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If you’re looking to build a swimming pool, tiles are probably the first thing on your list of priorities. They’re arguably the most important aesthetic element of any pool, which is why picking a material can be so difficult. There are countless options available, and they all have different variations that you can choose from. If you’re not an expert in tiles, making a decision can be quite the challenge. To help make the process easier, we’ll cover some of the most notable tile options available on the market and some of the benefits that they provide.
Stone
Stone is a staple option for swimming pool tiles. It’s a classic choice that has been used for thousands of years and for good reasons. Stone is tough, durable, and comes in various forms. You can use it to create a Mediterranean or classical architectural look with ease. Depending on the type of stone you use, there are near-limitless options for your pool’s feel and aesthetic. Natural stone tiles come with a textured feel which can complement other natural elements in your landscape design.
One of the great benefits of using stone tiles is that you can also transfer the stone look to other parts of the outdoor design. The deck and patio can be made from stone as well, creating a more cohesive flow. Some of the more popular stone tile options include slate, flagstone, sandstone, and many others. You should check out the individual types of stone and see which one would best suit your outdoor tile needs.
Brick
Brick makes for an excellent choice for pool tiles. It provides the pool with a regal and sophisticated look, albeit not one that you can call modern. These types of tiles are incredibly durable, rivaling even stone. While most bricks come in red, you won’t have trouble finding tiles of various other colors to suit a specific swimming pool design.
Keep in mind—bricks are highly porous, which can be a problem when they’re used as pool tiles. The simplest solution would be to seal them regularly. Doing so at least once per year will negate their porous nature and give you fully functional tiles without risk of mold or damage. While it may seem like a lot of work, brick tiles might just be attractive enough to warrant the extra effort.
Porcelain & ceramic
It should come as no surprise that porcelain made this list. It’s been one of the most popular choices for pool tiles for decades alongside ceramic. Not only is it easy to clean and install, but it also looks nice with any pool design. The smooth touch and diverse color options also help keep porcelain incredibly popular.
Another reason why porcelain tiles are great options for pools is the fact that they don’t absorb heat. If you need material for your waterline or pool deck, porcelain takes the cake. Since they’re so widespread, finding interesting and colorful porcelain tiles isn’t too much of a challenge. You can choose from a variety of options that can blend in with other elements around your pool. They’re a pretty affordable option, so you don’t have to break the bank when designing your pool with these tiles.
Glass
If you’re looking for a shiny and iridescent look, glass tiles might just be the ideal choice. They’re attractive, durable, and non-porous, making them great options for pool tiles. What makes them special is that there’s a lot more variety available than with any other material. You can choose from countless colors and designs, so you’ll never have to settle for a less-than-ideal choice. Whether you want to create a shiny exterior or an illusion of depth and darkness—there’s a glass tile to match.
Glass tiles are a bit more expensive to install, and their installation depends on the skill of the craftsman. It takes several weeks for these tiles to become functional, and your contractor has to be incredibly skilled to make them work flawlessly in the design. Since these tiles are made from recycled glass, they’re one of the better eco-friendly options on the list.
Conclusion
When it comes to swimming pool tiles, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some are more practical while others provide a specific flair that might interest you. It’s clear that there’s no “best” material to choose from, as it all comes down to personal preference. No matter if you choose stone, glass, ceramic, or one of the many options we haven’t covered, you can make it work with a good design. What’s important is that you find a good supplier and skilled contractors to get the job done. That way, once you’ve made a decision, you can be sure that the end result will look as good, or even better than you imagine it.
