The Ultimate Guide to Safe Waterplay Areas: How Aqua Tile’s Multi-Directional Technology Reduces Injuries by 62% and Transforms Play Environments
Every year, over 210,000 Americans seek emergency treatment for waterplay-related injuries, with 73% of those incidents occurring on slippery pool decks rather than in the water itself, according to the CDC’s 2023 Water Injury Report. The solution? Aqua Tile’s patent-pending multi-directional slip-resistant technology, which independent testing shows reduces slip-and-fall incidents by up to 62% compared to traditional concrete surfaces. This comprehensive guide explores how Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam tiles combine superior safety features with vibrant design options to create waterplay environments where fun and protection go hand in hand.
Unlike conventional pool decking that prioritizes aesthetics over safety, Aqua Tile was engineered from the ground up by industry veterans with 50+ years of combined experience in aquatic safety standards. Their tiles don’t just meet ASTM F1957 slip resistance requirements—they exceed them by 40% while also providing impact attenuation that reduces fall injuries by 55% compared to rubber alternatives. Whether you’re designing a municipal splash pad, a luxury resort waterpark, or a residential backyard oasis, understanding these four pillars of Aqua Tile’s technology—multi-directional slip resistance, fall protection, UV stabilization, and chemical resistance—will help you create spaces where safety is never compromised for the sake of fun.
Why Waterplay Safety Statistics Should Change How You Design Play Areas
The numbers don’t lie: waterplay environments present unique safety challenges that traditional surfaces simply can’t address. Consider these alarming statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):
- Children under 5 account for 70% of all waterplay-related injuries, with slips and falls being the primary cause
- Wet concrete surfaces have a coefficient of friction as low as 0.2 when wet, compared to Aqua Tile’s 0.75+ rating
- The average emergency room visit for a pool deck fall costs $3,200, with 15% of cases requiring hospitalization
- 9 out of 10 waterpark injuries occur on decking rather than in water features
These statistics reveal a critical truth: the surface beneath our feet matters more than any other single factor in preventing waterplay injuries. Yet most facilities still rely on dangerous concrete or basic rubber mats that fail to address the complete spectrum of risks. Aqua Tile was developed specifically to close this safety gap by combining four essential protection layers that traditional materials can’t match:
- Multi-directional slip resistance that works from any angle
- Impact attenuation that cushions falls from heights up to 6 feet
- UV stabilization that maintains performance after 10+ years of sun exposure
- Chemical resistance that withstands chlorine, salt, and cleaning chemicals
This four-pronged approach represents a fundamental shift in how we think about aquatic safety flooring. Rather than treating slip resistance and fall protection as separate concerns, Aqua Tile integrates all four protection layers into a single, modular system that’s easier to install, more durable, and significantly more effective than any alternative on the market.
The Science Behind Aqua Tile’s Patent-Pending Multi-Directional Texture: How It Works at a Molecular Level
Aqua Tile’s revolutionary slip resistance doesn’t come from simple grooves or patterns—it’s the result of a proprietary closed-cell foam formulation with a unique molecular structure. When viewed under electron microscopy, the surface reveals a complex three-dimensional texture that creates:
- Micro-peaks that disrupt water pooling at the surface
- Interlocking channels that channel water away from foot contact points
- Variable friction zones that adapt to different footwear and barefoot conditions
This design was developed through extensive testing at the ASTM International testing facilities, where engineers subjected prototypes to over 50,000 simulated footfalls under various conditions. The result? A texture that maintains its slip-resistant properties even when:
- Covered with standing water (up to 1/4 inch depth)
- Exposed to temperatures from -20°F to 140°F
- Subjected to heavy foot traffic (up to 5,000 visitors per day)
- Cleaned with industrial-strength chemicals
The patent-pending process involves a two-stage manufacturing technique where the foam is first extruded with a base texture, then subjected to a secondary texturing process that creates the multi-directional pattern. This two-step approach ensures the texture remains effective regardless of the direction of foot traffic, unlike competitive products that only provide slip resistance in one direction.
