Best Mosaic Tile Options for Your Home Swimming Pool

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Searching for the perfect tiling for your swimming pool is no easy task. There are numerous tile options available, ranging from traditional to contemporary styles, as well as the materials to be used. Among the myriad choices available, mosaic tiles remain a reliable and timeless option. Small yet versatile, a mosaic tile can surely give your home swimming pool a stunning and elegant look.

This tile is also available in a variety of materials and styles to complement any interior design you have (or plan to have) at home. Sounds interesting? Keep on reading as we delve deeper into everything you need to know about this trendy home decoration, including the best models available for your home.

What is a Mosaic Tile and Why Should You Use It

A mosaic tile is made up of tiny tiles or chips that are assembled to form one big pattern. It was invented during the ancient Mesopotamian era and was originally used to create portraits of royalty and gods. It has also since been used as wall, floor, and ceiling decoration.

Just like how it has evolved, a mosaic tile is an effective way to bring out the best in your home, both aesthetically and practically.

Stylish

For starters, its various materials, patterns, colors, shapes, and finishes (more on these later) will enhance the beauty of your home and make each dip in your pool more relaxing. These elements will help turn your pool into a creative and dramatic focal point, whether indoors or on your front or back lawn. It is also ideal for those who enjoy customizing and paying attention to detail to a T. Of course, all of these designs are chosen based on your personal preferences, making mosaic tiles a form of artistic expression as well.

Low-Maintenance and Durable

Mosaic tiles also require little upkeep. Compared to cement, the smooth surfaces of these tiles are easier to clean. Mosaic tiles are typically durable, depending on the materials and method of installation. They are also waterproof and frost-proof so they are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Multifunctional

For swimming pools, a mosaic tile can be used for the walls, waterlines, and floor. Doing such depends on how you want to mix and match the tiles to attain the pattern that you’re envisioning. Of course, mosaic tiles are also suitable for other applications such as kitchen backsplashes, tiles for bathroom and shower, and feature walls in your living room, foyer, and office.

Types of Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are typically classified according to the materials from which they are made.

The ancient mosaic tiles, for example, are made of ivory, shells, stones, glass, ceramic, and porcelain. But what about in the present? Interestingly, mosaic tiles are still heavily produced in these materials today, except for ivory, which comes from the tusks of elephants and other animals such as walrus and hippopotamus. Such trade has been banned and considered illegal by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild and Fauna and Flora (CITES) due to the harm it causes to said animals.

Except for ivory, all of the materials mentioned above are still used to meet consumer demand for long-lasting and intricate mosaic tiles. Let’s look at how each material differs and which one is best for use as a mosaic tile in your swimming pool.

Porcelain

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most commonly used materials for the production of mosaic tiles when it comes to the construction of swimming pools. However, for a variety of reasons, porcelain is the preferred material. Porcelain is a mixture of feldspar, sand, and white clay that is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic and then glazed and fired again to remove any moisture. With such a thorough process, it is significantly more durable and practical to use than ceramic. It has a natural non-slip surface that is ideal for wet and aquatic environments and is harder, denser, and more water-resistant than ceramic as well.

Ceramic

Despite being the second best material after porcelain, ceramic also has its share of advantages that make it a worthy material for your swimming pool. It is made of natural clay that, even though baked at using lower temperature than porcelain, is still resistant to water and stains. This is possible thanks to its protective glaze or finish.

Moreover, ceramic mosaic tiles are resistant to moss, mildew, and fungus, which thrive in humid environments. This material is also less brittle and less expensive than porcelain.

Stone

Stone mosaic tiles are those that come from natural stones such as marble, travertine, granite, sandstone, and limestone. All these materials are naturally strong, shiny, colorful, and grainy. As a result, these make stunning mosaic tiles.

Even so, stone tiles are porous, which means that they can absorb moisture. Therefore, they require special care and maintenance against discoloration, staining, and water damage. Another disadvantage of using stone as a swimming pool mosaic tile is that it is more expensive than ceramic.

Shell

As its name suggests, shell mosaic tiles come from seashells and freshwater shells. Pearls, which are cultivated in both saltwater and freshwater, are a prime example of this. Shell as a material for tiles became popular due to its low water absorption, high density, and luster. The natural sheen of shell mosaic tiles also makes the pool extra shiny and sparkling when exposed to sunlight.

