Choosing The Right Pool Tile Materials

Before you choose a pool tile, read this informative article.

Published

on

By

Pool industry professionals certainly came away excited about all of the new and innovative products and materials they saw at the recent Coverings event in Orlando, Fl. However, when selecting which pool tile materials to use it is vital to learn the differences between the US ANSI standards and the EU ISO standards which are not the same. Consequently, ANSI standards are more stringent.

It’s important not to buy into the sales presentation and perform your due diligence before choosing a product. Using materials that are not suitable for the application could potentially expose you to liability should there be a failure.

ANSI A137-2017 are the standards for tile performance (A137.1 Ceramic Tiles & A137.2 Glass Tiles). Below are the minimum performance characteristics for ceramic tiles for submerged aquatic applications, the applicable test methods, and the minimum standards required.

One important factor to consider, porcelain tiles are 50% feldspar and are fired at much higher temperatures than regular ceramic tiles. This makes them much harder and denser than regular ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are a sub-group of the broader ceramic tile group, to which these standards apply.

There are two types: Static (SCOF) and Dynamic (DCOF). COF is the ratio of forces necessary to initiate sliding between two surfaces. The outdated ASTM C1028 static test measured the SCOF.

DCOF is the ratio of the force necessary to maintain sliding between two surfaces. The higher the DCOF, the more slip resistant the surface. This may not be of any concern underwater, but of grave concern on a pool deck or locker room floor. Industry standards generally accept ≥0.42 DCOF for commercial floor applications. Wet/dry locations, like aquatic locker rooms or moveable pool floors, may require ≥0.60 DCOF.

Tiles are weighed dry and again after soaking in water. The weight gain determines the percentage of absorption. Tiles are rated as follows:

Impervious: Tiles exhibiting 0.5% or less.

Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 0.5%, but not more than 3.0%.

Semi-Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 3.0%, but not more than 7.0%.

Non-Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 7.0%.

Directly related to water absorption. You can see that any absorbed water will be detrimental in a freeze condition – the expansion of freezing water will crack the tiles. Porcelain tile, by definition has a water absorption of less than 0.5%, making it frost proof as well. For aquatic applications we want impervious pool tile materials.

The hardness of a tile’s surface will determine how it wears. The surface is scratched and a MOH’s hardness rating assigned. MOH’s scale 1- Talc (softest) to 10 Diamond (hardest). A hardness of 5 is suitable for residential flooring. A hardness of 7 or greater is usually recommended for commercial or outdoor applications.

Ceramic floor tiles must be able to support the loads exerted upon them. The test applies a force in pounds, to an unsupported tile until it breaks. Your selection should be based upon the anticipated maximum loads. Properly installed tiles, with a supporting setting bed that is free of voids, will be able to support significantly greater loads. These breaking values are for comparison purposes.

In this test, sample tiles are placed in various chemical baths for 24 hours, rinsed and examined for surface damage. For aquatic venues, it is desired to have the greatest level of chemical resistance.

This is a purely a cosmetic evaluation as to the consistency of the tile shades within a production lot.

Monochromatic (V0) – Very uniform, monochromatic color.

Low (V1) – Consistent color within each tile and from tile to tile.

Medium (V2) – Color variation within each tile.

High (V3) – Variation from tile to tile & within each tile.

Random (V4) – Considerable variation from tile to tile.

The durability of the glazed surface is examined following the abrasion testing. The performance classifications and recommended uses are listed below:

CLASS 0 – Not recommended for use on floors.

CLASS 1 – (Light Residential) Light Traffic – Residential floor coverings in areas subject to soft-soled footwear or normal footwear traffic, without scratching dirt (i.e. domestic bathrooms and bedrooms without exterior access).

CLASS 2 (Residential) Medium to Light Traffic – Residential floor coverings in areas subject to soft-soled footwear or normal footwear traffic with small amounts of scratching dirt (i.e. rooms in the living areas of homes except kitchens, entrances and other areas that may be subjected to high usage).

CLASS 3 (Heavy Residential or Light Commercial) Medium to Heavy Traffic – Residential or light commercial may withstand normal footwear and regular traffic, with some dirt and/or other abrasives present in limited quantities. Tile in this class may be used in light commercial installations with limited foot traffic and with no direct access to the outside. Examples may include residential kitchens and hallways with limited traffic from the outside.

