Pool Tiles

Glass mosaic tiles are the most popular choice for swimming pool interiors. They’re non-porous, hold up to constant chlorine and chemical exposure, and reflect light beautifully through the water.

For pool surrounds, porcelain tiles and travertine are the top picks, offering slip-resistant surfaces and real longevity in harsh conditions. Marble-look and granite finishes are also available for a more stylish, high-end pool area.

No. Most mesh-backed mosaics are specifically designed for indoor use, not pools. Underwater, the mesh breaks down and tiles start popping off within a year or two. For pool use, always choose glass mosaics manufactured with polyurethane cord backing. The cord allows adhesive to cover more of the tile surface, locking everything in place for the long haul. All of TFO’s Spanish glass pool mosaics use polyurethane cord or PVC dot mounting for exactly this reason.

Both work well and it comes down to budget and the look you want. A fully tiled pool gives you a seamless, high-end finish with full colour control across the pool walls and floor. Glass mosaics across the entire interior make the water colour richer and more consistent. Tiling just the waterline is more budget-friendly and still transforms the appearance of the pool.

Most homeowners start with waterline tiles and tile the surrounds, which delivers the biggest visual impact for the spend.

Pool tiles are built for direct, constant contact with water and pool chemicals. Outdoor tiles are built for the area around the pool, plus patios, walkways, and other external spaces.

If you’re tiling inside the pool or at the waterline, you need pool-specific tiles like glass mosaics or ceramic waterline tiles.

For the surrounds, you can use pool surround tiles or our outdoor range, both of which include slip-rated porcelain and natural stone suitable for any outdoor environment.

For wet areas around a pool, look for P4 or P5-rated tiles. These offer proven slip resistance in practical wet conditions, which is critical for safety around water. R11 or higher is another common rating system. Always check the rating before buying tiles for pool surrounds and steps.

Glass mosaics at TFO range from $33 to $108 per square metre, with most of the range sitting between $38 and $75. Porcelain pool surround tiles start from $33 per square metre. Travertine pavers start from around $50. Because we import directly from the manufacturer, our prices sit well below typical retail.

Properly installed pool tiles can last 20 years or more. Glass mosaics with polyurethane cord backing hold up to decades of submersion without fading or lifting, and porcelain surround tiles are equally long-lasting. With easy maintenance and balanced water chemistry, your pool tiles will stay looking fresh for the life of the pool.

We offer full-sized samples at cost rather than free miniature swatches. A full-sized tile lets you see the actual colour in your outdoor light, feel the surface texture, and hold it next to your existing coping or paving. That tells you far more than a small swatch ever could. Visit our Smithfield or Alexandria showrooms to pick up samples, or order them online.