Products
Choosing The Right Pool Tile Materials
Before you choose a pool tile, read this informative article.
Pool industry professionals certainly came away excited about all of the new and innovative products and materials they saw at the recent Coverings event in Orlando, Fl. However, when selecting which pool tile materials to use it is vital to learn the differences between the US ANSI standards and the EU ISO standards which are not the same. Consequently, ANSI standards are more stringent.
It’s important not to buy into the sales presentation and perform your due diligence before choosing a product. Using materials that are not suitable for the application could potentially expose you to liability should there be a failure.
ANSI A137-2017 are the standards for tile performance (A137.1 Ceramic Tiles & A137.2 Glass Tiles). Below are the minimum performance characteristics for ceramic tiles for submerged aquatic applications, the applicable test methods, and the minimum standards required.
One important factor to consider, porcelain tiles are 50% feldspar and are fired at much higher temperatures than regular ceramic tiles. This makes them much harder and denser than regular ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are a sub-group of the broader ceramic tile group, to which these standards apply.
10 Important Factors To Consider When Choosing Pool Tile Materials
1. COEFFICIENT OF FRICTION (COF – TCNA: DCOF Acutest test method).
There are two types: Static (SCOF) and Dynamic (DCOF). COF is the ratio of forces necessary to initiate sliding between two surfaces. The outdated ASTM C1028 static test measured the SCOF.
DCOF is the ratio of the force necessary to maintain sliding between two surfaces. The higher the DCOF, the more slip resistant the surface. This may not be of any concern underwater, but of grave concern on a pool deck or locker room floor. Industry standards generally accept ≥0.42 DCOF for commercial floor applications. Wet/dry locations, like aquatic locker rooms or moveable pool floors, may require ≥0.60 DCOF.
2. WATER ABSORPTION (ASTM C373-88 test method)
Tiles are weighed dry and again after soaking in water. The weight gain determines the percentage of absorption. Tiles are rated as follows:
Impervious: Tiles exhibiting 0.5% or less.
Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 0.5%, but not more than 3.0%.
Semi-Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 3.0%, but not more than 7.0%.
Non-Vitreous: Tiles exhibiting more than 7.0%.
3. FROST RESISTANCE (ASTM C1026 test method)
Directly related to water absorption. You can see that any absorbed water will be detrimental in a freeze condition – the expansion of freezing water will crack the tiles. Porcelain tile, by definition has a water absorption of less than 0.5%, making it frost proof as well. For aquatic applications we want impervious pool tile materials.
4. SCRATCH HARDNESS (MOH’S SCALE RATINGS)
The hardness of a tile’s surface will determine how it wears. The surface is scratched and a MOH’s hardness rating assigned. MOH’s scale 1- Talc (softest) to 10 Diamond (hardest). A hardness of 5 is suitable for residential flooring. A hardness of 7 or greater is usually recommended for commercial or outdoor applications.
5. BREAKING STRENGTH CERAMIC TILE (ASTM C648-04 test method)
Ceramic floor tiles must be able to support the loads exerted upon them. The test applies a force in pounds, to an unsupported tile until it breaks. Your selection should be based upon the anticipated maximum loads. Properly installed tiles, with a supporting setting bed that is free of voids, will be able to support significantly greater loads. These breaking values are for comparison purposes.
6. CHEMICAL RESISTANCE (ASTM C650-04 test method)
In this test, sample tiles are placed in various chemical baths for 24 hours, rinsed and examined for surface damage. For aquatic venues, it is desired to have the greatest level of chemical resistance.
7. SHADE VARIATIONS
This is a purely a cosmetic evaluation as to the consistency of the tile shades within a production lot.
Monochromatic (V0) – Very uniform, monochromatic color.
Low (V1) – Consistent color within each tile and from tile to tile.
Medium (V2) – Color variation within each tile.
High (V3) – Variation from tile to tile & within each tile.
Random (V4) – Considerable variation from tile to tile.
8. ABRASION RESISTANCE (ASTM C1027-99 test method)
The durability of the glazed surface is examined following the abrasion testing. The performance classifications and recommended uses are listed below:
CLASS 0 – Not recommended for use on floors.
CLASS 1 – (Light Residential) Light Traffic – Residential floor coverings in areas subject to soft-soled footwear or normal footwear traffic, without scratching dirt (i.e. domestic bathrooms and bedrooms without exterior access).
