What’s the Difference Between High End and Low End Tiles?

Subtle details are always said to be what brings a space together. The same applies to your pool and pool deck tiles. There is enough variety out there for you to take any route you want. When it comes to pool tiling, anything you can imagine can become reality, whether you want chic and simplistic stone tiling or a giant whale mosaic on the bottom of your pool. It’s important to remember, however, there are more to tiles than just how they look. Each different choice of tile varies in price, durability and versatility. Here’s what we have to say about your tile options:

Ceramic & Porcelain Tiles

The least expensive, most common and most versatile of all tiles are ceramic and porcelain. They are offered in many different sizes, textures and colors. You should take a look at these first to see if they’re a good fit, even if they fall on the lower end of your want list. Ceramic and textured porcelain can mesh nicely with your pool deck. The only downside of ceramic tiles is that they are less durable than stone, and they come in limited colors. Porcelain, on the other hand, comes in many different colors and is the preferred pool accent. If you want a super sharp look, glazed porcelain is a great finish and is perfect for incorporating mosaics on the interior of your pool.

Stone Tiles

Are you looking for something simple, yet incredibly sharp? Stone tiling is the way to go. You may not have the artistic freedom to create some intricate arrangement with stone, but you really don’t need to do all that. Minimalism is in, and stone by itself has a very clean look. You don’t need to add anything else for it to look great. Another benefit is its durability. Jacksonville weather can be pretty harsh, but stone tiles on your pool decking will withstand the test of time. The material is great for holding in heat, and it also proves to be extremely slip resistant compared to other options. Since these tend to be more pricey than ceramic and porcelain, stone tiles rank medium to high end depending on what you are using them for.

Glass Tiles

Maybe all you want is for your guests to be immediately captivated by your pool deck. You want their eyes to be transfixed on the shimmering glory that is your luxurious pool. If this is your goal then you’ll want to focus on glass tiling. It’s arguably the most pleasing to look at, and glass tiles come in virtually any color. They have incredible depth and they radiate when touched by light. You can even change the look of the watercolor simply by the color of glass tiles. For example, cover your pool interior with chocolate-colored glass tiles and the water will appear to have a greenish tint. Glass tiles can bring a powerful presence to your pool, turning it into a statement of beauty and luxury. Naturally, if you want this kind of beauty you’ll have to pay for it. It’s important to note that these tiles are high-end and expensive, but they lack the durability and versatility of other options, such as stone and ceramic tiles.  

Custom Tiles

Custom tiles can be an exotic display of elegance. If you are looking to have something truly unlike anything else, there are places you can go to get custom mosaics and custom tiles. Custom tiles and mosaics will always stand out and be a centerpiece of attention, so surround them with less flashy tiles that will compliment them well.

Now that you’re an expert on pool tiles, go out there and make your dream pool a reality! Don’t worry, the truth is the best-looking pool probably isn’t the most expensive. The key is to use all the resources you have at your disposal. If you want your pool to look balanced, you’re going to have to use multiple materials to complete your look. Some might be cheap and some might be a little more expensive. What you want might differ and change over time, but your pool layout should always flow, from your patio to your pool deck to the pool itself. Some materials like stone and ceramics are better suited for your pool deck and exterior, while materials like glass and porcelain work best for the interior of your pool. If you have questions about what works best for your pool, don’t hesitate to ask a professional.