How are swimming pool tiles different from other tiles?
There are many distinct differences between pool tile and the various other tile used in a home or a building. The two specific factors to consider when comparing pool tiles to other tiles are exposed to sunlight and exposure to a substance.
Exposure to sunlight
Obviously, a bathroom tile or kitchen tile is not exposed to sunlight except for maybe through a nearby window. On the other hand, assuming our focus is on outdoor swimming pools, exposure to sunlight is very applicable. The sun shines on a pool routinely, therefore, pool tiles must be made of a material that can withstand constant sunlight. This is why the majority of swimming pools are made up of glazed tiles. Glazed tiles are acid-resistant and fade-resistant. This type of tile can endure sunlight without losing its form or look.
Above water tiles generally, do not have to account for exposure to sunlight. This makes for more basic functionality. Home or building tiles are not created to counteract chemicals like pool tiles are. Nor are they exposed to sunlight or corrosion at the rate in which swimming pool tiles are.
Exposure to substance
Kitchen and bathroom tiles see the occasional spill. Whether it’s water, soup, grape juice, or some other liquid, these tiles are built to withstand spills, but only temporarily. Anytime a substance is spilled in your kitchen, you clean it up immediately. Thus, the substance causes no harm to your tile. If anything, it may harm the grout.
Swimming pool tiles contain water at all times. Pool tiles are in it for the long haul when it comes to maintaining form against water. This is why pool tiles customarily have a water absorption of less than 0.5%. Water forms a lifetime bond with the tile adhesive, preventing damage to the tile.
In summary, pool tiles are all about durability to unique exposures, while home/building tiles are about durability to common exposures. Home or building tiles deal with foot traffic and typical wear and tear; pool tiles deal with foot traffic, wear and tear, sunlight, substance, chemicals, and erosion.
Is it possible to install your typical ceramic kitchen tile into a pool? Yes, it is. But is it worth it? No, it is not.
A ceramic tile will fit the mold for maybe six months to a year before it starts to corrode and fall apart. Tiles built specifically for pools should last for the lifetime of the pool (with consistent cleaning).
It is best to avoid an ineffective shortcut through the use of a non-specific pool tile. Go the safe route and install pool tiles for your swimming pool, it only makes sense.
If you’re in need of pool tiles, whether for a new swimming pool or an existing one, Fujiwa is a great company to browse and contact. Fujiwa will not only provide pool tiles that are in line with the characteristics mentioned above, but they also specialize in design. You can purchase a pool tile that is functional, but also eye-catching—a feature not so common with bathroom or kitchen flooring.