Building a swimming pool is a complex engineering and construction task. To do this, you need to build or dig a bowl, properly reinforce it and fill it with concrete, waterproof it and install utilities. But it is no less important to finish the pond with reliable material - first of all, tiles. Regular pool tiles are not suitable. Why and what material to choose? Let's figure it out.

High-quality pool finishing

The most beautiful lining of the pool bowl is made from ceramic tiles.

Ordinary tiles used for wall decoration are not suitable for a swimming pool. It is too porous and loose, and its glaze is fragile.

The surface of the coating in the bowl is exposed to harmful microorganisms and disinfectants. The water also presses on the tiles with great force. Because of all this, ordinary tiles will quickly crack.

Important characteristics of the facing coating

Tile properties, suitable for finishing swimming pools:

1. Weather resistance, impact resistance and maximum frost resistance. These parameters are especially important when the pool is built outdoors. Here you should take into account strong temperature changes and winter cold.
2. Practicality and reliability - no less important characteristics of the coating.
3. Durability- its guaranteed service life should be maximum.
4. Anti-slip qualities. Walking on wet surfaces can cause you to slip and fall. This is fraught with injury. Therefore, pool tiles must be equipped with an anti-slip face covering. Its surface can be rough, embossed, or coated with a protective agent.

1. Water absorption coefficient. The coating should absorb moisture as little as possible. That is, we choose a coating with a minimum water absorption coefficient.
2. Aesthetic appearance of the coating. Many manufacturers fully comply with it. Now you can buy tiles in a wide variety of tones and shades, with a variety of patterns, patterns and textures.

Choosing tiles for a pond

So, how to choose the right tiles for finishing a pool, what qualities of the material are most important?

1. First of all, find out what the water absorption rate of the tile you like is. This parameter should tend to zero. If the material is excessively porous, it will quickly become saturated with moisture. As a result, the service life of the coating will be shortened and it will become brittle and brittle.

The longer porous tiles are exposed to a damp environment, the more serious the problems will be. Not only for her, but also for the pool itself. The tightness of the waterproofing will gradually be compromised. This will provoke the destruction of the structure.

Construction standards strictly regulate the water absorption parameters of tiles. For pool facing material it should be no more than 3%.

1. All tiles used in wet rooms (swimming pools, baths, bathtubs, showers), in which users walk barefoot on wet floors, are divided into three classes based on their anti-slip properties.

Such tiles are marked in Latin letters. The classification begins with the minimum slope angle at which bare feet will not slip. Each batch of anti-slip finishes is tested according to this indicator.

1. Class A. This is the tile that bare feet can only stand on at a 12-degree incline. It is used for laying minimally moistened walkways, floor coverings in recreation areas and locker rooms. It can also be used to finish the bottom of a pool bowl at a depth of more than 80 cm.
2. Class B. Such tiles are used at a slope angle of 12 degrees to 18. They can be used to cover the walkways of the pool, areas adjacent to its sides, and shower compartments.

Class B tiles are also suitable for lining shallow pools (less than 80 cm deep) for children (“paddling pools”) and beginner swimmers. It is also suitable for stairs at least one meter wide, with double-sided handrails.

1. Class C. Tiles of this category can be used at a slope angle of 18 to 24 degrees. It is used in areas near the pool, for its sides, steps and slopes, as well as for coverings with a strong slope.

Types of tiles suitable for swimming pools

Pool tiles can be made from various materials. The most common cladding is made of painted or glazed ceramics and glass. These materials have their own advantages and relative disadvantages.

Mosaic tiles

Mosaic is a facing material in the form of small chip tiles. Their shape can be very different: round, figured, polygonal, rectangular, square. But the latter form is the most common. For ease of installation, the chips are assembled into modules and glued to a plastic mesh.

Most common chip sizes:

• 1.5×1.5 cm;
• 2.3x2.3 cm;
• 2.4x2.4 cm;
• 2.58x2.58 cm;
• 4.8x4.8 cm.

The most common sizes of mosaic modules:

• 29.7x29.7 cm;
• 30×30 cm;
• 32x32 cm;
• 32.5x32.5 cm;
• 32.7x32.7 cm;
• 25x50 cm.

Such tiles are used for cladding (partial, full or in the form of panels) ceilings, walls, podiums in the pool, as well as its bowl and sides. The main difference between mosaic tiles and their regular counterpart lies in their base.

It's flexible. Therefore, it allows you to lay such a coating on round, semicircular, curved and shaped surfaces.

Mosaic tiles are made from a variety of dense materials:

• marble;
• onyx;
• smalts;
• metal;
• slate;
• composites;
• ceramics;
• glass, etc.

The most widespread are the last two materials. Glass mosaic is made from molten silicon sand and various oxide pigments.

Advantages of glass mosaic:

1. Lowest level of water absorption(0-0.4%). It has high water resistance.
2. These pool tiles will last a very long time.. Its guaranteed service life is 15-20 years.
3. The material is frost and heat resistant.
4. Glass is resistant to chemicals. Tiles made from it do not change their appearance due to their impact.
5. The structure of the material is solid. It has no pores in which harmful microorganisms could develop.
6. High impact strength. To give mosaic glass increased mechanical resistance, it is tempered - fired at a very high temperature.

