How Aqua Tile Is Revolutionizing Splash Aqua Park Safety Standards

How Aqua Tile Is Revolutionizing Splash Aqua Park Safety Standards

Every year, over 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for pool and waterpark-related injuries, with slip-and-fall accidents accounting for nearly 60% of these incidents—most occurring on wet deck surfaces rather than in the water itself. CDC injury statistics reveal that children under 5 and adults over 65 are particularly vulnerable, with falls on hard surfaces causing fractures, head trauma, and long-term mobility issues. Traditional aquatic flooring solutions like concrete, ceramic tile, or basic rubber mats simply can’t match the safety requirements of modern splash aqua parks. This is where Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional technology steps in, transforming how facility managers approach wet-area safety while maintaining the fun, interactive experience families expect.

Unlike conventional flooring that treats slip resistance and impact protection as separate concerns, Aqua Tile integrates these critical safety features into a single, closed-cell foam solution that exceeds ASTM F1699 and F2977 standards for wet-surface traction and impact attenuation. The result? A flooring system that reduces slip incidents by up to 62% compared to standard concrete surfaces, according to independent testing conducted by the American Society for Testing and Materials. But how exactly does this innovative technology work, and what makes Aqua Tile the gold standard for splash aqua park safety? Let’s examine the science, real-world applications, and long-term benefits that position Aqua Tile as the definitive solution for aquatic recreation environments.

Understanding the Aqua Tile Advantage: Four Pillars of Safety Innovation

Aqua Tile wasn’t developed in isolation—it emerged from over 50 years of combined experience in aquatic safety, manufacturing, and flooring technology. The product represents a fundamental shift from reactive safety measures (like warning signs or lifeguards) to proactive surface engineering. At its core, Aqua Tile is built on four interconnected safety pillars that address the most critical risks in splash aqua parks:

1. Multi-Directional Slip Resistance: The Patent-Pending Technology

The heart of Aqua Tile’s safety innovation lies in its patent-pending multi-directional texture, a design that fundamentally differs from traditional slip-resistant surfaces. Most aquatic flooring solutions use unidirectional or random textures that provide traction only when force is applied in specific directions. Aqua Tile’s texture, however, creates a 360-degree grip that maintains slip resistance regardless of the angle or direction of movement.

This becomes particularly critical in splash aqua parks where:

  • Children run in unpredictable patterns, often changing direction suddenly
  • Adults may walk, shuffle, or move sideways while carrying towels or drinks
  • Water spray creates dynamic wet conditions that change surface traction
  • Interactive features (like dump buckets or spray nozzles) create localized high-impact areas

Independent slip resistance testing conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains a static coefficient of friction (COF) above 0.85—even when fully saturated—while standard concrete surfaces drop below 0.40 when wet. This 115% improvement in traction directly translates to fewer slips, as research from the National Institutes of Health shows that surfaces with COF below 0.5 account for 87% of all slip-related injuries.

For facility managers, this means:

  • Reduced liability risks from slip-and-fall incidents
  • Lower maintenance costs associated with accident cleanup
  • Improved insurance premiums through documented safety upgrades
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction from a more secure environment

2. Impact Attenuation: Reducing Injury Severity by 40-50%

While slip resistance prevents accidents, impact attenuation becomes crucial when falls do occur. The closed-cell foam composition of Aqua Tile absorbs and disperses impact energy, reducing the force transmitted to the body by up to 50% compared to concrete surfaces. This is particularly vital for:

  • Children under 12, whose bones are more susceptible to fractures
  • Elderly visitors who may have reduced bone density
  • Individuals with balance disorders or mobility challenges
  • High-impact areas like near water slides or splash features

ASTM F1292 testing protocols measure impact attenuation through peak acceleration values. Aqua Tile consistently records peak accelerations below 150g (gravity units), while concrete typically exceeds 300g. This 50% reduction in impact force correlates directly with lower injury severity, as documented in studies published in the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery.

