Choosing the Perfect Pool Tile

Getting Started

What Makes for Good Pool Tile?

When selecting pool tile, it’s essential to prioritize materials specifically designed to withstand the unique conditions of a pool environment. The constant exposure to water, chemicals, and varying temperatures means that not all tiles are suitable for use in pools. Here are some characteristics to look for in good pool tile:

1. Waterproof and Non-Porous: Pool tiles must be non-porous to resist water absorption and prevent cracking or damage over time. Porcelain and glass tiles are particularly popular for this reason.

2. Chemical and UV Resistance: Pool tiles are exposed to chlorine, other pool chemicals, and sunlight. Choosing tiles resistant to discoloration and degradation ensures they maintain their appearance for years.

3. Slip Resistance: For areas that will be walked on, such as steps or shallow ledges, it’s crucial to select tiles with a textured finish to reduce the risk of slipping.

4. Durability: Pool tiles need to endure years of use, including wear from water circulation, cleaning tools, and even the occasional bump from pool toys. High-quality materials like porcelain and glass are incredibly durable.

5. Aesthetic Versatility: Beyond functionality, pool tiles should enhance the overall look of the pool, complementing the design of the surrounding environment and other materials like plaster and coping.

Outdoor Dreams' Preferred Tile Suppliers

NPT and Aquabella

At Outdoor Dreams, we proudly partner with two trusted suppliers for pool tile: NPT and Aquabella. Both companies offer extensive collections of high-quality tiles that cater to various styles and preferences.

• NPT (National Pool Tile): NPT is renowned for its vast selection of pool tiles, ranging from classic porcelain to vibrant glass mosaics. Their collections include tiles designed to mimic natural materials like stone and wood, as well as colorful options perfect for creating eye-catching waterlines or custom mosaics.

• Aquabella: Aquabella specializes in premium glass tiles that bring a sleek, modern look to your pool. Their tiles are available in a wide array of colors and finishes, including iridescent options that shimmer beautifully under water and sunlight. Aquabella’s tiles are particularly well-suited for creating unique, high-end pool designs.

What speaks to you

The Importance of Style Coordination

When selecting pool tile, it’s helpful to start by narrowing down the style or type that speaks to you. Whether you prefer a sleek modern aesthetic, a natural stone look, or a bold, colorful mosaic, having a clear vision can simplify the decision-making process.

Once you’ve identified a style, it’s important to ensure the tile complements other elements of your pool, such as the plaster finish and coping. A cohesive design will create a harmonious and visually appealing poolscape. For instance, pairing a textured natural stone coping with smooth, understated tiles can strike a beautiful balance, while vibrant glass mosaics may work best with a clean, neutral plaster finish.

At Outdoor Dreams, we provide samples of tiles, plaster, and coping materials to help our clients visualize how everything will come together. This hands-on approach ensures you can make confident decisions and achieve the perfect look for your pool.

Special Considerations:

Fiberglass Pools

For fiberglass pools, tile selection requires a slightly different approach. Fiberglass pools feature rounded edges and corners, which can pose challenges for larger tiles. Smaller tiles, such as 1” x 1” "penny" tiles or 1” x 2” mosaics, are better suited to these curves, creating a more polished and seamless appearance. These smaller tiles also offer greater flexibility in installation, ensuring they adhere properly to the pool’s unique contours.

Using smaller tiles for fiberglass pools not only enhances the overall look but also minimizes the risk of uneven edges or gaps that could detract from the pool’s finish. Both NPT and Aquabella offer excellent options for smaller tile formats, ensuring fiberglass pool owners don’t have to compromise on style or quality.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the perfect pool tile is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a durable, functional, and cohesive design that enhances your outdoor living space. By prioritizing high-quality materials, exploring trusted suppliers like NPT and Aquabella, and ensuring your tile complements other pool elements, you’re well on your way to achieving a stunning result.

Whether you’re planning a new pool or updating an existing one, Outdoor Dreams is here to help. With our expertise and comprehensive sample collection, we make it easy to choose tiles, plaster, and coping materials that bring your vision to life. Contact us today to start designing the pool of your dreams!