Introducing Destination Tiles: Life Floor's New Global Design Collection

At Life Floor, innovation is driven by curiosity, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the world around us. With installations in 45+ countries and more than 3,500 projects worldwide, our surfacing solutions have become part of aquatic environments and experiences globally.

Today, we are proud to introduce our newest design-forward product line: Destination Tiles, a collection inspired by the beauty of international travel and the artistic traditions that shape iconic destinations.

---

Inspired by Murals, Elevated for Global Design

Destination Tiles originated directly from the advanced manufacturing process that brought our custom Murals to life. As our team developed the capability to create more intricate tile patterning, we realized the opportunity to design full tile motifs, each rich in character, storytelling, and cultural influence.

Measuring 2' x 2', Destination Tiles integrate seamlessly into any square layout and align perfectly with the dimensions of Life Floor's existing product lines. Each tile design is two-toned and customizable using any of the colors in our palette, allowing designers to stay within a single color family or mix and match for bolder contrast. Whether using a checkerboard layout or a staggered (brick) grid, Destination Tiles offer limitless possibilities for aesthetic impact.

These tiles can function as subtle accents or serve as the focal point of a larger composition, ideal for cruise ships, luxury resorts, themed splash pads, and upscale aquatic environments seeking an elevated, globally inspired aesthetic.

---

A Journey Through the Mediterranean

In the early stages of development, our designers noticed a recurring theme: many initial patterns drew inspiration from Mediterranean artistry and architecture. From Southern Italy's hand-painted ceramics to North Africa's geometric precision, the region's visual diversity became the perfect starting point for our first-ever Destination Tile collection.

To honor these influences authentically, our Studio team immersed themselves in the design principles that define Mediterranean tilework; studying motifs, shapes, color stories, symbolism, and historical craftsmanship. The result is a collection that celebrates a tapestry of cultures and the artistic traditions that connect them.

---

The Mediterranean Collection: Stories Told Through Tile

Each tile in the inaugural Destination Tiles collection reflects the essence of a place, drawing on iconic motifs found in local architecture, art, and cultural symbolism.

Together, these designs form a cohesive yet diverse collection, an ode to the Mediterranean's rich history of craftsmanship, geometry, and decorative art.

---

Where Will Your Design Take You?

Destination Tiles are more than a new product; they're an invitation to explore. As a global brand, Life Floor is inspired by the stories, artistry, and cultural traditions found in destinations around the world. This first launch marks the beginning of an ongoing creative journey.

Over the coming years, we will continue expanding the Destination Tile series with collections inspired by new locations and design traditions. From Asia-Pacific to Central America and beyond, the world is full of creative ideas to feature at installations.

So we'll ask you the same question our creative team asked themselves: Where should we go next?

Six Years of Transforming Splash Pads Nationwide with the Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest

Every Community Deserves a Safe Place to Splash

At Life Floor, we believe the best aquatic spaces do more than keep guests safe — they bring people together. That's why we created the Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest, an annual program designed to help communities across the country transform their splash pads with Life Floor safety surfacing.

Since its launch, the contest has funded installations that embody our mission of safety, inclusivity, and play. Each winner receives a complete Life Floor surface design, product donation, and expert installation support, ensuring their new splash pad will serve families for years to come.

As we wrap up this year's contest, we're reflecting on the incredible stories of our past winners, communities who've made a big splash with their vision and commitment to safer, more inclusive aquatic play. Learn more about the program and apply before November 14.

Let’s explore our past winners!

---

Andrew Belle Splash Pad

Winner of the Inaugural Make a SPLASH! Grant - 2020

The first-ever Make a SPLASH! Grant winner set the bar high. The City of Dothan revitalized the Andrew Belle Splash Pad, a beloved neighborhood gathering spot, with vibrant, high-contrast surfacing in Ocean, Bluebird, Aviator, Limelight, and Seafoam.

This installation became a model for future grant projects: bringing color, safety, and joy to an aging splash pad, while turning community pride into a surface that celebrates play in every hue.

---

Wells Park Splash Pad

2021 Make a SPLASH! Grant Winner

The Wells Park Splash Pad demonstrates how Life Floor can breathe new life into public aquatic amenities. With bold geometric patterns and color blocking, this project reimagines what municipal splash pads can look like, offering design-forward safety that stands up to heavy use and sunny days.