CLASS 2 (Residential) Medium to Light Traffic – Residential floor coverings in areas subject to soft-soled footwear or normal footwear traffic with small amounts of scratching dirt (i.e. rooms in the living areas of homes except kitchens, entrances and other areas that may be subjected to high usage).
CLASS 3 (Heavy Residential or Light Commercial) Medium to Heavy Traffic – Residential or light commercial may withstand normal footwear and regular traffic, with some dirt and/or other abrasives present in limited quantities. Tile in this class may be used in light commercial installations with limited foot traffic and with no direct access to the outside. Examples may include residential kitchens and hallways with limited traffic from the outside.
CLASS 4 (Commercial) Heavy Traffic – Residential and commercial floor coverings subjected to considerable traffic and scratching dirt (i.e. entrances, workrooms, inns, exhibition halls, and sales rooms, as well as other rooms in public and private buildings). Floors should be adequately protected against scratching dirt at the entrances to buildings by either floor mats or some other footwear cleaning device.
CLASS 5 (Heavy Commercial) Heavy Traffic – Heavy commercial floor coverings subject to heavy traffic with very abrasive soil.
9. STAIN RESISTANCE (ASTM 1378 test method)
This test is intended to determine the resistance to staining of tile surfaces. Class A – provides maximum stain resistance
10. MOUNTING METHOD
While not a part of the ANSI A137.1 standard, in submerged applications, the TCNA standards require that 95% of the back of the tile be in contact with the thinset. Care must be taken when choosing a porcelain tile for an aquatic environment, to ensure that the combination of the mesh and glue to not occupy more than 5% of the contact surface. It’s easy to evaluate the mesh, but not the glue. Worse yet, is if the glues soften in water.
Selecting The Best Pool Tile Materials
To summarize when selecting the best pool tile materials for aquatic applications we would desire the following minimum characteristics:
1. DCOF – not critical in submerged applications, but values of ≥0.42 for flooring, ≥0.60 wet/dry floors.
2. Water Absorption – Impervious, Tiles exhibiting 0.5% or less.
3. FROST RESISTANT – Yes.
4. SCRATCH HARDNESS – MOH’s 6-7.
5. BREAKING STRENGTH – Exceed PSI loads.
6. CHEMICAL RESISTANCE – Chemical resistant.
7. SHADE VARIATIONS – purely cosmetic.
8. ABRASION RESISTANCE – Class 3-5.
9. STAIN RESISTANCE – Class A.
10. MOUNTING METHOD – free of glue and mesh backing.
Below are the equivalent US / ISO European standards:
- Slip Resistance: TCNA DCOF Acutest / ISO NONE
- Abrasion Resistance Glazed ASTM C1027/ISO 10545-7
- Frost Resistance ASTM C1026 / ISO 10543-12
- Water Absorption ASTM C373 / ISO 10545-3
- Chemical Resistance ASTM C650 / ISO 10545-13
- Break Strength ASTM C648 / ISO 10545-4
- Stain Resistance ASTM C1378 / ISO 10545-14
- Scratch Hardness MOHS Scale / ISO MOH Scale
Products
Beatbot AquaSense Pro Pool Cleaner Review
In the realm of robotic pool cleaners, the Beatbot AquaSense Pro emerges as a game-changer, setting new standards with its advanced features and cutting-edge technology. As the world’s first all-in-one intelligent robotic pool cleaner, the AquaSense Pro promises a comprehensive cleaning experience that extends beyond the pool floor. With its innovative design, technological prowess, and a suite of unique features, this cleaner is a standout in the competitive pool-cleaning market.
Design and Features
Beatbot has hit the mark with the AquaSense Pro’s engineering. Equipped with nine motors, 20 sensors, and onboard AI, its design is not only sleek but also robust. The unit itself weighs in at 24 pounds, conveying a sense of durability and reliability. The device’s intuitive onboard controls, featuring four modes and power buttons, make it user-friendly and accessible to both pool maintenance novices and seasoned professionals.
The AquaSense Pro boasts 5-in-1 cordless cleaning capability, covering the pool floor, walls, waterline, surface, and incorporating a built-in water clarifier system. The AquaSense Pro employs the AquaGlide™ Simulated Flight Propulsion for surface cleaning, ensuring it glides effortlessly to tackle debris and residues. The ClearWater™ clarifier dispenser is another innovative addition, distributing clarifying agents evenly to enhance overall water clarity.
Main Features
- World’s 1st 5-in-1 Cleaning: Clarification/Surface/Waterline/Floor/Walls Powered by 9 Motors.