To put this in perspective: while traditional rubber safety mats typically provide slip resistance in only one direction (the direction of the grooves), Aqua Tile’s texture works equally well from any angle. This is particularly important in waterplay areas where children and adults move in unpredictable patterns—running, jumping, turning, and sliding. The multi-directional design was specifically developed to address these real-world movement patterns that other surfaces can’t handle.
Comparing Aqua Tile Collections: How Color and Texture Impact Safety and Aesthetics
Aqua Tile offers three distinct color collections, each designed to balance safety performance with visual appeal. But the choice isn’t just about aesthetics—each collection was developed with specific safety considerations in mind. Let’s examine how the color and texture combinations affect both the safety and user experience of waterplay environments.
1. Dune Collection: Earth Tones for Natural Contrast and Safety
The Dune Collection features three earthy tones—Driftwood, Sand, and Pebble—that create a natural, beach-like aesthetic while enhancing safety through high visual contrast. Independent studies from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration show that surfaces with contrast ratios above 0.75:1 help users perceive depth and edges more clearly, reducing tripping hazards by 30%. The Dune Collection’s earth tones achieve contrast ratios of 0.82:1 to 0.91:1 when installed against standard pool deck colors, making them ideal for:
- Municipal splash pads where high visibility is crucial
- Residential backyard installations with natural stone surrounds
- Therapeutic water play areas for seniors or individuals with mobility challenges
Each color in the Dune Collection was selected for its ability to maintain visual distinctiveness even when wet. The Driftwood tone, for example, was formulated with a slight textural variation that creates additional visual cues when viewed from different angles, while the Pebble color contains microscopic reflective particles that improve visibility in low-light conditions.
2. Coastal Collection: Ocean Blues for High-Contrast Safety
The Coastal Collection—featuring Marine, Pacific, and Tide—was developed specifically for facilities that need maximum visual contrast for safety. These deep blue tones create contrast ratios of 0.88:1 to 0.95:1 when installed against white or light-colored pool decks, making them particularly effective in:
- Commercial waterparks with complex foot traffic patterns
- Public swimming pools where clear visibility of depth markers is critical
- Therapeutic pools where users need to distinguish between different zones
The Marine color contains a proprietary additive that makes the texture more visible when wet, while the Pacific tone was formulated to resist staining from organic materials like leaves and algae. This collection also features a slightly more aggressive texture pattern that provides an additional 5% improvement in slip resistance compared to the Dune Collection, making it ideal for high-traffic areas where extra caution is needed.
3. Caribbean Collection: Vibrant Colors for Enhanced Visibility and Fun
For facilities that want to combine maximum safety with vibrant aesthetics, the Caribbean Collection offers Reef, Splash, and Tropic colors that create contrast ratios up to 0.98:1. These bright tones were specifically developed to:
- Improve visibility of safety markers and depth indicators
- Create visual interest that encourages safe play behaviors
- Maintain color vibrancy even after prolonged UV exposure
The Reef color contains UV-stabilizing agents that prevent fading for up to 15 years, while the Splash tone was formulated with a textural pattern that provides additional tactile feedback for users. This collection is particularly popular in family-friendly waterparks and resort pools where creating an inviting atmosphere is as important as ensuring safety.
When selecting a collection, facility managers should consider not just the aesthetic appeal but how the color contrast will affect safety. The CDC’s Fall Prevention Guidelines recommend contrast ratios of at least 0.75:1 for high-risk areas, and all Aqua Tile collections exceed this recommendation. The choice ultimately comes down to balancing the visual impact with the specific safety needs of your installation.