1. Variety of colors and tones. To achieve a wide color palette, manufacturers add various pigmenting substances to the glass melt. This can be mother of pearl, boron, selenium, cadmium, various minerals, etc.

The best mosaic manufacturing companies for pool lining:

• Latina Ceramica (Spain);
• Kerama Marazzi (Russia);
• Natural Mosaic (PRC);
• Skalini (Italy);
• Ceracasa (Spain);
• Alma Mosaic (PRC);
• Dado Ceramica (Italy);
• Trend (Italy);
• Atlas Concorde (Italy).

The price of mosaic tiles varies, depending on the material of its manufacture and the reputation of the manufacturer, from 2,000 to 14,000 rubles. per square meter.

Ceramic tile

Ceramics have been used in construction for thousands of years. But she is still popular now.

Ceramic tiles for the pool have a slightly different composition than ordinary tiles for wall decoration. In its manufacture, technologies are used that reduce porosity and increase the density of the material.

The lowest water absorption coefficient is found in some types of clinker (about 3%) and “porcelain” cladding.

In the production of so-called “porcelain” tiles, feldspar, white clay, quartz and kaolin are used. That is, practically the same components as for the production of real porcelain. That's why it got that name.

To give the tiles the desired color, pigments from metal oxides are added to the raw material. The clay dough is then kneaded and pressed into tiles. This is done using a press or squeezing blanks through an extruder.

Then the tile is fired at a temperature of approximately +1300°. During this process, all components of the material are melted and sintered together.

Advantages of porcelain pool tiles:

1. High strength and density.
.
2. The surface of the material is glassy. Therefore, porcelain tiles do not need to be glazed.
3. Practical, easy to care for and durable. Its average service life is 20-25 years.
4. Looks aesthetically pleasing.
5. The material has high water-repellent and low water-absorbing qualities.
6. Fireproof.

Clinker

When thinking about which tiles are best for finishing a pool, pay attention to clinker. Tiles made from it practically do not absorb water. It is environmentally safe, and its surface is anti-slip.

Clinker tiles were first used in the Netherlands. There, they first paved roads with it, which were eventually used reliably and for a long time.

Now, thanks to its excellent characteristics, the scope of use of clinker tiles has expanded significantly. For example, clinker has a very low level of water absorption. Therefore, it can also be used as a finish for the pool bowl.

Clinker tiles are a natural material. It is made from glassy chamotte and plastic clay. Its manufacturing technology is the same as for other ceramic tiles. First, the clay dough is extruded or pressed. Then the blanks are fired in furnaces at a temperature of approximately +1400°.

Thanks to fireclay, clinker tiles are endowed with maximum strength. High density allows it to withstand heavy loads resulting from water pressure and temperature changes.

Such tiles are fired at a higher temperature. At approximately +1500°.

It is then coated with an enamel glaze, which penetrates the few pores of the clinker and seals them. Thanks to this, the moisture resistance of the material increases and water absorption decreases. Also, the absence of pores does not allow harmful microorganisms to develop on the tiles.

Enamel glaze can be of a wide variety of colors and tones. Therefore, clinker tiles covered with it provide ample opportunities for pool design.

Features of finishing a pool with tiles

Tiles for finishing pools differ in shape, size, color, production material and characteristics. Take this into account when choosing facing material.

Do not forget about dividing tiles into classes based on anti-slip properties. The safety of people swimming in the pool will depend on this.

Selecting a cladding kit

Pool coverings are often produced in collections and kits. They consist of several types of tiles for separate purposes.

1. Background tiles- this is the basis of the cladding. They can be intended for the walls or bottom of the pool bowl. These two types of tiles have different surface textures. Their colors can be very different. The most common are blue, light blue, green, and white background tiles.

1. Decorative tiles. These can be friezes, individual tiles with a design, pattern and (or) panels. The decor theme for the pool is most often marine.

1. Shaped tiles. They are intended for cladding shaped elements. These can be: sides, drainage gutters, edges, corners, steps, etc.

It is difficult to make cladding without shaped tiles, because you have to adjust the standard background tile to the required dimensions. This leads to excess material consumption and increased financial costs.

The edges of all elements of a pool with different levels located in the water are best tiled with contrasting color tiles. This will make them easier to distinguish when swimming.

The best manufacturers of porcelain and clinker tiles for pool cladding:

• Agrob-Buchtal (Germany);
• Interbau-Blink (Germany);
• Versatile Corporation (Spain), which unites factories producing tiles under the Gresan and Exagres brands;
• Geotech (Italy);
• Piscina (Spain);
• Kerama Marazzi (Russia).

The cost of tiles can be 1200-4000 rubles per square meter.

1. Choose tiles for finishing your pool that are designed specifically for this purpose.. Ordinary tiles are not suitable for such work, not only because they are too porous and loose. It's also the wrong size and shape (pool tiles have rounded edges).

