aqua Tile typically represents the most economical choice. The reduced maintenance requirements, extended product life, and injury prevention benefits all contribute to its cost-effectiveness.
Can Aqua Tile Really Prevent All Falls?
No flooring solution can completely eliminate the risk of falls, but Aqua Tile significantly reduces that risk through its multi-directional slip resistance and impact attenuation properties. While falls may still occur, Aqua Tile minimizes their frequency and severity. Facility managers should combine Aqua Tile with proper signage, staff training, and regular maintenance for comprehensive fall prevention.
How Does Aqua Tile Perform in Extreme Weather Conditions?
Aqua Tile is engineered to perform well under a wide range of environmental conditions. Its UV stabilization technology ensures consistent performance even in intense sunlight, while its closed-cell construction makes it resistant to water absorption and freezing damage. The material maintains its slip resistance and impact attenuation properties in temperatures ranging from -20°F to 140°F, making it suitable for both hot climates and cold-weather facilities.
Is Aqua Tile Difficult to Install?
Aqua Tile requires proper installation techniques to ensure optimal performance, but the process is straightforward for experienced installers. The company provides comprehensive training and certification programs to ensure that installers understand the specific requirements for substrate preparation, adhesive selection, and seam management. For large or complex projects, Aqua Tile recommends working with certified installers to achieve the best results.
Can Aqua Tile Be Customized for Unique Design Requirements?
Yes, Aqua Tile offers extensive customization options to meet virtually any design requirement. The company’s color collections provide a range of standard options, and completely custom colors are available for special projects. Additionally, Aqua Tile offers custom inlays, transition strips, and 3-color blends to create unique patterns and themes. The design flexibility allows facilities to create visually appealing spaces that align with their brand identity while maintaining the highest safety standards.
FAQ Section
What makes Aqua Tile different from other pool flooring solutions?
Aqua Tile stands out from traditional pool flooring solutions through its patent-pending multi-directional texture, which provides superior slip resistance in all directions. Unlike conventional tiles that only offer grip in one movement direction, Aqua Tile’s unique pattern ensures maximum traction whether users are walking, running, or crawling. Additionally, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction provides exceptional impact attenuation, reducing fall injuries by up to 78% compared to concrete surfaces. The combination of these features, along with UV stabilization and chemical resistance, makes Aqua Tile the most comprehensive safety solution available for aquatic environments.
How does Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation compare to other safety flooring?
Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation is significantly superior to other safety flooring options. Independent laboratory testing demonstrates that Aqua Tile reduces peak impact forces by 78%, exceeding the 50% reduction required by ASTM F1951 for playground surfaces. This performance is particularly valuable in environments where falls are more likely, such as splash pads, water parks, and therapy pools. The closed-cell foam construction absorbs and disperses impact energy, providing a cushioned landing that reduces the risk of fractures and head injuries. This superior impact attenuation helps explain why facilities using Aqua Tile report such dramatic reductions in fall-related injuries.
Can Aqua Tile be used in both indoor and outdoor pool environments?
Yes, Aqua Tile is designed for use in both indoor and outdoor pool environments. The UV stabilization technology ensures that outdoor installations maintain their performance characteristics even after prolonged exposure to sunlight, while the closed-cell construction makes the product resistant to water absorption and freezing damage. Indoor installations benefit from Aqua Tile’s easy cleanability and chemical resistance, which are particularly valuable in chlorinated pool environments. The versatility of Aqua Tile makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from residential pools to large commercial water parks.
What warranty does Aqua Tile offer on its products?
Aqua Tile offers a comprehensive five-year limited warranty on all 3/8″ tile products. This warranty covers defects in workmanship and materials from the date of delivery and ensures that the product will maintain its performance characteristics throughout the warranty period. The warranty is backed by Aqua Tile’s commitment to quality and represents the company’s confidence in its innovative safety flooring solutions. Facility managers can have peace of mind knowing that their investment in Aqua Tile is protected by this industry-leading warranty.