When it comes to designing or upgrading your area, tile selection plays a massive role in both the aesthetic and long-term performance of your outdoor space. While natural stone has long been a favourite in Aussie backyards, porcelain is quickly emerging as the superior choice for modern areas.
At Builders Warehouse Online, we stock a wide range of high-quality mosaics, porcelain pavers, and bullnose coping tiles—and in this guide, we’ll explain the key differences and help you understand why porcelain is often the better choice for surrounds.
1. Understanding the Key Tile Types Around Pools
To create a cohesive, functional, and safe pool zone, you’ll typically need three types of tiles:
a. Mosaic Tiles (Waterline and Interiors)
Used on the waterline or interior of the pool, mosaics add a vibrant design element and are available in glass, ceramic, or porcelain. They’re known for being easy to clean, UV-stable, and resistant to water damage.
b. Porcelain Pavers (Surround and Decking)
Thicker and more durable than indoor tiles, porcelain pavers are slip-resistant, fade-proof, and non-porous—making them ideal for the sun-soaked, splash-heavy environment around pools.
c. Bullnose Coping Tiles (Pool Edges)
Coping refers to the tile or paver that caps the pool edge. Bullnose coping has a smooth rounded edge that provides a safe, comfortable, and finished look. It’s essential for safety and adds that professional polish.
2. Why Porcelain is Outperforming Natural Stone
Natural stone options like travertine, bluestone, and granite have been traditional go-tos for decades. But as technology has evolved, porcelain tiles are proving to be more reliable and cost-effective without sacrificing style. Here’s why they’re a smarter choice for your project:
a. Low Porosity = Less Maintenance
Unlike natural stone, porcelain is non-porous, which means it doesn’t absorb water. This eliminates the need for constant sealing and makes it resistant to algae, stains, and salt damage—perfect for both chlorinated and saltwater pools.
b. Superior Slip Resistance
High-quality outdoor porcelain tiles are available with textured, anti-slip finishes, rated for wet areas. Natural stone can become dangerously slippery unless properly treated (and re-treated), making it a higher risk around zones. For outdoor and poolside safety, choosing tiles that meet slip resistance standards is essential. According to the Australian Building Codes Board.
c. Fade-Resistant in Harsh Aussie Sun
Natural stone can discolour or fade over time when exposed to UV rays. Porcelain is fired at extremely high temperatures, ensuring it remains colourfast and doesn’t bleach under the sun—ideal for Australia’s intense summers and exposed areas.
d. Cost-Effective & Consistent
Porcelain is more affordable than many natural stones and offers better consistency in colour and finish. Stone is a natural product, so batches often vary, making matching tricky over time — especially around a large layout.
e. Durability & Strength
Outdoor porcelain pavers are dense and hard-wearing, capable of withstanding freeze-thaw cycles, heavy foot traffic, and pool chemicals. Stone, on the other hand, can crack or degrade under similar conditions.
3. Design Flexibility with Porcelain
One of the most exciting things about porcelain is its ability to replicate the look of natural materials without the drawbacks. Whether you want the warmth of travertine, the depth of slate, or the sleek appeal of concrete, porcelain can deliver that style—minus the maintenance.
Timber-look porcelain gives a resort-style decking vibe without rotting or splintering near the pool.
Stone-look porcelain mimics travertine or marble, but without sealing or erosion.
Concrete-look porcelain is ideal for urban or minimalist pool surrounds.
You also get greater control over tile sizing, which means better symmetry, faster installation, and less wastage — especially important when tiling a pool area.
Many options see Builders Warehouse Online Outdoor Tiles
4. Bullnose Coping – Safety Meets Style
Coping tiles do more than frame your area—they protect swimmers and the shell. Porcelain bullnose coping provides a rounded edge that’s safer to grip and visually softer than square-edge tiles.
At Builders Warehouse Online, we offer matching coping pieces to our porcelain pavers for a seamless pool finish. You can choose from straight, curved, or corner bullnose tiles to suit your design.
5. Mosaics – The Finishing Touch
Don’t forget your waterline or pool interior! Mosaics in glass or porcelain offer a splash of colour, depth, and visual interest. They’re not just decorative—they also protect your pool surface from oils, dirt, and chemical build-up. With modern adhesive systems, installation is easier than ever.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tiles for your area is about more than good looks. Porcelain outshines natural stone in almost every area—durability, safety, maintenance, and cost-effectiveness. When paired with stylish mosaics and matching bullnose coping, porcelain delivers a long-lasting, designer finish with minimal upkeep.
Explore our full range of mosaic tiles, porcelain pavers, and bullnose coping today at www.builderswarehouseonline.com.au. Whether you’re a tradie, builder, or renovator, we have everything you need to make your area stunning and safe.
