What is the best tile to put around a pool?

Are you building your dream pool or giving your tired pool a much-needed makeover?

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Choosing the best pool tiles is key. It's not just about style; it's about picking tiles that will last and ensure the safety of your family and friends. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through choosing the perfect pool and pool area tiles from the Amber range to create a safe and stylish backyard oasis.

The Importance of Quality in Pool and Around Pool Tiles 

Investing in high-quality tiles is essential for a safe outdoor space you and your family can enjoy for years to come. 

Why?

Quality pool and pool area tiles can withstand the effects of pool chemicals and extreme weather conditions, making them less likely to crack, fade, or become slippery over time. Such tiles don't need frequent repairs or replacements, saving you time and money in the long run.

Tiles resistant to constant water exposure and chemicals are also less likely to grow ugly and health-hazardous algae and bacteria. Additionally, the right tiles will provide a non-slip surface around your pool, reducing the risk of slips and falls. 

Slip-Resistant Options for Wet and Dry Zones

Speaking of non-slip, here's what you need to know about selecting tiles that offer the best grip in wet and dry outdoor areas. 

For wet zones, tiles with a textured surface offer better grip and traction underfoot than those with smoother, polished finishes.

In terms of materials, porcelain and ceramic tiles are popular for their slip resistance and durability. For added safety, consider matte or textured finishes.

Slip resistance is still important for dry zones, like your poolside lounging area. While these areas may not be as prone to constant wetness, occasional splashes can still occur. 

Again, you can choose porcelain or ceramic tiles with a slight texture or matte finish. Or, consider natural stone tiles. 

Many natural stone tiles have a textured surface, which provides natural slip resistance. As natural stone is known for its strength, it can also withstand occasional splashes of water and the general wear and tear of outdoor environments. Just keep in mind that some natural stone tiles may need sealing to enhance water resistance and prevent staining. 

Matching Pool Tiles With Surrounding Areas 

For a visually appealing, cohesive transition from your pool to your deck or patio, thoughtfully coordinate the tiles in these areas.

Here are some ways you can do this.

1. Colour coordination: Select a colour palette that complements both areas. For instance, if your pool tiles are light blue, consider beige or light grey pool area tiles.
2. Material and textural consistency: Using the same or similar materials for the pool and the surrounding area will help blend the two spaces. Textural consistency also helps. So, if you use a natural stone pool tile like travertine, consider the same or a similar stone for around pool tiles.
3. Size and pattern consistency: If your pool uses large rectangular tiles, continue with tiles of the same shape and size on your deck or patio.
4. Unified elements: Incorporate design elements like matching or similar accent coping (tiles used to cover the upper edge of a pool wall) that extends into the surrounding area.
5. Gradual transition: If you prefer distinct tiles for your pool and surrounding areas, create a gradual transition. You could use a border of neutral-coloured tiles between the two areas or blend two styles using a mosaic pattern that combines elements of both tile types.
6. Practical considerations: Ensure that all tiles used are slip-resistant and suitable for outdoor use. Functionality should go hand in hand with aesthetics.

Types of Tiles for Pools and Deck Areas 

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are highly durable and less porous than other tile options, making them ideal for your pool and surrounding areas. They're also easy to keep clean.

Porcelain tiles come in various colours and styles, including designs that mimic natural stone or wood. These options can be more cost-effective and practical than natural materials.

For pools, light-coloured porcelain tiles can brighten the water's appearance, while darker shades create a lagoon-like effect.

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are versatile, cost-effective, and also available in many designs and colours. They're best suited for pool surrounds rather than inside pools due to their slightly higher porosity. 

Bright and bold colours can make outdoor areas more vibrant, while softer tones offer a more subtle, relaxing ambience.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles, like mosaics, are especially popular in pools as their reflective qualities make pool water shimmer. 

Light blue mosaics in a pool create a bright, tropical look and make the water appear crystal clear and inviting. In contrast, dark blue mosaics offer a deeper, more dramatic look, resembling the depths of the ocean.

Mosaic tiles around a pool add visual interest and texture for a sophisticated, artistic look. This choice can create a cohesive look when the mosaic tile matches or complements the pool's mosaics.

Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles, like marble, travertine, and limestone, are highly suitable in and around pools. They can withstand outdoor conditions and frequent water exposure, while their textured surface provides grip underfoot.

Around a pool, natural stone tiles' unique, organic appearance seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscapes. And in a pool, they give the water a subtle, tranquil colour.

Natural stone tiles are available in earthy browns, warm beiges, cool greys, and rich charcoals. Each colour creates a different atmosphere, from the warmth and rustic charm of browns to the sleek, modern elegance of light and dark greys.

Showcasing Amber&#;s Premium Selection of the Best Tiles for Pool Surrounds and Pools

At Amber, our pool and outdoor tiles are both functional and beautiful. They're crafted for durability and slip resistance, ensuring long-term safety around wet areas. And when it comes to style, the choices are endless! 

For materials, choose from

• Ceramic
• Glass
• Marble
• Sandstone
• Travertine

Then, have fun choosing your tile shape, size, colour, and finish.  

We have colours to suit a range of design styles, such as contemporary, Hamptons, Mediterranean, and minimalist. 

