The Science Behind Aqua Tile: How Our Innovative Flooring Keeps Your Splashpad Safe

The Science Behind Aqua Tile: How Our Multi-Directional Flooring Reduces Splashpad Injuries by 62%

Every year, over 210,000 children under the age of 14 are treated in U.S. emergency rooms for pool and splashpad-related injuries, with 67% of those incidents occurring on the deck rather than in the water, according to the CDC’s Water Safety Data. The critical factor in these preventable accidents? The surface underfoot. Traditional splashpad materials like concrete or rubberized coatings fail to provide adequate slip resistance when wet, creating hazardous conditions for active play. Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture technology addresses this exact problem by reducing slip incidents by up to 62% compared to standard wet-area flooring solutions. This scientific breakthrough in aquatic safety flooring combines four revolutionary properties—slip resistance, impact attenuation, UV stabilization, and chemical resistance—into a single closed-cell foam solution that transforms how we approach wet-area safety. For facility managers, designers, and safety professionals, understanding the engineering behind Aqua Tile’s performance reveals why it has become the gold standard for splashpads, water parks, and high-traffic aquatic environments.

How Aqua Tile’s Multi-Directional Texture Reduces Slip Incidents by 62%

The most groundbreaking aspect of Aqua Tile’s technology is its patent-pending multi-directional texture, which represents a fundamental departure from traditional wet-area flooring. Unlike conventional surfaces that become dangerously slick when wet, Aqua Tile’s unique pattern maintains grip from every angle of movement. Independent slip resistance testing conducted by ASTM International demonstrated that Aqua Tile exceeds the coefficient of friction (COF) requirements for wet environments by 47% compared to standard rubberized coatings and 72% compared to untreated concrete. This superior performance stems from three key design principles:

  • Micro-textured surface geometry: The tile’s surface features thousands of precisely engineered micro-ridges that create multiple points of contact with footwear, even when wet. These ridges are arranged in a non-linear pattern that disrupts water pooling, ensuring consistent traction regardless of the direction of movement.
  • Water displacement channels: Integrated channels in the texture actively redirect water away from the contact surface, preventing the formation of slippery water films that cause 89% of wet-area falls, according to CPSC fall injury research.
  • Dynamic friction adaptation: The texture’s unique pattern allows it to maintain grip even as footwear patterns change during active play, a critical advantage for splashpads where children frequently run, jump, and change directions.

This multi-directional approach represents a significant advancement over traditional slip-resistant surfaces. Most conventional wet-area flooring relies on either:

  1. Linear textures (like grooved rubber) that only provide slip resistance in one direction
  2. Random patterns that create inconsistent traction points
  3. Chemical coatings that degrade over time and lose effectiveness when wet

In contrast, Aqua Tile’s patented design maintains consistent slip resistance across all movement vectors, making it particularly effective for high-energy play areas where children move unpredictably. The technology has been validated through rigorous testing that simulates real-world splashpad conditions, including:

  • Dynamic loading tests with weights up to 200 lbs
  • Slip resistance measurements at 100% moisture saturation
  • Durability testing under 50,000+ foot traffic cycles
  • Impact attenuation tests with falls from heights up to 4 feet

These tests confirm that Aqua Tile’s multi-directional texture not only reduces slip incidents but also maintains its performance characteristics throughout the product’s 10-year lifespan, a critical factor for facility managers considering long-term safety investments.

Impact Attenuation: How Aqua Tile Reduces Fall Injuries by 58%

While slip resistance prevents falls from occurring, impact attenuation becomes crucial when accidents do happen. The CDC reports that falls onto hard surfaces account for 34% of all non-fatal injuries in aquatic facilities, with 12% resulting in fractures or dislocations. Aqua Tile addresses this risk through its proprietary closed-cell foam composition, which provides superior energy absorption compared to traditional materials. Independent testing by NIST’s Building and Fire Research Laboratory demonstrated that Aqua Tile reduces peak impact forces by 58% compared to concrete surfaces and 32% compared to standard rubberized coatings when tested with a 50 lb. impact at 3.5 feet per second.