- Best Intelligent Path Optimization Powered by Quad-Core 1.8GHz Processor.
- Industry-Exclusive Intelligent Return to Starting Point and Surface Parking.
- Powerful Wall Cleaning with Brushless Main-Pump Motor up to 5500 GPH Suction.
- Effortless Cleaning Control with the Beatbot APP and OTA Software Upgrades.
- Award-Winning and Eco-Friendly Cordless Submarine Propulsion Design.
- Superior Cleaning Efficiency and Coverage with 2×2 Independent Roller Brushes.
- Extreme Safety and Reliability with 15 Certifications, including ETL, CEC, and IP68.
- Ultimate Convenience with Cordless Charging Dock for Plug-Free Operations.
- 9.5 Hours Surface Cleaning and 5 Hours Floor Cleaning with 10400mAh Battery.
Performance and Cleaning Prowess
The AquaSense Pro’s performance is commendable, showcasing systematic cleaning that starts with mapping the pool. Utilizing advanced sensors, including two ultrasonic sensors, the cleaner calculates the optimal cleaning path with exceptional accuracy. Its intelligent mapping capabilities allow the robot to navigate efficiently without getting stuck, offering a seamless cleaning experience.
During a full cleaning run, the AquaSense Pro adopts an S-shaped pattern for the floor and walls and an N-shaped pattern for the walls and waterline. This strategic cleaning approach ensures thorough coverage, leaving no area untouched. The automatic return feature, coupled with water purge capabilities, adds convenience to the cleaning process. Remarkably, the AquaSense Pro parks itself at the pool’s surface upon completion, eliminating the need for manual retrieval from the pool bottom.
Charging and Convenience
Beatbot has revolutionized the charging process with an innovative dock design. Instead of a traditional plug and cable setup, the AquaSense Pro docks on a charging station where exposed electrodes charge the battery. This not only simplifies recharging but also aids in draining excess water, contributing to the device’s overall efficiency.
Intelligence and Versatility
Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, the AquaSense Pro provides seamless control through its dedicated Android and iOS app. Users can effortlessly switch between cleaning modes, making it a convenient and versatile tool for pool maintenance. Designed for various pool types, including in-ground and above-ground, and supporting multiple surfaces such as concrete, fiberglass, vinyl, and ceramic tile, the AquaSense Pro proves its versatility.
Affordable Alternative
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance, Beatbot offers the AquaSense model. While it lacks some of the luxury features of the AquaSense Pro, it remains a reliable and efficient pool cleaner. With three cleaning modes and intelligent path optimization powered by a Quad-Core 1.8GHz processor, the AquaSense is a practical alternative for pool owners who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Should You Buy the Beatbot AquaSense Pro?
In terms of cleaning performance, the AquaSense Pro excels, effectively removing both visible and invisible debris. The two-layer filter basket captures particles as small as 150 micrometers, showcasing its thorough cleaning capabilities. The dual sets of brushes, strategically placed at the front and back, work simultaneously with different speeds and directions, providing precise control and extensive coverage. This not only enhances the cleaning power but also eliminates the need for frequent manual scrubbing of pool surfaces.
PROS:
- Diverse 5-in-1 pool cleaning capabilities
- Extended battery life with up to 9.5 hours of continuous runtime
- Smart MemoryPark feature for easy retrieval from the pool surface
CONS:
- Requires periodic charging
- Unable to identify new debris in previously cleaned sections
- Possibility of larger debris floating away during surface cleaning
If you’re in search of a technologically advanced robotic pool cleaner that delivers on its promises, the AquaSense Pro is undoubtedly worth considering. Dive into innovation and let the AquaSense Pro redefine your pool maintenance experience.
Products
Enhancing Water Shapes With In-Floor Cleaning Systems
Paramount’s in-floor cleaning system remains a top choice for maintaining the aesthetic of the swimming pool canvas.
In the ever-evolving world of pool technology, Paramount Pool & Spa Systems has emerged as a frontrunner, boasting over 90% market share in the in-floor cleaning sector. Established in the late ’60s by the Ghiz Family and later acquired by Hayward, the company’s commitment to innovation and customer service has propelled it to the forefront of the industry. Today, Paramount’s in-floor cleaning system has become a cornerstone of pool maintenance in many custom inground pools and a game-changer in enhancing the overall swimming pool experience.