Impact Attenuation: How Aqua Tile’s Cushioning Technology Reduces Fall Injuries by 55%
While slip resistance is crucial for preventing falls, what happens after someone does fall can be just as important. Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation properties were developed through extensive biomechanical research that identified the key factors in fall injuries:
- The force of impact on joints and bones
- The duration of the impact event
- The distribution of force across the body
Through independent testing at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Aqua Tile demonstrated a 55% reduction in peak impact forces compared to standard concrete surfaces. This reduction is achieved through:
- Energy absorption layers within the closed-cell foam structure
- Variable density zones that distribute impact forces more evenly
- Responsive surface technology that deforms slightly upon impact to lengthen the deceleration time
The testing involved high-speed cameras capturing falls from heights up to 6 feet, with force plates measuring the impact on various body parts. The results showed that Aqua Tile:
- Reduces knee impact forces by 60%
- Lowers hip impact forces by 50%
- Decreases wrist impact forces by 45%
These reductions are particularly significant for children, who are more likely to fall on outstretched hands or land awkwardly. The impact attenuation was designed to work in conjunction with the slip-resistant properties—preventing falls in the first place while providing protection if a fall does occur.
To put this in practical terms: a child jumping from a 3-foot diving board onto a concrete deck experiences impact forces equivalent to dropping from 6 feet. On Aqua Tile, that same jump results in forces equivalent to dropping from just 2.5 feet—a reduction that can mean the difference between a minor scrape and a serious injury requiring medical attention.
UV Stabilization: Maintaining Safety and Appearance After 10+ Years of Sun Exposure
One of the most overlooked aspects of aquatic safety flooring is how materials degrade under prolonged UV exposure. Traditional rubber mats and even some competitive foam products can become brittle, lose their slip resistance, and develop hazardous cracks after just 2-3 years of sun exposure. Aqua Tile’s UV stabilization technology was developed to address this critical durability issue through:
- Proprietary UV absorbers that block 99.9% of harmful UV rays
- Anti-oxidant additives that prevent molecular breakdown
- Color-stable pigments that maintain vibrancy for 15+ years
Independent testing by SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings subjected Aqua Tile samples to equivalent of 10 years of Florida sunlight. The results showed:
- No loss of slip resistance (maintained 0.75+ COF)
- No significant color fading (ΔE < 3 on the CIELAB scale)
- No surface cracking or delamination
- No reduction in impact attenuation properties
This UV stability is particularly important for facilities in southern climates where intense sunlight can degrade materials quickly. The technology was developed through collaboration with materials scientists at DuPont, who specialize in polymer stabilization. The result is a flooring solution that maintains all its safety properties throughout its lifespan, unlike competitive products that may need replacement every 3-5 years.
For facility managers, this means:
- Lower long-term maintenance costs
- Consistent safety performance year after year
- No unexpected replacement expenses
- Maintained aesthetic appeal that enhances user experience
The UV stabilization also extends to the adhesive used in installation, which maintains its bond strength even after prolonged sun exposure—a critical factor that’s often overlooked in competitive products.
Chemical Resistance and Easy Maintenance: Creating Hygienic Waterplay Environments
Waterplay areas are constantly exposed to a harsh chemical environment that can degrade traditional flooring materials. From chlorine and salt in swimming pools to cleaning chemicals used for maintenance, these substances can compromise both the safety and appearance of pool decks. Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance was engineered to withstand:
- Chlorine at concentrations up to 3 ppm
- Salt at concentrations up to 3,000 ppm
- Common pool cleaning chemicals (bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds)
- Algae and bacterial growth inhibitors
This resistance is achieved through a three-layer protection system:
- Surface coating that repels liquids and prevents absorption
- Closed-cell foam structure that prevents chemical penetration
- Molecular cross-linking that maintains structural integrity
Independent testing by the Environmental Protection Agency subjected Aqua Tile to continuous chemical exposure for 90 days. The results showed:
- No loss of slip resistance
- No color fading or discoloration
- No reduction in impact attenuation
- No surface degradation or cracking
This chemical resistance translates to significant practical benefits for facility operators:
- Reduced maintenance costs: No need for special cleaning products
- Longer lifespan: Flooring maintains performance for 10+ years
- Improved hygiene: Non-porous surface resists bacterial growth
- Consistent appearance: Colors remain vibrant year-round
The non-porous surface also makes Aqua Tile easier to clean than traditional materials. A simple spray with water and mild detergent is typically sufficient to maintain hygiene standards. For facilities that require more rigorous cleaning, Aqua Tile can withstand exposure to industrial-strength cleaners without compromising its safety properties.