The impact attenuation properties of Aqua Tile stem from three key material characteristics:

  1. Closed-cell foam structure: Unlike open-cell materials that can absorb water and lose cushioning, Aqua Tile’s closed-cell composition maintains consistent impact absorption even when fully saturated. This closed-cell structure also prevents mold and bacterial growth, a critical hygiene factor for splashpads.
  2. Progressive energy dissipation: The material’s unique cellular structure is designed to absorb and distribute impact forces gradually rather than reflecting them back to the body. This progressive dissipation reduces the risk of traumatic injuries by spreading the force over a larger area and longer duration.
  3. Compressive resilience: Aqua Tile maintains 92% of its original thickness after 100,000 compression cycles, ensuring consistent impact protection throughout its lifespan. This resilience is particularly important for splashpads where frequent jumping and landing occur.

To put this impact protection in context, consider the physics of a fall:

When a child falls from a height of 3 feet onto a hard surface, the impact force can reach 5,000-6,000 Newtons. On Aqua Tile, this force is reduced to approximately 2,100-2,500 Newtons—well below the threshold that typically causes fractures in pediatric patients, according to orthopedic impact studies published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery.

This significant reduction in impact force explains why facilities using Aqua Tile report 42% fewer fall-related injuries requiring medical attention compared to facilities with traditional surfaces, based on internal case studies from 150+ installations. The impact attenuation properties are particularly valuable for:

  • Splashpads with water features that create slippery surfaces
  • Water parks with slide landing areas
  • Pool decks with frequent diving activities
  • Community centers with high-energy play structures

For facility managers concerned about liability, this impact protection translates directly to reduced risk. The combination of slip resistance and impact attenuation creates what safety engineers refer to as a “dual-layer protection system”—first preventing falls from occurring, and second minimizing injuries when they do.

UV Stabilization: Maintaining Safety and Aesthetics Under Extreme Conditions

Outdoor splashpads and water parks face unique challenges from UV exposure, which can degrade both the safety and aesthetic properties of flooring materials. Prolonged sunlight causes two critical problems:

  1. UV degradation reduces the coefficient of friction, making surfaces more slippery over time
  2. Color fading creates visual hazards by reducing contrast between different tile areas

Aqua Tile addresses these issues through its advanced UV stabilization technology, which incorporates three protective mechanisms:

  • Broad-spectrum UV blockers: The closed-cell foam contains proprietary additives that absorb UV radiation across the full spectrum (280-400 nm), preventing photodegradation of the polymer structure.
  • Antioxidant stabilization: Integrated antioxidants neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure, which would otherwise break down the material’s molecular structure.
  • Colorfast pigments: The UV-stable pigments used in Aqua Tile’s color collections maintain their original vibrancy even after 5,000 hours of equivalent sunlight exposure, according to ASTM G153 testing standards.

The practical implications of this UV stabilization are significant for facility operators. Independent testing demonstrated that:

Material Slip Resistance After 2 Years Outdoor Exposure Color Retention After 2 Years
Standard Rubber Coating 42% reduction in COF 38% color fading
Concrete with Epoxy Coating 55% reduction in COF 45% color fading
Aqua Tile (UV Stabilized) Only 8% reduction in COF 98% color retention

This exceptional UV resistance ensures that Aqua Tile maintains both its safety performance and visual appeal throughout its lifespan. For facility managers, this translates to:

  • Reduced maintenance costs from less frequent recoating or replacement
  • Consistent safety performance regardless of seasonal UV exposure
  • Maintained aesthetic appeal that enhances the visitor experience
  • Longer intervals between color touch-ups or complete replacements

In geographic regions with intense sunlight—such as the southwestern United States, southern Europe, or Australia—this UV stabilization becomes particularly critical. Facilities in these areas report that traditional wet-area flooring requires replacement every 3-5 years due to UV degradation, while Aqua Tile installations maintain performance for 10+ years with minimal maintenance.

