When the time comes to choose a tile for your swimming pool, it can be a bit crazy. From porcelain to glass, all are great. But, which one is the best tile for your pool? One of the most significant sections in a swimming pool is the waterline tile.
A waterline tile gives your swimming pool a distinctive look that you want, making the water look shiny and luminous. Also, in an aesthetic point of view, it can add a dash of color to your pool.
Another important factor is that waterline tile helps to keep your pool in excellent condition. Remember, if there is hard water in your area, chances are there will be some calcium build up around the border of your pool, which is not easy to remove. Waterline tile also prevents pollen, sunscreen, body oils and other elements that go into the water, from adding a permanent white ring which is difficult to remove and detracts from the pool’s overall appearance.
Different Types of Tile
Now that you know the importance of a waterline tile, let’s explain about the different types of tile available:
Glass Tile
In recent years, the popularity of glass tiles on swimming pools is on the up. It is often the most expensive, and for a good reason; glass tile is typically the most durable and non-porous of all tiles. It goes great with the transparent nature of water. Their ingredients make it able to shape it to practically anything. Glass tiles come in a small – mosaic format. It has the advantage to cover curved surfaces completely.
The pool designer can also mix colors, creating a color scheme and thus, form an artwork. The reflections of glass tile can be brilliant underwater. Some other glass tiles have an iridescent coating that shimmers with the change of light and water flowing over the surface.
On the other hand, the artistic look and feel of a finished installation are more significant and dynamic with an upscale glass tile. The shine, color, and depth are more exciting than the look of small mosaic designs. In all-tiled pools and spas, the overall effect of glass is mesmerizing, and as waterline borders and step-markers, the internal reflections offer a gem-like luster.
Stone Tile
If you are looking to have a classical or Mediterranean style oasis, a stone tile will give you just that; a natural look and textured feel that goes perfectly on a patio or deck. When combined with the coping, the appearance is more unison. Stone tile design elements include flagstone, travertine, slate, sandstone, bluestone, and semi-polished granite tile that displays a pepper tone look. However, if you have a salt water pool, we highly recommend not to use travertine. Due to its porous nature, it is prone to damages from salt water.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tiles have been staples of pool finishing for decades. Contrary to glass tiles, these are hand-painted with exciting designs, or they go into a mosaic mode. Nowadays, you can find them in a textured version that goes well with a surrounding landscape. Also, there is a texturized-glazed porcelain tile that is bolder and more exciting, giving a punch to a swimming pool waterline.
Since ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most common for swimming pools, they are strong enough to withstand outdoor elements. It is a tile easy to clean, soft to the touch and easy to install.
If you feel overwhelmed at the variety of options available, let one of your designers help you with the process. They can answer your questions and help you get a better perspective of how your pool will look once the tile is placed. Also, ask the designer which color and type of coping can combine with the waterline tile.
Now that you the importance of having a waterline tile in your pool, get ready to call us. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through the swimming pool building process. Visit any of our offices in Houston, Beaumont or Victoria, or call us at 281.870.1600.