Ceramic Vs. Glass Pool Tiles: What Are The Major Differences?
Adding tile to your pool can create a stunning showpiece in your backyard. Not only are glass and ceramic tiles beautiful to look at, but they are strong, long-lasting, and very low maintenance. Pool tiles can transform the entire look of your pool with just one simple installation.
Ceramic pool tiles come in endless colors, sizes, and styles and can last for up to 10 years in the pool. Comparatively, glass tiles can last for up to 20 years with the proper ongoing maintenance. Both ceramic and glass pool tiles are costly compared to other options, but the cost of glass pool tiles can be more than five times the amount of ceramic.
Of course, there are other alternatives to glass and ceramic pool tiles like brick tile, mosaic tile, and natural stone. Many of these materials are just as solid and long-lasting, giving you different options to complete your outdoor pool space.
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What are Ceramic Pool Tiles?
Ceramic pool tiles are a long-held staple in pool design that helps make a clean and beautiful finish to your pool. Ceramic tiles have a special protective glaze on them, which makes them smooth and durable. These tiles won’t absorb heat, so they make an excellent choice for both inside the pool and the areas around the pool deck. Ceramic tiles come in endless patterns, sizes, colors, and designs.
What Are the Benefits of Ceramic Pool Tiles?
Ceramic pool tiles are a popular option for pool owners because of their incredible variety and longevity. In addition, these tiles are very easy to clean, with very little maintenance required. Although ceramic pool tiles are quite expensive, ceramic tiles are much more affordable than other installed hard surfaces for your pool.
What are Glass Pool Tiles?
Just like ceramic tiles, glass tiles are smooth tiles that can be used inside the pool to add color and style. Most glass used in glass tiles is made from recycled glass, giving your pool a fun iridescent appearance. These tiles are eco-friendly and come in countless design options. Glass tiles are safe and require minimal maintenance. Compared to other alternative options, glass tiles are exceptionally long-lasting.
What Are The Benefits of Glass Tiles?
Glass tiles are simply stunning to look at, and the options are endless when it comes to creating a pool design all your own. Glass tiles come in many sizes, colors, and designs, or give you the option to create your own glass tile mosaic. Glass is costly but extremely long-lasting. Plus, glass tiles are very easy to clean and only require minimal maintenance to remove mildew and mold from the surface.
How Much Do Glass and Ceramic Pool Tiles Cost?
Compared to other options, glass and ceramic pool tiles are rather expensive. In general, glass pool tiles will cost between $7 and $50 per square foot. Comparatively, ceramic pool tiles will cost between $1 and $35 per square foot. The tile cost is mainly dependent on the size, style, color, and design you choose. Remember, professional installation will add a high cost to your budget because pool tile is extremely labor-intensive and time-consuming to install.
How Long Do Glass and Ceramic Pool Tiles Last?
Adding glass or ceramic pool tiles to your pool is a wonderful way to add a style and beauty all your own. The installation process is intense, but the hard work pays off. Expect your glass tiles to last about 20 years in your pool with the right care and maintenance. Comparatively, installing ceramic tiles in your pool will only last about 5 to 10 years with the right care.
Are There Downsides to Glass and Ceramic Pool Tiles?
While glass and ceramic tiles may be beautiful, they have some downsides. Glass is far more costly than ceramic tiles, and glass is more delicate. Glass tiles can quickly become scratched, especially if they are placed in high-traffic areas around the pool. Further, installing glass mosaic tiles can be a difficult process, and for a large pool, installation can take a significant amount of time.
Although ceramic tiles are cheaper and stronger than glass tiles, they are not as pretty. Even though they are coated with a special glaze to protect them, ceramic and porcelain tiles are porous and can become discolored after a long period in the pool. Further, installing porcelain and ceramic tiles is a major project, and while cheaper than glass tile, it is still a significant expense. Ceramic pool tiles will last about half as long as glass tiles.
What Tile Alternatives Can I Use In My Pool?
While glass and ceramic tiles may be the most popular use in pools, several other tile alternatives can make your pool look exceptional. Some common tile types used for pools include:
- Stone Tile – Just like ceramic tiles, stone tiles are durable and long-lasting. They can look natural with your landscaping and be used for a Mediterranean look or give you a classic architectural style.
- Brick Tile – Brick tiles can help give you a regal look to your pool and are classic. These tiles are strong and durable. Although red is traditional, you can find brick tiles in other colors too.
- Mosaic Tiles – Adding mosaic tiles to your pool can give your pool a finished style that is breathtaking. Mosaics are made of tiny tile pieces made of various materials like porcelain, glass, or ceramic. The small pieces are fitted together to make larger images and designs.
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Related Questions
Are ceramic and glass pool tiles easy to clean?
Both ceramic and glass pool tiles are easy to clean and look their best when mold and mildew are wiped off the surface. Usually, tiles will need to be cleaned every few weeks or once per month. To clean the tiles, simply use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any mineral deposits. You can use distilled white vinegar or dry baking soda to clean and scrub the tiles for stubborn stains. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser can also help with hard to remove stains.
Do ceramic pool tiles fade in the sun?
When tiles are designed to be used in the pool, they are made with special finishes. The glaze used on ceramic pool tiles helps to protect the tiles against prolonged sunlight exposure and the pungent chemicals commonly used in pools. Most ceramic pool tiles are fade-resistant and will only start to fade after many years in exposed sunlight.
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