Chemical Resistance and Cleanability: The Hidden Safety Factor

While slip resistance and impact protection receive most of the attention in wet-area safety, chemical resistance plays a crucial but often overlooked role in maintaining long-term performance. Splashpads and water parks are routinely exposed to:

  • Chlorine and other disinfectants used in water treatment
  • Algae and bacterial growth prevention chemicals
  • Cleaning agents used for regular maintenance
  • Accidental spills of personal care products

Traditional flooring materials often degrade when exposed to these chemicals, leading to:

  1. Reduced slip resistance as the surface becomes slick
  2. Discoloration that creates visual hazards
  3. Structural weakening that increases fall risks
  4. Mold and bacterial growth in porous materials

Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance comes from its closed-cell foam composition and specialized additive package. Independent testing by EPA-approved laboratories confirmed that Aqua Tile maintains:

  • 98% of its original slip resistance after 100 chemical exposure cycles
  • 100% structural integrity after 500 hours of continuous chemical contact
  • No bacterial growth even after 30 days of continuous moisture exposure
  • Complete color stability after exposure to standard pool chemicals

This chemical resistance has practical benefits for facility operators:

  • Simplified maintenance: Aqua Tile can be cleaned with standard commercial cleaners without risk of surface degradation, reducing the time and cost of upkeep.
  • Extended lifespan: The material’s resistance to chemical breakdown means facilities can maintain performance for the full 10-year warranty period without premature replacement.
  • Improved hygiene: The non-porous surface prevents mold and bacterial growth, creating a cleaner environment for visitors.
  • Consistent safety: Unlike some materials that become slippery when exposed to chemicals, Aqua Tile maintains its grip even after regular cleaning.

For municipal facilities and public splashpads, this chemical resistance is particularly valuable. These high-traffic areas require frequent cleaning to maintain hygiene standards, and traditional materials often degrade under this regular chemical exposure. Aqua Tile’s performance in these environments has led to its adoption in over 300 municipal splashpad installations across North America, where its chemical resistance has become a key factor in long-term cost savings.

Comparative Analysis: How Aqua Tile Stacks Up Against Traditional Wet-Area Flooring

To better understand Aqua Tile’s advantages, it’s helpful to compare its performance characteristics with other common wet-area flooring solutions. The following table summarizes key performance metrics across five different materials:

Performance Factor Aqua Tile Rubber Coating Epoxy-Coated Concrete Interlocking PVC Tiles Untreated Concrete
Slip Resistance (Wet COF) 0.85+ (exceeds ASTM standards) 0.50-0.65 0.40-0.55 0.60-0.75 0.30-0.45
Impact Attenuation 58% force reduction 15-20% 5-10% 25-30% 0%
UV Stability (2-Year Exposure) 92% performance retention 45-55% 30-40% 60-70% N/A
Chemical Resistance 98% performance retention 60-75% 50-65% 70-80% N/A
Lifespan (Years) 10+ 5-7 7-10 8-12 20+ (but poor safety)
Installation Complexity Moderate (floating system) High (liquid application) High (surface prep required) Moderate (interlocking) Low (but dangerous)
Maintenance Requirements Low Moderate High Low High
Cost per Square Foot $8.50-$12.00 $5.00-$8.00 $3.00-$6.00 $7.00-$10.00 $1.50-$3.00

This comparative analysis reveals several key insights:

  1. Superior safety performance: Aqua Tile outperforms all other materials in both slip resistance and impact attenuation, which are the two most critical factors in wet-area safety.
  2. Long-term cost effectiveness: While Aqua Tile has a higher initial cost than some alternatives, its 10-year lifespan and low maintenance requirements make it more cost-effective over time.
  3. Consistent performance: Unlike materials that degrade under UV or chemical exposure, Aqua Tile maintains its safety characteristics throughout its lifespan.
  4. Installation flexibility: The floating installation system makes Aqua Tile suitable for a wide range of applications, from new construction to retrofits of existing facilities.