The practical implications for splash aqua parks are substantial:

  • Fewer emergency room visits for fall-related injuries
  • Reduced medical costs for facility operators
  • Lower workers’ compensation claims for staff
  • Improved reputation as a family-friendly, safe destination

Real-World Applications: How Aqua Tile Transforms Splash Aqua Parks

The theoretical advantages of Aqua Tile become most apparent when examining real-world installations across different types of aquatic facilities. Facility managers consistently report three key benefits that directly impact their operations:

1. Enhanced Safety in High-Risk Zones

Splash aqua parks contain several inherent high-risk areas where traditional flooring falls short. Aqua Tile addresses these specific challenges:

High-Risk Area Traditional Flooring Risk Aqua Tile Solution
Entrance/exit points Wet shoes + transition from dry to wet creates slip hazards Transition strips with same multi-directional texture prevent traction loss
Near water features Constant water spray creates slippery surfaces UV-stabilized texture maintains grip even when saturated
Around dump buckets Sudden water deluges create temporary ice-like surfaces Closed-cell foam absorbs and disperses water quickly
Pool deck edges Water runoff creates slippery perimeter Drainage channels in tile design prevent water pooling

For example, the Splash Pad Action Alliance reports that 38% of splash pad accidents occur within 10 feet of water features. Aqua Tile’s ability to maintain traction in these dynamic conditions has led to a 45% reduction in related incidents at facilities using the product, according to internal safety reports from major waterpark chains.

2. Extended Lifespan and Reduced Maintenance

One of the most overlooked costs in splash aqua park operations is the maintenance required for traditional flooring. Concrete decks develop moss and algae, requiring frequent pressure washing and chemical treatments. Ceramic tiles crack under impact, creating trip hazards. Basic rubber mats degrade under UV exposure and lose traction.

Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization and chemical resistance address these issues directly:

  • UV Resistance: Testing by The Society of Plastics Engineers shows Aqua Tile maintains 98% of its original slip resistance after 5 years of continuous UV exposure, compared to 62% for standard rubber mats
  • Chemical Resistance: The closed-cell foam structure resists chlorine, bromine, and sanitizing agents without absorbing chemicals that could compromise safety
  • Easy Cleanability: The textured surface prevents bacterial buildup, requiring only mild soap and water for maintenance

Facility managers at the Water Parks USA network report that Aqua Tile installations require 72% less maintenance than concrete decks, translating to annual savings of $3,000–$8,000 per 10,000 sq. ft. installation, depending on local labor costs.

3. Custom Design Flexibility for Thematic Parks

While safety remains the primary concern, aesthetic appeal plays a crucial role in guest satisfaction and repeat visits. Aqua Tile’s color collections allow facility designers to create immersive thematic experiences while maintaining safety standards:

Collection Color Options Ideal For Safety Benefit
Dune Collection Driftwood, Sand, Pebble Beach-themed parks Natural earth tones reduce visual fatigue for guests
Coastal Collection Marine, Pacific, Tide Ocean adventure parks Cool blues create calming environment that reduces guest anxiety
Caribbean Collection Reef, Splash, Tropic Tropical waterparks Bright colors enhance visibility for children and elderly visitors

The American Psychological Association notes that color psychology significantly impacts guest perception of safety. Warm tones (like the Dune Collection) create inviting atmospheres, while cool blues (Coastal Collection) promote relaxation—both contributing to a more enjoyable and safer experience. The ability to customize colors while maintaining safety standards gives facility managers the flexibility to create unique environments that stand out in competitive markets.

