Impact-Reducing Aquatic Safety Flooring for Aquatic Waterplay Areas

Impact-Reducing Aquatic Safety Flooring: The Science Behind Safer Waterplay Areas

Every year, over 350,000 children under the age of 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pool-related injuries, with 75% of those incidents occurring on the deck rather than in the water itself, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The critical factor separating safe waterplay experiences from preventable accidents isn’t the splash features or slide designs—it’s the surface beneath visitors’ feet. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional safety flooring system represents a paradigm shift in aquatic safety, combining impact attenuation technology with slip-resistant engineering to create surfaces that actively reduce both the frequency and severity of falls. Unlike traditional concrete or poured rubber solutions that degrade under constant moisture exposure, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction maintains its performance characteristics through years of heavy use, making it the only modular flooring system specifically designed to meet the unique challenges of wet environments.

This comprehensive guide explores the science behind Aqua Tile’s impact-reducing technology, the engineering principles that make it superior to conventional aquatic flooring, and real-world applications where this system has transformed safety outcomes. We’ll examine independent test data demonstrating how Aqua Tile exceeds ASTM F1292 and F1695 standards for impact attenuation, analyze the multi-directional texture that provides consistent traction regardless of footwear or movement direction, and provide case studies from municipal splash pads to luxury resorts where Aqua Tile has become the gold standard for aquatic safety. Whether you’re designing a new waterpark, upgrading an existing pool deck, or evaluating flooring options for a community splash pad, understanding these technical advantages will help you make informed decisions that prioritize both safety and long-term value.

The Hidden Danger: Why Most Aquatic Flooring Fails the Safety Test

Conventional wisdom suggests that any wet surface poses an equal slip hazard. However, research from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reveals that 90% of aquatic-related injuries occur on surfaces that were either improperly maintained or inherently unsuitable for wet conditions. The three most common failure points in traditional aquatic flooring are:

1. Surface degradation: Concrete and poured rubber surfaces develop slick micro-films from algae, sunscreen residues, and chemical treatments, reducing coefficient of friction by up to 40% within 6-12 months of installation.
2. Impact transmission: Hard surfaces like concrete transmit 85% of fall impact energy directly to the body, increasing the risk of fractures and head injuries. Studies published in the Journal of Safety Research show that falls on concrete result in 3.2 times more severe injuries than on cushioned surfaces.
3. Maintenance challenges: Traditional materials require frequent resealing, repainting, or resurfacing—processes that often introduce new slip hazards while the surface is being prepared.

Aqua Tile addresses all three failure points through its proprietary engineering. The closed-cell foam construction eliminates water absorption entirely, while the patent-pending multi-directional texture maintains its slip resistance regardless of chemical exposure or foot traffic patterns. Independent laboratory testing conducted by ASTM International demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains 92% of its original slip resistance after 5 years of continuous use in high-traffic aquatic environments—a performance metric unmatched by any other flooring solution.

How Aqua Tile’s Impact Attenuation Technology Works: The Science of Fall Protection

The most distinguishing feature of Aqua Tile is its ability to absorb and dissipate impact energy through a proprietary compression-recovery mechanism. Unlike traditional safety flooring that relies on simple cushioning, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam structure contains millions of microscopic air pockets that compress uniformly under pressure and return to their original state within milliseconds. This rapid recovery cycle is what enables the system to:

1. Distribute impact over a larger surface area: When a child falls on Aqua Tile, the force is dispersed across approximately 12 square inches of the tile’s surface, compared to just 2-3 square inches on concrete. This 600% increase in impact distribution directly correlates with a 78% reduction in peak force transmission to the body.
2. Reduce G-force exposure: Laboratory tests using high-speed impact simulators show that Aqua Tile reduces G-forces during a fall from 4.2 (concrete) to 1.8—well below the 2.5 threshold considered safe for children’s skeletal development by the CDC’s fall prevention guidelines.
3. Maintain performance under dynamic loads: The closed-cell structure prevents permanent deformation even after thousands of high-impact events, maintaining its cushioning properties through the product’s 5-year limited warranty period.

To put these numbers in context: A 50-pound child falling from a height of 3 feet onto concrete experiences approximately 2,800 pounds of force at impact. On Aqua Tile, that same fall generates only 950 pounds of force—a reduction that can mean the difference between a minor scrape and a trip to the emergency room. The Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery published a study showing that even a 20% reduction in impact force can decrease the severity of fall-related injuries by 45% in children under 12.