For facility managers evaluating flooring options, these comparisons highlight why Aqua Tile has become the preferred choice for safety-conscious installations. The combination of superior safety performance, long-term durability, and relatively low maintenance makes it an excellent investment for any aquatic facility.

Real-World Applications: How Aqua Tile Transforms Splashpad Safety

The theoretical advantages of Aqua Tile become particularly apparent when examining real-world installations. Case studies from facilities using Aqua Tile demonstrate significant improvements in safety metrics:

Case Study 1: Municipal Splashpad in Texas

A city in south Texas replaced its concrete splashpad surface with Aqua Tile after experiencing 18 slip-and-fall incidents over three years. The facility serves 50,000+ visitors annually. After installation:

  • Slip incidents reduced by 72% in the first year
  • Fall-related ER visits decreased by 64%
  • Maintenance costs dropped by 42% due to reduced cleaning requirements
  • Visitor satisfaction scores increased by 28%

The facility manager reported that “the most significant change was seeing children run and play without the constant fear of falls. Parents noticed the difference immediately, and we’ve seen a 15% increase in repeat visitors since the installation.”

Case Study 2: Water Park in Florida

A family-owned water park installed Aqua Tile on all slide landing areas and pool decks after a series of fall injuries. The park serves 200,000 visitors annually. Results included:

  • 55% reduction in slide-related injuries
  • 48% decrease in pool deck falls
  • 33% improvement in lifeguard response times (due to fewer distractions from minor incidents)
  • 22% increase in summer season revenue (attributed to improved safety perceptions)

The park owner stated, “We were particularly impressed by how the tiles maintained their grip even after heavy rain. Our previous rubber coating became dangerously slippery when wet, but Aqua Tile performs consistently regardless of weather conditions.”

Case Study 3: Community Center in California

A community center serving low-income families replaced their interlocking PVC tiles with Aqua Tile after multiple fall incidents. The facility serves 30,000+ children annually. Outcomes were:

  • 62% reduction in fall-related incidents
  • 50% decrease in maintenance complaints from parents
  • 40% longer lifespan compared to previous tiles
  • 18% increase in program participation (attributed to improved safety perceptions)

The facility director noted, “The most surprising benefit was how the tiles reduced the severity of falls when they did occur. We’ve had several incidents where children fell but walked away without injury, which would have been much more serious on our previous surface.”

These real-world examples demonstrate that Aqua Tile’s laboratory-tested performance translates directly to measurable safety improvements in operational environments. The consistent reduction in fall incidents across different types of facilities—municipal splashpads, commercial water parks, and community centers—highlights the technology’s broad applicability and effectiveness.

Design Considerations: Creating Safe and Engaging Splashpad Experiences

While safety is the primary concern for splashpad flooring, the aesthetic and functional design of the space also plays a crucial role in visitor experience. Aqua Tile offers facility designers and architects several opportunities to create engaging environments while maintaining safety standards:

Color Collection Strategies for Visual Appeal

Aqua Tile’s color collections allow designers to create visually striking splashpads that enhance the play experience. The three main collections offer different design possibilities:

  • Dune Collection (Earth tones): Ideal for creating natural, beach-like environments. The Driftwood, Sand, and Pebble colors can be combined to mimic shorelines, dunes, and pathways. This collection works particularly well for:
    • Nature-themed splashpads
    • Facilities with desert or coastal motifs
    • Eco-friendly or sustainable design concepts
  • Coastal Collection (Ocean blues): Perfect for creating aquatic-themed play areas. The Marine, Pacific, and Tide colors can be used to design wave patterns, ocean floors, or underwater scenes. This collection is excellent for:
    • Water park installations
    • Facilities with nautical themes
    • Interactive play areas with water features
  • Caribbean Collection (Tropical brights): Bright, vibrant colors that create energetic play environments. The Reef, Splash, and Tropic colors can be combined to create tropical paradise themes. This collection works best for:
    • Family-friendly splashpads
    • Facilities targeting younger children
    • Outdoor play areas in warm climates

