Have a favorite pool water color? Here’s what you do to get it!
The color of your pool water should be relaxing, uplifting, inviting – and of course, fun. It’s no secret that colors impact our moods. The cool colors like blues and greens create a calming atmosphere. There are many shades and everyone has a favorite.
The color of water starts off clear. Then along comes something called the Rayleigh Scattering effect and turns it blue. This is because water more easily absorbs longer wavelengths (the hot colors like red, yellow and orange) than shorter ones (the cool colors). Consequently, the wavelengths that are not absorbed (like blue and green) are reflected and captured by our eyes.
The Other Factors
The color of pool water is also influenced by many other factors, such as:
Pool depth – The deeper the fiberglass pool, the bluer the water. However, when the water is no deeper than 20 inches, the water will appear transparent.
Time of day/Sunlight – Pool water changes color throughout the day depending on the amount of sunlight. Full sun refracts more light enhancing the water color, while shaded pool water via trees, structures or clouds makes the water look clearer.
Environment – The color and quantity of hardscape and foliage/landscaping around the pool affects water color. For pools surrounded by plants and trees the water will take on a green tone.
Water condition -- Water color will fluctuate based on the balance of the water. If the water is cloudy or if there is algae present, this will obviously change the color of the pool. Cloudy water will not reflect the light in the same way crystal clear water will and you will lose that depth and vibrance. Water that is green with algae, or yellow because of high concentrations of metals from well water also factor.
MOSAIC POOL TILE
Perhaps the greatest influencer of fiberglass pool water is the color of the pool tile you select – especially in laying out waterline pool tile.
The impact of other colored swimming pool tiles:
BLUE
As you might expect, blue glass tile will make pool water look blue. But what you might not know is that the shade of blue will also be reflected in water color. Darker blue shades will give you darker blue water.
CREAM
If you’re in love with muted or earth-tones, consider waterline mosaic pool tile that is cream or taupe-colored. For a darker shade choose brown or darker beige colored tiles.
GRAY
Like the color of the sea? Gray mosaic pool tiles have become fashionable because the combination of gray and water equals a beautifully harmonious shade of blue.
GREEN
Designers like green mosaic tiles because they can transform pool water into a more natural appearing body of water. The water will still look blue but take on a relaxing tone. Surround the pool with green plants and watch the water look greener.
RED
Here’s a little-known fact about red mosaic tile: It will make your swimming pool water look clear and transparent. It isn’t commonly used, but then again if your aim is to build an exciting fiberglass pool, this could be an important design element.
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