Swimming Pool Tiles

Pool edge and pool coping

Coping tiles form the transition between the pool's edge and the surrounding surfaces. Buyers commonly weigh up bullnose tiles, drop face profiles and square edge options depending on the look they want. Natural stone and porcelain can both work here, as long as the finish is comfortable to stand on and suits the way the poolside area is used.

Waterline and internal pool surfaces

Swimming pool tiles along the waterline influence cleaning and long-term presentation. Many people lean toward smooth porcelain mosaics or glass-style finishes in shades of blue or beige to create a fresh waterline feature. These materials tend to resist the marks that appear where sun and water meet.

Surrounding outdoor pool area

Outdoor pool tiles in the space around the water should feel stable underfoot. Some prefer a soft texture that maintains comfort on hot days, while others choose a smoother surface that’s easy to clean. Natural stone can create a grounded, organic feel, while porcelain remains a practical option for external floors and walls due to its consistency in outdoor environments.

Paths, entertaining zones and adjoining outdoor areas

Where the pool area connects to the broader outdoor area, many people match or complement their pavers to maintain a seamless overall look. Larger tiles create a more modern style, while mixed layouts such as French pattern stone can add movement and visual interest.

Porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles are a common choice around pools because they handle moisture well and maintain their look with straightforward cleaning. They come in a wide range of colours, textures and edges, making it easy to create a consistent finish from the poolside to the surrounding outdoor pool area.

Natural stone

Natural stone tiles offer a warm, grounded character that suits many Australian backyards. Each piece has its own texture and colour variation, giving the pool area a more organic feel. Stone can also pair well with drop face or bullnose coping options for a cohesive finish.

Pavers for poolside use

Some homeowners choose thick stone or porcelain pavers for high-traffic zones around the pool. Their weight and durability help them handle daily use, furniture and general outdoor wear.

Slip rating

Slip ratings help you understand how a tile is likely to behave around water, so they’re an important part of choosing tiles for a pool area. Different ratings suit different levels of foot traffic and exposure to splashes, so it’s worth checking the rating before you make a final decision.

Durability for outdoor conditions

An outdoor pool area is exposed to sun, rain and regular cleaning, so you'll need to give some though to what type of tiles handle these conditions best. Porcelain and dense natural stone tend to stand up well to these elements, so are usually the best choice for areas that need to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them!

Edges, coping profile and layout

Bullnose, square edge and drop face coping tiles each create a different visual effect. The decision often comes down to style preferences and how the coping will meet the surrounding surfaces. Layout choices such as large formats, narrow grout lines or patterned stone influence the final look and maintenance routine.

Colour and style

Lighter colours can keep external floors cooler in full sun, while darker hues create a sleek, more defined poolside look. Consider how the tiles will match the rest of the backyard, the waterline and the home's exterior materials.