AIzaSyCx0PM-3N_RmbMTt2SRm-GX9AD-tAsfpC8 Skip to main content
search
Category

Swimming Pool Tiles

Are your pool tiles safe? 1

Are your pool tiles safe?

By General, Architects & Builders, Slip Resistant Tiles, Swimming Pool Tiles

Are your pool tiles safe? 

Perth’s Summer weather is here, which means lots of time spent outside, taking dips in the pool and afternoons lounging about on the outdoor tiles. Before the fun begins, it’s important to assess your swimming pool tiles, whether they be on your waterline, external to the pool or the entire shell of the swimming pool, and ensure they’re safe and ready for activities. If you have a pool it’s important to make sure the area is safe for all members of the family. Read further to learn about safe pool tiles and what to do if you need a repair.

Are your pool tiles safe? 2

Pool tile safety

Pool tiles not only make for an aesthetic centrepiece for your outdoor area, but they also provide an important protective base for your swimming enjoyment. When you’re playing Marco-Polo in the pool, you want to feel safe and easy moving around the pool rather than worried you’re going to be cut by a displaced pool tile.

Before the game of Marco-Polo begins, have a close look at your pool’s tiles to check whether there are any cracked or chipped tiles or any have fallen off completely. Depending on how the pool tiles were laid when you first put the tiles in, will greatly impact their longevity. If the pool tiles were installed by someone who’s not familiar with the correct laying process, there are lots of problems that can arise.

When considering the state of your pool tiles ask yourself the following questions:

  1. What surface were the pool tiles mounted on? If the substrate fails, cracks or deteriorates the pool tiles will inevitably fail, crack and deteriorate too.
  2. How were the pool tiles installed? Improper installation of the pool tiles will lead to breakage and deterioration. You want to make sure tiles are professionally installed.
  3. Can the water get behind the tiles? If the pool water can move behind the tiles, this is going to quickly see the tiles dropping off and slipping. 
  4. What is the condition of the coping lip of the pool? This is the overhanging ‘lip’ that borders the edge of the pool. If your pool is made from concrete, this lip can fall and results in poor sealing or due to minimal expansion areas can put pressure on the pool tiles and cause them to fail. 
  5. Have your coping stores delaminated? Delaminated coping stones around your pool will result in tile failure. The area around your pool is just as important as the pool tiles. You want a supportive base and board to hold your pool tiles.

Repairing loose tiles

If you’ve found any imperfections in your pool’s tiles you might want to consider repairs. We recommend reaching out to a professional who can help you with your pool tile damage. Although it can be tempting installing pool tiles yourself, there are many obstacles that only professionals are experienced with. For example, when pool tiles come off cleanly, many home handy persons are quick to apply new pool tiles to the previous substrate. However, the substrate (although might look perfectly fine) is an old layer that’s not suitable for tile application.

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies Perth, we specialise in supplying tiles as well as connecting you with qualified and experienced tilers. If you’ve previously purchased pool tiles from us before you will know how thorough our services are. If you’re yet to work with our team here at Ceramic Tile Supplies Perth then we’re very happy to assist you with your current tile needs.

Are your pool tiles safe? 3
Are your pool tiles safe? 4

Preventing pool tile damage

The best way to prevent swimming pool tile damage is to have your pool tiles professionally installed from the beginning. Having high quality pool tiles installed by an experienced team, eliminates many issues that can arise in the future. Once the pool tiles have been installed incorrectly, it’s a challenge to revive the quality. 

Not any tile can be used in a pool, swimming pool tiles can include glass natural stone, porcelain and low water absorption ceramic tiles. These tiles have the strength and durability to withstand pool water and general swimming activities.

Need to replace your pool tiles?

If you’ve discovered you need to replace your swimming pool tiles, not to worry, we’re here to help. Ceramic Tile Supplies Perth offers a wide range of pool tiles to choose from at affordable prices. We work closely with tilers and experienced workers to ensure our clients get the best service. We’re here to make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible. Get in contact with our Perth tile team today: (08) 9317 4200 (Myaree), (08) 9409 9311 (Wangara).

