AD
ACRATON® Dolphin
Problem

The serious alternative to pool tiles

More and more operators of public pools, hotel pools and wellness centres are moving away from traditional tile work. Not for style — out of financial and operational necessity. Tiles look great at handover, but the value-in-use over 10–15 years is disappointing.

The alternative: a seamless two-component epoxy coating like ACRATON® Dolphin. Used since 1969 in hundreds of European public pools with a proven service life of around 10 years and no repair cycle.

Open Pool Color VisualizerRequest quote
Problem

Why look for an alternative to tiles?

1
Short renovation cycle
Tile work requires repair of loose tiles and washed-out grout every 3–5 years.
2
Liability exposure
Sharp grout and broken tile corners cause cuts and compensation claims.
3
Hygiene problems
Open grout collects biofilm, algae and dirt — hard to clean properly.
4
Colour mismatch
Repairs never colour-match perfectly — patchy floor after a few seasons.
5
High cumulative cost
Tile repairs, closure days and labour stack up over 10 years.
Cause

What alternatives exist and why ACRATON® Dolphin?

Several alternatives to classic ceramic tiles exist: PVC liner, polyester coating, single-component pool paint and two-component epoxy coating. Not every option is suitable for public pools with heavy chlorine use and large visitor numbers.

PVC liner
Suitable for private pools. In public pools, vulnerable to mechanical damage, UV ageing and sharp objects.
1-component pool paint
Cheap, but 1–3 seasons of service life. Pigment release ('blue feet') is common.
Polyester coating
Stiff and crack-prone under thermal movement. Repairs are visible.
ACRATON® Dolphin 2K epoxy
81 vol-% solids, 300 µm dry film in 2 coats. Proven around 10 years in public outdoor pools since 1969. Zero pigment release.
Solution

Why public pools choose ACRATON® Dolphin

Distributed by PoolFIX, manufactured by Zandleven Coatings in one European factory with traceable batches. This is not an experimental product — it is an industry standard proven for decades in the toughest conditions.

Available in 8 standard pool colours with custom on request. Includes technical advice, application protocol, applicator support and warranty terms.

Proven around 10 year life
No annual repair cycle. Reference pools have been using the product since the 70s.
Zero pigment release
Swimmers don't get blue feet or hands — tested in the toughest public pools.
Chlorine and UV resistant
Specifically engineered for permanent contact with chlorinated water and direct sun.
Easy to maintain
Smooth, seamless surface — no grout to trap biofilm or dirt.
Optional anti-slip
Fine texture on steps and shallow areas for added safety.
One European factory
Consistent quality, traceable batches, short lead times via PoolFIX.

Tile work vs. ACRATON® Dolphin (10-year TCO)

Classic tile work
ACRATON® Dolphin
Repair every 3–5 years
One application, around 10 years proven
High cumulative maintenance
Low TCO over 10 years
Closure days for repairs
One renovation, minimal future downtime
Injury and claim risk
No grout, no grout injuries
Patchy look after partial repair
Uniform, monolithic look
Open grout traps biofilm
Smooth, hygienic surface
AI Visualizer

See your pool without tiles

Upload a photo and preview your pool with a seamless ACRATON® Dolphin finish — in 8 standard pool colours.

Open Pool Color Visualizer

Frequently asked questions

Is ACRATON® Dolphin truly a full alternative to tiles?
Yes — in hundreds of European public pools the system has replaced traditional tile work since 1969, with proven around 10 years of operational certainty.
How does cost compare to re-tiling?
Initial cost is similar or lower, but the 10–15 year TCO is significantly lower because the repair cycle disappears.
Will the pool look different?
Yes — the pool gets a modern, seamless, professional look instead of a dated tile pattern.
What preparation is needed?
Existing tiles are typically removed or levelled with an epoxy repair mortar. PoolFIX advises per pool.
Who can apply it?
A certified applicator — PoolFIX has a European partner network and can connect you with a contractor near you.

Ready for a renovation that lasts decades?

Request a no-obligation technical call with PoolFIX — exclusive European distributor of ACRATON® Dolphin.

Request quote Technical datasheet

Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies to improve your experience and ensure proper functionality. By clicking 'Accept' you agree to all cookies. You can also choose only necessary cookies.