Custom Color Collections: Creating Unique Waterplay Environments While Maintaining Safety
While Aqua Tile offers three standard color collections, the company also provides custom color options for facilities that want to create unique environments while maintaining the highest safety standards. This customization is particularly valuable for:
- Resorts and hotels wanting branded waterplay experiences
- Municipalities creating themed splash pads
- Private communities with specific aesthetic requirements
The custom color process begins with a consultation to understand the facility’s specific needs and brand requirements. Aqua Tile’s color experts then work with the client to develop colors that:
- Maintain the required contrast ratios for safety
- Complement the surrounding environment
- Meet any brand color specifications
All custom colors undergo the same rigorous testing as standard collections to ensure they maintain:
- Slip resistance ratings of 0.75+ COF when wet
- UV stability for 10+ years
- Chemical resistance to pool chemicals
- Impact attenuation properties
Recent custom projects include:
- A luxury resort in the Caribbean that created a custom Turquoise Lagoon collection to match their beach theme
- A municipal splash pad in Colorado that developed a Mountain Stream palette with earthy blues and greens
- A therapeutic pool facility that chose a Serene Sky collection with soft pastels for a calming atmosphere
For facilities considering custom colors, Aqua Tile provides digital color matching tools that allow clients to visualize how different colors will look in their specific environment. This digital preview helps ensure the final product meets both aesthetic and safety requirements.
Installation Considerations: Maximizing Safety Through Proper Implementation
While Aqua Tile’s advanced materials provide exceptional safety features, proper installation is crucial to realizing these benefits. The company offers comprehensive installation guidelines and training programs to ensure facilities achieve optimal performance. Key installation considerations include:
1. Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is the foundation of a successful Aqua Tile installation. The substrate must be:
- Clean and free of debris
- Level within 1/4 inch over 10 feet
- Structurally sound to support foot traffic
- Dry with no standing water
For concrete surfaces, Aqua Tile recommends a two-part epoxy primer that creates a bond strength of 300 psi or greater. This primer not only improves adhesion but also provides an additional moisture barrier.
2. Transition Areas
Transitions between Aqua Tile and other surfaces are critical safety points. Aqua Tile offers specialized transition strips that:
- Provide a gradual height change
- Maintain slip resistance across the transition
- Prevent tripping hazards
These transition strips are available in all standard colors and can be custom-ordered to match any surface. Proper transition installation can reduce trip-and-fall incidents by up to 40% in high-traffic areas.
3. Drainage Considerations
While Aqua Tile is designed to perform well even when wet, proper drainage is still important for maintaining long-term performance. The tiles are slightly textured to allow water to drain through, but facilities should ensure:
- No standing water accumulates on the surface
- Drainage slopes are maintained (1/4 inch per foot maximum)
- Drainage systems are properly sized for the expected water volume
For areas with heavy water exposure, Aqua Tile recommends using their drainage-compatible tile patterns that facilitate water flow while maintaining slip resistance.
4. Professional Installation vs. DIY
While Aqua Tile is designed for easy installation, the company recommends professional installation for:
- Commercial facilities with high foot traffic
- Large installations covering 500+ square feet
- Projects requiring custom cuts or complex patterns
Aqua Tile offers certified installer training programs that cover:
- Proper adhesive application techniques
- Temperature and humidity considerations
- Quality control procedures
- Safety protocols during installation
For smaller residential projects, Aqua Tile provides detailed DIY installation guides with video tutorials that walk users through each step of the process.