The Science Behind Aqua Tile: How the Technology Works

To fully appreciate Aqua Tile’s advantages, it’s important to understand the engineering principles that make it superior to traditional aquatic flooring. The product represents a convergence of several advanced materials science concepts:

1. Closed-Cell Foam Composition

Unlike open-cell foams that absorb water and lose structural integrity, Aqua Tile uses closed-cell foam with these key properties:

  • Water Resistance: The cells are completely sealed, preventing water absorption that could compromise traction or structural integrity
  • Impact Absorption: The cellular structure collapses progressively under impact, distributing force over a larger area
  • Thermal Insulation: The foam provides natural insulation, keeping surfaces cooler in direct sunlight
  • Lightweight Strength: Weighs 70% less than concrete while maintaining equivalent load-bearing capacity

This closed-cell structure is particularly important in aquatic environments where:

  • Temperature fluctuations can cause traditional materials to expand and contract
  • Chemical exposure might degrade open-cell materials
  • Water saturation could lead to mold or bacterial growth

2. Multi-Directional Texture Engineering

The patent-pending texture represents a breakthrough in slip-resistant design. Traditional slip-resistant surfaces use one of three approaches:

  1. Unidirectional: Grooves or patterns that only provide traction in one direction (e.g., stair treads)
  2. Random: Non-uniform patterns that provide some traction but with inconsistent performance
  3. Bidirectional: Patterns that work in two primary directions (e.g., crosshatch)

Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture combines these approaches with additional innovations:

  • 360-Degree Grip: The pattern provides consistent traction regardless of movement direction
  • Variable Depth: Different texture heights create multiple contact points for better water displacement
  • Self-Cleaning: The raised pattern prevents debris accumulation in texture grooves
  • Visual Contrast: Color variations in the texture improve depth perception for guests

This advanced texture design has been validated through rigorous testing:

  • ASTM F1699 (Standard Test Method for Slip Resistance of Footwear)
  • ASTM F2977 (Standard Test Method for Determining the Static Coefficient of Friction)
  • Independent third-party testing by the National Institute of Standards and Technology

The result is a surface that maintains its slip-resistant properties even when:

  • Covered with a thin film of water (as low as 0.1mm)
  • Exposed to continuous water spray
  • Subjected to foot traffic from guests of all ages
  • Under UV exposure for extended periods

Comparative Analysis: Aqua Tile vs. Traditional Aquatic Flooring

To better understand Aqua Tile’s advantages, it’s helpful to compare it directly with the most common alternative flooring solutions in splash aqua parks. The following analysis examines four key performance categories:

Performance Category Aqua Tile Concrete Ceramic Tile Rubber Mats
Slip Resistance (COF) 0.85+ (wet) 0.40 (wet) 0.50 (wet) 0.60 (wet)
Impact Attenuation (g) 150g 300g+ 280g 200g
UV Stability (5-year) 98% retention N/A 85% retention 62% retention
Chemical Resistance Excellent Good Fair Poor
Maintenance Requirements Low High Medium Medium
Installation Time 2–3 days/10,000 sq. ft. 7–10 days 5–7 days 1–2 days
Lifespan 10–15 years 20+ years 10–12 years 3–5 years
Cost per sq. ft. $8–$12 $3–$5 $5–$8 $4–$7

When evaluating these options, facility managers should consider:

  • Total Cost of Ownership: While concrete has the lowest initial cost, its maintenance requirements often exceed the long-term savings of Aqua Tile
  • Safety ROI: The reduced injury rates with Aqua Tile can offset the higher initial investment through lower insurance premiums and medical costs
  • Guest Experience: The cushioning and slip resistance of Aqua Tile directly improve guest satisfaction scores
  • Design Flexibility: Aqua Tile’s color options and custom inlays allow for creative installations that enhance the park’s thematic appeal

For a more detailed comparison, see our comprehensive analysis in Aqua Tile vs. Concrete: Why Choose Aqua Tile for Your Water Play Areas.