CLASS 4 (Commercial) Heavy Traffic – Residential and commercial floor coverings subjected to considerable traffic and scratching dirt (i.e. entrances, workrooms, inns, exhibition halls, and sales rooms, as well as other rooms in public and private buildings). Floors should be adequately protected against scratching dirt at the entrances to buildings by either floor mats or some other footwear cleaning device.

CLASS 5 (Heavy Commercial) Heavy Traffic – Heavy commercial floor coverings subject to heavy traffic with very abrasive soil.

This test is intended to determine the resistance to staining of tile surfaces. Class A – provides maximum stain resistance

While not a part of the ANSI A137.1 standard, in submerged applications, the TCNA standards require that 95% of the back of the tile be in contact with the thinset. Care must be taken when choosing a porcelain tile for an aquatic environment, to ensure that the combination of the mesh and glue to not occupy more than 5% of the contact surface. It’s easy to evaluate the mesh, but not the glue. Worse yet, is if the glues soften in water.

To summarize when selecting the best pool tile materials for aquatic applications we would desire the following minimum characteristics:

1. DCOF – not critical in submerged applications, but values of ≥0.42 for flooring, ≥0.60 wet/dry floors.

2. Water Absorption – Impervious, Tiles exhibiting 0.5% or less.

3. FROST RESISTANT – Yes.

4. SCRATCH HARDNESS – MOH’s 6-7.

5. BREAKING STRENGTH – Exceed PSI loads.

6. CHEMICAL RESISTANCE – Chemical resistant.

7. SHADE VARIATIONS – purely cosmetic.

8. ABRASION RESISTANCE – Class 3-5.

9. STAIN RESISTANCE – Class A.

10. MOUNTING METHOD – free of glue and mesh backing.

Below are the equivalent US / ISO European standards:

Pencil Jets Create a Dramatic Water Feature in The Pool

Planning an Outdoor Kitchen For Cooking & Entertaining

Paolo Benedetti is the President of Aquatic Technology and better known on social media as the "Swimming Pool Expert Witness". Paolo is an instructor at Watershape University and has authored a myriad of articles on the finer points of pool construction and design. He is a pioneer in the field of aquatic design, constantly pushing the envelope, creating a number of firsts that spawned new trends in the industry.

Coverings Announces Availability of On-Demand Content from Coverings 2023

Jimmy Reed on Preventing Pool Tile Failures

ONIX Shows New Glass Mosaics Inspired by Nature at COVERINGS Tradeshow

This Pool Contractor Is Taking Her Skills To The Next Level

Annual Rock Star Award Winners Announced for Coverings 2023

Coverings Releases 2023 Exhibitor Product Previews

Published

on

By

For a limited time, Natural Chemistry will offer a beautiful retail display rack for its line of high-end spa water treatment products. With sleek graphics and modern wooden shelving, this retail display rack will enhance any retail store area. Designed for retail operations looking to add a premium line of spa water treatment products, the display rack is available to those purchasing 12 cases of any mix of NC spa product available in the product line, from maintenance and remedy product to balancing and sanitizing products. For more information, contact your local NC Brands District Sales Manager, or email [email protected]

This beautifully designed spa water product line gives retailers a high-end spa water care program with easy-to-understand categories of products that sanitize, balance, maintain and remedy spa water. The clean, upscale look of the product packaging, is visually attractive and highlights relaxation, simplicity and wellness. Created to provide retailers with an easy-to-sell program to spa owners that provides superior results for consumers.

www.naturalchemistry.com

800 753 1233

Ignite the Ambience with Prism Hardscapes & The Outdoor Plus Fire Features

Published

on

By

When it comes to outdoor entertaining, nothing sets the stage for a captivating ambiance like the mesmerizing dance of flames. The allure of fire pits, fire bowls, and the enchanting combination of fire and water features can transform any ordinary gathering into an extraordinary experience. After all, there’s nothing better than cozying up around a fire with your loved ones and making lifelong memories.

Today, we’ll explore how Prism Hardscapes and The Outdoor Plus have become pioneers in the world of outdoor fire features, bringing innovation and sophistication to your outdoor spaces, and ensuring good times for the whole family.

Prism Hardscapes, renowned for its premium fire features, understands the significance of creating an inviting outdoor space. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cozy patio, their wide range of fire pits can be tailored to fit any space and design preference. Here are some features that make Prism Hardscapes stand out:

Prism Hardscapes takes immense pride in crafting their fire pits using high-quality materials which is why they manufacture them using glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC). GFRC is a lighter, stronger concrete that is durable, resistant to weathering, and can withstand extreme temperatures. This material creates a rustic, natural look that’ll be a long-lasting addition to your outdoor entertaining area.

