A backyard pool is typically surrounded by a pool deck, and the surface covering you choose matters — both for aesthetics and safety. Tile is one of the most popular options, but with so many types available, knowing what to look for makes all the difference.
Here's everything you need to know before choosing the right tile for your pool deck.
Why Choose Tile for Your Pool Deck?
Tile is a top choice for pool landscaping for good reason. It's solid, wear-resistant, and budget-friendly. Easy to clean, rot-proof, and unaffected by mold or humidity — unlike wooden pool decks. It also comes in a stunning variety of colors, textures, and finishes.
That said, tile does have a few drawbacks. Ceramic absorbs the surrounding temperature quickly — it can get very hot in summer and cold in winter. It's also hard underfoot, making it less comfortable to sit on directly.
How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Pool Deck
The market is full of outdoor tile options — here are the key criteria to guide your decision.
Key Selection Criteria
Safety Standards
Always choose tile that meets current outdoor installation safety standards. Look for a non-slip rating that covers both wet barefoot and wet shod conditions — essential around a pool.
Also check the UPEC classification, which indicates resistance to abrasion, wear, indentation, water, and chemicals. If you live in a region with cold winters, make sure your tile is frost-resistant too.
Size and Budget
Large format tiles (24x24 inches) are very on-trend right now — they minimize grout lines and give a clean, modern look. Standard sizes (8x8 or 12x12 inches) offer more layout flexibility. Tile is available at a wide range of price points, making it accessible for most budgets — unlike, for example, a mobile sliding deck, which tends to be significantly more expensive per square foot.
Aesthetic Style
One of tile's greatest strengths is its sheer variety of looks. From rustic and natural to sleek and contemporary, there's something for every taste. Look for stone-look, wood-look, or concrete-look tiles depending on the vibe you want to create around your pool.
The Main Tile Materials
Porcelain Stoneware
A longtime favorite, porcelain stoneware is known for its exceptional durability. Made from minerals like quartz, silica, kaolin, and feldspar, it's built to last.
- Pros: Resists thermal shock and cracking, doesn't stain easily, mimics the look of concrete, stone, or wood beautifully, easy to maintain, and great value for money.
- Cons: Can feel rough underfoot, and may be slippery if not specifically rated non-slip. Lower-quality versions can be harder to maintain.
Ceramic Tile
Made from wet clay mixed with natural elements like sand, quartz, and feldspar, ceramic tile is a classic poolside choice.
- Pros: Easy to clean, water and stain-resistant, durable, and resistant to dust, pet hair, and pollen — a great option for allergy-sensitive households.
- Cons: Extremely hard underfoot and can get very hot or cold depending on the season. Also tends to be on the heavier side.
Concrete / Cement Tile
Making a strong comeback thanks to its blend of style and practicality, cement tile is a favorite for modern outdoor spaces.
- Pros: Smooth and comfortable to the touch, unique and original, available in a wide range of colors, and combines durability with great design.
- Cons: Higher price point due to its artisanal production and the skilled craftsmanship required.
Glass Tile
Made from fused glass granules and coloring pigments, glass tile is body-tinted for a beautiful translucent, luminous effect.
- Pros: Highly resistant to water, acid, stains, and chemicals. Easy to clean with soap and water. Available in a stunning range of shades and finishes.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than other options — though the quality and longevity justify the investment.
Natural Stone Tile
An authentic and timeless choice, natural stone slabs bring exceptional character to any pool area — and can actually increase your property value.
- Pros: Wide range of colors and sizes, each piece is unique and can be custom-cut. Gets more beautiful with age, even under sun and weather exposure.
- Cons: Maintenance can be demanding, the price is at the higher end, and it's quite heavy to install.
Reconstituted Stone Tile
A modern and practical alternative to natural stone, reconstituted stone is designed for easy installation and accessibility.
- Pros: Easy to cut, transport, and install. Simple to maintain and very affordable.
- Cons: Quality can vary, and it doesn't quite match the aesthetic appeal of genuine natural stone.
Terracotta Tile
Made from clay and sand, terracotta tile brings a warm, Mediterranean feel to any outdoor space.
- Pros: Beautiful and inviting aesthetic, eco-friendly, naturally non-slip, very durable, and available in several colors and shapes.
- Cons: Porous by nature — needs to be treated with a waterproofing agent to protect against staining.
Pool Deck Tile Ideas and Inspiration
Not sure which look to go for? Here are some images to spark your imagination and help you visualize the possibilities for your own pool deck.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect tile for your pool surround. And if you'd like to add a fun, original touch to your outdoor space, browse our inflatable float collection:
FAQ: Pool Terrace Tiling
What tiles should I choose for a pool surround?
For a pool surround, choose anti-slip outdoor tiles rated R11 minimum (R12 for heavily splashed areas). Glazed or unglazed porcelain stoneware is most suitable. Avoid polished marble or travertine tiles, which are very slippery when wet. Light colours (off-white, beige, light grey) are preferable to avoid overheating in the sun.
Do I need special grout for pool tiles?
Yes. Use epoxy grout for submerged areas (lower surround, steps, gutters): waterproof, resistant to chlorine and algae. For the dry poolside, waterproof cement grout is sufficient, but epoxy is recommended for longevity. Avoid standard cement grout which crumbles quickly with chlorinated water.
How do I lay tiles around a pool in summer?
Avoid tiling in high heat (above 30°C) or in direct sunlight: the adhesive dries too fast and adhesion is poor. Work early in the morning or on overcast days. Use exterior tile adhesive for large formats (C2S1 or C2S2 per EN 12004 standard) and leave expansion joints every 3 metres.
How do I clean and maintain a pool terrace?
Clean tiles regularly with a neutral cleaner (pH 7) to remove sunscreen residue and limescale deposits. For stubborn stains, use an alkaline degreaser or diluted white vinegar (1:5). A low-flow pressure washer (below 80 bar) can be used once a season. Apply a joint sealant after the annual clean.
What tiles are best for a pool with young children?
For a pool with young children, choose large-format tiles (30×30 cm or larger) to reduce grout lines (trip hazards), with R12 grip and rounded edges (no sharp edges). Porcelain stoneware tiles in wood or natural stone imitation offer a good balance between aesthetics and safety.
