Specialized porcelain tiles are used in the more luxurious class of pools. They convey a more aesthetic and finished look to the pools. And for large sports pools they are a must. But when we talk about lining for swimming pools, it is important to clarify that there are different types of finishes, with pool tiles being the most common.
The most widely used are two sizes of porcelain tiles: 245 x 120 x 8 mm and 50 x 50 x 5 mm. In addition to this standard size, a wide variety of profile tiles are available to form the front edge of an overflow pool. The tile surface itself can be: smooth / for lining /, with a special anti-slip coating / "antislip" / and embossed. The special tiles with anti-slip coating are used for lining the monolithic stairs and handicap ramps in the pools, while the embossed tiles are the tiles placed around the overflow chute edge. Regardless of the type of pool liner, vitrified ceramic or porcelain, the overflow chute rim should be made with the special embossed porcelain tiles and the steps with non-slip tiles. This reduces the risk of slipping and unwanted consequences for pool visitors.
As a material, porcelain does not absorb water, which is a basic requirement for swimming pool linings. This ensures that at temperatures below 0 OS the tiles will not crack and will retain their qualities. The larger tile size / 245 x 120 mm / besides good appearance has another advantage - it reduces the amount of joints, which in swimming pools lined with glass ceramics are many and are a problem area. For this type of tiling we recommend using a specialised epoxy grout, which is more expensive than a regular grout. This avoids frequent renewal of the pool grout because the specialized grout is more durable.
Porcelain tiles have sharp edges. To protect pool visitors from cuts, special tiles with rounded edges should be used to line the horizontal and vertical edges of the pool.
Another advantage of porcelain tiled pools is that they are generally easier to maintain.
The disadvantage of this type of cladding is the high initial investment, but it becomes clear at the stage of pool design. Installation is more difficult, especially for irregularly shaped pools.
In order to meet the needs of our customers in relation to providing greater variety and uniqueness to each pool, "AQUATEC" offers random image printing on porcelain tiles. In contrast to the glass ceramic panels, the image on the tiles has a much higher resolution and contrast. Its pictures are much more beautiful and natural and give a sophisticated look to the pool. They also bring the advantages of porcelain tile in general.