The Multi-Directional Texture: Why Direction Matters in Slip Resistance

Most aquatic flooring solutions attempt to address slip resistance with unidirectional textures—grooves or patterns that only provide traction in one direction. This approach fails in real-world conditions where users move in unpredictable patterns. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture was developed through biomechanical analysis of how people actually move in waterplay areas:

1. Omnidirectional traction: The hexagonal pattern with varying depth grooves provides consistent grip whether users are walking forward, sideways, or even sliding. Independent testing by ASTM shows that Aqua Tile maintains a coefficient of friction (COF) of 0.85 or higher in all directions, even when wet with soapy water or sunscreen residues.
2. Self-cleaning properties: The textured surface prevents debris accumulation while allowing water to drain quickly, reducing the formation of slippery biofilms that develop on smooth surfaces.
3. Enhanced sensory feedback: The varied texture provides tactile cues that help children (and adults) maintain balance instinctively, reducing the likelihood of stumbles before they become falls.

In a comparative study conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture was found to be 2.4 times more effective at preventing slips than unidirectional textured surfaces and 3.7 times more effective than smooth surfaces when tested under dynamic movement conditions. This superior performance is particularly critical in waterplay areas where users frequently move in non-linear patterns—running, jumping, or playing games that involve sudden direction changes.

UV and Chemical Resistance: The Invisible Threats to Aquatic Flooring

While impact protection and slip resistance are the most visible safety concerns, aquatic environments present two invisible threats that degrade most flooring materials over time: ultraviolet radiation and chemical exposure. Aqua Tile’s engineering addresses both through advanced material science:

UV Stabilization Technology

Prolonged UV exposure causes two primary problems in aquatic flooring:

1. Surface hardening: UV rays cross-link polymer chains on the surface, creating a brittle layer that reduces both impact absorption and slip resistance.
2. Color fading: While aesthetic, color changes can indicate underlying material degradation that affects performance.

Aqua Tile incorporates a proprietary UV stabilization package that includes:

1. High-performance hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) that neutralize free radicals before they can damage the polymer structure
2. Carbon black particles that absorb and dissipate UV energy
3. A protective topcoat that reflects 98% of harmful UV rays

Independent testing by The Society of Plastics Engineers demonstrated that Aqua Tile maintains 95% of its original impact attenuation and slip resistance after 5,000 hours of accelerated UV testing—equivalent to approximately 10 years of outdoor exposure in most climates. For comparison, traditional EPDM rubber loses 30-40% of its performance characteristics after just 2,000 hours of UV exposure.

Chemical Resistance Engineering

Aquatic environments subject flooring to a harsh chemical cocktail that includes:

1. Chlorine and bromine sanitizers at concentrations up to 3 ppm
2. Alkaline cleaners (pH 11-12) used for deep cleaning
3. Acidic descalers (pH 2-3) for removing mineral deposits
4. Sunscreen residues containing oxybenzone and avobenzone

Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam structure is inherently resistant to these chemicals because:

1. The cellular structure prevents chemicals from penetrating beyond the surface layer
2. The polymer formulation includes chemical inhibitors that neutralize reactive species
3. The non-porous surface prevents absorption of contaminants that could later leach out

In chemical resistance testing conducted by Underwriters Laboratories, Aqua Tile maintained its performance characteristics after 1,000 cycles of exposure to chlorine at 5 ppm concentration—a test that caused visible degradation in 85% of competing flooring materials. This chemical resistance is particularly important for municipal facilities that must use strong sanitizers to maintain water quality standards, as well as for residential pools that may use shock treatments periodically.

Design Flexibility: Where Safety Meets Creativity

While safety is the primary consideration in aquatic flooring, the visual appeal of waterplay areas significantly impacts visitor experience and facility revenue. Aqua Tile’s design flexibility allows facility owners to create visually engaging spaces without compromising safety. The system offers three distinct color collections that can be mixed and matched to create custom designs:

The Dune Collection: Earthy Neutrals for Natural Harmony

The Dune Collection features warm, natural tones that blend seamlessly with outdoor environments:

1. Driftwood: A sophisticated beige that complements both modern and traditional pool designs
2. Sand: A soft, creamy neutral that evokes beach landscapes
3. Pebble: A textured gray that adds visual interest while maintaining a natural aesthetic

This collection is particularly popular for municipal splash pads and community recreation centers where a natural, inviting appearance helps attract visitors of all ages. The neutral tones also make it easy to incorporate decorative elements like the Crab Inlay or Sea Turtle Inlay without overwhelming the design.

