Choosing the right tiles is a key decision when building or renovating a pool or bathroom in Perth.

Though pool and bathroom tiles might appear similar at first glance, they serve different purposes.

Let’s explore what makes various tiles unique and why certain types work better for specific projects.

Is there a difference between pool tiles and regular tiles?

Professional tilers know that pool tiles are specifically created to handle outdoor wet environments, while bathroom tiles are designed for indoor use with attractive patterns and the ability to resist humid conditions. Here’s a more detailed comparison between the two:

• Durability: Pool tiles are made to withstand UV sunlight exposure, changes in summer-winter temperatures, pool chemicals, and frequent contact. Regular tiles such as those used in bathrooms are not designed for these harsh conditions and can fade, corrode, or crack sooner.
• Water resistance: Pool tiles are coated with a glaze, which creates a non-porous layer preventing them from cracking or fading. Bathroom tiles can withstand a certain degree of water contact but cannot withstand prolonged submersion. The water-resistant rate of pool tiles is less than 0.5%.

• Chemical resistance: Pool tiles must withstand constant exposure to chlorine and other pool chemicals. They also require a C3 slip rating or higher, ensuring a non-slip chemical resistant surface for safety. During manufacture a special layer of glaze is added to make them more resistant.
• Anti-slip: Pool tiles have anti-slip coatings for the safety of those walking on them who might slip when the surface is wet. When picking pool tiles select those designated for wet conditions with a high coefficient of friction that guarantees safety. Standards set by the British Pendulum Test and American National Standards Institute give an idea of how slip-resistant these tiles are. On the other hand, bathroom tiles do not need to meet high slip-resistance standards.
• Material: Textured glazes on pool tiles are rough enough to handle the pressure of foot traffic and water exposure. Whatever the material or finishing, the COF rating must deliver a constant presence of water. Meanwhile, bathroom tiles are not necessarily built to meet high slip-resistance standards when exposed to water
• Longevity: Pool tiles help in safeguarding the pool’s overall structure. Once installed, they must be maintained frequently so they can last for decades. Bathroom tiles often require replacement within a few years.
• Aesthetically appealing: Pool tiles give pools a beautiful visual appeal providing color, shape, and mosaic designs. With tiles, you can decide what creative design your swimming pool takes.
• Cost: Due to the intricate production process of pool tiles, they are generally more expensive than bathroom tiles. However, high-end bathroom tiles are also pricey, usually driven by materials used or brand names.

Unless you work in a pool shop or have experience with pool repairs, it’s often tough to tell them apart.

Classification of tiles

Porcelain tiles

• Durability: Porcelain tiles are strong and accommodate a small amount of water absorption making them resistant to fading and cracking. When fixed, the tiles are fired under high temperatures enhancing their toughness.
• Versatility: Varieties come in multiple finishes, colors, and patterns. They are great for creating customized designs in the pool areas.

Ceramic tiles

• Cost-effective: These popular tiles are renowned for their affordability and durability and are capable of withstanding pool chemicals and UV exposure.
• Longevity: ceramic pool tiles can last over a decade when given proper care.

Glass tiles

• Appealing Design: Glass tiles have a modernistic appearance that is reflective and enhances the appearance of pools when exposed to UV rays and chemicals.
• Flexible designs: the tiles come in multiple colors and sizes including mosaic designs.

Premium glazed vitrified tile

• Prevents Algae and Bacterial Growth: GVT tiles have a special glaze that discourages the growth of algae while simplifying the cleaning process. It can withstand weather changes and damage from frequent exposure to chlorine.

H&R Johnson branded tiles

• Multipurpose: have a scratch-resistant and stain-free surface which is easy to maintain and thus widely used in modern interiors.

Tile installations

Installation of tiles can be on floors, walls, countertops, or in pools. The purpose is to create aesthetically pleasing yet durable finishings. The tiles are measured in precise cuts using special tools and materials for coherence and uniformity at your home or commercial residence.