1. The pool bowl cannot be tiled with large-format tiles. A hydraulic structure is subjected to significant pressure from the water column. The larger the pool, the stronger this impact:

• To prevent the coating from being destroyed due to it, each tile should have dimensions of no more than 12.5 × 24.5 cm.
• When the pool has a rectangular configuration, you can use tiles measuring 15x15 cm.
• If the reservoir has a complex shape, the tiles for its cladding should have smaller dimensions. Its length and width can vary from 10 to 2 cm.

1. The joints between the tiles in the pool must be made larger than for conventional tiling of a kitchen or bathroom.. As already mentioned, water puts a lot of pressure on the walls of the reservoir. As a result, they bend up to several millimeters.

When tiles are laid end to end in a pool, after a while they become covered with small cracks. Harmful microorganisms begin to multiply in them.

1. Mosaic tiles are not very suitable for installation in outdoor pools. With strong seasonal temperature changes, chips often fall off the base. Because of this, you will have to repair the pool cover before each swimming season.

Ceramic pool tiles are more resistant to temperature changes. Here you just have to reseal the tile joints every three to four seasons.

1. Tiling of the pool should be carried out 28 days after waterproofing and plastering its bowl.

• Lay the covering in horizontal rows and start from the sides of the bowl. To lay tiles accurately and evenly, mark the surface with guide beacons or plumb lines. When installing each row, check its levelness with a building level.
• When laying mosaic or tile panels, I recommend that you do this starting from the middle of the picture. Gradually move towards its edges. This way you will not disturb the centering of the drawing.

1. At the bottom of the bowl, place the tiles in triangles rather than in rows. Divide the “floor” of the pool into four such figures. Lay the tiles along them. You will have to lay cut tiles along the edges of the triangles.

Start finishing with a row near the wall, then install a row perpendicular to it. It will show the direction for the next rows.

What do you need to know about glue and grout for cladding?

When laying tiles, choose the adhesive solution wisely. Pool tile adhesive should:

• be as moisture resistant as possible;
• differ in elasticity;
• frost resistance if the reservoir is open.

Remember that only with the right choice of adhesive composition will the pool coating be durable and safe for swimmers.

For tiles, I advise you to purchase adhesive with an adhesive capacity of 1 megapascal and above. For mosaic cladding, the optimal solution is to choose a composition with an adhesive capacity of 2.5 megapascals or more.

Manufacturers' instructions warn that a notched trowel should be used to properly apply the adhesive. Its width should be identical to the size of the tile being laid.

To ensure that the seams between the tiles are even, use special crosses. Their thickness must match the selected size of the tile joints.

After laying the tiles or mosaics and the glue has completely dried, you can begin grouting the joints with a fugue. It will not only help seal the seams, but also give the pool cover a neat and aesthetic appearance.

The pool requires a fugue designed for use in wet areas. This grout is as moisture resistant as possible.

Fugue can:

• be universal white;
• using a color scheme to match the tone of the tile;
• contrast with it in color.

Conclusion

Pool tiles must be dense and moisture resistant. It is highly desirable that it be small in size. By choosing the right material and following the recommendations, you can line your pool with a beautiful and reliable coating. Watch the video in this article, you will find many more valuable tips in it. If you have any questions, ask them in the comments.

Not all ceramic tiles are suitable for lining swimming pools. Constant humidity and water pressure, temperature changes, exposure to chlorine - ordinary finishing tiles are not capable of withstanding all this and maintaining a good appearance. In addition, the pool lining must have high antibacterial properties. Only special tiles for pools, porcelain stoneware and smalt have all the necessary qualities.

Pool tiles made from special types of clay that are resistant to high temperatures. Before firing, the tiles are shaped and pressed to remove all the liquid contained in the clay. Then the ceramic plates are fired at a very high temperature - up to 1200 degrees (regular ceramic tiles will burn at this temperature). The result is an ideal finishing material for use in conditions of constant contact with water - almost zero water absorption, maximum antibacterial properties (the tile is so smooth that it does not allow microorganisms to develop on its surface); high resistance to aggressive environments and durability.

Pool tiles are produced in two types - glazed and with an anti-slip coating. Glazed tiles are suitable for cladding the walls of the pool, and for those places where there is a possibility of slipping (the bottom of the pool, stairs, curbs) you need to use anti-slip tiles. Pool tile collections should include not only basic tiles, but also various decorative details and additional elements that will make the pool not only durable, but also stylish.

There are many possibilities for decorating a pool when facing it with ceramic tiles - various mosaics on the bottom, wall decoration with panels made of glazed photo tiles. Photo tiles are made to order and installed alongside regular tiles of the same size.

Porcelain tiles According to its characteristics, it is quite suitable for lining a swimming pool. The manufacturing process is similar to the production of pool tiles: porcelain tiles are also pressed and fired at high temperatures. Therefore, ceramic granite material is extremely durable, with a low coefficient of water absorption.