View our range of tiles

Explore Our Range
December 10, 2021
Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 12

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Swimming pools come in all shapes and sizes and are accessible to all budgets. A tiled pool not only offers the look of luxury but provides a practical resilience to many conditions. Leaving you with a pool that will last long past all the others.

Remember a pool is a tough environment for any product to withstand. With the consistent chemical fluctuation and temperature variance (sometimes just in the matter of moments) all pool products need to be long lasting but they do ware over time or with so many components something may misfire.

You may have heard of or the experience yourself with pool tiles falling off. We do not want this to be a reason why you would not choose such a hard waring product. So “Why do pool tiles fall off”? Let’s provide some in site to this question and many of the leading factors.

More often than not, it has nothing to do with the tiles, rather how they were installed. Before you start trying to repair the immediate tile, it pays to find out why they’re falling off or breaking in the first place. Knowing the reason and how to fix your pool tiles properly, will help prevent it from happening again.

Here are some of the main reasons why your swimming pool tiles might fall off.

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 13
Lack of expansion joints

When we talk about pool tiles we often refer to mosaics. These are most commonly used due to their size and ability to follow the curves in the organic shapes of pools. However all mosaics come held together as sheets and often a mesh backing is used to do so. At Ceramic Tile Supplies we suggest not to use the mesh backed mosaics in pools for several reasons.

Firstly the backing often covers so much of the tile that the glue does not get through the mesh on to the tile. Second the mesh can rot away and if not enough glue has reached the tile there is nothing left holding it on. We offer paper faced or  polyurethane backed mosaic tile alternatives to combat these problems.

Mesh Backing

Pool expansion joints are an important and often overlooked element of an in ground swimming pool because they protect your pool from damage.

An expansion joint is the gap between the pool coping (edging) and pool deck, and it’s usually filled with caulk or a sealant. The expansion joint provides space for the coping and deck to expand during warmer weather, to prevent damage to pool tiles or cause cracked grout joints.

If you do have expansion joints and notice damage to them over time, make sure you replace or repair it as soon as possible. If water enters under the tile surface it will create problems, eventually resulting in your pool tiles falling off.

Incorrect adhesive products used in installation

You may have purchased good quality swimming pool tiles, but if they’re not installed properly it can also lead to problems. Poor installation of pool tiles usually comes down to the type of products used when installing them.

Choosing the right products is just as important as selecting your pool tiles and should not be treated like tiles you install inside your home. As we all know, indoor tiles are exposed to air while pool tiles are submerged in water. When selecting the grout, adhesive and sealant ensure it is pool rated and if it is recommended to include an additive to increase the products durability.

pH levels in your pool

pH is a measure of the pool water’s total acid-alkalinity balance, meaning how acidic or basic the water is. When the total alkalinity in your pool is low, it can lead to concavity on the surface of the concrete, causing pool tiles to fall off.

To prevent this from happening, you need to pay close attention to the pH level of your pool and adjust it from time to time, to always keep the water balanced.

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 14
Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 15
Are your pool tiles and decking attached?

If you have a deck, it’s common for the elements to damage it over time. It will also begin to impact your pool if the decking is attached to it. Decking needs room to expand and contract, and this is why when building your pool or deck you should always have some separation between the two.

The key things to remember; make sure you use the right products when installing your pool tiles in the first instance. If you notice your pool tiles starting to fall off, try diagnosing the problem before fixing them back up. If you can’t figure out what the cause is, get professional help.

If you have any questions about swimming pool tiles, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

View our range of Swimming Pool Tiles

Explore Our Range
January 14, 2021
Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 16

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Lining a pool with tiles creates a silky smooth finish and provides superior durability. But not all tiles are designed to be used for swimming pools.

The most commonly used types of tiles for swimming pools includes glass, natural stone, porcelain and low water absorption ceramic. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing swimming pool tiles.