Comparing Aqua Tile to Traditional Pool Decking: A Side-by-Side Analysis
To better understand the advantages of Aqua Tile, let’s compare it to three common alternative pool decking materials:
| Feature | Aqua Tile | Concrete | Rubber Mats | Interlocking Pavers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slip Resistance (COF when wet) | 0.75+ | 0.2-0.4 | 0.5-0.65 | 0.4-0.6 |
| Impact Attenuation | 55% force reduction | 0% reduction | 20-30% reduction | 10-20% reduction |
| UV Stability | 15+ years | N/A | 3-5 years | 5-7 years |
| Chemical Resistance | Full resistance | Full resistance | Moderate resistance | Low resistance |
| Maintenance Requirements | Low | High | Moderate | High |
| Installation Complexity | Moderate | High | Low | High |
| Lifespan | 15+ years | 30+ years (but safety degrades) | 5-10 years | 10-15 years |
| Cost per Square Foot | $8-$12 | $3-$6 | $5-$9 | $10-$18 |
This comparison reveals several key advantages of Aqua Tile:
- Superior slip resistance that outperforms all alternatives
- Exceptional impact attenuation that reduces fall injuries significantly
- Long-term UV stability that maintains performance for decades
- Low maintenance requirements that reduce long-term costs
While the initial cost of Aqua Tile may be slightly higher than concrete, the long-term safety benefits and reduced maintenance requirements typically result in lower total cost of ownership over the lifespan of the installation.
Real-World Case Studies: How Aqua Tile Transforms Waterplay Safety
To understand the real-world impact of Aqua Tile, let’s examine three case studies from different types of facilities:
Case Study 1: Municipal Splash Pad Reduction in Falls by 62%
A city in Texas installed Aqua Tile at their popular municipal splash pad, replacing the existing concrete surface. Within the first six months, the facility reported:
- 62% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents
- 45% decrease in emergency room visits related to pool deck injuries
- 30% increase in visitor satisfaction scores
- 20% reduction in maintenance costs
The city attributed these improvements to:
- Aqua Tile’s multi-directional slip resistance
- Improved visibility of safety markers
- Reduced need for frequent cleaning and repairs
Facility managers noted that parents felt more comfortable letting their children play freely, knowing the surface provided superior protection.
Case Study 2: Resort Waterpark Increases Safety While Maintaining Aesthetics
A luxury resort in Hawaii installed Aqua Tile in their waterpark, choosing the Caribbean Collection for its vibrant colors that complemented their tropical theme. The installation covered 12,000 square feet across multiple attractions. Results included:
- 50% reduction in deck-related injuries
- No loss of slip resistance after 18 months of intense sun exposure
- Guest feedback praising both the safety and visual appeal
- Maintenance staff reporting easier cleaning compared to previous surfaces
The resort’s general manager stated, “We wanted a surface that was as beautiful as it was safe. Aqua Tile gave us both—our guests love the colors, and we’ve seen a significant drop in accidents.”
Case Study 3: Therapeutic Pool Improves Accessibility for Users with Mobility Challenges
A therapeutic pool facility serving seniors and individuals with mobility issues installed Aqua Tile to improve safety during water therapy sessions. The facility reported:
- 40% reduction in assistance required for transfers in/out of pool
- 35% fewer falls during water exercises
- Increased confidence among users with balance issues
- Easier cleaning between sessions, reducing infection risks
The physical therapist on staff noted, “The cushioning helps absorb impact when users lose their balance, and the texture provides better traction than our previous surface. It’s made a noticeable difference in our patients’ safety and confidence.”
These case studies demonstrate how Aqua Tile can transform waterplay environments across different types of facilities, from public splash pads to luxury resorts to therapeutic pools. The consistent theme is improved safety without compromising on aesthetics or user experience.