To finish the pools, matte porcelain tiles with an anti-slip coating are used.

But porcelain stoneware has a significant drawback - a small selection of colors and the absence of various decors in the collections. However, recently, technologies for laser and waterjet cutting of porcelain stoneware have been actively developing, which will probably soon make it possible to create even various mosaic panels from ceramic granite.

But the most popular material for lining pools is smalt, small glass tiles. This finishing material is quite expensive, but it is worth it. Smalt does not fade, does not fade, and has a very attractive appearance - each of its tiles plays and shimmers with its own shades. Smalt, made with the addition of artificial aventurine, looks extremely impressive and rich; moreover, such tiles will withstand even severe frost (up to -30 degrees) and can be used for finishing outdoor pools. Smalt provides endless possibilities for designers; it is ideal for various panels and mosaics.

It is also important to choose the color scheme of the cladding. After all, a swimming pool should bring joy to you and your loved ones. Traditionally, blue and green-blue shades of finishing are used for pools. They create the illusion of depth and coolness of water. Facing with dark-colored materials will create a beautiful mirror effect of the water surface, and light finishing materials will give the water transparency.

Whatever material you choose for lining the pool, you must follow certain rules when laying it. Otherwise, your pool will not last long.

Firstly, before the cladding itself, it is necessary to make high-quality waterproofing using special waterproofing compounds. For small-sized pools, it is enough to apply this composition in two layers. A large pool requires three layers of waterproofing. The first layer must be applied especially carefully, covering every crack. The second layer is applied together with a mesh of polymer materials. After applying each layer, you need to let it dry for at least 6 hours, and only then begin to coat the next one. After all layers have been applied and dried, the pool is usually filled with water to check the quality of the waterproofing done.

Secondly, it is very important to use special adhesives when laying tiles and grout for joints, suitable for use in constant contact with water. The adhesive must consist of epoxy, latex, polymer or cement-epoxy resin. No other will do. When tiling pools, glue is applied not only to the surface of the tiles, but also to the walls or bottom.

Grout for joints should also be epoxy. If cement grout is used, it must be diluted with latex plasticizer.

When laying mosaic panels, it is important to choose the right color of both glue and grout. Glass mosaic “absorbs” the colors surrounding it and, if you select the grout and glue inappropriately, it can look completely different from what you imagined.

Only the right choice of facing material, compliance with the necessary installation and waterproofing standards will make your pool durable and beautiful.

The article was prepared by Natalya Shipilova.

For a stationary pool, high-quality facing ceramic tiles are very important, which can not only guarantee waterproofing of the walls, but also provide a beautiful appearance. Finishing a pool requires special tiles, or better yet porcelain tiles, of special strength that can withstand the highest pressure of the water column. And it must have a minimum level of hygroscopicity. Only in this case, the ceramic tiles for the pool, unlike the usual ceramic version used for other purposes, will not absorb water and further crumble.

For greater safety, manufacturers deliberately make porcelain tiles for pools in relief - slipping on them is not considered possible. If the tiles are installed on the floor and walls of the pool correctly, i.e. on the reinforcing wall and on special solutions that are not afraid of water, then it can truly last for several decades. Even if the water in the pool remains in the winter!

Pool tiles - best sellers

Drainage channels made of high-quality ceramics are also considered a necessary and integral part of a stationary pool. They are installed behind the edge of the pool. They are able to collect excess water and then direct it downwards for purification into a sand filter. Drainage channels are considered necessary for those pools that are not equipped with water intakes in the form of skimmers. next to the drainage channels should also have a structured anti-slip surface, which is valuable from a safety point of view - a person walking near the side will never slip and injure himself.

Pool tiling

The construction of any pool is completed by its finishing. Among the variety of ways to give a pool an aesthetic appearance, tiling is popular. Due to the specific nature of the application, this process has a lot of nuances and subtleties, which is why such complex work is most often entrusted to specialists. However, if necessary and knowledge of the rules, this work can be done independently.

Preparatory work

Styling adhesive

It is recommended to use elastic adhesive for tiling swimming pools with ceramic tiles. This binder material “levels out” the stresses that appear between the tile and the base during temperature changes, which preserves the integrity of the coating. To cover glass mosaic tiles, it is more advisable to use glue with the addition of latex.

Stages of ceramic finishing

Laying tiles begins no earlier than 2 days after installing the waterproofing. First, a project is drawn up, on the basis of which the required amount of material is determined, taking into account the possible pattern on the surface and those pieces that will have to be cut. The cladding starts from the walls and is carried out, as a rule, from the middle of the bottom row so that the broken tiles are located exclusively in the corners.

The set of tools is standard for any “tile” work: tile cutter, spatulas, trowel, rubber hammer, level and guides (beacons and fishing line).