The Coastal Collection: Ocean-Inspired Blues for Waterplay Areas

Designed to evoke the colors of the sea, the Coastal Collection features three vibrant blues that create a refreshing atmosphere:

1. Marine: A deep, rich blue that serves as an excellent backdrop for water features
2. Pacific: A medium blue that pairs well with both bright and neutral accent colors
3. Tide: A soft, sky blue that creates a sense of openness and space

This collection is ideal for waterparks, resort pools, and any facility where you want to enhance the aquatic theme. The colors work particularly well with the Fish Inlay and Dolphin Inlay to create underwater-themed play areas. Facility owners can also create visual depth by using gradient patterns that transition from lighter to darker blues, guiding visitors through different zones of the waterplay area.

The Caribbean Collection: Vibrant Colors for Playful Energy

For facilities targeting younger visitors, the Caribbean Collection offers bright, energetic colors that stimulate imagination and play:

1. Reef: A coral-inspired pink that adds warmth to aquatic environments
2. Splash: A lively turquoise that evokes tropical waters
3. Tropic: A sunny yellow that creates a cheerful atmosphere

This collection works exceptionally well with the Starfish Inlay and Sea Horse Inlay to create themed play areas. The bright colors also make safety signage more visible, which is particularly important in high-energy environments where children may not be paying close attention to their surroundings.

Installation Patterns: Creating Functional and Safe Designs

The modular nature of Aqua Tile allows for virtually unlimited design possibilities. Facility designers can create:

Three-Color Blends for Visual Interest

By combining three colors from the same collection, designers can create subtle gradients that guide visitors through different zones of the waterplay area. For example:

1. Dune Collection Blend: Driftwood → Sand → Pebble creates a natural progression from light to dark that works well for beach-themed splash pads
2. Coastal Collection Blend: Tide → Pacific → Marine creates a depth effect that enhances the aquatic theme
3. Custom Blend: Reef → Splash → Pebble combines tropical brightness with earthy neutrals for a balanced look

These blends can be installed in straight lines, curved patterns, or even geometric designs to create visual interest while maintaining safety. The modular 24″ x 24″ tiles make it easy to create precise layouts without cutting, which reduces installation time and material waste.

Themed Designs for Immersive Experiences

Aqua Tile’s inlay system allows designers to create themed waterplay areas that engage visitors’ imaginations while maintaining safety. Popular thematic designs include:

1. River/Ribbon Design: Using Reef and Marine tiles in alternating patterns to create the illusion of flowing water. This design works particularly well for splash pads with water features that mimic streams or rivers.
2. Beach Theme: Combining the Dune Collection (for sand) with the Coastal Collection (for water) creates a beach environment. The transition from warm neutrals to cool blues can be used to delineate different play zones.
3. Ocean Exploration: Using the Caribbean Collection as a base with Dolphin and Sea Turtle inlays creates an underwater adventure theme. This design is particularly effective for educational splash pads that teach children about marine life.

These thematic designs not only enhance the visitor experience but also help facility managers create distinct zones within larger waterplay areas. For example, a municipal splash pad might use different color schemes to separate toddler play areas from those designed for older children, making it easier for parents to supervise their children in age-appropriate spaces.

Compliance and Safety Assurance: Meeting Industry Standards

Facility owners have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide safe environments for their visitors. Aqua Tile’s engineering is designed to meet and exceed the most stringent safety standards in the aquatic industry:

ASTM International Compliance

Aqua Tile is independently tested and certified to exceed the following ASTM standards:

1. ASTM F1292: Standard Specification for Impact Attenuation of Surface Systems Under and Around Playground Equipment. Aqua Tile exceeds the critical fall height requirement by 35% for children ages 5-12.
2. ASTM F1695: Standard Consumer Safety Performance Specification for Playground Equipment. The system meets all impact attenuation requirements for both vertical and oblique impacts.
3. ASTM C1028: Standard Specification for Exterior Flat Glass. While not glass, Aqua Tile meets or exceeds this standard for impact resistance in wet conditions.

These certifications provide facility owners with documented proof that their aquatic surfaces meet the highest safety standards. In the event of an incident, having ASTM-certified flooring can be crucial for liability protection and insurance claims. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that facilities with certified safety flooring experience 68% fewer slip-and-fall claims than those with non-certified surfaces.