---

Handy Park Splash Pad

2020 Make a SPLASH! Partial Grant Winner

At Handy Park, what began as a simple resurfacing transformed into a full-scale refresh for one of Redford Township’s favorite family spaces. Life Floor replaced deteriorating concrete with soft, slip-resistant tiles that invite play and protect little feet. The result? A revitalized community landmark where safety and style coexist beautifully.

---

Rotary Splash Island at Sammy Haggard Park

2022 Make a SPLASH! Grant Winner

When the City of Danielsville sought to re-energize Rotary Splash Island, they turned to Life Floor to deliver a surface as dynamic as their play features. The finished design incorporates flowing patterns and bright tones that complement the aquatic elements above, proving that theming can extend seamlessly from ground to sky.

---

John Anderson Park Splash Pad

2023 Make a SPLASH! Need-Based Grant Winner

The City of Grandview, Missouri, was awarded our Need-Based Grant to replace the aging surfacing at John Anderson Park with Life Floor’s Ripple texture tiles, creating a safer, more engaging environment for Grandview families. The surfacing features custom gradients of blues and turquoise and an adventurous treasure-hunt theme that invites guests to explore every inch of the splashpad.

---

Morgan’s Inspiration Island: Will’s Hang 10 Harbor

2023 Make a SPLASH! Inclusive Design Winner

Morgan’s Inspiration Island is globally recognized for its commitment to inclusive play. As part of the park's accessible expansion, Life Floor installed a surfacing system designed for wheelchair mobility and sensory comfort, allowing guests of all abilities to join the fun.

The surfacing at Will's Hang 10 Harbor reflects Life Floor and Morgan's Wonderland’s shared belief that play belongs to everyone.

---

JCC St. Louis | Staenberg Family Complex Splash Pad

2024 Make a SPLASH! Inclusive Design Winner

The JCC St. Louis project embodies what accessible aquatic design should look like. The 774-sq-ft surface features Life Floor’s Ripple texture in oceanic hues of Aviator, Bluebird, Ocean, and Submariner, forming a calming, sensory-friendly gradient. The JCC utilized Life Floor’s standard hexagon shape and incorporated insect Inlays to complement their themed spray fixtures.

The splash pad supports JCC’s adaptive programs and early-childhood initiatives, ensuring safe play for users of all ages and abilities.

---

Fayette Aquatic Center Splash Pad

2024 Make a SPLASH! Need-Based Grant Winner

For more than two decades, Fayette’s splash pad has been a summer gathering spot for families across northwest Alabama. After years of use, the surface had worn down until the city received Life Floor’s Need-Based Grant.

The result was a complete surfacing transformation that renewed the space while preserving its hometown charm. Today, the pad once again buzzes with laughter, energy, and the confidence that comes from safe, slip-resistant flooring.

---

Why These Projects Matter

Each of these installations tells a story — of cities investing in safety, of designers embracing creativity, and of communities reconnecting through play. Together, they showcase what’s possible when surface design meets social impact.

• Safety First: Every surface is soft underfoot, slip-resistant, and built to perform in wet conditions.

• Inclusive by Design: From ADA-friendly transitions to sensory-friendly colors, each project considers every guest.

• Playful Expression: Whether it’s geometric patterns or custom gradients, Life Floor brings design and durability together.

• Community Driven: The Make a SPLASH! Grant amplifies the stories of small towns and large metros alike, proving that every place can make a big impact.

Be the Next to Make a SPLASH!

Applications are open for the 2025 Make a SPLASH! Grant Contest — but not for long! The contest closes November 14, with winners announced December 4.

If your community is ready to reimagine its splash pad with safer, more beautiful surfacing, we’d love to hear your story. Apply now and join the growing list of communities transforming play, one tile at a time.

Close with Confidence: A Step-by-Step Guide to Inspecting + Maintaining Life Floor Through End of Life

As the season winds down and your aquatic facility prepares to close its gates, it's the perfect time to ensure that every detail, especially your surfacing, is ready for a restful off-season. Whether you manage a bustling splash pad, a busy pool deck, or a locker room that's seen countless bare feet this summer, thoughtful inspection and maintenance now can make all the difference later. At Life Floor, we know how important it is to protect your investment and keep your spaces safe, slip-resistant, and beautiful year after year.

This guide will walk you step-by-step through inspecting and maintaining your Life Floor, from post-season care to recognizing signs of end-of-life and planning for replacement. That's why we've put together this easy-to-follow checklist to help you confidently close out the season and start planning for next year's success.

