Product Overview

Fujiwa Tile Sora Series: Black Galaxy 6" x 6" Semi-Gloss Porcelain Tile is a dramatic, high-performance architectural pool tile engineered specifically for submerged aquatic environments, waterline installations, and outdoor hardscapes. Inspired by the depth of nighttime skies and galaxy stone formations, the Black Galaxycolorway features a midnight black body infused with metallic-like crystalline flecks and subtle iridescent highlights under a refined semi-gloss glaze.

Manufactured by Fujiwa Tiles, a recognized leader in pool and outdoor ceramics, this 6" x 6" square tile features a vitrified fine porcelain body with near-zero water absorption (< 0.5%). Engineered to withstand severe freeze-thaw winter cycles, harsh pool chemicals, and continuous UV exposure, it creates a striking, modern waterline border that anchors pool plaster and coping.

Technical Specifications

Recommended Applications

• Swimming Pools & Spas: Pool waterline tile runs, raised spa spillways, submerged bench accents, and step marker safety highlights.

• 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 6x6 tile 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: Celestial Galaxy Stone, Modern High-Contrast Luxury, and Moody Resort Sanctuaries.

• Finish Advantage: The semi-gloss finish balances light reflection with rich color depth, capturing sunlight without creating harsh glare off the waterline.

• Complementary Finishes: Pairs exceptionally well with crisp white or dark midnight-blue pebble pool linings, poured concrete or light travertine coping, and matte black or stainless outdoor fixtures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fujiwa Sora Black Galaxy 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.

Will dark black pool tile get too hot along the waterline?

Because waterline tiles are partially submerged and constantly cooled by splashing pool water, thermal heat absorption is minimal along the waterline rim compared to exposed dry deck pavers.

Can this 6" x 6" tile withstand freezing winter weather?

A: Absolutely. Fujiwa pool tiles are tested and certified frost-proof (ASTM C1026). They are engineered to endure severe freeze-thaw winter cycles without cracking, spalling, or debonding when installed with proper movement joints and ANSI A118.15 thinset.

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.