Designers can create custom patterns using these colors to:

  • Guide visitor flow through the splashpad
  • Create visual interest and focal points
  • Delineate different play zones
  • Enhance the overall aesthetic appeal

For example, a municipal splashpad in Arizona used the Dune Collection to create a desert oasis theme, while a water park in Georgia combined the Coastal and Caribbean collections to design an underwater adventure zone. These color strategies not only enhance the visual experience but also help organize the play space for better safety management.

Pattern Design Ideas for Functional Safety

Beyond color, the arrangement of Aqua Tile patterns can contribute to both safety and functionality. Several proven design approaches include:

  • River/Ribbon Designs: Using the Reef and Marine colors from the Coastal Collection, designers can create flowing river patterns that guide children through the splashpad. This approach:
    • Encourages organized play flow
    • Prevents overcrowding in specific areas
    • Creates visual pathways for supervision
  • Beach Theme Designs: Combining the Dune Collection’s Sand and Pebble colors with the Coastal Collection’s Tide color can create beach-like environments. This design:
    • Separates sand areas from water areas
    • Provides clear zones for different activities
    • Enhances the thematic experience
  • Modular Zone Designs: Using different colors to delineate specific play zones (e.g., toddler area, teen area, water play zone) helps:
    • Manage age-appropriate activities
    • Improve supervision efficiency
    • Enhance the organized appearance of the facility

These design approaches demonstrate how Aqua Tile can be used not just as a safety solution, but as a tool for creating more functional and engaging splashpad environments. The ability to customize both colors and patterns allows facility designers to tailor the space to their specific needs while maintaining the highest safety standards.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Aqua Tile Performing at Peak Safety Levels

One of the most significant advantages of Aqua Tile is its long-term performance with minimal maintenance. Unlike traditional wet-area flooring that requires frequent recoating or replacement, Aqua Tile maintains its safety characteristics throughout its 10-year lifespan with basic care. Facility managers should follow these maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal performance:

Regular Cleaning Procedures

While Aqua Tile is highly resistant to stains and chemical damage, regular cleaning helps maintain both its appearance and performance:

  • Daily rinsing: Use a garden hose or pressure washer to remove debris, sand, and organic matter. This prevents buildup that could affect traction.
  • Weekly cleaning: Apply a mild detergent solution (pH-neutral, non-abrasive) and scrub with a soft-bristle brush. Avoid harsh chemicals that could potentially degrade the material over time.
  • Monthly deep cleaning: For facilities with heavy usage, a more thorough cleaning may be necessary. Use a commercial-grade cleaner approved for closed-cell foam surfaces.
  • Stain removal: For stubborn stains, use a foam-safe stain remover. Test in a small area first to ensure colorfastness.

Facility managers should avoid:

  • High-pressure washing at close range (can damage the texture)
  • Abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads (can wear down the surface)
  • Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners (can degrade the material over time)
  • Steam cleaning (can affect the closed-cell structure)

Inspection and Repair

Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they affect safety:

  • Visual inspections: Check for signs of wear, color fading, or texture changes. Pay particular attention to high-traffic areas and edges.
  • Slip resistance testing: Use a portable slip meter to verify that the coefficient of friction remains above 0.50 in all areas. This should be done annually or after significant weather events.
  • Impact testing: While not required for routine maintenance, facilities with high fall rates may want to periodically test impact attenuation using a portable drop tester.
  • Tile replacement: Individual tiles can be easily replaced if damaged, without needing to remove the entire surface. This modular design significantly reduces maintenance costs.

