When it comes to swimming pool design, aesthetics often take the forefront. However, the
significance of safety features, such as step trim tiles on the edges of steps and benches,
cannot be overstated. Scott Cohen and his team at The Green Scene prioritize both beauty and
safety in their designs, treating safety trim tiles not merely as a safety feature (not currently a
regulatory requirement) but as an essential decorative detail that enhances both the function
and appeal of swimming pools.
In this photo we can easily see the steps and benches identified by trim tile.
Step trim tiles are essentially a row of colored tiles that mark the edge of a step or bench within
a pool. Their primary purpose is to identify these edges clearly, making them visible through the
water, which can often distort perception and hide potential hazards. This is especially pertinent
in pools with pebble finishes, where steps can be even harder to discern than in pools with
colored plasters. Factors like the time of day and resulting shadows can further obscure the
visibility of steps, not to mention that as we age, our ability to detect such hazards diminishes.
The necessity of these tiles goes beyond the daily use by familiar swimmers; it becomes crucial
for guests, children, and the elderly, who may not have the spatial memory of the pool’s layout.
Spatial memory, a cognitive process allowing us to remember the locations and physical
properties of our environment, plays a key role in how we navigate spaces and avoid dangers.
Step trim tiles aid in reinforcing this spatial memory by providing clear, visual cues that can help
prevent accidents.
Recognizing the importance of visibility, Cohen advocates for the use of contrasting color
banding at the leading edge of step and bench surfaces. This not only aids in delineating the
edge more clearly for users, thereby reducing the risk of missteps and falls but also integrates
seamlessly into the pool’s design as an attractive feature. Cohen prefers ceramic tiles for this
purpose due to their durability and slip-resistant qualities provided by the grout joints. The
recommended width for this contrasting stripe ranges from 1 inch to 3 inches, striking the
perfect balance between visibility and aesthetics.
The placement of these tiles is crucial. They should be positioned on the leading edge of steps,
benches, and submerged ledges within the pool to mark transitions between different depths
and to outline perimeters for enhanced safety. While not currently mandated by code in
residential pools, Cohen strongly recommends their inclusion in all pool designs. For a relatively
minimal cost, typically less than $1,000 per pool, the addition of safety trim tiles can significantly
improve safety and potentially prevent severe accidents.
Moreover, for homeowners who rent out their properties through platforms like AirBnB or other
short-term rental services, there is a compelling argument that pools should comply with
commercial code requirements, especially regarding safety features. The integration of safety
trim tiles into the pool design not only meets this criterion but also adds to the pool’s visual
appeal, serving as a decorative detail that complements the overall aesthetic.
In conclusion, safety trim tiles are a critical component of swimming pool design, offering both
functional safety benefits and aesthetic appeal. As Scott Cohen aptly puts it, these features are
not just about adhering to regulations; they are about prioritizing the well-being of all pool users
without compromising on design. It’s a testament to The Green Scene’s commitment to “The
Wow Factor Contractor” ethos, marrying safety with style to create truly exceptional outdoor
spaces.
Scott Cohen is a nationally respected expert witness in pool-construction defects cases.
He currently serves as Chairman of the California Pool and Spa Association (CPSA).
Cohen is a “Graden Artisan” and President of The Green Scene Landscaping and
Swimming Pools, a Watershape design and construction firm based in Chatsworth
California. A widely published author and popular speaker, Cohen is known for his
gardens that combine outdoor living with inspired artistic details.