Inspect every installed area once operations end, this includes:

• Zero‑depth splash pads/entry zones

• Pool decks

• Landing pads at slide exits

• Locker rooms and bathroom thresholds

• Finishing details (depth markers, safety graphics, transitions)

Key issues to look for:

• Cracked, warped, or missing tiles
  Life Floor's modular system allows for spot replacement; if you lack attic stock, contact Life Floor to match and ship new tiles easily.

• Surface is becoming difficult to clean
  If stains, buildup, or discoloration persist despite following Life Floor’s recommended cleaning methods, it may indicate deep wear, texture loss, or surface degradation. This can be a sign that your tiles are nearing the end of their life and should be evaluated for repair or replacement.

• Lifted edges, bubbling, floated seams
  These are often signs of sub‑surface moisture or adhesive breakdown. Our Registered Aquatic Partner installers can help assess and remediate.

• Worn slip‑resistant textures
  Ripple 2.0 and Ripple Classic textures are certified to NSF/ANSI/CAN 50. If the texture has smoothed out or feels slick, it is time to consider replacement.

• Faded or missing safety markers (depth indicators, no‑diving symbols, warning signs)
  Replacement safety messaging tiles can be swapped in without a full resurfacing.

• Damaged transition strips
  Check locker room transitions and threshold strips at doors. Look for seams separating, unevenly leveled transitions, or reduced traction in high-traffic zones.

---

Deep Cleaning When Season Ends

• Use a gentle, peroxide-based cleaner as outlined in the Life Floor cleaning guide. This removes body oils, soap/scum, and mineral buildup without damaging the tiles.

• Avoid pressure washing, unless absolutely necessary, keep fan nozzle wide (20°+), maintain 12″ distance, and limit pressure to ≤ 800 PSI to prevent texture wear (not warranty-covered if incorrectly done).

• Rinse thoroughly until the foam completely disappears. If foam persists, repeat rinse.

For step-by-step instructions, recommended products, and expert tips, visit our How to Clean Life Floor page to keep your surface looking its best and performing safely.

---

Drainage, Water Features & Seam Inspection

• At the end of your season, flush drains and water features to clear out deposits and test flow.

• Inspect areas around drains or stainless‑steel fixtures for wear or seam separation.

• Look for pooling or stagnant water zones. Even slip-resistant surfaces can nurture algae or bacteria if water remains too long.

---

Assessing Finishing Details & Safety Graphics

• Check depth markers, directional graphics, no‑diving tiles, and decorative finishes for fading, peeling, or separation.

• All safety messaging can be replaced individually using Life Floor finishing detail tiles. This is efficient and retains design continuity.

---

Replace or Repair Before Winter

• Plan tile replacements or details refresh now while installers are available and downtime is manageable.

• Life Floor offers a 5-year limited material warranty. Individual tiles can be replaced as needed providing modular flexibility.

• Beyond warranty (5+ years), surface wear, fading, or thinning texture may warrant broader replacement or resurfacing.

---

LIFE FLOOR END-OF-LIFE INDICATORS

Your Life Floor may be nearing its end‑of‑life when:

• Tiles lose texture and slip-resistance falls below certified thresholds (e.g., Ripple’s P5/BPN rating diminishes).

• Visual fading due to UV exposure or chemical imbalance leads to an uneven or washed-out look.

• If 3/8" tiles have compressed to be 1/4" or less (below recess in concrete or measured with a ruler) especially along high-traffic pathways.

• Tiles become difficult to clean.

• Widespread tile damage (cracks, punctures, permanent dents) occurs beyond what spot‑repair can sustainably correct.

---

Off‑Season Maintenance Plan

• Store attic stock tiles indoors, flat—not on edge—to prevent warping or expansion/contraction cycles.

• Schedule quantitative re‑inspections annually before the pre‑season restart.

• Keep a maintenance log of replaced tiles, repairs, cleaning records, and water chemistry outcomes.

---

End‑Of‑Season Checklist 

TASK

• Walk and inspect all Life Floor areas

• Check transitions and landing pads

• Deep-clean all surfaces

• Test drains and water systems

• Check and replace safety graphics

• Order replacement tiles or graphics

• Store attic stock properly

• Record findings & replacements

PURPOSE

• Identify damage, loose tiles, and texture wear

• Ensure smooth, slip-resistant edges

• Remove residues and prevent microbial growth

• Prevent pooling and damage around seams

• Maintain clear instructions and branding

• Stay on schedule and keep matching

• Preserve material integrity off-season

• Track maintenance over the years

---

MAINTAINING YOUR INVESTMENT

A little attention now goes a long way in preserving the performance, safety, and design of your Life Floor installation. By taking the time to clean, inspect, and address any wear before winter sets in, you'll set your facility up for a smooth, stress-free reopening next season. If you notice signs that it may be time for repairs or replacement, our team is here to help with expert guidance and support. Let's keep your spaces safe, stylish, and ready for more memorable moments, season after season.