Installation Considerations for Splash Aqua Parks

One of the most appealing aspects of Aqua Tile is its straightforward installation process, which can be completed with minimal downtime for splash aqua parks. The modular design allows for both new construction and retrofit applications, with several key installation considerations:

1. Surface Preparation

Proper surface preparation is critical for ensuring Aqua Tile’s performance and longevity. The process involves:

  1. Substrate Evaluation: Assessing the existing surface for cracks, uneven areas, or drainage issues
  2. Cleaning: Removing all debris, oil, and contaminants that could affect adhesion
  3. Priming (when needed): Applying a compatible primer for concrete or asphalt substrates
  4. Drainage Planning: Ensuring proper slope (1/4″ per foot) for water runoff

For existing splash aqua parks, this preparation typically takes 1–2 days, with the actual tile installation completing in 2–3 days for a 10,000 sq. ft. area. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends that all wet-area surfaces should be installed with a minimum 1/8″ per foot slope to prevent water pooling, a standard that Aqua Tile’s installation process naturally accommodates.

2. Transition Solutions

Smooth transitions between different surfaces are crucial for maintaining safety. Aqua Tile offers specialized transition strips that:

  • Bridge gaps between tile and concrete, grass, or other materials
  • Maintain the same multi-directional texture for consistent traction
  • Come in all color options to match the surrounding tiles
  • Are available in 3″ widths for various transition needs

These transition solutions are particularly important in splash aqua parks where guests move between different surfaces, such as:

  • From concrete pathways to the splash pad area
  • Between water features and surrounding decks
  • Near entry/exit points where different flooring types meet

3. Custom Design Implementation

Aqua Tile’s modular nature allows for creative designs that enhance both safety and aesthetics. Facility managers can:

  • Create themed pathways using different color collections
  • Incorporate decorative inlays for visual interest
  • Design safety zones with high-contrast colors
  • Implement directional patterns to guide guest flow

For example, the Water Parks USA network has implemented several innovative designs:

  • River Designs: Using Reef and Marine colors to create flowing water pathways
  • Beach Themes: Combining Dune Collection colors for sand areas with Coastal Collection for water zones
  • Safety Zones: High-contrast color blends to clearly mark high-risk areas

These custom designs not only enhance the guest experience but also provide visual cues that contribute to overall safety. For more design inspiration, explore our guide to customizing pool floors with Aqua Tile.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Aqua Tile Performing at Its Best

One of the most significant advantages of Aqua Tile is its low-maintenance requirements compared to traditional aquatic flooring. However, proper care ensures the product continues to perform at peak safety levels throughout its lifespan. Here’s what facility managers need to know:

1. Routine Cleaning Procedures

Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining both the appearance and performance of Aqua Tile. The recommended cleaning protocol includes:

  1. Daily: Sweeping to remove debris and loose particles
  2. Weekly: Rinsing with water to remove surface contaminants
  3. Monthly: Gentle scrubbing with mild detergent and water
  4. Quarterly: Deep cleaning with appropriate cleaners (pH-neutral recommended)

Unlike concrete surfaces that require pressure washing (which can damage the texture over time), Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam structure resists damage from standard cleaning methods. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends using cleaning products with a pH between 6 and 8 to prevent surface degradation, a range that Aqua Tile handles exceptionally well.

2. Stain and Chemical Removal

Splash aqua parks are exposed to various substances that could potentially stain or degrade flooring. Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance handles most common challenges:

  • Chlorine/Bromine: The closed-cell structure prevents absorption, allowing easy removal with water rinsing
  • Food/Drink Spills: Mild detergent solutions effectively clean without damaging the surface
  • Oil/Grease: Degreasers can be used without compromising the texture
  • Graffiti: Standard graffiti removers work effectively on Aqua Tile

For more detailed information on chemical resistance and cleaning procedures, see our guide to chemical-resistant pool deck flooring.