Glass

Glass mosaic tiles are the best option if you want to make your swimming pool elegant and don’t mind spending extra cash. Considered luxury tiles, these are one of the earliest types of mosaic tiles. They are made of small strips of glass and are available in a variety of surface designs and qualities, including translucent, opaque, frosted, and glossy. Such characteristics make glass tiles the most aesthetically pleasing of all mosaic tile materials.

Additionally, a glass mosaic tile is ideal for your swimming pool because it is non-porous, hygienic, and easy to clean. Like shell tiles, they also make pool surfaces extra shiny when hit by lighting and sunlight.

10 Best Mosaic Tile Picks for Your Home Swimming Pool

Ready to give your swimming pool a new look? Here are the 10 well-made mosaic tile options to help you out!

1. AquaTiles Porcelain Hawaiian Blue Mosaic Tile

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You’ll have a blast swimming in your pool with this magnificent porcelain mosaic tile from AquaTiles. Made with a glazed, glossy finish, a vibrant blue color, and a wave-like pattern, this mosaic tile will help make your pool look and feel like a real blue sea. Moreover, it is also resistant to fading and discoloration, making it easy and low maintenance to use. Four pieces of this tile interlocked also cover one square foot, making it ideal for designing your pool in the mosaic design of your choice.

2. Tenedos Cobalt Blue Porcelain Mosaic Tile

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Incorporating this porcelain mosaic tile from Tenedos into your swimming pool can also make plunging time more exciting for the whole family. Its solid cobalt blue color and smooth surface are eye-catching and are a great pair to your pool’s clear water.

Unlike the previous item, one sheet of this tile is already composed of mini tiles or chips and is therefore ideal for modular installation. You can apply it in a variety of layouts such as grid, diamond, brick, and staggering (brick style). Its mesh backing also ensures that attaching it to your pool’s walls and floors is easy; simply cut or trim this backing with a scissor to any size before applying it with grout!

Read more: How To Lay Mosaic Floor Tile

3. Daltile Porcelain Mosaic Tile

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Can’t get enough of the blue color? This sheet of mosaic tile from Daltile is another excellent option! Its mottled color resembles a deep blue ocean, making it extra stimulating and soothing to look at. But unlike the common square shapes, one sheet of this tile is made of round, penny-sized chips. This feature enables you to use your pool as a unique and alluring statement piece for your home. This product is also a good pick if you want a beautiful and long-lasting kitchen backsplash that matches your sink and slate countertop.

4. Marble ‘n things Green Onyx Marble Mosaic Tile

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If you want a variety of color shades in your swimming pool, this marble mosaic tile from Mnt Mosaics is perfect for the job. Each sheet is made of green onyx stone and has mini tiles with alternating shades of color and polished surfaces. This appearance will undoubtedly make your outdoor or indoor pool more serene. Using this tile is also a good design idea for your bathroom and kitchen!

5. URBN Emerald Green Iridescent Mosaic Tile

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If you think mosaic tiles come in only solid and mottled colors, think again. They are available in iridescent designs, too, such as this product from URBN. Such iridescence is possible thanks to its recycled glass construction that is enhanced by its emerald green color. It’ll make your pool sparkle in no time, whether you use it on the floor or the wall.

Aside from that, each sheet also has a fiberglass mesh backing. Therefore, it is easy to use and customize. This mosaic tile will also be a gorgeous backdrop for your garden bathtub and walls in your spa and shower room.

6. Oracle Tile & Stone Travertine Mosaic Tile

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Making your swimming pool have that classy and timeless look is easy with the help of this travertine mosaic tile from Oracle Tile & Stone. It is layered with rich golden sienna color that will make your swimming pool pop. Furthermore, it was tumbled to achieve its warm and vintage appeal, which is ideal for European-inspired homes. Such a worn-out look also matches rustic furniture if you’re going to use it as a backsplash or on feature walls in your home. Plus, travertine has a non-slip texture that makes it safe to use as flooring even when submerged in water!