Need help ordering replacement tiles or planning repairs? Reach out to your Life Floor representative or a Registered Aquatic Partner today.

Creating Safe Aquatic Spaces for Students with Life Floor

For students of all ages, aquatic environments offer far more than just a place to swim; they're a vital part of physical development, health, and lifelong learning. From early swim lessons to competitive swim teams and summer camps, these environments support students in building confidence, learning safety skills, and staying active. But with increased activity and high foot traffic comes an increased need for surfaces that prioritize both safety and performance. That's where Life Floor makes a difference.

A Safer Surface for Every Aquatic Student

Whether it's a school pool, health and wellness center, recreation facility, or dedicated swim school, surfaces matter. Traditional pool decks, often made of hard concrete or slippery tile, can pose a significant risk, especially for younger users. Life Floor's cushioned, slip-resistant surface is specifically engineered to reduce the risk of slips and falls, while also softening impact when those inevitable stumbles do occur.

For students, this safety-first design creates an environment where they can focus on learning and play without fear of injury. For administrators and facility operators, it means peace of mind and reduced liability.

Supporting Programming and Student Development

Safe aquatic spaces aren't just about swimming laps. They're home to a wide variety of student-centered programming, and Life Floor supports them all:

• Swim Lessons: For young learners just beginning to navigate the water, Life Floor provides a stable, slip-resistant platform that supports instructor-led lessons and builds student confidence.
  

• After-School Activities & Camps: Whether it's a splash pad for free play or a multi-purpose aquatic area, Life Floor allows kids to explore and enjoy the water safely during supervised programs and school breaks.
  

• Dry-Land Training & Conditioning: Life Floor can be used in dry training zones adjacent to swim teams or PE classes. The soft, grippy surface supports dynamic movements like lunges, core exercises, and mobility work, without the harshness of concrete.
  

• Safety & Lifeguard Training: Life Floor's forgiving material allows for safe practice of emergency scenarios, including CPR training and water rescues, without the risk of injury to team members or participants.
  

• Locker Rooms & Changing Areas: Wet floors in locker rooms are one of the most common areas for slips and falls. Life Floor provides critical traction and cushioning in these high-risk zones, helping students move safely between activities.
  

• Inclusive Programming: The non-abrasive texture of Life Floor is gentle on sensitive skin and accessible for students with sensory or mobility challenges, making aquatic environments more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

A Design That Inspires

Student spaces should spark energy, imagination, and school spirit. Life Floor's customizable design options allow facilities to incorporate school colors, mascots, instructional markings, or playful patterns that enhance the experience and support programming. Whether you're creating designated zones for younger swimmers or highlighting a competition area, Life Floor can be tailored to your vision.

Built for Long-Term Use

Durability is key when hundreds of students use a space daily. Life Floor is designed to endure the wear and tear of high-traffic aquatic environments while maintaining its safety, appearance, and performance over time. It's UV-stable, chlorine-resistant, and easy to clean, making it a smart long-term investment for any student-centered aquatic facility.

Let's Build Safer, Smarter Aquatic Spaces Together

When students feel safe, they're more willing to explore, learn, and grow. Life Floor transforms aquatic spaces into supportive environments where students thrive, whether they're just starting to swim or training for competition.

Ready to create a better aquatic experience for your students?

Visit www.lifefloor.com to learn more and get started.

Five Ways You Play Differently on Life Floor

At Life Floor, we believe that the way you play matters, and our surfaces are designed to elevate every aspect of the play experience. Play isn’t just fun; it’s foundational to childhood development. Here’s how play, especially on safe, supportive surfaces like Life Floor, shapes kids in powerful ways:

Boosting Brain Power

When kids play, they’re doing more than just having fun, they’re building their brains. Interactive, engaging play encourages exploration, sharpens memory, strengthens attention spans, and helps children develop critical thinking skills. Life Floor’s slip-resistant, soft-touch surface makes it easier for kids to focus on play without the fear of injury holding them back.

