Creating a luxurious pool area is about blending functionality, safety, and aesthetics into a cohesive design. One of the key decisions in achieving this blend is choosing the right tiles to surround your pool. For example, our porcelain tiles are ideal for pool areas due to their durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Made from high-density, non-porous materials, they resist water absorption, and are a great non-slip option. These tiles come in slip-resistant finishes As the leading pool builders in Brisbane, Environ Pools has extensive experience in designing luxury pools that not only promise an oasis of relaxation but also exude elegance and style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the various options for pool tiles, helping you make an informed decision that enhances the beauty and value of your pool area.
The Current Pool Paver Heavyweights – Choosing the Right Option for Your Home
Choosing the right pavers for your home involves considering not only the aesthetic appeal but also how they harmonise with the overall style and architecture of your house. While modern materials and designs may be popular choices, it’s essential to recognise that some older styles can offer a unique charm and authenticity, particularly when paired with older houses or contemporary designs like mid-century modern and organic modern. These styles emphasise warmth, texture, and a lived-in environment, in contrast to the sleek lines and minimalistic approach of modernism.
Contemporary pavers have become integral elements in the design of contemporary homes, elevating outdoor living spaces with their distinctive qualities and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of modern living. Vintage pavers such as brick or natural stone exude a timeless charm and complement older houses or organic modern designs, contemporary pavers offer distinct advantages that shouldn’t be overlooked. Contemporary pavers, with their sleek lines, minimalist designs, and innovative materials like porcelain or concrete, bring a sense of modernity and sophistication to outdoor spaces. They offer clean, crisp aesthetics that seamlessly integrate with contemporary architectural styles, such as mid-century modern or minimalism, creating a cohesive and polished look. Additionally, contemporary pavers often come with advanced features like enhanced durability, stain resistance, and low maintenance, providing practical benefits for busy homeowners
The Up and Coming Stars – Contemporary Pool Tiles
Terrazzo
Terrazzo pool tiles offer a blend of durability, aesthetics, and practicality, making them an excellent choice for pool surrounds. Composed of a mixture of marble, quartz, granite, or glass chips set in concrete or resin, these tiles boast exceptional strength and resilience against pool chemicals, sunlight, and water exposure. Their non-porous nature prevents water absorption, reducing the risk of cracking or staining over time. Additionally, terrazzo tiles come in a wide array of colours and patterns, allowing pool owners to customise their pool surroundings to match their desired aesthetic, still the stunning exposed chips look has been utilised in high-end establishments worldwide. Dating back to the times of the Ancient Romans, this material has a longer trend life than you may think. With contemporary designs like mid-century modern and minimalist designs utilising the unique appearance of terrazzo, these tiles are perfect for people wanting a trendy or contemporary space. Pool owners should consider surrounding their pools with terrazzo tiles for several reasons. Firstly, their durability ensures long-term performance, minimising maintenance and replacement costs. Secondly, they can have a slip-resistant finish applied to them which enhances safety, reducing the risk of accidents around the pool area. Lastly, their aesthetic versatility enables pool owners to create visually stunning designs, elevating the overall appeal and ambience of their outdoor space. Whether for residential or commercial pools, terrazzo tiles offer a combination of practicality, style, and longevity that make them a standout choice for pool surrounds.
Travertine
Travertine stone tiles have punctuated modern pool designs for the past decade or so and is showing no sign of falling out of favour. Travertine tiles offer a timeless and luxurious option for pool surrounds, blending natural beauty with durability. These rugged stone tiles boast unique textures and earthy tones, creating an elegant and sophisticated look around the pool area. Its natural heat resistance ensures comfortable walking even under the scorching sun, making it a practical choice for pool surrounds in hot climates. Additionally, travertine’s porous surface allows for better water drainage, reducing the risk of puddles and slippery surfaces. Pool owners should consider surrounding their pools with travertine tiles for several compelling reasons. Firstly, their durability and resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear make them ideal for high-traffic areas like pool decks. Secondly, their natural variation in colour and texture adds character and visual interest to the pool surroundings, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the outdoor space. Lastly, travertine’s ability to stay cool underfoot, even in intense sunlight, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable poolside experience for swimmers and loungers alike. In summary, travertine tiles offer a harmonious blend of practicality, elegance, and natural beauty, making them a top choice for discerning pool owners seeking both style and functionality.