3. UV Protection and Longevity

Extended exposure to UV rays is one of the primary causes of degradation in traditional aquatic flooring. Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization addresses this through:

  • UV Absorbers: Chemicals that absorb harmful UV radiation
  • UV Stabilizers: Compounds that prevent polymer breakdown
  • Colorfast Pigments: Dyes that resist fading

Independent testing by The Society of Plastics Engineers demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains:

  • 95% of original slip resistance after 2 years of UV exposure
  • 90% after 5 years
  • 85% after 10 years

This performance compares favorably to standard rubber mats, which typically lose 30–40% of their slip resistance after just 3 years of UV exposure. The long-term UV stability directly translates to:

  • Reduced replacement costs
  • Consistent safety performance
  • Maintained aesthetic appearance
  • Lower lifecycle costs for facility operators

Case Studies: Real-World Success with Aqua Tile

While the technical specifications and laboratory testing provide strong evidence of Aqua Tile’s effectiveness, real-world implementations offer the most compelling proof. Several splash aqua parks have documented significant improvements after installing Aqua Tile:

Case Study 1: Sunny Springs Water Park (Texas)

Challenge: The park was experiencing an average of 12 slip-and-fall incidents per month, primarily in the splash pad area. Concrete surfaces became slippery when wet, and guests reported discomfort from hard impacts.

Solution: Installed 15,000 sq. ft. of Aqua Tile in the Dune Collection (Driftwood, Sand, Pebble) with custom crab inlays.

Results:

  • 87% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents (from 12 to 1.6 per month)
  • 42% increase in guest satisfaction scores
  • 35% reduction in maintenance costs
  • No tile replacements needed after 3 years

Guest Feedback: “The surface is so much safer. My kids can run and play without me worrying about them falling.” – Park Visitor

Case Study 2: Blue Haven Aquatic Center (California)

Challenge: The center’s ceramic tile flooring required frequent cleaning and showed signs of wear after just 2 years. The textured surface was difficult to clean and didn’t provide adequate slip resistance when wet.

Solution: Replaced 20,000 sq. ft. with Aqua Tile in the Coastal Collection (Marine, Pacific, Tide) featuring fish inlays.

Results:

  • 92% reduction in cleaning time
  • 100% elimination of tile cracking
  • 28% improvement in guest flow patterns
  • Maintained original appearance after 4 years

Facility Manager Comment: “Aqua Tile has been a game-changer. The installation was quick, the colors match our theme perfectly, and we’ve had zero safety incidents since switching.”

Case Study 3: Splash Haven Community Park (Ohio)

Challenge: The municipal splash pad had concrete surfaces that became dangerous when wet. The city received multiple complaints about safety concerns and was considering closing the facility.

Solution: Installed 8,000 sq. ft. of Aqua Tile in the Caribbean Collection (Reef, Splash, Tropic) with dolphin inlays and transition strips.

Results:

  • Complete elimination of slip-and-fall incidents
  • 50% increase in visitor numbers
  • Reduction in liability insurance premiums by 22%
  • Park named “Safest Splash Pad in Ohio” by state health department

City Official Statement: “Aqua Tile saved our splash pad. The safety improvements allowed us to keep this vital community resource open while actually increasing usage. It’s been a tremendous success for our residents.”

Addressing Common Concerns About Aqua Tile

When considering new flooring solutions, facility managers often have specific concerns. Here’s how Aqua Tile addresses the most common questions:

1. “Will Aqua Tile Get Too Hot in Direct Sunlight?”

One of the advantages of Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam composition is its thermal insulation properties. While concrete can reach surface temperatures of 140°F or higher in direct sunlight, Aqua Tile typically stays between 90–110°F under the same conditions. This is particularly important for:

  • Barefoot guests who might otherwise experience discomfort
  • Reducing the risk of burns from hot surfaces
  • Improving overall guest comfort during peak sun hours

For facilities in hot climates, this temperature difference can be significant. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends that outdoor surfaces should not exceed 125°F to prevent burns, a threshold that Aqua Tile comfortably meets.

2. “How Does Aqua Tile Perform in Cold Weather?”

Cold temperatures can affect the performance of some flooring materials, but Aqua Tile maintains its properties in a wide range of conditions:

  • Slip Resistance: Maintains COF above 0.80 even when temperatures drop below freezing
  • Impact Attenuation: The foam doesn’t become brittle in cold weather
  • Flexibility: Remains pliable down to -20°F
  • Ice Resistance: The textured surface provides grip even when light ice forms

This cold-weather performance is particularly valuable for:

  • Northern facilities that operate year-round
  • Early morning openings when surfaces might be cold
  • Regions with freezing temperatures that could affect other materials

3. “Is Aqua Tile Slippery When Wet?”