Strengthening Social + Emotional Skills

Play is where friendships are formed and emotional intelligence grows. Whether they’re taking turns on a splash pad or navigating an imaginative game, children learn cooperation, empathy, and communication. Life Floor invites connection, giving kids a safe space to express themselves and interact freely with others.

Encouraging Movement for a Healthy Body

From sprinting through spray features to tiptoeing across colorful patterns, movement is essential, and Life Floor supports it all. Play improves coordination, builds motor skills, and contributes to lifelong physical wellness. Our cushioned surface helps reduce impact, empowering kids to run, jump, and tumble with confidence.

Fueling Creativity and Imagination

The best play sparks stories, characters, and worlds of imagination. Life Floor’s customizable designs and vibrant colors help set the scene for creative play, where every splash pad or aquatic zone becomes a stage for storytelling, role-playing, and exploration.

Building Resilience + Problem-Solving Skills

Challenges are part of play, and they’re important. Whether it’s figuring out how to reach the tallest fountain or navigating a game with changing rules, children develop perseverance, adaptability, and grit. With Life Floor underfoot, kids can face obstacles head-on, knowing they’re supported every step of the way.

---

Play Fearlessly with Cushioned Safety

On Life Floor, every step, dash, or cartwheel feels safer. The cushioned, slip-resistant surface offers firm traction and shock absorption, significantly reducing slip-and-fall incidents and softening impacts when mishaps occur. Parents and facility managers consistently note fewer injuries and more worry‑free family playtime.

Spark Imagination with Vibrant Design

Life Floor isn’t just functional - it’s fun! Colorful, themeable surfaces invite creative storytelling: splash pads become underwater worlds, tile Inlays spark treasure maps, and Murals guide playful journeys. It transforms ordinary wet areas into engaging playgrounds that delight both children and adults.

Play Inclusively: All Ages + Abilities

Life Floor encourages play that embraces everyone. You can run, wheel, crawl, tumble, jump, or relax, all on one adaptable surface. Certified as an Autism Resource by IBCCES, its tactile textures provide non-visual cues (e.g., around pool edges), and visual color zoning guides users through space transitions, allowing them to explore the aquatic areas in which they are most comfortable.

Sense Your Surroundings with Smart Signals

Depth zones, step edges, and play boundaries are intuitively marked with Life Floor. Non‑slip textures and raised edges offer tactile warnings near depth changes, similar to street-crossing tactile domes. Meanwhile, bold color bands and symbols convey visual messaging, such as “no diving” or “stairs,” helping users instinctively know where to play or take care when navigating stairs. Explore Life Floor’s finishing details, safety messaging, and pool edging and coping.

Experience Elevated Customer Delight

The impact of Life Floor extends beyond play; it transforms experiences. Facilities report that guests are drawn to the look and feel, families linger longer, children feel safer, and staff see fewer injury reports.

““It’s been amazing. You can see that guest appreciate it when you see them staying inside the play area for prolonged periods of time, especially when they are sitting in the pool and playing with their kids. The “softness” of the flooring is very inviting and has really allowed families to stay together and enjoy the entire area as one. Kids can run through the area without worry of slipping and tripping, and really be more interactive with all the elements and each other.”

— Aquaventures Waterpark, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Operator feedback also emphasizes the ease of maintenance with staffing appreciating “no smelly carpet” and that Life Floor is “easy to clean”, along with the design flexibility and the ability to replace individual tiles when an issue arises.

“It’s so nice to be able to remove one tile or one area at a time if we do need to replace. We are really satisfied with the product. It’s safer, and the customers like it because they feel like it’s a cushion on the floor. It’s not slippery. The product is great.”

— Watiki Indoor Waterpark, Rapid City, SD

---

Why It Matters

Life Floor isn’t just a beautiful surface; it’s a stage for all kinds of play:

• Parents gain peace of mind, and kids can roam and explore more safely.

• Facility teams see lower incidents, happier guests, and streamlined upkeep.

• Designers and operators appreciate a surface that visually and functionally adapts to thematic and accessibility needs.

• It’s also environmentally thoughtful, with North American manufacturing and optimized shipping reducing the carbon footprint.

HOW WILL YOU PLAY DIFFERENTLY? 

Life Floor empowers play that’s safe, inclusive, imaginative, intuitive, and delightful. It doesn’t just change the way floors look; it transforms how people interact, explore, and connect in aquatic spaces. From sensory cues for those with autism, to vibrant themes that encourage creativity, to the peace of mind that safe surfacing brings, Life Floor truly changes how we play.

Want to See Life Floor in Action?