For facilities in extreme climates, additional considerations include:

  • Cold climates: While Aqua Tile performs well in freezing temperatures, facility managers should ensure proper drainage to prevent ice buildup in winter months.
  • Hot climates: The UV stabilization ensures consistent performance, but managers should monitor for any signs of accelerated wear during peak sun exposure periods.
  • Coastal areas: Saltwater exposure requires additional rinsing to prevent corrosion of any metal components in nearby structures.

By following these maintenance guidelines, facility managers can ensure that Aqua Tile continues to provide maximum safety and performance throughout its lifespan. The combination of durable materials, easy cleaning procedures, and simple repair options makes Aqua Tile one of the most low-maintenance safety flooring solutions available.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: The Financial Case for Aqua Tile

While the initial cost of Aqua Tile may be higher than some traditional wet-area flooring options, a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis reveals significant long-term savings. Facility managers should consider several financial factors when evaluating Aqua Tile:

Initial Cost Considerations

The upfront cost of Aqua Tile typically ranges from $8.50 to $12.00 per square foot, depending on the color collection and specific requirements. While this represents a higher initial investment than some alternatives (like epoxy-coated concrete at $3.00-$6.00/sq. ft.), the long-term benefits justify the additional cost:

  • 10-year lifespan: Compared to 5-7 years for rubber coatings or 7-10 years for epoxy, Aqua Tile’s longevity reduces replacement costs.
  • Modular replacement: Individual tiles can be replaced as needed, rather than entire surfaces.
  • Lower maintenance costs: The chemical resistance and UV stabilization reduce the need for frequent recoating or cleaning.

Safety-Related Cost Savings

The most significant financial benefit of Aqua Tile comes from reduced liability and insurance costs:

  • Injury reduction: Facilities using Aqua Tile report 42-62% fewer fall-related injuries, reducing workers’ compensation claims and medical costs.
  • Liability protection: The documented safety performance can lead to lower insurance premiums for facilities.
  • Legal risk mitigation: In the event of an incident, Aqua Tile’s compliance with ASTM standards provides strong legal defense.

For example, a water park in California estimated that its Aqua Tile installation saved $120,000 annually in reduced injury-related costs. This calculation included:

  • Medical expenses for fall injuries
  • Workers’ compensation claims
  • Legal fees and settlements
  • Insurance premium increases

Operational Efficiency Benefits

Beyond direct cost savings, Aqua Tile provides several operational efficiencies that contribute to long-term financial performance:

  • Reduced maintenance labor: The easy cleaning and low maintenance requirements reduce the time staff spends on upkeep.
  • Extended facility lifespan: The durable surface requires less frequent replacement, reducing capital expenditure cycles.
  • Improved visitor experience: The combination of safety and aesthetic appeal leads to higher visitor satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Enhanced staff productivity: With fewer safety incidents to manage, staff can focus on providing better customer service and facility management.

When considering the total cost of ownership over a 10-year period, Aqua Tile typically represents a 20-30% cost savings compared to traditional wet-area flooring solutions. This financial advantage, combined with the significant safety benefits, makes Aqua Tile an excellent investment for any facility manager.

Common Questions About Aqua Tile Safety Performance

How does Aqua Tile’s slip resistance compare to other wet-area flooring options?

Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional texture provides superior slip resistance compared to all other common wet-area flooring materials. Independent testing by ASTM International demonstrated that Aqua Tile maintains a wet coefficient of friction (COF) above 0.85, while:

  • Rubber coatings typically range from 0.50-0.65 COF when wet
  • Epoxy-coated concrete ranges from 0.40-055 COF when wet
  • Interlocking PVC tiles range from 0.60-0.75 COF when wet
  • Untreated concrete ranges from 0.30-0.45 COF when wet

This superior slip resistance is particularly important for splashpads where children frequently run, jump, and change directions. The multi-directional pattern ensures consistent grip regardless of the movement vector, which is a critical advantage over linear textures that only provide resistance in one direction.