Pool tiles

• Surface preparations: For surface preparation, ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and free of dust, grease, or loose material. Repair any cracks or uneven areas and create a proper slope for drainage, especially in pools and wet zones. Apply a primer if required, and reinforce corners, seams, and pipe penetrations with waterproof tape or sealant before applying the waterproofing membrane.
• Waterproofing: To waterproof bathroom and pool tiles during installation, start by preparing the substrate and applying a waterproof membrane (liquid or sheet) with reinforced sealing at joints and corners. Use a waterproof thin-set adhesive for tiling, followed by epoxy or sealed cement-based grout. Add a sealer for final curing before it’s exposed to water to give long-term protection from leaks.
• Adhesive Application: To apply this, use a waterproof thin-set mortar designed for wet areas, ensuring strong tile bonding. Apply it evenly with a notched trowel, using the correct notch size for tile thickness, and press tiles firmly into place for full coverage. Back-butter large tiles for extra adhesion, and maintain proper spacing for grout lines to prevent water infiltration.
• Tile placement: The process requires carefully laying the tiles according to a pre-planned pattern. Tools like spacers help in maintaining perfectly aligned grout lines. Clips and other leveling tools are used to prevent bumpy surfaces, then the tiles are left to cure for 2 days.
• Grouting: the gaps in between tiles are filled with a cement or an epoxy-based mixture. This helps make them stable while preventing a buildup of moisture or debris.

Bathroom tiles

• Waterproofing: The best tiles for Perth require waterproofing while focusing on creating a water-resistant barrier that prevents moisture from the underlying structure.
• Adhesives: Tiling the bathrooms utilizes adhesives for creating water-resistant barriers.
• Expertise: Tiling the bathroom needs expertise in installing vapor barriers, waterproofing systems, and ventilation conditions.

FAQs & Challenges

How much does it cost to tile a pool?

The exact cost of a swimming pool tile varies depending on factors like shape, size, material, and the amount you buy. Buying in bulk often reduces prices, as suppliers make good margins from volume sales.

What is the lifespan of pool and bathroom tiles?

Provided there is frequent maintenance, pool tiles can last up to 2 decades before another round of retiling is required. Ensure the tiles in your pool are resistant to UV exposure and chemicals like chlorine. Bathroom tiling is more suited for indoor environments and can remain in good condition for over 25 years. They are also impacted by exposure to steam and cleaning chemicals but to a lesser extent.

Using bathroom tiles around a pool is a costly mistake. Since they lack UV and chemical resistance, they will degrade quickly, leading to frequent repairs or replacements. The quality of the installation also determines if it remains in good shape. Hiring expert Perth pool tilers with extensive experience in tile installations will ensure there are no potential water leaks resulting from poor workmanship

What brings about this confusion?

At first glance, you cannot tell the difference between a pool tile and a bathroom tile. Retailers might not always provide a clear distinction and may try to sell you the wrong item to offload dead stock.

Common Challenges and Fixes

Pool tiles

Climatic conditions degrade the structural integrity of tiles over time. Constant exposure to the summer heat and cool winter results in endless expansion and construction stressing the tile bonds. Among the solutions implemented by experienced Perth pool tilers are:

• Flexible adhesives that expand and contract with temperature changes
• Installation of expansion joints at certain points
• Picking tiles with thermal properties
• Using tiles with consistent water chemistry

Bathroom tiles

Among the common challenges experienced with bathroom tiles are:

• Occurrence of grout from cleaning chemicals
• Poor sealing around fixtures
• Growth of mold in areas that are poorly ventilated
• Water leaks within moving cracks

Why pool tiles outlast bathroom tiles

• Pool tiles are engineered for harsh outdoor conditions. Made from materials like porcelain or C3-rated ceramic.
• Temperature swings (Perth’s summers can hit 40°C).
• Chlorine and saltwater wear and tear.
• UV protection is provided by non-porous glazes.

Conclusion

While the pool and bathroom tiles are flexible, they suit different environments. If you are not experienced in tiles, you can consult to get the best outcome for your pool or bathroom.