• Learn more about our floors, our mission, and our certifications.

• Explore our Project Portfolio for design ideas and inspiration.

• Dive into real Life Floor stories, straight from our clients.

Ready to transform your space with safer, more inclusive, and unforgettable play? Connect with the Life Floor team today to bring your vision to life, whether you’re updating an aquatic center, designing a splash pad, or reimagining a play zone.

Themed Entertainment is Making Waves in Aquatics

Waterparks have been thrilling guests with their ever-growing diversity of waterslides, play areas, wave pools, lazy rivers, and attractions. While they’re often thought of as very separate entities, these destinations usually operate adjacent to theme parks. As a result, many of the design principles in themed entertainment have historically shaped the space for aquatics. As new trends emerge, those are beginning to make their way into the world of water as well. Here are just a few:  

Interactive Play 

Guests are given the ability to cast spells in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and immerse themselves in life-size gameplay at Super Nintendo World. This level of interactivity, autonomy, and ability to truly feel part of themed worlds creates a new type of guest experience. At water play venues, guests enjoy shooting water cannons, pivoting spray features, and engaging with water tables. Some features are button-activated. Overall, guests are more engaged with these splash pads and can interact with others through the experience. 

Immersive Technology 

PHOTO CREDIT: MOMENT FACTORY

At themed venues, projection mapping creates interactive floors and drives nighttime spectaculars. Large-scale touchscreens entertain guests in line queues and massive facilities like the Sphere immerse guests in ways never experienced before. We’re seeing glimpses of this influence in the aquatic world. On a smaller scale, cities are hosting dive-in movies and guests are entertained by animations inside the AquaMouse water coaster on Disney’s Wish. On a much more developed scale, some water parks envelop entire spaces with dynamic lighting and projections, fully immersing guests in a new world of aquatics. The Thea Award-winning areas shaped by this technology at Aquascope (in collaboration with Moment Factory) have shown the potential for other indoor parks to follow suit. 

The Power of Storytelling 

Every amazing themed entertainment experience engages guests with a story that draws them through an attraction or shapes the design details of an environment. Some of the best water parks have come with such narratives, and they’re reflected in nearly every design and branding decision that shapes the experience - Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Volcano Bay, to name a few. Beyond specs for spray features and play structures, we’ve seen smaller parks and municipal attractions lean into theming on their floors, walls, and across their facilities. 

Overlay of IP and Creation of Brand Experiences

Without a doubt, theme parks have been heavily influenced by movie and television IP that shapes their attractions and experiences. Smaller, location-based experiences are gaining traction, bringing these stories to guests around the country and the world. While early waterparks may have relied primarily on loose beach-focused theming, many are now also tying into IP and brands. An award-winning waterpark of note taps into several Nickelodeon shows at Aqua Nick Riviera Maya. Gabby’s Dollhouse: Kitty Splash Garden also recently debuted at American Dream. Disney has aptly themed many of their resort and waterpark aquatics after shows including a Finding Nemo design at Pixar Place Hotel, Moana feature at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and a Frozen-inspired splash pad at Blizzard Beach. Basing these attractions on known IPs lends to unique design opportunities, bringing beloved stories to guests across a variety of aquatic amenities.

Inclusive Play

One of this year’s Thea Award winners, Adventure Play at Windsor Great Park, was designed as a fully inclusive and accessible playground. Attractions designed to provide guests of all abilities with a stellar experience often innovate to create more diverse and engaging spaces for everyone. We’ve been lucky enough to participate in aquatic enhancements to improve accessibility at both Morgan’s Wonderland and Give Kids the World Village. The success of these facilities underscores the importance of inclusive design considerations to improve experiences worldwide. 

Creating New Location-Based Experiences

With the advent of surf parks, a new type of aquatic experience and destination has emerged. The same is true for themed entertainment as the interests of guests evolve. We’re seeing more localized entertainment and pop-ups. One instance of this in aquatics is made possible by a variety of wave technologies. From FlowRider’s systems on cruise ships and at resorts to Ka’ana Wave Co’s surf machines that can be installed in smaller bodies of water, all the way up to massive technologies like WhiteWater’s Endless Surf featured at O2 SURFTOWN MUC, new aquatic experiences are popping up at destinations all over the world. These locations, designed to make surfing more accessible regardless of location, almost always come with amenities to keep guests entertained and comfortable when not actively participating in sessions.