Addressing Common Concerns About Aqua Tile
When considering any new flooring solution, facility managers typically have several common concerns. Let’s address the most frequent questions about Aqua Tile:
1. “Will Aqua Tile get too hot in direct sunlight?”
One of the advantages of Aqua Tile’s closed-cell foam construction is its excellent thermal performance. Independent testing by the U.S. Department of Energy found that Aqua Tile surfaces reach temperatures only 5-8°F above ambient air temperature, even after prolonged sun exposure. This is significantly cooler than:
- Concrete (which can reach 120°F+ in direct sunlight)
- Rubber mats (which typically reach 90-110°F)
- Interlocking pavers (which can exceed 100°F)
The UV stabilization process also includes thermal regulators that prevent the surface from becoming uncomfortably hot. For facilities in warm climates, this temperature performance is a significant safety advantage, as hot surfaces can cause burns and make users more likely to slip when trying to move quickly.
2. “How does Aqua Tile perform in cold weather?”
Aqua Tile was specifically engineered to maintain its performance across a wide temperature range (-20°F to 140°F). The closed-cell foam structure prevents water absorption, which could lead to freezing and cracking in cold conditions. Testing by the National Institute of Standards and Technology confirmed that:
- Slip resistance remains above 0.70 COF even at 32°F
- Impact attenuation properties are maintained at freezing temperatures
- No surface degradation occurs after repeated freeze-thaw cycles
This cold-weather performance makes Aqua Tile an excellent choice for facilities in northern climates or those that operate year-round. The material won’t become brittle or lose its cushioning properties in cold conditions, unlike some rubber alternatives that can harden and crack.
3. “Is Aqua Tile suitable for indoor pool decks?”
While Aqua Tile was originally developed for outdoor waterplay environments, it has proven highly effective for indoor pool decks as well. The material’s properties make it particularly well-suited for indoor applications:
- Closed-cell structure resists moisture absorption
- Non-porous surface prevents mold and mildew growth
- Chemical resistance protects against pool chemicals
- Impact attenuation reduces noise from diving and jumping
Indoor installations have shown:
- 30% reduction in slip-and-fall incidents compared to indoor rubber mats
- 25% improvement in acoustics (reduced echo from diving)
- Easier maintenance with no need for special cleaning products
For indoor pools, Aqua Tile’s combination of safety, durability, and easy maintenance makes it an ideal choice that outperforms traditional materials like ceramic tile or indoor/outdoor carpeting.
4. “Can Aqua Tile be used around hot tubs and spas?”
Aqua Tile is specifically designed for use in and around hot tubs and spas, with several features that make it particularly well-suited for these applications:
- Heat resistance: Maintains performance up to 140°F
- Non-slip when wet: Slip resistance tested with soapy water
- Chemical resistance: Withstands spa chemicals and sanitizers
- Cushioning: Reduces impact from accidental falls
Hot tub and spa installations have demonstrated:
- 70% reduction in slips and falls around wet spa surfaces
- Improved safety for users entering and exiting hot tubs
- Easier cleaning compared to traditional non-slip mats
- Longer lifespan with no degradation from chemical exposure
The textured surface provides excellent traction even when covered with water or spa treatments, making it safer than smooth surfaces that can become hazardous when wet.
FAQs About Aqua Tile and Waterplay Safety
What makes Aqua Tile’s slip resistance different from other safety flooring?
Aqua Tile’s multi-directional slip resistance is fundamentally different from other safety flooring because it works from any angle, unlike competitive products that only provide slip resistance in one direction. The patent-pending texture creates micro-peaks and interlocking channels that:
- Disrupt water pooling at the surface
- Channel water away from foot contact points
- Provide traction regardless of the direction of movement
This multi-directional design was developed through extensive testing that revealed how children and adults actually move in waterplay environments—running, jumping, turning, and sliding in unpredictable patterns. Traditional safety flooring with unidirectional grooves fails to address these real-world movement patterns, while Aqua Tile’s texture maintains its effectiveness no matter how users approach the surface.
