Porcelain Tiles / Pavers Around Pool - Pros & Cons

The material used to surround your pool is an important landscaping element that must be chosen while you are building or renovating your pool. There are a variety of materials that can be used for this, each with its own unique appearance and functionality.

In this article, we will talk about porcelain tiles around pools, what these tiles are made from, their benefits and drawbacks, and what landscape themes they pair best with.

What Are Porcelain Tiles Made From?

Glazed porcelain is the most durable material used to create tiles. Tiles are also commonly composed of ceramic, but this material is inferior to porcelain in many ways.

Porcelain pool coping is preferable because it is tougher, denser, and easier to maintain than ceramic. It is also considered to have a more luxurious appearance in many cases. The downside is that it is also more expensive.

What Are The Benefits & Drawbacks Of Porcelain Tiles?

Pros

Aesthetic

Porcelain pavers around a pool are available in an almost infinite variety of designs, ranging from mosaic patterns, wood-look styles, and imitation marble.

With this wide variety of applications, you can likely find a style of porcelain tile that fits nicely with whatever theme you have envisioned for your pool.

Easy Maintenance

Porcelain tiles are very easy to clean. Because tiles for poolside use have added grip, they only need to be power-washed once or twice a year to maintain the best appearance.

Long-Lasting

The sturdiness of porcelain tiles means that your pool’s coping will be well-protected against scratches and staining. Because this material is extremely dense and resilient, it resists water more easily than ceramic and is less prone to damage.

Cons

Slippery

Porcelain tiles are available for a wide variety of uses. Therefore, not all porcelain tiles are non-slip enough to safely use as poolside coping. When shopping for poolside porcelain tiles, always look for ones with a grip rating of P4 or P5 (the equivalent of R10 and R11).

Expensive

Porcelain tiles are one of the most expensive options to use as pool coping. Complete installation tends to cost upwards of $175 per square metre.

Best Design Pairings For Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles pair great with many pool landscaping designs because of the wide selection of colours and styles that are available. However, most often, porcelain tiles are best suited for modern landscapes with minimalist design elements when selecting a marble-look glaze.

Conclusion

Porcelain tiles are a luxurious choice for pool surrounds. While this option is much more expensive than other options, it is extremely versatile, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing even when compared to other premium options like stamped concrete.

Do you have any unanswered questions about using porcelain tiles around your pool? Let us know, we’ll do our best to help you out!