Product Overview

Fujiwa Pavo Series: 1" x 1" Jade Blue Glazed Porcelain Mosaic Tile is a high-performance architectural mosaic tile engineered specifically for submerged pool environments, waterline applications, and outdoor wet features. Inspired by vibrant peacock tones and tropical lagoon waters, the Jade Blue colorway features a rich multi-tonal glaze blend of deep sapphire blue, rich emerald-jade undertones, and subtle mineral depth that sparkles under sunlight and moving water.

Manufactured by Fujiwa Tiles, a recognized leader in aquatic ceramic manufacturing, this classic 1" x 1" mosaic features an impervious fine porcelain body with near-zero water absorption. Pre-assembled on flexible 12" x 12" mesh-backed sheets, it provides maximum flexibility to wrap tightly around curved spa steps, bench radii, pool waterlines, and custom water features.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Applications

• Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool waterline tile runs, full pool floor/wall linings, raised spa spillways, submerged bench accents, and step safety markers.

• Aquatic Architectural Features: Outdoor fountains, waterfall spillways, reflecting pools, and water walls.

• Exterior & Interior Surfaces: Patio wet bars, outdoor kitchen backsplashes, primary bathroom accents, and shower walls.

Installation & Handling Guidelines

⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: AQUATIC & POOL MORTAR PROTOCOL

• Thinset Mortar Selection: Swimming pool and submerged tile installations require high-flexibility, polymer-modified thinset specified for submerged aquatic environments. Install using an ANSI A118.15-compliant latex-polymer modified mortar (such as MAPEI® Kerabond T / Keralastic System or LATICRETE® 254 Platinum).

• 100% Mortar Coverage: Achieving 100% mortar contact behind every 1x1 chip is mandatory in submerged applications. Voids or air pockets behind tiles trapped underwater can cause moisture accumulation, efflorescence, and eventual tile pop-offs.

• Grout Selection: Use a high-performance, water-resistant grout specified for swimming pools, such as a high-density cementitious grout (ANSI A118.7) or 100% solid industrial epoxy grout (ANSI A118.3 like MAPEI® Kerapoxy or LATICRETE® SpectraLOCK® Pro Premium) for maximum stain and chemical resistance.

Professional Recommendations

• Waterline Curing Time: Allow thinset and grout to fully cure per manufacturer instructions (typically 14 to 21 days minimum) before filling the pool with water or adding pool chemicals.

• Movement Joints: Install expansion joints at all plane changes, pool corners, and coping transitions per TCNA EJ171 guidelines.

Care & Maintenance

• Routine Cleaning: Clean pool waterline scale and body oils using a non-abrasive pool tile cleaner or a soft brush with pH-neutral soap.

• Chemical Balance: Maintain proper water chemistry (pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness) to prevent calcium scale buildup or mineral deposits along the waterline.

• Zero Sealing Required: Non-porous glazed porcelain is completely impervious to water penetration and never requires sealers or topical coatings.

Design Profile

• Aesthetic Inspiration: Tropical Blue Lagoons, Peacock Plumage, and Exotic Gemstone Springs.

• Glaze Characteristics: Multi-tonal blue-green reactive glaze that reflects sunlight, casting a vibrant turquoise-blue glow through pool water.

• Complementary Finishes: Pairs exceptionally well with travertine pool coping, French gray or white pebble pool linings, natural stone pavers, and teak accents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fujiwa Pavo Jade Blue suitable for saltwater swimming pools?

Yes! Fujiwa glazed porcelain tiles are fully impervious (< 0.5% water absorption) and chemical-resistant, making them completely safe for both traditional chlorine and saltwater pool systems.

Can this 1x1 tile be used on curved spa benches and steps?

A: Absolutely. The 1" x 1" small chip format on a flexible mesh backing is the ideal tile size for tight radii, curved spa seats, radiused pool steps, and contoured water features where larger tiles cannot bend.

How does Jade Blue affect the look of pool water?

Jade Blue blends deep sapphire blue with sea-green/jade undertones, creating a rich, crystal-clear tropical lagoon appearance that changes dynamically depending on sunlight angles and water movement.

Why is pool-rated thinset required instead of standard tile mortar?

Submerged pool tiles are subject to constant water pressure, chemical exposure, and thermal expansion. Standard interior thinsets will break down underwater over time, leading to tile detachment. Always use an ANSI A118.15 or ANSI A118.3 aquatic-rated thinset and grout.