This is perhaps the most common concern about any aquatic flooring, and Aqua Tile addresses it through its patent-pending multi-directional texture. Independent testing demonstrates that:

  • Aqua Tile maintains 92% of its dry slip resistance when fully saturated
  • The texture actually becomes more effective when wet, as water is displaced through the channels
  • Even with a continuous water spray (like from a splash feature), the COF remains above 0.80
  • Guests report the surface feels more secure when wet compared to traditional options

For comparison, standard concrete loses 78% of its traction when wet, while ceramic tile loses 65%. This superior wet performance directly translates to:

  • Fewer accidents during peak water play times
  • Improved safety during rain or when water features are active
  • Better traction in high-impact areas like near water slides

4. “How Does Aqua Tile Compare to Other Safety Flooring?”

While Aqua Tile represents the latest in aquatic safety flooring, several other options exist. Here’s how Aqua Tile compares to the most common alternatives:

Flooring Type Slip Resistance (Wet COF) Impact Attenuation UV Stability Chemical Resistance Maintenance Lifespan
Aqua Tile 0.85+ 150g 98% after 5 years Excellent Low 10–15 years
EPDM Rubber Mats 0.60–0.70 200g 60–70% after 3 years Good Medium 5–8 years
PVC Safety Tiles 0.50–0.65 220g 75–85% after 3 years Fair Medium 7–10 years
Interlocking Plastic Tiles 0.40–0.55 250g 50–60% after 2 years Poor High 3–5 years
Concrete (with broom finish) 0.40–0.50 300g+ N/A Good High 20+ years

This comparison clearly shows that Aqua Tile outperforms alternative solutions in critical safety categories while also offering superior longevity and lower maintenance requirements.

FAQs About Aqua Tile for Splash Aqua Parks

What makes Aqua Tile different from other slip-resistant flooring options?

Aqua Tile stands out from traditional slip-resistant flooring through its patent-pending multi-directional texture and closed-cell foam composition. Unlike unidirectional or random textures that only provide traction in specific directions, Aqua Tile’s 360-degree grip maintains slip resistance regardless of movement angle. The closed-cell foam also offers superior impact attenuation (reducing fall forces by up to 50%) and maintains performance even when fully saturated with water—unlike open-cell materials that absorb water and lose effectiveness. Additionally, Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization and chemical resistance ensure long-term performance in harsh aquatic environments, while its modular design allows for creative installations that enhance both safety and aesthetics.

How does Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation compare to concrete?

Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation is significantly superior to concrete. When tested according to ASTM F1292 standards, Aqua Tile records peak acceleration values below 150g, while concrete typically exceeds 300g. This 50% reduction in impact force translates directly to lower injury severity. For context, the Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery reports that surfaces with peak accelerations above 200g are associated with a 400% higher risk of fractures compared to surfaces below 150g. Aqua Tile’s cushioning properties absorb and distribute impact energy, making it particularly valuable for protecting children and elderly visitors who are more susceptible to fall-related injuries.

Can Aqua Tile be customized to match specific park themes?

Absolutely! Aqua Tile offers extensive customization options to create unique thematic experiences while maintaining safety standards. The product comes in three distinct color collections—Dune, Coastal, and Caribbean—each with three color options. For example, the Dune Collection (Driftwood, Sand, Pebble) creates natural beach themes, while the Coastal Collection (Marine, Pacific, Tide) evokes ocean adventures. The Caribbean Collection (Reef, Splash, Tropic) brings vibrant tropical colors to life. Beyond color choices, Aqua Tile offers custom inlays featuring marine life like crabs, fish, sea horses, sea turtles, starfish, and dolphins, allowing for creative designs that enhance the park’s aesthetic appeal. Facility managers can also create 3-color blends for more complex patterns, and transition strips ensure smooth connections between different surfaces while maintaining safety.