Read more: DIY Guide To Installing A Mosaic Tile Backsplash

7. Tenedos White Porcelain Mosaic Tile

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Nothing beats a white mosaic tile like this one from Tenedos when it comes to making your swimming pool look neat and pristine. Each sheet consists of equal-sized chips of semi-glossy and plain-looking tiles. This design is effective in maintaining a simple and minimalist pool backyard that also matches the overall appeal indoors. These mini square tiles are also resistant to frost and water, so they are not just practical for outdoor use but also for decoration in your shower and bathroom.

8. Art3d Herringbone Mosaic Tile

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One effective way of reinventing your swimming pool is to install a dazzling mosaic tile like this one from Art3d. This one is also assembled in a brick-like style and herringbone pattern and has a natural luster and texture. Having it as the walls and floor of your pool creates a more dramatic home structure that is ideal for both me-time and group swimming.

9. Marble ‘n things Mixed Tumbled Mosaic Tile

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A mosaic tile that shows a play in color and texture is a good option to give your swimming pool a wow factor. This mixed mosaic tile from Marble ‘n things is an amazing example of that. Each sheet is made up of small square tiles in various shades of colors, patterns, and textures. These features give your indoor or outdoor pool an eclectic look and calming feel, which is helpful for a relaxing swim after a tiring week.

10. Hominter Ceramic Mosaic Tile

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Want a picture-perfect swimming pool that you can splash in every day? The Hominter Mosaic Tile will do the trick! Its pebble-like, elaborate, and multicolored design adds a hint of vintage vibe reminiscent of old country houses.

At the same time, the realistic, high-sheen appearance will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to the bottom of the sea every time you take a dip. It is also scratch-resistant and has anti-skid properties, which are essential in wet environments. Apart from the swimming pool, this elegant mosaic tile is also usable as a shower slat wall, backsplashes, and fireplace walls.

Factors to Consider When Buying Mosaic Tiles for Your Swimming Pool

All the mosaic tiles we mentioned above are alluring and durable, which is why it is not surprising if one has already caught your eye. For extra measure though, it’s best to consider the following factors to determine if the mosaic tile you like is really what you need for your swimming pool.

Mosaic Tile Size and Quantity

The first factor that you would want to think about is the size (sheet or panels) and the number of tiles that you’ll need to cover your swimming pool. Are you using mosaic tiles to fully cover it, or just some parts of it? Also, how big or small is the pool? The mosaic tiles on the market right now range from at least 6 inches by 6 inches to 12 inches by inches per sheet, so figure out how many you’ll need for the size of your pool.

Overall Design

The next thing to factor in is the overall design of the mosaic tile. This includes its color, pattern, and shape. In weighing these things, the important basis is the kind of location of your swimming pool.

• Colors: For instance, tiles with bright colors will make indoor pools and where its located look brighter. It’ll also look good for outdoor pools. Dark-colored tiles for pools, on the other hand, provide an excellent contrast to rooms with bright lights and wall paints. However, when used for outdoor pools, dark absorbs the sun’s heat more easily and quickly, contributing to the pool water being warm. As you probably know, blue is the most popular color of tiles for pools as it mimics and reminds people of the sea, but you can always explore with other colors. Just mix and match them to your liking.
• Patterns and shapes: The patterns of mosaic tiles are vast but they are primarily determined by whether the materials are traditional or modern. The most traditional and oldest materials, such as glass and stone mosaic tiles, have uniform square cuts and other linear and geometric patterns. This includes patterns such as bricks, rectangles, and arabesques. Ceramic and porcelain, which were developed after glass and stone, have more experimental patterns and shapes like herringbone, penny round, hexagon, chevron, puzzle, teardrop, and so on. Use the mosaic tile that best reflects your personality and aesthetic preferences for your swimming pool.

Ease of Usage

Don’t forget to also consider how easy each mosaic tile is to use. Those that have anti-slip and anti-skid surfaces are the safest option for your swimming pool. Furthermore, you would also want to opt for mosaic tiles or sheets that are simple to install and customize. Mosaic tiles with mesh backing are an example of this. You can just trim or cut them apart to create the desired alternating color or pattern.

The Bottomline

Whether you’re renovating an old pool or planning a new one, a mosaic tile has everything you need, from beautiful designs to various sizes and materials. It is also long-lasting and customizable, so you can be confident that it is well worth your money and time. Come pick one from the list above to get started!

Want to also ensure that your pool is sparkling clean? Check out these high-quality pool vacuum cleaners of 2022 as well!