Personalization is key when it comes to elevating your outdoor space. Prism Hardscapes offers various styles, shapes, and colors to choose from, allowing you to pick a fire pit that perfectly complements your existing outdoor decor. From modern and sleek to rustic and traditional, there’s a design to suit every taste. Moreover, Prism Hardscapes hand makes their fire features using a custom patina finishing process, meaning each individual piece is one-of-a-kind!

Looking to warm up your patio area but don’t have a lot of space? Check out one of their smaller models like the Pentola 2 Fire Bowl. Its smooth organic shape fits in nicely with most décor and its 24” diameter makes it the perfect accent for intimate outdoor sitting areas.

Maybe you’re looking for a larger, more inviting centerpiece for your outdoor living space. Consider the Tavola 8 Fire Table. Measuring 32” x 60”, the sleek sharp lines and substantial size creates a tantalizing ambience you and your guests won’t be able to resist.

The Outdoor Plus, another leading brand in the fire feature industry, is dedicated to crafting exceptional fire bowls and fire and water combination features. They have perfected the art of combining elements to create breathtaking focal points in outdoor settings. Here’s what makes The Outdoor Plus stand out:

Fire bowls from The Outdoor Plus are both functional and artistic. Made from premium materials like stainless steel or copper, their fire bowls add an element of sophistication to any space. With many sizes and finishes available, you’re sure to find the perfect fire bowl to suit your style.

Take the Remi Round Fire Bowl with it’s beautiful, hammered copper finish. This striking fire bowl blends traditional and modern style to create the perfect statement piece with some old-world charm. It looks great around pools or outdoor dining areas alike.

The Outdoor Plus has taken fire features to the next level by seamlessly integrating fire and water elements. The beautiful mix of fire and water creates a calming atmosphere that is great for relaxing and having fun. Typically found in high-end resorts worldwide, you can bring some of that same elegance home around your own pool with a few fire and water combination bowls.

Innovative smart control technology allows you to effortlessly manage your fire and water combination features. From adjusting flame height to controlling water flow, you can easily create the desired atmosphere with just a touch of a button.

Now that we’ve explored the exceptional features offered by Prism Hardscapes and The Outdoor Plus, let’s delve into how these fire features can elevate your outdoor living spaces.

The warmth of a fire pit or fire bowl can help you extend the usability of your outdoor space throughout the year. Be it chilly evenings in autumn or mild winter nights, gathering around the fire creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere for you and your guests to relax and make memories.

A well-designed fire feature serves as a natural gathering point for friends and family. They act as stunning focal points that elevate the overall aesthetics of your space, leaving a lasting impression on your guests. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other’s company, the fire pit becomes the heart of your outdoor entertainment area. Both Prism Hardscapes and The Outdoor Plus offer a plethora of design options to complement your outdoor decor.

The sight and sound of running water combined with the warm, dancing lights of fire have a calming effect, creating a tranquil atmosphere and reducing stress. This is especially beneficial during outdoor gatherings, allowing your guests to relax and unwind. Whether you’re relaxing in the hot tub or having after-dinner drinks by the pool, you can’t go wrong.

Ultimately, elevating your outdoor entertaining experience with fire pits, fire bowls, or fire and water combination features can turn your outdoor space into a captivating oasis. The exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and industry-leading technology of Prism Hardscapes and The Outdoor Plus make them the top choices for those seeking to ignite their outdoor ambiance. So, whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or seeking a peaceful retreat, these fire features are sure to make your outdoor entertainment area the envy of all your guests.

Published

on

By

The world of pool cleaning has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with robotic pool cleaners rapidly becoming the preferred choice for pool owners. These advanced machines have revolutionized pool maintenance, offering unparalleled convenience, efficiency, and performance. Among the frontrunners in this innovation race is Maytronics, a company that has been at the forefront of robotic pool cleaner technology for over three decades. With its latest line of cordless cleaners, the Liberty series, Maytronics is leading the charge toward a new era of hassle-free pool cleaning.

Maintaining a clean and pristine pool has always been a priority for pool owners, but it often comes with the hassle of tangled cords, manual labor, and high maintenance costs. Enter the Maytronics Liberty 200 and 300 series robotic pool cleaners, designed to revolutionize pool cleaning and take the burden off pool owners. Let’s explore the innovative features and advantages offered by these cordless wonders.