Limestone
Limestone pool pavers have been an Australian favourite for quite awhile now. Unlike the more robust, golden colour found in travertine, limestone lets the pool’s water do the talking and offers a more subtle, smooth finish on your pools paving. Limestone tiles present a sophisticated and versatile option for pool surrounds, characterised by their natural charm and enduring strength. Originating from sedimentary rock, limestone tiles exhibit a classic yet contemporary appearance with subtle variations in colour and texture, adding a touch of refinement to any pool area. Their inherent durability enables them to withstand the rigours of outdoor use, including exposure to water, sunlight, and pool chemicals, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance. Furthermore, limestone’s non-slip surface provides enhanced safety for poolside activities, reducing the risk of slips and falls even when wet.
The Classics – Have Been Here For Years and Aren’t Going Anywhere
Terracotta
Terracotta tiles for pool paving and coping evoke a vintage, traditional aesthetic that adds charm and character to any pool area. Originating from fired clay, terracotta tiles boast warm earthy tones and a distinctive rustic texture, reminiscent of old-world European villas and Mediterranean landscapes. Their timeless appeal lies in their natural beauty and simplicity, offering a classic backdrop that complements traditional architectural styles and lush garden settings. Terracotta tiles exude a sense of warmth and authenticity, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and leisure by the poolside.
Loose Stone
Loose stone pavers offer a rustic and natural aesthetic for pool surrounds, reminiscent of countryside estates and rustic retreats. These pavers are typically made from natural stones such as flagstone, slate, or granite, each with its own unique texture, colour variations, and irregular shapes. The loose arrangement of these stones creates an organic and charming look that blends seamlessly with natural landscapes and traditional architecture, evoking a sense of rustic elegance and tranquillity. Their irregular surface adds to the visual interest and authenticity, giving the pool area a timeless and inviting atmosphere that feels connected to nature.
Sandstone
Sandstone pavers for pool surrounds enjoyed a prominent spot in design trends roughly a decade ago, basking in the limelight for their classic appeal and earthy charm. With its natural variations in colour and texture, sandstone adds a touch of timeless elegance to outdoor spaces, evoking a sense of warmth and tranquillity. Despite being somewhat less prevalent in current trends, sandstone’s versatility and durability make it a reliable option for pool owners looking to create a traditional and inviting atmosphere. Thanks to its durability, homes and hotels that paved their pool area with sandstone look as good today as when they were built.
Key Considerations for Choosing Pool Tiles
Selecting the right tiles for the surround of your pool is a crucial decision that affects not only the aesthetics of your luxury pool in Brisbane but also its safety, maintenance, and longevity. As you contemplate the vast array of options available, it’s important to factor in several key considerations that will ensure your choice enhances the beauty and functionality of your pool area. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Safety: Prioritising Non-Slip Surfaces
The safety of those using the pool should always be the top priority. Slippery pool surrounds can pose a significant risk, especially in areas that frequently get wet. Look for tiles that offer non-slip surfaces to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries around the pool area. Tiles with textured surfaces or those specifically designed with grip-enhancing features can provide additional safety underfoot, ensuring that fun by the pool remains safe for everyone, from children playing to adults relaxing by the water’s edge.
Climate Compatibility: Withstanding Brisbane’s Weather
Brisbane’s climate, characterised by hot summers and periods of stormy weather, demands that outdoor materials be chosen with care. The tiles you select should be able to withstand the rigours of the local climate without deteriorating prematurely. This means considering tiles that are resistant to fading from UV exposure, can handle the heat without becoming uncomfortably hot to walk on, and are durable enough to resist damage from heavy rains and potential hail. Materials that can weather Brisbane’s unique climate conditions will ensure your pool area remains timeless and functional for years to come.