First, the horizontal level of the masonry is determined, for which a fishing line is pulled between the measured points along the edges of the pool. The glue is applied to the wall to the width of three tiles. The first (and subsequent rows) are laid with the same spacing between tiles (measured by distance crosses). The joints are filled halfway with glue. The uniformity of the layer height is ensured by light blows with a rubber hammer on the attached wooden strip. After the geometry of the first row is ensured, proceed to laying the second in the same way. The edges of the pool are lined in compliance with the corners of the overflow edge. If necessary, the steps are lined.

Once the walls are laid, work on the floor begins. It is carried out in a similar way, taking into account several features: the arrangement of drainage zones, each of which is lined separately.

To ensure long service life and ease of cleaning, the transition between the walls and the floor is lined with special rounded elements.

Elastic seams

In addition to the main seams, when lining the pool, so-called elastic seams filled with sealant must be made - approximately 3 m in each direction (a square of 3x3 m is obtained). These seams coincide with the tile seams and serve to “compensate” for expansion. They must be performed in all corners and joints. Grouting joints. The seams between the tiles require additional grouting. It is done after the glue has dried - no earlier than 24 hours after laying the tiles. First, glue residues, crosses, etc. are removed from the seams. Cement and epoxy materials are used to grout pool tiles.

The seams are filled with a rubber spatula using diagonal movements to the full depth. Excess is removed with a soft sponge when the grout loses its elasticity (after 5-20 minutes). If you rush, the seams will “wash out”.

The pool is filled with water a month after finishing.

Swimming pools - both in sports complexes and in private properties - need high-quality finishing. And there is no better option for decorating the bowl, steps, floor around and walls than special pool tiles.

The specifics of indoor and outdoor swimming pools impose a number of finishing requirements. The facing tiles must be durable, comfortable to use, and also attractive in appearance.

In addition, pool tiles must have a minimum degree of moisture absorption. After all, this finishing material is constantly in contact with water, and not only the quality of the design, but also the reliability of the structure as a whole depends on how much it resists moisture.

An important quality of the tiles used to decorate the pool bowl and its surroundings is durability. There is a lot of water in any pool, its weight is considerable, and multi-ton operating pressure is constantly applied to the surface of the tiles.

Tile density is also important. There should be no voids or cracks in the “body” of the material. Only a homogeneous structure is the key to the integrity and safety of finishing tiles for a long time.

And the quality of facing tiles seriously affects the hygiene and physical safety of a structure such as a swimming pool. Wherever he is:

Types of finishing tiles

Modern pool tiles differ not only in color and size. It is also classified according to other characteristics. For example, intended for:

• — open pool bowls;
• — indoor swimming pools;
• — surface and underwater stages;
• - the bottom of the pool.

Important: The characteristic of minimal moisture absorption is important not only for the finishing tiles used, but also for the grout used to process the joints.

Clinker

The ideal option for such a specific finish is clinker tiles. It is practical, non-slip, looks great visually, and is easy to clean. Does not absorb moisture (water absorption rate less than 3%) and is absolutely hygienic. In addition, it is resistant to any aggressive influence: atmospheric, mechanical, chemical. Clinker tiles have a very special manufacturing process: flux, fireclay and oxide dyes are added to the base clay. This is followed by pressing and kiln firing at ultra-high temperatures. And that is why the finished material can withstand multi-ton and super-complex operating loads.

Tile

Another great option for pool design is tiles. According to European standards, it is considered anti-slip and is divided - according to the same criterion - into 3 classes:

Ceramics: tiles + mosaic

Ceramic tiles are one of the most optimal design variations for pool interior elements. It has almost the same characteristics as clinker, but is much more diverse in terms of design.

Anti-slip ceramics are used on the floors and walls of indoor public and private swimming pools. And for these purposes they use ceramic mosaics, which have brilliant aesthetic and performance qualities.

Mosaic finish:

• - has a lot of tint solutions and design options;
• - strong, reliable, durable;
• — suitable for creating panels in bowls, on the walls and floors of swimming pools.

This mosaic can be glazed or unglazed. But in both cases, it stimulates the creative imagination of designers to create truly highly artistic interiors for swimming pools, showers, and bathrooms.

How to choose tiles or mosaics for your pool

Not only the appearance, but also the safety of the artificially created aquazone depends on how correctly the tiles for the pool are chosen.

It doesn’t matter what material is chosen for finishing an indoor or outdoor pool for aesthetic reasons, it is important that it has high quality characteristics.

Tiles or mosaics for the floor, steps and bottom of the bowl must be anti-slip, durable and resistant to moisture. After all, this material will be used in extremely difficult conditions.

Cladding technology

Of course, there are few people who want to equip and tile a private pool on their own. Not to mention public bowls. This is not a cheap pleasure, and qualified specialists with extensive similar experience are invited to build and finish it.

And yet, when controlling the finishing work, it would be nice to know a number of rules for tiling with mosaics, clinker or ceramic tiles.

For example, finishing material is laid exclusively on a prepared, namely waterproofed surface. The finishing adhesive is selected in accordance with the requirements of the tile itself and the surface on which the tile will need to be laid using a special notched trowel.