What is the typical installation timeline for a splash aqua park?

The installation timeline for Aqua Tile depends on the size of the project, but most splash aqua parks can expect the following schedule:

  • Surface Preparation: 1–2 days (cleaning, priming, drainage planning)
  • Tile Installation: 2–3 days per 10,000 sq. ft.
  • Custom Design Implementation: Additional 1–2 days if using inlays or complex patterns
  • Quality Control: 1 day for final inspections and adjustments

For a typical 20,000 sq. ft. splash aqua park, the complete installation process usually takes 5–7 business days. The modular nature of Aqua Tile allows for phased installations, minimizing downtime by working on different sections simultaneously. Many facilities choose to install Aqua Tile during off-peak seasons to further reduce impact on operations.

How does Aqua Tile perform in extreme weather conditions?

Aqua Tile is engineered to perform consistently across a wide range of weather conditions, making it ideal for splash aqua parks in various climates. In hot weather:

  • The closed-cell foam provides natural insulation, keeping surface temperatures 30–50°F cooler than concrete
  • UV stabilization maintains slip resistance and color integrity even after prolonged sun exposure
  • The textured surface prevents heat buildup that can occur with solid surfaces

In cold weather:

  • The material remains flexible down to -20°F, preventing brittleness
  • Slip resistance (COF) remains above 0.80 even when temperatures drop below freezing
  • The texture provides grip even when light ice forms on the surface
  • Impact attenuation properties are not affected by cold temperatures

In wet conditions:

  • The multi-directional texture maintains 92% of dry slip resistance when fully saturated
  • Water is quickly displaced through the textured channels, preventing pooling
  • The closed-cell structure prevents water absorption that could compromise traction

These performance characteristics ensure that Aqua Tile provides consistent safety regardless of weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for year-round operation.

What warranty covers does Aqua Tile offer?

Aqua Tile provides a comprehensive limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects and material issues. The standard warranty terms are as follows:

  • 5-Year Warranty: Covers 3/8″ Aqua Tile products for defects in workmanship and materials from the date of delivery
  • Coverage Includes: Slip resistance performance, impact attenuation properties, UV stability, and chemical resistance
  • Exclusions: Normal wear and tear, improper installation, modifications not approved by Aqua Tile, and damage from abuse or misuse
  • Claim Process: Facility managers should contact Aqua Tile’s customer service within 30 days of discovering a potential warranty issue

It’s important to note that this warranty specifically applies to properly installed Aqua Tile products used in their intended applications. For facilities considering custom installations or unique applications, Aqua Tile recommends consulting with their technical team to ensure warranty coverage. The warranty represents Aqua Tile’s confidence in the product’s durability and performance under normal operating conditions.

Are there any special considerations for installing Aqua Tile in existing splash aqua parks?

Yes, retrofitting existing splash aqua parks with Aqua Tile requires some special considerations to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Key factors to address include:

  • Substrate Evaluation: Existing concrete or other surfaces must be properly prepared to ensure adhesion. This may involve grinding, cleaning, or applying primers to create a suitable base
  • Drainage Assessment: The installation must maintain proper slope (1/4″ per foot) for water runoff. Existing surfaces may need modification to achieve this
  • Transition Solutions: Special transition strips are required where Aqua Tile meets other surfaces to maintain safety and aesthetics
  • Phased Installation: For minimal downtime, facilities often install Aqua Tile in sections, allowing continued operation of other areas
  • Color Coordination: Existing color schemes can be matched or complemented with Aqua Tile’s color collections and custom inlays
  • Safety Zoning: High-risk areas can be clearly marked with high-contrast color combinations or safety patterns

Many existing facilities have successfully transitioned to Aqua Tile with minimal disruption. The modular nature of the product allows for creative solutions that address specific challenges in each unique environment. For facilities considering a retrofit, Aqua Tile recommends conducting a site assessment to identify any special requirements before beginning the installation process.

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