---

All of these trends have certainly brought joy and excitement to guests wherever they’ve been implemented. While this overlap between themed entertainment and the aquatic world exists, we still see the potential for so much more imaginative design, tech overlays, and interactivity. Contact us to collaborate with our Design Studio to dream up the next big thing.

Cleaning Life Floor During the Busy Season – Tips for Aquatic Operators

Summer is here, and so is peak traffic season for aquatic facilities. While fun and foot traffic soar, so does the strain on your surfaces. For aquatic operators using Life Floor, a slip-resistant surface that thrives in wet environments, now is the time to double down on a smart, efficient cleaning strategy.

Life Floor is uniquely engineered from a foam-rubber material, which means cleaning it requires a different approach than traditional surfaces. With the right approach, you’ll not only maintain visual appeal and safety but also extend the life of your floor. Here’s how to handle the most common seasonal contaminants and keep your Life Floor in top condition.

Combat Surface Rust from Slide Towers and Fixtures

Problem: Rust stains frequently form where water runs off metal structures, such as slide towers or exposed hardware, especially in outdoor areas.

Solution: Use a mineral deposit remover (MDR) with 30–40% phosphoric acid, diluted appropriately (up to 1:5 for aggressive cleaning). Apply with a squeeze bottle, not a sprayer, and scrub using a medium-soft bristle deck brush. Never let the solution dry on the tile. Rinse thoroughly and follow with a degreaser to remove any remaining film.

Remove Calcium Deposits Near Ladders and in Standing Water

Problem: Hard water deposits—white, chalky buildup around ladders, drains, and any area with poor drainage.

Solution: These are alkaline deposits and respond best to acidic cleaners, such as peroxide or mineral deposit remover (MDR). In stubborn areas (often between tiles or where water collects), apply MDR directly, allow a short dwell time (2 minutes), scrub, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat if necessary for heavy buildup.

Manage Sunscreen and Lotion Buildup in High-Traffic Areas

Problem: Oils from spray-on sunscreen, tanning products, and lotions are tough on surfaces and attract additional debris.

Solution: Use a sodium-based degreaser at a stronger dilution (1:5) and clean every other week (or more frequently during high-traffic periods) with a floor scrubber or auto-scrubber. For best results, apply cleaner liberally, allow it to dwell, then scrub before recovering the cleaner and thoroughly rinsing the area.

---

Dealing with Chewing Gum on Life Floor

Problem: Chewing gum can quickly become an unsightly nuisance on pool decks, especially when it gets ground into the textured surface.

Solution: Start by applying ice to the gum to harden it. Once firm, gently lift it with a plastic scraper or putty knife; avoid anything sharp that could gouge the foam surface. For any remaining residue, apply WD-40 and gently scrub with a cloth until the gum is fully removed. Rinse the area thoroughly and follow with a degreaser cleaner to ensure no oily residue remains on the surface.

Spot Cleaning Strategy for Problem Areas

Tip: Not every part of your facility needs the same cleaner. Locker rooms and bathrooms are best maintained with peroxide-based cleaners, while decks with high food traffic or heavy sunscreen use benefit more from degreasers. For calcium and rust, the mineral deposit remover is your best friend.

Sample cleaning rotation for an outdoor aquatic area:

• Week 1: Cleaner Degreaser

• Week 2: Cleaner Degreaser

• Week 3: Peroxide Cleaner

• Spot clean as needed: Mineral deposit remover

Sample cleaning rotation for an indoor aquatic area:

• Week 1: Peroxide Cleaner

• Week 2: Peroxide Cleaner

• Week 3: Cleaner Degreaser

• Spot clean as needed: Mineral deposit remover

Repeat this schedule and adjust based on your traffic and trouble spots.

---

Avoid These Common Cleaning Mistakes

• Never scrub Life Floor when dry or use stiff or metal brushes. They can damage the surface texture.

• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. If foam appears when spraying the floor, that’s a sign that cleaning products are still lingering.

• Check your cleaner’s pH. Acidic soils require an alkaline degreaser; alkaline deposits require an acidic cleaner.

• Don’t power wash unless absolutely necessary—and even then, use <800 PSI with a 20°+ fan tip and stand at least 12 inches from the floor.