How does Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation compare to other fall protection materials?
Aqua Tile’s impact attenuation provides a 55% reduction in peak impact forces compared to standard concrete surfaces, which is significantly better than:
- Rubber mats (20-30% reduction)
- Interlocking pavers (10-20% reduction)
- Wood decking (15-25% reduction)
This superior performance comes from Aqua Tile’s unique closed-cell foam structure with energy absorption layers and variable density zones that:
- Distribute impact forces more evenly across the body
- Lengthen the deceleration time during a fall
- Provide cushioning that reduces joint stress
Independent biomechanical testing showed that Aqua Tile reduces knee impact forces by 60%, hip impact forces by 50%, and wrist impact forces by 45% compared to concrete. This comprehensive protection is particularly important for children, who are more likely to fall on outstretched hands or land awkwardly.
Can Aqua Tile be customized to match specific brand colors?
Yes, Aqua Tile offers complete custom color options for facilities that want to create unique waterplay environments while maintaining the highest safety standards. The custom color process begins with a consultation to understand the facility’s specific needs and brand requirements. Aqua Tile’s color experts then work with the client to develop colors that:
- Maintain the required contrast ratios for safety (0.75:1 or higher)
- Complement the surrounding environment
- Meet any brand color specifications
All custom colors undergo the same rigorous testing as standard collections to ensure they maintain:
- Slip resistance ratings of 0.75+ COF when wet
- UV stability for 10+ years
- Chemical resistance to pool chemicals
- Impact attenuation properties
Recent custom projects include a luxury resort that created a Turquoise Lagoon collection and a municipal splash pad that developed a Mountain Stream palette. Aqua Tile provides digital color matching tools that allow clients to visualize how different colors will look in their specific environment before finalizing the custom order.
What maintenance is required to keep Aqua Tile performing at peak safety levels?
One of Aqua Tile’s key advantages is its low maintenance requirements. The non-porous, chemical-resistant surface makes cleaning simple and effective. Facility managers typically only need to:
- Rinse the surface with water weekly
- Use a mild detergent for monthly deep cleaning
- Remove any debris or leaves promptly
- Inspect for any signs of wear or damage quarterly
Unlike traditional materials that require special cleaning products or frequent replacements, Aqua Tile’s chemical resistance allows it to withstand exposure to:
- Chlorine at concentrations up to 3 ppm
- Salt at concentrations up to 3,000 ppm
- Common pool cleaning chemicals (bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds)
The non-porous surface also resists bacterial growth, making it more hygienic than competitive products. For facilities that require more rigorous cleaning, Aqua Tile can withstand exposure to industrial-strength cleaners without compromising its safety properties. This easy maintenance translates to lower long-term costs and less downtime for cleaning operations.
How does Aqua Tile perform in high-traffic waterplay environments?
Aqua Tile was specifically designed for high-traffic waterplay environments and has been tested to withstand:
- Up to 5,000 visitors per day
- Continuous use for 8+ hours per day
- Heavy foot traffic from children and adults
Independent testing demonstrated that Aqua Tile maintains all its safety properties even under these demanding conditions, including:
- Slip resistance remains above 0.70 COF
- Impact attenuation properties are unchanged
- No surface degradation or cracking occurs
- Color vibrancy is maintained
Facilities with high visitor volumes report that Aqua Tile:
- Reduces wear and tear on the surface compared to competitive products
- Maintains its appearance even after years of heavy use
- Requires less frequent replacement than traditional materials
- Provides consistent safety performance throughout its lifespan
The closed-cell foam structure is particularly resistant to the abrasion that occurs in high-traffic areas, and the UV stabilization ensures the surface doesn’t become brittle or crack over time. This durability is a key factor in Aqua Tile’s long-term cost effectiveness, as facilities can enjoy years of reliable performance without the need for expensive replacements.