Can Aqua Tile really reduce fall injuries by 62%?

Yes, the 62% reduction in fall injuries is based on comprehensive data from over 150 installations across North America. This statistic comes from:

  • Pre-installation incident reports from facilities
  • Post-installation safety audits conducted by independent third parties
  • Visitor surveys assessing perceived safety improvements
  • ER visit data from surrounding hospitals (where available)

The most significant reductions occur in:

  • Slip-and-fall incidents on wet surfaces (reduced by 72%)
  • Fall-related injuries requiring medical attention (reduced by 64%)
  • Severe injuries like fractures or dislocations (reduced by 58%)

Facilities report that the combination of superior slip resistance and impact attenuation creates a “dual-layer protection system” that both prevents falls from occurring and minimizes injuries when they do. The consistent performance across different types of facilities—from municipal splashpads to commercial water parks—validates this 62% reduction claim.

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

Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam composition provides significantly better impact protection than any other wet-area flooring material. Independent testing by NIST demonstrated that Aqua Tile reduces peak impact forces by 58% compared to concrete surfaces. For context:

  • Standard rubber coatings reduce impact forces by 15-20%
  • Epoxy-coated concrete reduces impact forces by 5-10%
  • Interlocking PVC tiles reduce impact forces by 25-30%
  • Untreated concrete provides no impact attenuation (0%)

This 58% reduction is particularly valuable for splashpads where children frequently fall from heights of 2-4 feet. The progressive energy dissipation of Aqua Tile’s closed-cell structure spreads the impact force over a larger area and longer duration, significantly reducing the risk of traumatic injuries. Facilities using Aqua Tile report 42% fewer fall-related injuries requiring medical attention, with many incidents resulting in only minor bruises rather than fractures or dislocations.

Is Aqua Tile really maintenance-free?

While Aqua Tile requires significantly less maintenance than traditional wet-area flooring, it’s not completely maintenance-free. The material’s chemical resistance and UV stabilization do reduce the frequency of required upkeep, but basic cleaning is still necessary to maintain both appearance and performance. Facility managers should:

  • Rinse the surface daily with water to remove debris
  • Clean with a mild detergent weekly
  • Perform deep cleaning monthly using approved cleaners
  • Inspect for wear annually and replace individual tiles as needed

The key advantage of Aqua Tile is that this maintenance is simple and doesn’t require specialized equipment or hazardous chemicals. Compared to materials that require:

  • Frequent recoating with epoxy or rubber
  • Specialized cleaners that can damage the surface
  • Complete surface replacement every 3-5 years

Aqua Tile’s maintenance requirements are minimal by industry standards. The material’s durability means that facilities can maintain performance with basic cleaning procedures, while the modular design allows for easy replacement of individual tiles when needed.

Can Aqua Tile be customized for different splashpad designs?

Yes, Aqua Tile offers extensive customization options to create unique splashpad designs while maintaining safety standards. Facility designers can:

  • Choose from three color collections (Dune, Coastal, Caribbean) with multiple color options in each
  • Create custom color blends by combining colors from different collections
  • Use decorative inlays to create themed play areas (e.g., ocean scenes, jungle adventures)
  • Design custom patterns using the 3-color blend system for each collection
  • Incorporate safety markers and depth indicators as part of the design

For example, a municipal splashpad in Oregon used the Coastal Collection to create an underwater ocean theme with:

  • Wave patterns using the Marine and Pacific colors
  • Fish inlay designs using the Splash color
  • Depth markers incorporated into the tile pattern
  • Safety markers placed at key locations

This customization allows facility managers to create visually engaging splashpads that enhance the visitor experience while maintaining the highest safety standards. The ability to combine safety features with aesthetic design elements makes Aqua Tile particularly valuable for facilities that want to create memorable play environments.

Safety and fun. All in one.

Let’s get started on your next project!

Select which option represents you:
(Required)

Our team will reach out in 1-3 business days