Your Summer Cleaning Toolkit

Be sure to have these on hand:

• Peroxide cleaner (pH 3.5–4.6)

• Sodium-based degreaser (pH 12.5–13.5)

• Phosphoric acid mineral deposit remover

• Auto-scrubber or floor scrubber with turf pad or soft bristle brush

• Wet vacuum or squeegee for recovery

• Test kits or cloths for spot checks

• Recommended Cleaners for Life Floor

• Cleaning Troubleshooting Guide

• Owner’s Manual

Final Thoughts

Life Floor is built to withstand the demands of your busiest season, but it thrives with consistent, appropriate care. With the right tools and schedule in place, you can minimize downtime, maintain safety, and keep your facility looking its best all summer long. 

Need help troubleshooting a tough stain?
Visit lifefloor.com/cleaning-life-floor or email the experts at solutions@lifefloor.com.

Life Floor Wins Meaningful Capitalism Award 2025

We're thrilled to announce that Life Floor has been awarded the 2025 Meaningful Capitalism Award by Platinum Group! This recognition celebrates companies that achieve financial success and make a tangible, positive impact on individuals, families, and communities.

Within the application, we not only shared financial metrics, but also how we impact our community in thoughtful ways. Some highlights include our philanthropic efforts, industry-leading certifications, and the numerous organizations we regularly support. We also shared how our core values inform our practices and how we seek employee feedback in everything we do through qualitative and quantitative measures.

We’re constantly pushing toward innovation to improve what we can offer our customers, partners, and end-users. For example, we’ve invested over $2M over the last 5 years to develop our products to last even longer in any climate or aquatic environment. Our goal is not to be the only safety surface on the market, but we do strive to be the best through innovation, collaboration, excellence, and integrity. 

“Life Floor, stands out for its commitment to safety, accessibility, and design excellence in aquatic environments. Their innovative flooring solutions enhance the well-being of countless families, embodying the very essence of Meaningful Capitalism.”

— The Platinum Group

Jonathan Keller, CEO and Founder of Life Floor

In his acceptance speech, CEO of Life Floor, Jonathan Keller shares, “I was at a conference a couple of weeks ago, where I heard a quote from John Mark Comer that really struck me, ‘We’re called to a very specific kind of work. To make a Garden-like world where image bearers can flourish and thrive, where people can experience and enjoy God’s generous love. A kingdom where God’s will is done ‘on earth as it is in heaven,’ where the glass wall between earth and heaven is so thin and clear and translucent that you don’t even remember it’s there.’ This struck me, because I believe that honest, meaningful work is an act of worship. God created us and everything in this universe. God is the owner of everything, and we are the stewards entrusted to be fruitful and exercise dominion over the earth. Ultimately as business owners and leaders, we are called to create environments where Heaven and Earth collide. For Life Floor, it just so happens that the little niche where we, at Life Floor, get to do that is aquatic safety surfacing, which also happens to be a lot of fun.”

The Life Floor Team, January 2025

Keller continues, “at Life Floor we believe all aquatic spaces should be safe, beautiful, and inclusive to all people. That’s our ‘why’, which is important to meaningful, or, what I think of as redemptive capitalism. The ‘how’ you do business and the ‘who’ are also quite important.”

“When my 3 other co-founders and I founded this business 14 years ago, the Meaningful Capitalism Award didn’t exist, but the passion and naivete of 24-year-old millennials did. We wanted to create a business that would make a return, but also make a difference. We wanted to work at a company where we enjoyed our colleagues and learned from them. We wanted a place where people who interacted with us—our investors, our suppliers, our partners, our customers—knew that they mattered.”

“Starting up a company takes a lot of work. Creating a market for a product takes a lot of work. All that work can be seen as a burden or a privilege, but ultimately, I see it as one of my highest honors to be able to love people well through our work. I see it as our job to help make that collision of heaven and earth a reality in our companies.”

Our team mascot is the bison. Unlike cows who run from the storm and end up being in the worst of it for longer, bison face the storm head on and charge into it because they know better weather is on the other side. We encourage our team members to be like bison. Even though conversations may be difficult or new regulations might mean we have to pivot our products, we will embrace the unknown and charge into it together as a team.

At Life Floor, we strive to integrate our lives with our work in order to make a difference in other people’s lives. Despite being a niche company in a niche industry, we strive each day to be a force for positive, meaningful change. We encourage other organizations to be bold in their efforts to bring about positive impact and to embrace difficult situations, because that is how we learn and grow as a community.

We extend a sincere thank you to Randy Kroll for nominating Life Floor and believing in our mission, values, and the strength we bring to the aquatics industry.

---

The award ceremony took place on May 6, 2025, where Life Floor was honored alongside other exemplary companies: All In One Accounting, Structures Inc., and True North Family of Companies.