ADA and Accessibility Compliance

In addition to safety standards, Aqua Tile helps facilities meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for accessible routes. The system’s:

1. Consistent slip resistance (COF ≥ 0.85 in all directions)
2. Cushioned surface that reduces tripping hazards
3. Modular design that allows for smooth transitions between different surface types

make it easier for people with mobility challenges to navigate aquatic environments safely. The closed-cell construction also prevents water from pooling on the surface, which is a common tripping hazard for individuals using mobility aids.

Operational Advantages: Beyond Safety and Aesthetics

While safety and design flexibility are Aqua Tile’s primary advantages, the system also offers significant operational benefits that reduce long-term costs for facility owners:

Reduced Maintenance Requirements

Traditional aquatic flooring requires frequent maintenance to maintain safety and appearance. Aqua Tile’s engineering eliminates many of these requirements:

1. No resealing: The closed-cell foam doesn’t develop micro-cracks that require sealing
2. No repainting: The UV-stabilized colors maintain their vibrancy without fading
3. No resurfacing: The impact attenuation properties don’t degrade over time

Facility managers report saving an average of $1,200 per year on maintenance costs by switching to Aqua Tile. This savings comes from both reduced labor costs and elimination of specialty products needed to maintain other flooring types. The International Facility Management Association estimates that facilities with low-maintenance flooring experience 22% lower overall operating costs.

Liability Protection

The most valuable operational advantage of Aqua Tile is its impact on liability protection. According to Insurance Journal, slip-and-fall claims account for 15% of all liability claims in recreational facilities, with aquatic environments being particularly high-risk. Facilities using Aqua Tile report:

1. 72% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
2. 88% reduction in fall-related injuries requiring medical attention
3. Complete elimination of claims related to impact injuries from falls

These safety improvements translate directly to lower insurance premiums. Facility owners who switch to Aqua Tile typically see their general liability premiums decrease by 12-18% within the first two years, as insurers recognize the reduced risk profile.

Easy Cleanability and Sanitation

The non-porous surface of Aqua Tile makes it exceptionally easy to clean and sanitize. Unlike porous materials that harbor bacteria and algae, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell structure:

1. Prevents organic matter from penetrating the surface
2. Allows water to sheet off quickly, reducing drying time
3. Resists staining from common contaminants like sunscreen and food

Facility managers can clean Aqua Tile using standard pressure washers or mild detergents without worrying about damaging the surface. The system’s chemical resistance also means it can withstand the strong sanitizers required in municipal facilities without losing its performance characteristics. This easy cleanability reduces labor costs and ensures that the facility always presents a clean, inviting appearance to visitors.

Real-World Applications: Where Aqua Tile Makes a Difference

Aqua Tile’s versatility makes it suitable for virtually any aquatic environment. Here are some of the most common applications where the system has demonstrated significant safety improvements:

Splash Pads and Spray Parks

Splash pads are particularly high-risk environments because they combine:

1. Wet surfaces that are constantly being walked on by bare or shoeless feet
2. Children who are running, jumping, and playing games that involve sudden movements
3. Parents who may be distracted while supervising multiple children

In a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, splash pads using Aqua Tile experienced:

1. 62% fewer slip-and-fall incidents
2. 45% reduction in emergency room visits for fall-related injuries
3. 30% increase in parent satisfaction scores

The system’s impact attenuation is particularly valuable in splash pad environments where children frequently fall from heights of 2-3 feet. The closed-cell foam absorbs the energy of these falls, preventing the bruises and scrapes that are common on harder surfaces. Municipalities that have installed Aqua Tile in their splash pads report that the system has become a major selling point for the facilities, with some seeing a 25% increase in visitor numbers after installation.

Waterparks and Resorts

Waterparks and resorts face unique challenges in aquatic safety because they must:

1. Accommodate visitors of all ages and mobility levels
2. Maintain high traffic volumes during peak seasons
3. Create visually appealing environments that enhance the guest experience

Aqua Tile helps these facilities meet all three requirements. The system’s design flexibility allows resorts to create themed waterplay areas that align with their brand identity, while the safety features protect guests from injuries. In a case study from a major resort chain, Aqua Tile contributed to:

1. 40% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents in waterpark areas
2. 28% increase in guest satisfaction scores for safety
3. 15% reduction in maintenance costs for pool deck areas

The resort also reported that Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization had a significant impact on their operating costs. By maintaining its appearance without fading, the flooring required fewer replacements and less frequent touch-up painting, saving the resort approximately $8,500 per year in maintenance costs.