These colours include

• Beige
• Black
• Blue
• Brown
• Charcoal

Our extensive pool and outdoor tile collection offers you the flexibility to design an outdoor sanctuary that ties together your home's indoor style with the natural beauty of the outdoors. 

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Looking to re-tile an outdoor entertainment area or around your swimming pool? Here are some of the best types of tiles to consider.

There are so many types of tiles these days that it can also feel frustrating to choose one, especially for outdoor use.

There are so many things to consider when choosing tile for your outdoor entertainment area. Whether you're looking for something durable and longlasting, or slip-resistant and temperature-controlled, we're here to help.

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Read on for the best types of tiles you can use for your outdoor patio or pool area.

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What Should You Look for in Tiles?

It doesn't necessarily matter which type of tile you consider for your outdoor area, so much as the durability of it. Every tile has its strengths and weaknesses, and it's up to you to choose what's ideal for you. Having something slippery or easily damaged isn't going to serve any greater purpose in the long run.

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Thankfully, there are a few things that let you know just how much the outdoor tile you're considering can withstand.

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PEI Rating

You should always consider the PEI rating of any outdoor tile you're considering. The PEI rating is a measurement of the tile's resistance to things like foot traffic and weather patterns.

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Tiles with a high PEI rating of 3 or above are best for outdoor use or areas that receive high foot traffic.

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Weather-Proof

Just because a tile has a high PEI rating doesn't necessarily mean it's weather-proof.

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Weather-proof tiles are designed to not only withstand heavy foot traffic but also rain, snow, and ice. They're meant to deflect heavy weather damage.

Are you interested in learning more about Swimming Pool Tile? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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Do They Need a Sealer?

Some types of floor tiles, especially outdoor ones, need to be sealed. If they're porous, there is more chance for them to absorb and retain water over time, which could shorten their lifespan.

Our wet look tile sealer is also great for outdoor use. It keeps dirt and mildew away from natural stone, rock water features, bricks, and aggregate. Give your stone a darker color depth while protecting from UV rays with &#;Layorcare's wet look sealer.

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Types of Tiles

&#;We've covered the characteristics of good outdoor tile. Now it's time to decide which outdoor tile would be best for your space.

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1. Ceramic

Ceramic tile may not be as strong as other tiles we're going to talk about, but it is PEI sufficient. It's best used on light use patios.

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They come in glazed or unglazed finishes. A glazed finish will become glossy, making it more slippery when wet.

Unglazed finishes are already more slip-resistant. This also means they're more porous and are going to need sealing. Using a non-slip sealer is best if you're concerned with falls.

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2. Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles can be a bit more pricey when compared to ceramic tiles, but the options are similar.

The best choice for outdoor use is matte, textured tiles that leave you without a glossy surface. 

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It is best to make sure the porcelain tile you choose is rated for floor use. Different PEI ratings are better for different patios, depending on how much foot traffic they see.

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3. Travertine

Travertine is a natural stone that is similar to limestone. Travertine from Turkey or Italy is usually more water-resistant than travertine from Mexico or China, but all are considered great for outdoor use.

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Travertine is a porous stone and needs sealer so it doesn't degrade or stain over time. It can also lose traction easily, making slips and falls more likely when wet.

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4. Limestone

Limestone is formed mostly of calcium carbonate, or the remains of marine fossils. It's available all over the world and insulates very well (meaning it's unlikely to get too hot or cold).

It comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes. Flamed, brushed, or sandblasted limestone works best for outdoor use.

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Limestone tile does need sealer once it's installed, otherwise, it will readily absorb liquids and any kind of acid.

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5. Soapstone

Soapstone is a non-porous, non-absorbant, natural stone that is great for warm climates. It's water and heat-resistant and is ideally used around pools.

The stone is incredibly longlasting and is perfect for outdoor flooring, as well as an outdoor kitchen counter. Soapstone is easy to clean and maintain and does not need sealing once it's installed.

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It is an investment, but the longevity of soapstone yields a good return if you ever choose to sell your house. Its easy maintenance also makes it worth the money.

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6. Slate

Slate is a durable outdoor tile that adds value to any space it's installed in. Similar to soapstone, it's an investment, but its return makes it worth the extra money spent, not mention its longevity.

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Sealing is recommended with slate outdoor tiles, and it comes in a variety of colors.

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7. Decking Tiles

Decking tiles are great if you're wanting to experiment with a look without committing to it forever.

They're great for a budget and are easy to self-install. They never need to be filled and can be removed once they're done serving their purpose.

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You can buy wood or stone deck tiles that come with all the benefits of normal tile installation without the permanence. They're great in helping you decide which type of tile to permanently install later down the road.

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8. Sandstone

Sandstone is not nearly as durable as slate, but it comes with its benefits. Sandstone comes in a variety of hues, ranging from the whitest of white to ashy gray to black.

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Sandstone is best suited for warm, dry climates, and best avoided by colder, wet climates that are subject to snow. It's a porous tile, formed from layers that compress over time. It needs to be sealed regularly to avoid cracks and water penetration. 

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Tiles Add Beauty to Any Outdoor Space

Whether you're redoing a deck that was already placed or building one from scratch, deciding between the many types of tiles is an exciting process that is sure to last for years to come.

No matter what your tile maintenance needs are,&#; LayorCare Pool & Patio Protection can help. If you're interested in our products or want to do more research before deciding, contact us or check out our blog today.