Best Tile Options for Pool Surrounds: Why Most Options Don't Last
Find out which pool tiles last the longest, which ones fail quickly, and how tiling services in Lakewood CA, support safer, stronger, and longer-lasting pool surrounds.

Choosing the right tile around a pool is a big deal. People often focus only on how the tiles look. But tiles around pools need to do much more than look nice. They must be safe, strong, and easy to walk on when wet.

If the wrong tile is used, it can crack, get slippery, or wear out fast. That means spending more money to fix it. Therefore, many homeowners turn to professionals offering tiling services in Lakewood CA, to make the right choice the first time.

"Not all pretty tiles are safe. A good pool tile must handle water, heat, and heavy use."

Tiles That May Look Good but Break Easily: Call Experts for Tiling Services in Lakewood CA

Some tiles seem perfect at first, but don't last long. They might be shiny or smooth, but they can get slippery or damaged easily.

These tiles often don't work well for pool surrounds:

  • Glossy ceramic tiles – Look shiny but become slippery when wet.

  • Soft natural stones like limestone soak up water and break over time.

  • Thin glass tiles – Break when they get too hot or cold.

At first, they may look nice, but they are not made to handle all the splashing, sun, and chemicals near a pool.

What Makes Pool Areas So Tough on Tiles

Tiles around a pool face harsh conditions every day. They receive water, sunlight, heat, and, on occasion, chemicals such as chlorine. These items wear tiles down faster than in a bathroom or kitchen.

Here's what affects pool tiles:

  • Sunlight also makes them fade or crack.

  • Chlorine and salt wear down the tile's finish.

  • Rain and cold weather can make them expand or break.

  • Constant water can also lead to mold or damage if tiles absorb moisture.

So, tiles need to be strong and made for outdoor use.

Callout Box: What Experts Look For

"Good pool tiles don't slip, don't break, and handle all types of weather. Design matters, but safety comes first."

The Best Pool Tiles That Can Last for Years

Now let's look at the tiles that stay strong around pools. These kinds not only survive longer, but they also keep people safe.

Here are some of the best choices:

  • Porcelain Tiles – Strong, don't absorb much water, and last long.

  • Textured Natural Stone (like travertine) – Natural look and less slippery.

  • Quarry Tiles – They are not shiny, are very tough, and don't get slippery.

  • Concrete-look Tiles – Look like stone but are stronger and easier to clean.

Experts providing tiling services in Lakewood CA, often suggest porcelain because it's strong, looks good, and comes in many styles.

Finding the Balance Between Style and Safety

It's great to have a pool area that looks beautiful. But if the tiles are slippery, it can be dangerous. Luckily, many safe tiles now also come in stylish designs.

Moreover, here are simple tips for picking stylish and safe tiles:

  • Use soft colors—they stay cooler in the sun.

  • Pick tiles with a matte finish for better grip.

  • Add matching border tiles for a neat look.

So, it's easy to stay safe and make the pool area look great.

Why Cheaper Tiles Can Be a Problem

Cheap tiles might seem like a smart buy, but often cause trouble later. A tile that works well inside the house may not work outside.

So, here's why cheaper tiles fail:

  • They crack when the ground moves.

  • Glue doesn't stick well when wet.

  • They fade or peel in the sun and pool chemicals.

Ultimately, using low-quality tiles also means spending more to fix or replace them.

How Pool Tiles Compare

Tile Type

Durability

Slip Resistance

Maintenance

Lifespan

Glossy Ceramic

Low

Very Low

High

2–3 yrs

Porcelain

High

Medium-High

Low

10+ yrs

Natural Stoneal (sealed)

Medium-High

High

Medium

8–10 yrs

Glass (Textured)

Medium

Medium

High

5–7 yrs

Quarry

High

High

Low

10+ yrs

This chart also makes it easy to compare options and pick the one that fits best.

Why Good Installation Matters So Much

Even the best tile won't last if it's not installed correctly. Pool tile installation isn't like putting tiles in a kitchen. The ground might move, and water can get under the tile if not properly sealed.

Bad installation can also lead to:

  • Loose tiles

  • Cracks or bumps

  • Water leaks

So, it's smart to work with professionals. Many people choose tiling services in Lakewood CA to ensure everything is done correctly from the start.

What to Look for to Stay Safe

Pool areas can get very slippery. That's why safety should always come first when choosing tiles. You want everyone to walk safely, especially kids and older adults.

Safe tiles usually have:

  • A rough surface or tiny patterns

  • High slip ratings (look for R11 or more)

  • Soft or rounded edges near the pool

Edge-smooth but not sharp tiles help prevent injury and make the area feel more finished.

Why Picking the Wrong Tile Gets Expensive

Tiles that break or crack aren't just annoying—they also cost money. Many homeowners spend more on repairs than they would have by picking better tiles at the start.

Hidden costs can include:

  • Paying for someone to reinstall broken tiles

  • Fixing water damage below the tile

  • Replacing faded or worn surfaces

Spending more at the beginning saves time, stress, and money later.

Why Choosing the Right Pool Tile Matters

Pool tiles go through a lot every single day. Sun, water, people, and chemicals all wear them down. Not every tile can take that kind of stress. That's why professionals suggest using tiles, especially for outdoor and wet places.

Professionals for tiling services in Lakewood CA, know which materials hold up the best. They also make sure the job is done safely and correctly.

At Villanueva H Construction, they help homeowners choose the right tiles and install them with care. They focus on strong, safe, and beautiful pool surrounds that last a long time and stay easy to use. Their work helps families enjoy their pools without worry, now and in the future.


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