Something to keep in mind when selecting is always ensure any mosaic tiles that are to be used in a pool are not mesh mounted as you can’t guarantee enough back surface coverage. Mesh backed products generally leave too much glue on the mesh, which doesn’t allow enough adhesive to touch the tile and hold on.

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 17
Glass mosaic pool tiles

Glass mosaic tiles bring a whole new level of sophistication to pools. They’re great because the glass doesn’t absorb other substances, and it can withstand chemicals or algae and fits in to the natural curves of the pool. The challenge of glass mosaics though, is choosing from the vast selection of colours available on the market.

Ceramic Tile Supplies is the Western Australian retailer for TREND Glass Mosaics, who offer a vast colour and size selection of glass mosaics, from pool ready options to custom made mixes and images.

If you like the idea of a mosaic tiled pool, then your best option is to select from the glass mosaics range mounted on the TREND PLUS backing system. This innovative technology removes the need for paper, film or mesh mounting, making it easy to install. The increased surface area of the mosaic allows the tile adhesive to bond effectively with the back of the mosaic.

If you are after a more specific colour selection or pattern, Trend Glass Mosaics are able to custom made on film. Ceramic Tile Supplies have undertaken many projects that include specific mosaic imagery or custom mix selections for client’s swimming pools. These projects just require the time to wait for the custom products to be made up.

Can I use bathroom tiles for my pool?

Bathrooms and swimming pools are similar in that they can have the same kind of tiles applies to their surfaces, but they have to be the right type. If you want to use a bathroom tile for your swimming pool, it needs to be nonporous and have low water absorption ratings. For these reasons, the best option is glazed porcelain tiles.

Glazed porcelain tiles – a popular choice

Porcelain tiles are great for swimming pools as they’re extremely durable and water resistant. Glazed porcelain tiles are vitreous in terms of water absorption, chemical resistance, and they stand up well to the outdoors fluctuation of weather, which is why they’re a popular choice for pool owners.

Porcelain tiles are available in many different sizes including mosaics. However the most common size in porcelain or low water absorption ceramic is 200x200mm as it is still small enough to curve around organic shaped pools. However larger sizes such as 300x600mm are becoming more popular due to the more common square edged pools.

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 18
Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 19
What to consider when selecting pool tiles

When deciding on which tiles to use for your swimming pool, consider the following:

  • High wear rating – choose a tile that copes well against exposure to chemicals and the outdoor elements.
  • Water resistance – any area near a swimming pool will naturally be exposed to water so it goes without saying that your tile choice needs to be water resistant.
  • Size – Organic shaped pools tend to look better with a smaller mosaic tile otherwise the tight corners can look like a 50 cent piece. If the pool does not have curved corners then a larger tile can be used (for example 300x600mm).

 

Above all, make sure you do your homework and research which swimming pool tiles will best suit your backyard. If you have any questions about swimming pool tiles, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

View our range of Swimming Pool Tiles

Explore Our Range
January 13, 2021
Benefits, Options, and Maintenance of Swimming Pool Tiles 20

Benefits, Options, and Maintenance of Swimming Pool Tiles

By DIY, Swimming Pool Tiles, Tile Maintenance, Tile SelectionNo Comments

When it comes to swimming pool features, there are many different options for style and functionality. Entrances, handrails, water features, square vs oval vs infinity pools – these are all options that you will have to decide when you are building your below-ground oasis.

One of the most important decisions, however, is an underappreciated material: swimming pool tiles.

Benefits of Tiles

Tiles offer more benefits than just looking good although they do that, too. Check out what opportunities become available when you focus on the pool tile as an all-important detail.

Underwater Style

Tiles create a beautiful and shimmering look in the water. The water and the tiles work together to make an aesthetically pleasing style that you will enjoy for years to come.