John Anderson, Regional Manager for Paramount, explained why forward-thinking pool builders are leaning toward in-floor systems as a way to maintain the integrity of the swimming pool in the overall scheme of the backyard canvas.
Changing Perceptions About In-Floor Cleaning Technology
“When I was building pools, electronics controls were very simple. These days, everything’s gotten extremely complicated,” explained Anderson, “We went from the Flintstones to the Jetsons in less than 20 years.”
“Many builders today still don’t truly understand in-floor systems. I’ll be honest with you, back when I was building pools, I didn’t either. I wasn’t into plumbing a whole bunch of pipe on the bottom of the floor and the additional cost associated with that,” said Anderson.
“What I found out later on was that a lot of high-end builders with unique circumstances didn’t want a robotic pool cleaner or hoses floating in their work of art. In the course of those 20 years, we went from swimming pools to water shapes. Now the entire industry is looking at how the backyard is more of a work of art than a cement pond,” explained Anderson.
Science Behind The System
At the heart of Paramount’s in-floor cleaning system lies a specific water curtain design coupled with its patented PCC system which effectively cleans 99% of a swimming pool’s surface. Tailored to accommodate the unique dimensions of each pool, this system boasts a patented “Collection Zone” and automated debris removal functionality.
Operating on the principle of pressurized water, the PCC system efficiently suspends dirt, facilitating its removal by the pool’s filtration system. The system’s innovation lies in its patented water-actuated distributor valve, strategically directing the flow of water to various cleaning nozzles in a sequential manner. This ensures a thorough and systematic cleaning process, optimizing the overall performance of the pool cleaning and circulation system.
Ease of Installation
Ease of integration is a big factor of why more pool builders than ever are looking to in-floor as a viable solution explained Anderson. “What’s nice about our system is that it’s 100% hydraulically driven. Our systems integrate with any pump and any smart technology,” said Anderson.
“All installers really need to do is get water to the valve, and we’ll take care of the rest,” said Anderson, “that’s all part of our design. We do a CAD drawing that lays everything out specifically and tells the contractor where to plumb, where to put all our products laid out with the schematics that are required for the plumbers to do what they need to do and then the process for the finishers to do their work.”
Technology Innovations
Paramount’s flagship product has undoubtedly been the PCC system, however, the PVR system continues to gain traction in the market. “One of the systems I push the most for new builders is our PVR system. Out of the dealers I’ve signed the past twelve months, 99% of them opted to go with the PVR because it’s easier to install,” said Anderson. “It’s a ratcheted, self-cleaning nozzle that’ll clean anywhere from six to ten feet.”
“We’ve innovated on that because a lot of pools are nine feet deep or more,” explained Anderson, “the sweep radius up to the rear wall usually inhibits standard in-floor system cleaners, because they won’t rotate properly. On the PVR the head actually rotates.”
“We have an MDX-R3 safety drain, which is VGB compliant and LA County approved,” explained Anderson, “we also use a BuzzTop, which is basically just a channel drain with a lid that allows debris to be captured. Our application also features a canister that’s in the deck, or can be stationed back by the equipment pad.”
Multiple Applications
While Paramount’s in-floor cleaning technology has been a mainstay in custom concrete inground pools for years, they have also developed applications for vinyl liner and fiberglass swimming pools as well. “Our Vanish line is ideal for the vinyl market and actually is flush to the finish of the vinyl liner. Our Vantage products are used by a lot of dealers venturing into fiberglass pools,” said Anderson.
What Makes In-Floor So Appealing?
For those embarking on a swimming pool project, an in-floor cleaning system is an exhilarating prospect, offering near maintenance-free benefits. Paramount’s in-floor cleaning systems go beyond mere cleaning by actively circulating water and chemicals in pools from the bottom up. This dynamic circulation not only ensures a consistently clean and swim-ready pool but also serves as an eco-friendly solution. In-floor systems enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of a swimming pool, promising pristine water and cost-effective maintenance; making it a no-brainer for many pool owners.
A Top Choice For Professionals
In-floor cleaning technology has become a favored choice among today’s top pool designers seeking to preserve the pristine aesthetics of their meticulously crafted waterscapes. Paramount’s in-floor cleaning system, in particular, addresses the concerns of designers who aim to maintain a clean and clutter-free canvas without the intrusion of hoses or robotic cleaners within the pool.
High-end pool designers often work with unique circumstances, such as custom shapes, negative edge basins, spas, or lazy rivers. Paramount’s in-floor system’s adaptability to various pool types and styles makes it an ideal choice for designers dealing with unconventional and bespoke projects. This flexibility ensures that the swimming pool remains true to the designer’s vision.