Maintenance: Balancing Beauty and Upkeep
While aesthetics are important, the maintenance required to keep pool tiles looking their best is a practical concern that cannot be overlooked. Some tile materials may look stunning but require regular sealing, cleaning, or other maintenance to maintain their appearance and prevent damage. Consider how much time and effort you are willing to invest in upkeep. Porcelain and ceramic tiles, for example, generally offer easier maintenance and cleaning compared to natural stone. Choosing a tile that balances beauty with manageable maintenance requirements will ensure your pool area remains an inviting and stress-free oasis.
Aesthetic Harmony: Complementing Your Pool and Landscape
The tiles you choose should seamlessly integrate with the design of your pool and the surrounding landscape to create a cohesive and harmonious outdoor living space. Whether you prefer a natural, organic look or a sleek, contemporary style, the colour, texture, and material of your tiles can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of your pool area. Consider how the tiles will look in different lighting conditions throughout the day and how they will complement the other design elements in your backyard. A well-chosen tile can elevate the luxury and appeal of your Brisbane pool, making it a focal point of your outdoor space.
Understanding Your Options
The choice of tiles around your pool impacts not just the pool’s look but also its feel and safety features. The right tiles can transform your outdoor space into a stunning haven for family and friends to enjoy. Here are some popular options for pool tiles in Brisbane:
Natural Stone Tiles
Elegance Meets Nature
Natural stone tiles, such as travertine, limestone, or slate, offer timeless beauty. Their natural textures and colours can complement any landscape, providing a seamless transition from pool to garden.
Pros:
- Durability and longevity.
- Unique textures and patterns.
- Non-slip surfaces for enhanced safety.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to other materials.
- Requires sealing to prevent staining and water absorption.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
Versatility in Design
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular for their wide range of colours, patterns, and sizes. Porcelain tiles, in particular, are known for their durability and low water absorption rate, making them ideal for pool surrounds.
Pros:
- Extensive design options to match any aesthetic.
- Low maintenance and easy to clean.
- Resistant to chemicals and salt.
Cons:
- Can be slippery if not chosen with a textured surface.
- Some ceramic tiles may not be as durable as porcelain.
Composite Decking
Innovative and Eco-friendly
Composite decking is a relatively new option for pool surrounds, made from a mixture of wood fibres and recycled plastics. It’s designed to look like wood but offers greater durability and less maintenance.
Pros:
- Resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
- Doesn’t require staining or sealing.
- Eco-friendly choice with recycled materials.
Cons:
- Higher initial cost than traditional wood decking.
- Can become slippery when wet without proper texture.
Choosing the right pool tiles is crucial, but so is selecting the right pool builders in Brisbane. At Environ Pools, we specialise in creating luxury pools that reflect the unique style and preferences of each homeowner. Our expertise extends beyond the pool itself to encompass the entire pool area, ensuring a harmonious and stunning outdoor space. Our long-held relationship with Brisbane tile companies means you get the peace of mind knowing your pool area will be the pool of your dreams.
- Expert Guidance: Our team provides professional advice on selecting the best tiles to complement your luxury pool and outdoor space.
- Quality Assurance: We source only the highest quality materials to ensure your pool area not only looks beautiful but withstands the test of time.
- Comprehensive Service: From design to installation, we offer a seamless service ensuring your pool area is everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
We Want To Help!
Your pool surround plays a crucial role in the overall look and feel of your outdoor space. With the right tiles, you can create an inviting, safe, and stylish area that enhances the enjoyment of your luxury pool in Brisbane. Whether you prefer the natural elegance of stone, the versatility of ceramic and porcelain, the modern appeal of concrete pavers, or the eco-friendly option of composite decking, Environ Pools is here to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to embark on the journey to your perfect poolside retreat.
