Choosing Tiles for Pool Areas and Outdoor Surrounds

Start with the exact area being tiled

Tiles beside a pool face different conditions from tiles inside the pool or along the waterline. Start by matching the tile and finish to the exact area, its water exposure and the way it will be used.

Ace provides pool tiling for interiors, waterline tiles and coping, as well as suitable tiled surrounds.

Pool interiors, edges and surrounds are different

A pool interior remains submerged. Waterline tiles sit in a different exposure zone, while coping forms the edge between the pool and the surrounding area. Each has its own product and installation requirements.

An outdoor entertaining area near a pool has different requirements from the pool interior, waterline and coping. Each area should be considered separately when choosing tiles and planning the work.

What to consider for outdoor surrounds

Slip information

Ask for the manufacturer's slip information for the exact tile and intended use. Texture can help with grip, but it also affects cleaning and how the surface feels underfoot.

Heat and light

Colour and finish influence how a tile looks in full sun. View a sample outdoors if possible and consider how it feels underfoot on a hot day.

Water and drainage

Falls, drains, edges and adjoining surfaces need to be considered together. A tile choice cannot fix unsuitable levels or drainage on its own.

Cleaning

Textured surfaces and grout lines can collect dirt differently from smoother finishes. Ask how the selected product should be cleaned and whether any ongoing sealing is required.

Tile dimensions

Large formats, mosaics and irregular shapes each change the layout and cutting. The size needs to suit the surface, falls, edges and movement details.

Questions to ask the supplier

Before ordering, confirm:

• the areas the tile is rated for;
• whether it is intended for immersion, waterlines or outdoor surrounds;
• the available slip information;
• cleaning and sealing requirements;
• matching edge pieces or coping options; and
• batch variation and recommended wastage.

Talk to Ace about the pool area

Ace can quote for pool interiors, waterline tiles and coping. We can also discuss suitable patios, courtyards, entries, paths and other outdoor tiling around the pool.

Send the property suburb, photos of the area and any tile ideas through the contact page. We will let you know if a site visit is needed before quoting.