Have you seen those beautiful patterns that can be found in natural-stone pools, or in tennis courts or amphitheaters? If so, you might have noticed the beautiful, eye-catching patterns as marble tiles as well. These asymmetric designs speak for themselves, transmitting a sense of luxury and beauty that’s not just bound to physical spaces.
Finding the Right Pool Tile Size
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when installing pool tiles is choosing the right size. The standard pool tile size is 8′ x 10′. However, there are other sizes available if you want a more customized look. Most tiles can be trimmed to any custom shape.
Another important consideration when choosing your tiles is the type of adhesive they use. Some tiles are installed with a peel-and-stick adhesive while others require grout or cement. Generally speaking, the peel-and-stick adhesive is faster and easier to do, but Grout or cement will last longer and look much better.
Reasons to Have a Pool Tile
Do you have a pool? If so, you know that having the right tiles is essential to keeping it looking great. Choosing the wrong tile can ruin an otherwise beautiful pool. Here are some reasons to have a pool tile:
Maintain Cleanliness: A well-maintained pool looks clean and inviting. Pool tiles help keep debris out of the water and prevent it from clogging your filters or lines.
Safety: A poorly maintained pool is dangerous both for swimmers and those who may be near the water at any time. Pool tiles form a solid barrier between you and the water, protecting both you and others nearby from potential injury.
Beauty: A well-maintained pool looks beautiful, regardless of the tile type. Variety is the spice of life, after all!
There are many types of pool tiles available on the market; Figured (fancy), Travertine, Sandpit, Linoleum, and Slate. Which one is right for your needs?
No matter what type of tile you choose, be sure to read your homeowner’s warranty carefully prior to installation in order to make sure there are no hidden issues with your new tile.
The Pros and Cons of a Vinyl Pool Tile
If you’re thinking about installing vinyl pool tiles, be sure to read this complete guide. Here are the pros and cons of using vinyl pool tiles:
PRO: Vinyl pool tiles are extremely durable and can last for many years.
CON: Although vinyl pool tiles are durable, they can be difficult to keep clean.
What are the Different Types of Pool Tiles?
Pool tiles come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Here is a breakdown of the different types of pool tiles:
Concrete Pool Tiles: Concrete pool tiles are the most popular type of pool tile. They’re made from concrete and typically come in a square or rectangular shape. They can be plain or have patterns etched into them.
Linear Morphed Pool Tiles: Linear morphed pool tiles are similar to concrete pool tiles but they have an elevated surface on one side. This raises the water level when it’s wet and makes it easier to slide around on. They come in several different colors and can be customized to your own home’s color palette.
Egg-Shaped Pool Tiles: Egg-shaped pool tiles are unique because they have an indentation in the middle that holds water fairly evenly. This makes them excellent for large pools that need to adjust to various weather conditions. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Round Pool Tiles: Round pool tiles look like traditional swimming pools but they’re actually made out of plastic rather than concrete or lumber. They’re not as durable as other types of pool tiles, but they’re more affordable and easier to install.
Which Installation Methods Should I Consider?
There are many installation methods for pool tiles, and which one you choose depends on the type of tile that you are using and your specific needs.
Cement: Cement is the most common installation method for pool tiles. The tile slips right into place over the cement backer board and is secured with quick-set mortar.
Grout: Grout is a type of sealer that is used to finish off an installation of pool tiles. It provides a smooth finish and waterproofs the surface. Grout can be poured in place by hand or with a grouting gun.
Tile adhesive: Tile adhesive is a lightweight, non-toxic sealant that sticks to both tile and cement surfaces. It comes in liquid form and must be allowed to dry before grouting or tiling can begin.
Buying and Installing Your Pool Tile
There are a few things you’ll need before shopping for and installing pool tiles: A Pool tile survey
-Before beginning your tile installation, it is important to take into account the dimensions of your existing pool deck. If you have an existing pool with a curved or irregular shape, it may be more difficult to put the tiles in the right position. A tile survey can help determine the correct size and shape of your tiles.
Pool tile material
-Type of tile you’re considering
-There are several types of ceramic tiles that can be used in a swimming pool, including porcelain, feldspar (mica), and limestone. Porcelain, which is the most common type, is heat resistant and does not require sealant or grout. It’s also cheaper than other types of tiles. Feldspar and mica tiles are less expensive but less durable than porcelain. Limestone tiles are the most expensive but also the most durable.
Pool tile layout
-Once you’ve decided on the type of tile, size, and color, it’s time to start putting together your layout plan. Place each tile so that there is at least a 2″ space between them all – this will ensure that water flows smoothly beneath them. If there are gaps between tiles large enough for aquatic creatures like sharks to swim through, then they’ll likely find their way into your pool as well!