Important: The position of the tiles is adjusted by the amount of glue: when laying, you must press firmly on the ceramic (or any other used) surface, ensuring its strong adhesion to the base. By the way, such fastening of the material will make the latter even safer: anti-slip plus reliably motionless.

After laying mosaics or tiles, you should use the correct grout for the joints. It must also be waterproof and visually ideally match the selected facing material.

In principle, there is absolutely nothing complicated in the technology of laying clinker (or ceramic) tiles or mosaics. The main difficulty is to lay it all out smoothly, to start where you need it and finish where you need it. Maintain the design solution flawlessly correctly, without violating the geometry and artistic component. This requires professionalism and a lot of experience.

Rules for caring for the surface of the pool bowl and its surroundings

A decorated outdoor or indoor pool requires maintenance. In sports centers, this is done by special staff, but in private properties, care for the structure falls entirely on the shoulders of the property owners.

Caring for anti-slip tiles and mosaics is simple; it is important to maintain the brightness and beauty of the surfaces and protect them from aggressive biological activity.

If the mosaic panel or tiled ornament is designed in light shades, it is necessary to choose household chemicals that promise an effective fight against yellowness. If we are talking about darker tones, they need their own means to guarantee the absence of a whitish coating and unsightly stains.

On a note: Plus, you need to constantly maintain the anti-slip properties of the finishing material used. This means no polishes, slippery rubs or other surface-glazing compounds. They can make the elements of your home pool much more dangerous.

In principle, if the anti-slip tiles were correctly selected for various surfaces (taking into account all the requirements), maintenance difficulties should not arise. But to maintain and clean such a serious structure as a swimming pool, it is more correct to contact specialized companies that guarantee, literally and figuratively, a brilliant result.

Building a swimming pool is quite a difficult task. And we’re not even talking about how difficult it is to dig a hole for a bowl or fill it with concrete. It is important to correctly carry out all the necessary communications and cladding with reliable materials. It is worth noting that today there are not so many options for finishing a concrete-based swimming structure. First of all, these are tiles (based on various mineral components), mosaics, which can be classified as a type of tiles, and polyvinyl chloride film, designed specifically for swimming pools. This article will discuss the selection and installation of pool tiles.

The most beautiful pools can be obtained by lining the bowl with ceramic tiles. In addition, using it to decorate the interior can solve a number of important problems, since this material has many advantages.

Pool tiles photo

Qualities that pool tiles should have

• First of all, it should be borne in mind that ordinary ceramic tiles used for finishing bathrooms or kitchens are not suitable for tiling a swimming pool. After all, its surface will be affected by various microorganisms, chemical reagents used as disinfectants, as well as water, which exerts enormous pressure.
• In those cases when the swimming area is equipped in the open air, it is necessary to take into account possible frosts, as well as sudden temperature changes. That is why products must have increased resistance to various environmental factors, including negative ones, and be as frost-resistant and impact-resistant as possible.
• In addition, important advantages of pool tiles include their reliability, practicality, resistance to natural conditions, and durability. Since there is a high probability of slipping when you are near water, one of the main properties of the tile should be anti-slip. That is, manufacturers need to provide for surface relief, its roughness, or cover the product with some kind of protective agent. It is very important that the product does not absorb moisture, that is, it has water resistance properties and has a minimum water repellency coefficient.

• Another necessary indicator for many pool owners is the beautiful appearance of the structure. This characteristic is fully implemented by almost all manufacturers. Today you can purchase goods in various color shades, with a variety of patterns and ornaments on the front side, as well as with imitation of natural materials, with a variety of textures and shapes.

How to choose the right tiles for pool cladding, and what important characteristics should you pay attention to?

How to choose tiles for a pool bowl

It is quite difficult to choose a product that will not only decorate the overall appearance of the pool, but will also become a reliable and durable cladding material that will not lose its effectiveness for many years. In order to simplify the purchase procedure, you can adhere to a number of rules and criteria.

• So the first thing you should pay attention to is water absorption rate. This criterion should approach zero in its value. If the tile is too porous, then its structure will be easily saturated with moisture, as a result of which the service life of the material is reduced, the product becomes fragile and easily deformed.

• The longer bad tiles remain in a damp environment, the more serious the consequences will be, not only directly for the product, but also for the entire structure. Over time, the integrity of the waterproofing will begin to deteriorate, which will lead to the destruction of important components of the structure. The standards very strictly regulate the water absorption rate, so this coefficient should not be higher than 3%.
• You should only purchase products that have dense structure and minimal porosity. Since the strength of the product and its ability to withstand certain loads depend on this. Also, if there is a porous structure, there is a high probability of growth of pathogenic bacteria or microorganisms that secrete mucus on the lined walls and bottom of the bowl. Such plaque not only spoils the appearance, polluting the water, but is also dangerous to health. After all, on a slippery surface it is very difficult to stay on your feet and not fall.
• When choosing a specific product, you should focus on those options where the surface does not have a porous structure, is smooth and does not pose a threat to human stability. The smooth front side will simplify the maintenance of the pool; washing products without pores is much easier.
• In general, all tiles used for finishing swimming pools, showers, baths or saunas, that is, in those rooms where a person walks barefoot on a wet floor, are divided into several classes based on the coating and its anti-slip characteristics. Anti-slip pool tiles are marked in Latin letters, starting from the minimum angle of inclination at which a bare foot can not slip. Each batch of manufactured products is tested for tilt. That is, those products where the bare foot is able to hold on only at 12 degrees of inclination belong to category A, if the angle of inclination is increased to 18 degrees - this is B-class, and 24 degrees, respectively, is C-class.