Tiles come in a range of options, so you may customise the tiles based on what you want. The Brilliante 245 Plus in our selection is great for a naturally patterned look. Other options like the Daintree Mix PLUS is great for a Caribbean aesthetic while the Black Step Tread works well for a darker, sophisticated style.

Safety

Some tiles can be a great feature to enhance the safety of the pool, especially on the stairs and the deck area. Our Step Tread series, for instance, features subtle ridges that allow swimmers to find firm footing on the hosing of stairs. This tread is available in black, grey, and granite.

Longevity

Besides style, tiles are very reliable as well. Tiles designed for pools are long-lasting, especially when they receive the proper care and maintenance.

Not only do the tiles themselves last, but it helps your whole pool obtain greater longevity. As long as you keep up with cleaning and treating your tiles, they will hold up for many summer pool parties to come.

Mostly you will only have to worry about occasionally resealing your pool tile. Otherwise, there is very little upkeep needed.

The Finishing Touch

You can use tiles to finish your deck as well. You can line the edges or create intricate designs in or around the pool itself.

Our Mass Mosaics and Ocean Mix PLUS series are popular choices for finishes. Using these, you can design elaborate fish, flowers, or any finishing look you desire.

Tile Options

When you’re choosing a tile, you want to research your options. Consider the placement, how much wear-and-tear they might endure, and the environment as well.

For example, our Trend Plus Surf 8051 tiles add a brilliant pop of blue. These are great for a cheery, bright scheme. Those looking for a more relaxed, monotone style might prefer the Cloud Mix PLUS.

Overall, your tile options will vary in style and colour, but you will also want to make sure that the tile you’re using will be comfortable and functional.

Tile Maintenance

Over time, roots grow, minor cracks spread, and walls shift in pools. To keep up with this, you’ll need to be consistent about tile maintenance and replacement.

Make sure that you lower your water level before starting. Then, remove the damaged tiles with a hammer. After that, you can replace and re-set a new tile into the missing spot. Allow it to dry for 24 hours before raising the water again.

If you keep up with this maintenance, you’ll have a perfect pool for years to come.

Ready to Put Some Tile into Your Style?

For pools in need of a serious makeover, or for pools that are just being built, pool tiles are a great way to enhance the luxury of having a pool. Consider the colour and style that you want and then continue to keep up with the repairs on damaged tiles. Soon, you will be ready to invite your whole neighbourhood to your next pool party.

If you’re in the market for stylish new pool tiles, visit one of our showrooms today for some expert advice!

 

December 11, 2019
Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles 21

Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile SelectionNo Comments

Are you currently in the process of designing your dream swimming pool? An important consideration is what colour swimming pool tiles are right for your new freshwater paradise.

While it may seem as simple as looking at various swatches and choosing the hue that you like best, the fact of the matter is that the colour you choose will look quite different once the tiles have been covered with water, and your swimming pool is complete.

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies, we specialise in swimming pool tiles in Perth. Below is a look at the top five best-selling colour options, along with a breakdown of what to expect after they have been placed inside your brand new pool. Learn more about these 5 popular choices today before you install.

Arctic Blue Nova Matte

This gorgeous green-blue shade contributes a cool tone to the water and promises a clear, sparkling blue effect in the sunlight. The stylish matte finish adds interest to the pool and draws more attention to the glistening lure of the water.

Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles 22

Mass Mosaics Bali Light Blue

Basic blue swimming pool tiles are undoubtedly the most popular colour choice in Perth. They are classics for a reason! These beautiful blue mosaics reflect light, which will make a smaller swimming pool appear much larger and more welcoming. The result is an iridescent, crisp blue shade and a glossy finish.

Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles 23

Midnight Mix PLUS

There is something intensely luxurious about a swimming pool with black tiles. They are slightly less common than green and blue coloured tiles, and as such, promise to turn your pool into an instant talking point. They offer the further advantage of much warmer water due to the fact that the dark colour absorbs and holds onto heat from the sun. This means that you are more likely to be able to use your pool comfortably in early spring and early autumn, not just in summer!

Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles 24

Cloud Mix PLUS

The white-grey contrast offered by these swimming pool tiles is sure to help brighten up your pool and give off a welcoming atmosphere. The tiles will naturally reflect sunlight, which means that your water will remain cool and refreshing during those hot, balmy summer days that Perth is known for.

Choosing the Right Colour for Your Swimming Pool Tiles 25

Azzuro Mediterraneo PLUS

These stunning swimming pool tiles promise a stylish green shimmer. They literally glisten and gleam in the sunlight throughout the year. They are the perfect choice for anyone that is keen to add some mermaid-esque flair to the bottom of their pool and steer clear of the more predictable designs. The Italian glass mosaic is mounted on the TREND PLUS backing system. This is a huge advantage because it streamlines installation – you don’t need to worry about any paper, film or mesh mounting.

Have Any of These Tiles Caught Your Eye?

Are you still interested in more gorgeous options that we have on offer? For our full range, view our website or check out one of our showrooms!

November 20, 2019
Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool 26

Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile SelectionNo Comments

Your choice of swimming pool tiles is an essential finishing touch required to make your pool unique and beautiful. They improve not only the aesthetics but also the functional element of your facility.

Just like the tiles used on your walls, floors, and splashbacks, there is virtually an infinite number of types, styles, shapes, and colours of tiles for your swimming pool.

If you’re planning to construct or upgrade your pool, visit us at Ceramic Tile Supplies to choose from our vast array of styles and products. Our showroom will inspire you with pool design possibilities!

Here are some of the tile choices available to give your pool a beautiful finish:

Different Types of Tiles

There are generally four types of tile to choose from: mosaic tile, porcelain tile, glass pool, and stone tile.

You need to select the right type of tile for your amenity, because factors like heavily treated water can penetrate and affect some sorts of tile. The tile you choose should, therefore, be specifically designed for use in a pool. It should be vitreous or impervious – this ensures the tile doesn’t absorb much water.

At Ceramic Tile Supplies, we stock plenty of styles that can be used underwater. Check out our range here, or read on to learn about different types!

Mosaic Swimming Pool Tiles

If you are looking for a tile that will add colour and vibrancy to your swimming pool, then a mosaic tile is what you need. This type comes in a wide range of designs, colours, and sizes. The tiles can be made of glass or ceramics and are easy to install.

Mosaics can be used either on the bottom of the pool, the sides, or both, depending on how eye-catching you want it to look! When used at the bottom, they require maintenance and a good cleaning to eliminate the build-up of pool chemicals, mould, and algae.

Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool 27

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are a highly popular choice because they require only basic cleaning and installation. The process of making them begins with heating clay at very high temperatures until it becomes waterproof. The heating process causes the tiles to harden and allows the colour to bake in; thus, the colour and design doesn’t fade even when exposed to extreme temperatures, like those of the Australian summer!

 

These tiles also have a vitreous lustre, are soft to touch, and easy to install. Porcelain tiles are available in different textures, colours, and patterns. They would be a perfect choice for your facility. The only downside is that they can break easily when put under much pressure, so be careful when handling.

Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool 28

Glass Tiles

For use in a swimming pool, glass is a spectacular material. It gives your facility a miraculous feel, especially when the pool is lighted at night.

 

Glass won’t be affected by sunlight, water, or pool chemicals. Glass tiles make the pool look larger, because it reflects light. The downside is that they can be pricier than other materials, and can be more difficult to install because of its delicate nature.

Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool 29

 

Stone Tiles

Using stone tiles gives your pool a natural element, making it look like a pond or lake. Different types of stones can be used, including limestone, sandstone, and granite. Most stones are porous, and a sealant should be applied every few years. Installation can take a while, and should be performed by a professional.

Finding the Right Swimming Pool Tile for Your Pool 30

 

We hope you’ve gained some inspiration for decorating your pool. Want some personalised help? Come to one of our showrooms and chat to an expert today!

October 15, 2019
Close Menu