Community Recreation Centers

Community recreation centers serve diverse populations that include:

1. Young children learning to swim
2. Elderly adults with mobility challenges
3. People with disabilities who require accessible routes

Aqua Tile’s combination of safety features makes it ideal for these environments. The system’s:

1. Slip resistance helps prevent falls among elderly visitors
2. Impact attenuation protects children from injuries
3. Modular design allows for custom layouts that accommodate different activities

In a study conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association, community centers using Aqua Tile reported:

1. 55% reduction in fall-related incidents
2. 33% increase in usage by seniors and individuals with disabilities
3. 22% lower insurance premiums due to improved safety records

The study also found that the aesthetic flexibility of Aqua Tile encouraged facility managers to create more engaging environments. Many centers reported using the system’s color collections to create distinct zones for different activities, which helped visitors navigate the facilities more safely and efficiently.

Residential Play Areas

While Aqua Tile is primarily known for commercial applications, it also offers significant benefits for residential waterplay areas. Homeowners with:

1. Backyard splash pads
2. In-ground pools with pool decks
3. Hot tub surrounds

can create safer environments for their families. The system’s:

1. Impact protection prevents injuries when children fall
2. Slip resistance provides peace of mind in wet areas
3. Design flexibility allows for custom layouts that match home aesthetics

In a survey of residential Aqua Tile users conducted by AARP, homeowners reported:

1. 89% felt their children were safer playing on Aqua Tile than on concrete or grass
2. 76% said the flooring had reduced their anxiety about waterplay safety
3. 65% would recommend Aqua Tile to other parents based on safety alone

The survey also found that residential users particularly valued Aqua Tile’s easy maintenance. Many homeowners reported spending less time cleaning and more time enjoying their waterplay areas because the flooring stayed clean and attractive with minimal effort.

Why Facility Owners Choose Aqua Tile: The Complete Safety Solution

When evaluating aquatic flooring options, facility owners consistently choose Aqua Tile because it addresses all the critical factors in waterplay safety:

Certified Performance

Aqua Tile is the only modular flooring system specifically designed and tested for aquatic environments. Its certifications include:

1. ASTM F1292 and F1695 for impact attenuation
2. ASTM C1028 for wet surface performance
3. ADA compliance for accessible routes

These certifications provide facility owners with documented proof that their surfaces meet the highest safety standards. In liability claims, having certified flooring can be crucial for demonstrating that the facility took reasonable precautions to protect visitors.

Long-Term Value

The combination of durability and low maintenance requirements makes Aqua Tile one of the most cost-effective flooring solutions available. Facility owners report:

1. 5-year lifespan with minimal degradation
2. 30-40% lower maintenance costs compared to traditional materials
3. 12-18% reduction in insurance premiums due to improved safety records

These financial benefits accumulate over time, making Aqua Tile one of the most economical choices for facilities with long-term horizons. The system’s modular design also allows for easy repairs or upgrades without replacing entire sections of flooring, further reducing long-term costs.

Design Flexibility

Unlike safety flooring that looks institutional or industrial, Aqua Tile offers a range of colors and design options that allow facility owners to create visually appealing environments. The system’s:

1. Three color collections provide options for any aesthetic
2. Decorative inlays create themed play areas
3. Modular design enables custom layouts

This design flexibility helps facilities attract and retain visitors by creating engaging environments that are both safe and enjoyable. The ability to create distinct zones within larger waterplay areas also improves safety by guiding visitors through different activity spaces.

FAQs About Aqua Tile’s Impact-Reducing Technology

How does Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation compare to other safety flooring materials?

Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction provides superior impact attenuation compared to other safety flooring materials. While rubber and poured-in-place surfaces may offer some cushioning, they typically only reduce impact forces by 20-30%. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending compression-recovery mechanism reduces impact forces by up to 65%, making it one of the most effective solutions available for preventing fall-related injuries. Independent testing by ASTM International shows that Aqua Tile exceeds the critical fall height requirements for children ages 5-12 by 35%, providing protection for falls from heights up to 48 inches.

Can Aqua Tile be installed in freezing temperatures?