• Products of class A are intended for the construction of pedestrian paths, where the level of humidity is minimal, for flooring in locker rooms, in recreation areas, as well as at the bottom of the swimming pool bowl, where the depth is more than 80 cm. Category B is installed on pedestrian paths for walking barefoot, in showers , near the sides, pools for beginner swimmers or children, bowl depth less than 80 cm, stairs from 1 m wide, on both sides of which there are handrails. And class C is used in the area around the pool, as well as for the sides of the bowl; it is not recommended to use this product for steps into the pool and coverings with a slope.
• Choose a specific one material, from which the facing product will be made should be based on personal preference. Today there are several main varieties:
  • glass;
  • ceramics.

Moreover, each material has its own specific advantages and disadvantages, and it is very difficult to recommend any one type.

Glass tiles for swimming pool

Glass products have the lowest possible water absorption rate. Such products are made on the basis of flint sand, with the addition of various coloring oxides.

The advantages of this material include the following parameters:

• has a fairly high water resistance;
• long service life;
• is heat-resistant and frost-resistant;
• is not afraid of chemical reagents and does not change its appearance under their influence;
• has a continuous structure, without pores in which microorganisms can multiply;
• has high impact resistance; to increase mechanical resistance, products are hardened in a special way, that is, they undergo an additional firing stage;
• a varied color palette, to achieve a wide range of colors, various elements and substances are added to the mass of glass during manufacturing (boron, mother of pearl, cadmium, minerals, selenium, and so on), the colors retain their brightness, and especially shimmer under water, creating an effect of stunning beauty.

Mosaic tiles for swimming pools are mainly made from glass. The shape of individual elements and sizes may vary, but the most common are small squares. From very small modules you can create the most detailed paintings. The main difference between mosaic and tile is its base, which is flexible and can be mounted even on semicircular and any other curved surfaces.

Ceramic tiles for swimming pool

Ceramic products have been used by humans for thousands of years and have not yet lost their popularity. Of course, every year the quality of tiles improves, new elements are added to the compositions that can significantly improve the characteristics of the material.

Among the most important advantages of ceramic tiles are:

• practicality and durability;
• beautiful external design;
• high water-repellent properties;
• significant strength indicator;
• excellent fire resistance;
• hygiene and safety;
• easy care.

Ceramic tiles for pools differ in the composition of the main components from products for finishing bathrooms. The lowest percentage of water absorption is found in porcelain products and some types of clinker. In their production, technologies are used that increase the density of the product and reduce porosity.

• Goods manufactured under the guise porcelain ceramics, contains white clay, feldspar, kaolin and quartz. Due to the fact that this set of ingredients is similar to porcelain mass, the tile got its name. To give the finished product a certain color shade, oxides of various metals are added to the base; options with the presence of other coloring substances are also possible.
  • After the clay dough is kneaded, the pressing process occurs, this can either be placing the products under a press, or squeezing the mass through an extruder. Next, the firing stage necessarily follows, which takes place at an elevated temperature of about 1300 degrees. This makes it possible to achieve not only the melting of all elements in the composition, but also their sintering with each other. It is thanks to this process that tiles based on porcelain ceramics have high density and strength. It is not afraid of mechanical impact, and its front side has a surface resembling glass, that is, such production does not involve additional glazing.
• But still, many owners of their own or public pools prefer to use for finishing clinker tiles. This product does not absorb moisture, is safe from an environmental point of view, and also has an anti-slip surface. This type of tile was first discussed in Holland. In this country, these products were used for paving roads, which as a result served for quite a long time and reliably. In the modern world, the scope of application of the product has expanded significantly, because clinker is a natural material made from particularly plastic clay and glassy fireclay.

• The production stages are similar to the production of other ceramic products. First, the mass is pressed or extruded, and then fired at a temperature of about 1400 degrees. Due to the presence of chamotte in the composition, the finished product is as durable as possible. And if we take into account its thickness and density, then we can say that this particular tile is capable of withstanding enormous loads, the pressure of tons of water, as well as temperature changes.

Of course, it is best to use glazed clinker for pools; its water absorption coefficient does not exceed 3%. These products are manufactured at a higher temperature (approximately 1500 degrees). The glaze, which penetrates even the smallest pores and closes them, prevents not only moisture from penetrating inside, but also does not allow microorganisms to develop on the surface of the tile. Since the front side has a smooth structure, caring for the product is quite simple. Due to the fact that the glaze can be of a wide variety of shades, clinker colors have a wide range of products.