Say goodbye to the days of dealing with tangled cords and manual pool cleaning. The Dolphin Liberty 300 robotic pool vacuum cleaner features a cordless design that takes the hassle out of pool maintenance. With this cordless freedom, you no longer need to worry about cord management or the limitations of traditional corded pool cleaners. This feature ensures a more convenient and efficient pool cleaning experience.

After completing its cleaning cycle or when the battery is low, the Dolphin robot automatically self-parks at the nearest wall, making it easy for you to retrieve the cleaner. The three LED status indicator lights on the Liberty 300 also provide valuable information about the Dolphin’s battery health, so you can plan your cleaning sessions accordingly.

Simple Inductive Charging

Keeping your pool cleaner charged and ready for action has never been easier. The Liberty 300 comes equipped with Magnetic-Connect, non-corrosive inductive charging. This super easy magnetic connection allows for walk-away charging, eliminating the need for manual plugging and unplugging of the cleaner. Simply guide the Dolphin to the charging station, and the magnetic connection will take care of the rest. The powerful lithium-ion battery ensures you get an impressive 90 minutes of efficient cleaning, guaranteeing a remarkably clean pool every time.

Click-Up Pool Removal

The Click-Up feature is a game-changer when it comes to hassle-free pool cleaner removal. After the Dolphin completes its cleaning cycle, you can use the Click-Up feature to signal the robot to climb the nearest wall, all the way to the waterline. By simply placing the clicker in the water and giving it a shake, you can effortlessly remove the cleaner from the pool. This innovation saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your sparkling clean pool.

Impressive Wall Climbing Capability

The Liberty 300 takes pool cleaning to new heights with its powerful wall climbing capability. While some pool cleaners may struggle to reach and clean the walls, the Liberty 300 excels at this task, ensuring both the pool floor and walls receive a thorough scrub for an ultimate clean. This feature enhances your pool enjoyment, as you can relax knowing that the entire pool surface is being cleaned without any additional effort on your part.

Remarkable Performance and Durability

Maytronics has been a trusted name in the pool cleaning industry for over 35 years, and the Liberty 200 and Liberty 300 series are no exception to their legacy of remarkable performance and durability. With these innovative robotic pool cleaners, pool owners are empowered with hassle-free maintenance solutions. The Dolphin products not only offer outstanding cleaning performance but also lead to significant cost savings in the long run. By reducing the need for manual labor and optimizing energy efficiency, these cleaners allow you to get back to what truly matters – enjoying your pool with family and friends.

The Distinction Between Liberty 200 and 300

While the Liberty 300 is equipped with a wide range of cutting-edge features such as Eco Mode, Click-Up, and Cycle Selector, the Liberty 200 focuses on providing essential pool cleaning without these specific functionalities. However, both models share the hallmark cordless design and impressive wall-climbing capabilities, making them efficient and reliable choices for pool owners.

There’s definitely a lot to love about the Dolphin Liberty. One of the things we liked best about the Liberty is the large filter basket that filters down to 70 microns and has removable Ultra Fine basket panels. It’s pretty lightweight as cordless robotic cleaners go, weighing only 17 pounds. The scrubbers are high quality and the large opening on the bottom makes it easy to catch debris. The charging point on the Liberty is also completely sealed which eliminates a potential failure point.

Ultimately, the Maytronics Liberty 200 and 300 series robotic pool cleaners have raised the bar for pool cleaning technology. With their cordless design, inductive charging, hassle-free removal, and exceptional cleaning performance, these robotic pool cleaners provide an unmatched pool maintenance experience. Say goodbye to the days of manual cleaning and tangled cords, and embrace the future of effortless pool maintenance with the Liberty 200 and 300 series by Maytronics.

Learn more about the Dolphin Liberty Series, and listen to our interview with Peter Basso, Senior Director of Sales for Maytronics on the Pool Magazine podcast.

Homeowner Told By Neighbor To Stop Using His Own Pool

Draining Pool Costs Elderly Woman Her Homeowners Insurance

Italy Warns Tourists to Abide by Pool Rules or Face Ejection

Take a Swim in the Neptune Pool at Hearst Castle for $1,000

America Is Losing Public Pools At An Alarming Rate

Making a Splash with Outdoor Lighting: Past, Present, and Future

Elevate Your Outdoor Entertaining With Fire Features

$2 Billion Dollar Resort & Theme Park Coming to Oklahoma