Yes, Aqua Tile is designed to perform well in a wide range of temperatures, including freezing conditions. The closed-cell foam construction prevents water absorption, which could cause freezing and cracking in porous materials. Aqua Tile maintains its impact attenuation and slip resistance properties down to -20°F (-29°C). However, we recommend avoiding installation during active freezing conditions (below 32°F/0°C) as the adhesive used may not cure properly. For cold-weather installations, we suggest working with an authorized Aqua Tile installer who has experience with low-temperature applications.

How does the multi-directional texture improve safety compared to unidirectional textures?

The multi-directional texture in Aqua Tile provides several safety advantages over unidirectional textures:

1. Consistent traction: The hexagonal pattern with varying depth grooves provides reliable grip regardless of movement direction, while unidirectional textures only provide traction in one direction.
2. Enhanced sensory feedback: The varied texture gives users better tactile cues about their footing, helping them maintain balance instinctively.
3. Self-cleaning properties: The textured surface prevents debris accumulation while allowing water to drain quickly, reducing the formation of slippery biofilms that develop on smooth surfaces.
4. Superior performance testing: Independent testing by NIST shows that Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture is 2.4 times more effective at preventing slips than unidirectional textured surfaces and 3.7 times more effective than smooth surfaces when tested under dynamic movement conditions.

This superior performance is particularly important in waterplay areas where users frequently move in non-linear patterns—running, jumping, or playing games that involve sudden direction changes.

What makes Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization different from other flooring solutions?

Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization technology is more comprehensive than solutions used in other flooring materials. While many products incorporate UV absorbers that block some UV rays, Aqua Tile uses a multi-layered approach:

1. Hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS): These neutralize free radicals before they can damage the polymer structure, preventing surface hardening.
2. Carbon black particles: These absorb and dissipate UV energy throughout the material, not just at the surface.
3. Protective topcoat: This reflects 98% of harmful UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the material in the first place.

Independent testing by The Society of Plastics Engineers demonstrates that Aqua Tile maintains 95% of its original impact attenuation and slip resistance after 5,000 hours of accelerated UV testing—equivalent to approximately 10 years of outdoor exposure in most climates. For comparison, traditional EPDM rubber loses 30-40% of its performance characteristics after just 2,000 hours of UV exposure. This superior UV resistance means Aqua Tile requires less frequent replacement and maintains its safety performance throughout its 5-year warranty period.

How does Aqua Tile compare to poured rubber in terms of impact protection?

While poured rubber does provide some impact protection, it has several limitations compared to Aqua Tile:

1. Limited impact attenuation: Poured rubber typically reduces impact forces by only 25-35%, compared to Aqua Tile’s 65% reduction. This means falls on poured rubber surfaces are more likely to result in injuries.
2. Surface degradation: Poured rubber develops micro-cracks over time that reduce both slip resistance and impact protection. Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam structure prevents this degradation.
3. Installation challenges: Poured rubber requires specialized equipment and skilled labor for installation, while Aqua Tile’s modular design allows for quicker, more flexible installation.
4. Maintenance requirements: Poured rubber surfaces require frequent resealing to maintain performance, while Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization and chemical resistance eliminate this need.

In a comparative study conducted by Underwriters Laboratories, Aqua Tile was found to provide 2.3 times better impact protection than poured rubber after 3 years of use. The study also found that poured rubber surfaces required an average of $1,800 per year in maintenance costs, compared to just $300 per year for Aqua Tile. These factors make Aqua Tile a more cost-effective and safer choice for aquatic environments.

Can Aqua Tile be used in indoor aquatic facilities?

Yes, Aqua Tile is suitable for both indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities. The system’s closed-cell foam construction and UV stabilization make it ideal for outdoor applications, but it also performs exceptionally well indoors. Indoor facilities benefit from:

1. Consistent performance: Without exposure to UV rays, Aqua Tile maintains its original properties indefinitely, providing long-term value.
2. Easy maintenance: The non-porous surface resists staining from chlorinated water and cleaning chemicals, keeping the facility looking its best.
3. Design flexibility: The modular tiles can be arranged in creative patterns to enhance the indoor environment, and the color collections can be used to create themed zones.
4. Slip resistance: The multi-directional texture provides consistent traction even on wet indoor surfaces, reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Indoor aquatic facilities that have installed Aqua Tile report particular satisfaction with the system’s impact protection. The closed-cell foam absorbs the energy of falls that occur on wet surfaces, preventing injuries that are common in indoor pool environments. The system’s easy maintenance also helps indoor facilities keep their operating costs low, as there’s no need for frequent resurfacing or repainting.