Pool tile vs regular ceramic

[Duxdweller]

Hi All.

I have to replace an area of tile around the top of my attached hot tub (above the water). Do I have to use special pool tile or can I use big box store ceramic/glass? This area would get wet (splashing/rain etc) but is not submerged. Any thoughts would be helpful. Not so much looking to save money as I am looking to get the materials sooner/easier.

TIA

 

[MAPR-Austin]

If you are in an area where the temperature drops below freezing in the winter, make sure that the tile is 'frost-proof'.

Make sure that the thinset and grout you use are suitable for immersion (even though the area won't be 'underwater').

Aside from that, I think you will be fine using any almost kind of ceramic/glass tile.

Disclaimer: I only install tile made specifically for pools, but as far as I know the above is accurate.

 

[Duxdweller]

If you are in an area where the temperature drops below freezing in the winter, make sure that the tile is 'frost-proof'.

Make sure that the thinset and grout you use are suitable for immersion (even though the area won't be 'underwater').

Aside from that, I think you will be fine using any almost kind of ceramic/glass tile.

Disclaimer: I only install tile made specifically for pools, but as far as I know the above is accurate.

Thank you! I located tile which claims to be "outdoor" tile - Will verify that it is frost-proof. I assume that the thinset needs to be pool specific (not just the type I would use on an indoor shower installation?)

 

[MAPR-Austin]

Thank you! I located tile which claims to be "outdoor" tile - Will verify that it is frost-proof. I assume that the thinset needs to be pool specific (not just the type I would use on an indoor shower installation?)

Right, you will want one that is specifically rated for immersion. I use Laticrete Platinum 254 or Laticrete 255 Multimax. The 255 is apparently the new hotness.

 

[Duxdweller]

Right, you will want one that is specifically rated for immersion. I use Laticrete Platinum 254 or Laticrete 255 Multimax. The 255 is apparently the new hotness.

Thanks for your help! Spoke with a Lacticrete rep - who suggested multimax lite. Will be tackling this project tomorrow with any luck.