Pool Tiles & Copings

Choosing Pool Tiles & Copings: What Matters Most

Pool tiles deliver the colour and sparkle you see underwater, while copings protect the shell edge, create a safe non-slip transition and define the overall aesthetic. Getting both right is critical for longevity in New Zealand’s UV-intense climate and for compliance with safety regulations. Below we break down material options, profiles, installation tips and ongoing care so you can select with confidence.

Popular Materials

• Glass mosaic tiles – Vibrant colour and light refraction, flexible on curves, chemically resistant.
• Porcelain tiles – Dense, low-porosity, frost-resistant; coordinate with matching porcelain pavers for a seamless terrace.
• Natural stone – Travertine, bluestone or granite copings provide organic texture and stay cool under foot. Pair them with complementary stone pavers around the deck.
• Concrete & brick options – Durable, cost-effective and easy to match with concrete pavers or brick pavers for a traditional look.
• Composite & permeable solutions – New-generation mixes offer slip resistance and work alongside permeable pavers to manage runoff.

Key Coping Profiles

The profile you choose affects comfort, water runoff and the visual line of the pool:

• Bullnose – Rounded front edge that’s gentle on swimmers, common for family pools.
• Drop-face (rebated) – Creates a crisp 90° shadow line hiding the bond beam.
• Square – Minimalist finish for modern designs; requires precise alignment.
• Pencil or arris – Slightly eased edge, ideal for porcelain formats.

Installation & Detailing

Correct installation is just as important as product choice. Engage a licensed tiler experienced in submerged applications. Key points:

• Use white, polymer-modified thin-set adhesive rated for continuous immersion.
• Specify grout with high chemical resistance to manage chlorine and salt.
• Maintain a 40–60 mm overhang on coping to direct splash-out away from the shell.
• Include movement joints every 3–4 m to handle thermal expansion.

For guidance on pool safety barriers and minimum clearances, consult NZ Building Code F9.

Maintenance Tips

• Brush waterline tiles weekly to prevent calcium build-up.
• Seal porous stone every 2–3 years with a breathable, pool-grade sealer.
• Avoid acid washing unless recommended—can erode grout and coping edges.
• Monitor pH and total alkalinity; imbalances are the main cause of grout discolouration.

Cost Range in New Zealand

Expect to budget from NZ$40 per linear metre for basic concrete coping up to NZ$250+ for premium custom-cut granite. Glass mosaic tiles start around NZ$35 per sheet, while specialised anti-slip porcelain can reach NZ$120 /m². Installation labour typically adds 30–50 % on top of materials.

Planning Your Project

1. Measure the perimeter and calculate tile quantities with 10 % waste allowance.
2. Request samples to view colours wet and dry.
3. Confirm lead times—imported lines can take 8–12 weeks.
4. Check compatibility between tile, adhesive and sanitation system (chlorine vs salt).
5. Coordinate finishes with surrounding outdoor tiles to create a cohesive setting.

Ready to dive in? Explore the full collection below or browse our wider outdoor tiles and pavers range to complete your landscape.