Listen to our entire interview with John Anderson on the Pool Magazine podcast.
Products
Two Hot New Products You’ll See Poolside This Summer
As summer approaches, the anticipation for poolside relaxation and enjoyment continues to grow. We’re as excited about the upcoming swim season ahead as we are about two hot new products we recently had the chance to check out at the PSP Deck Expo in Las Vegas. Tenjam, a relative newcomer to the pool furniture space, unveiled two exciting new furniture products that promise to elevate the swimming pool experience.
The company based in central Minnesota, specializes in rotomolded, rotationally molded furniture. Since its inception back in 2013, Tenjam has made a significant impact in the outdoor education furniture industry. In 2020, the firm expanded its horizons with the launch of its in-pool furniture series, which has been a hit with consumers and professionals alike.
Mike Collins, President of Tenjam shared insights into the success, stating, “We’ve been just crushing it and coming out with lots of new products. Seems like every few months we’ve got another new product we’re launching.”
One of the standouts in their line has undoubtedly been their Shayz lounger, the flagship product in their Splash series line. “Shayz is by far our hottest product,” said Collins, “we saw almost 500% growth in the Splash series product line thanks to Shayz last year.” The success of their rotomolded pool lounger has laid the foundation for Tenjam’s continued innovation in poolside furniture.
Woosah Chair: Unveiling Comfort and Style:
One of the products that stole the spotlight at this year’s PSP Deck Expo was Tenjam’s Woosah chair which boasts a combination of ergonomic contouring and a slight bounce designed into the base, providing unparalleled comfort.
Mike Collins emphasized the meticulous design process, stating, “When we designed Woosah, we spent so much time on just getting the profile of that seat down. When we brought it to market, it was an instant hit but we couldn’t put it into the pool because it had a stainless steel base. Finally, we developed a Woosah chair that has a plastic base.”
The seat is constructed with polyethylene material for supreme impact strength and low maintenance. The stackable chairs thus far have been a hit with hotels and resorts said Collins, who predicts the product is bound to resonate just as well with residential pool owners.
“We’re definitely price competitive,” said Collins, “and the cool thing about the Woosah chair, is you can use it as your regular patio Adirondack chair, but also put it in the pool when you want to relax in the water. That eliminates the need to have a bunch of extra chairs just sitting around.”
Infinity Sun Shelf: Elevating Your Pool Oasis
The second star of the show for Tenjam was its new Infinity Freestanding Sun Shelf, a patent-pending freestanding sun shelf that promises to transform your poolside oasis.
“Our Sales Manager, John Griffard, is always coming up with crazy ideas,” said Collins, “he has a pool that’s like 50 years old and wanted to add a sun shelf to it.” The quotes he received on adding on a sun shelf started at around $25,000, which prompted the two to think of a product they could produce at a more attractive price point.
The advent of the Infinity Sun Shelf provides a hassle-free solution for adding a sun shelf to an existing swimming pool. Unlike traditional methods that involve tearing up the yard and pool deck, Infinity can be delivered, installed, and ready for use the very same day. The only requirement is adding a new plumbing line to the back of the unit.
The Infinity Sun Shelf features an 80″ wide waterfall curtain, adding both visual appeal and the soothing sound of flowing water to your poolside experience. With a water depth of up to 8 inches, it accommodates various in-pool furniture brands, including Tenjam’s loungers and chairs.
Collins shared the collaboration that led to the development of Infinity, stating, “A couple of years ago, we met a group of guys from B Squared Pools. We partnered with them to actually make a freestanding sun shelf that you could just simply place at the side of your existing pool and then run a water line to it. Basically, that gives you a freestanding sun shelf at an installed price point of like $10,000 or less.”
“We already have a bunch of preorders on the sun shelf,” said Collins, “we’re going to bring it to the Atlantic City show and that’s going to help get more eyeballs on it. I think once people see just how easy it is to set up, we’ll see sales continue to increase. Right now it’s all about exposure.”
Pool owners have every reason to be excited about the Woosah Chair and Infinity Sun Shelf, as these two innovative products bring a fresh wave of comfort, style, and transformative features to enhance the poolside experience. The two products are priced attractively to make adding pool furniture easier and more affordable than ever before.
Listen to our entire conversation with Mike Collins on the Pool Magazine podcast.
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