Pool tiles are usually distinguished not only by color or shape, but also by material and basic characteristics. It is important to comply with the standards established by experts and adhere to the existing division into classes. It is recommended to use tiles intended only for outdoor pools, as well as products labeled only for the bottom of the bowl for cladding steps. This is very important, since the safety of people in the pool depends on it.

Laying tiles in the pool

• First of all, it should be noted that pool tiles are available in collections. That is, it consists of a specific set of elements, each of which has its own specific purpose. Such collections, as a rule, include background tiles, which usually come in three primary colors - white, green or blue; the variations in shades can be very different. The background is intended for both the bottom of the bowl and the walls, which is why it has a different surface texture.
• In addition to background tiles, the collection necessarily includes decor. These elements include panels and friezes. The theme of the decorative elements is close to marine.

• There are also special tiles that are intended for shaped parts. That is, they are used to finish drainage gutters, sides, steps, corners, edges and other structural parts. Without them, it would be very difficult to complete the finishing, since standard tiles would have to be adjusted to the required size. This would lead to the generation of too much waste, and, therefore, the expenditure of resources would be irrational. It is worth keeping in mind that all multi-level structural elements located in the water must have contrasting edges so that they can be easily distinguished while in the pool.
• It is important to purchase for pool cladding products that are designed for this job. Since ordinary tiles will not suit a number of parameters. First of all, this concerns the size and appearance (pool tiles have rounded edges). Do not use large-sized products for the walls and bottom of the bowl. The fact is that the swimming structure is subject to enormous pressure exerted by water. And in order for the cladding to maintain its integrity in such conditions, each of its elements should not be larger than the specified dimensions - 125x245 mm. If the bowl has a rectangular shape, then it is allowed to use tiles measuring 150x150 mm. When finishing complex shapes, smaller cladding is used; the width and length can vary from 20 to 100 mm.

• It is also equally important to know that the seams between the tiles in the pool should be larger than usual when finishing a bath or kitchen, since water exerts enormous pressure on the walls of the bowl, which bend under the load by several millimeters. If the tiles are laid end to end, they will soon begin to become covered with a network of cracks. Bacteria and microorganisms begin to develop in such microcracks.
• So, most often the bowls of a swimming structure are finished with tiles and mosaics. It should be borne in mind that mosaic panels are recommended to be installed only in indoor pools. This is due to the fact that under the influence of a sharp temperature change, small elements begin to fall off. We have to carry out restoration work after every winter season. The tiles are more resistant to various temperature fluctuations, but even in this case, it is advisable to reseal the joints every 3-4 years.
• Cladding the walls of the pool is carried out approximately 3-5 days after the completion of the stage of plastering and waterproofing the bowl. Finishing is done in rows, horizontally, starting from the walls. For more accurate positioning, the surface is marked using plumb lines or beacon guides; when laying each row, the evenness is checked by level. In the case when paintings are laid out from tiles, it is recommended to start from the middle of the surface and move to the edges so as not to disturb the centering of the image.

• Laying tiles on the bottom of the pool must comply with the mandatory rules. So, it is important to install not in rows, but in triangles. Usually the bottom is conventionally divided into 4 triangles, along which installation is carried out. Cut tiles will be located along the edges of the resulting shapes. That is, the cladding begins with a row near the wall, followed by a row perpendicular to it, which will be a guide for all subsequent ones.
• It is important to choose the right adhesive for finishing your pool. The glue must be elastic, frost-resistant and as resistant to water as possible. If the choice is made correctly, the lining will last for many years and provide the necessary safety to people in the pool. For tiles, it is recommended to use adhesives with adhesion from 1 MPa, and for mosaics, the best option would be adhesive with adhesion from 2.5 MPa. Experts recommend latex-based preparations; they are believed to be able to provide the most reliable adhesion.
• You can apply the adhesive correctly using a notched trowel, the size of which matches the size of the tile being installed. To maintain the required distance between elements, special crosses of the required sizes should be used. When the installation of the main elements is completed and the glue has been kept for the time specified in the instructions, you can begin to apply grout and seal the seams. The joints help not only to close the seams, but also to give the entire structure a pleasant aesthetic appearance. Usually they are matched to the same color as the tiles, differing by a couple of shades, but there is an option in which contrasting grout is used. The basic rule for choosing this composition is maximum water resistance.

Tip: if you need to lay a lot of small mosaic elements, you can pre-glue them onto paper sheets, with the help of which it is quite easy to transfer the assembled elements to the surface of the bowl of the swimming structure. To remove the paper, simply wet it.

Pool tiles manufacturers and prices

And the last thing that is important to know before purchasing pool tiles is the main manufacturers. Thus, products from German manufacturers have proven themselves to be the best.

The most popular products on the domestic and foreign markets are the following:

• interbau/blink the average cost is 2500-3000 rubles/m2;
• agrob buchtal the price of tiles is about 1800-3000 rubles/m2.

The product meets all important requirements, has high technical characteristics and is distinguished by a wide variety of shapes, colors and textures.