When it comes to designing your home, don’t forget about the outdoor areas–they are just as important as the indoors! Outdoor tiles can be a great addition to your balcony, garden or any other exterior space, adding beauty and functionality. However, choosing the right tiles for outdoor use can be tricky due to the differences in finishes, thickness and durability. To help you through the process, we’ve put together some tips and information on the types of outdoor tiles, how to choose them and how to care for them.
See also: What are paving tiles?
Outdoor tiles: Types
Enhancing your outdoor space with the right tiles can transform your home’s overall look and add functionality to your exterior areas. Here are the most common types of outdoor tiles available:
Porcelain outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (Crown Tiles)
Highly durable and frost-resistant, porcelain tiles offer a luxurious look to any outdoor space. They come in various colours, designs and textures and are non-porous, making them easy to clean. However, cutting and fixing them can be challenging due to their density.
Natural stone outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (TileBar)
Consider using natural stone tiles like sandstone, slate, Cuddapah or Kota tiles for a warm and rustic vibe. Each piece is unique due to the natural variations in colour and texture. Remember that natural stone tiles are porous and can be prone to staining.
Terrazzo outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (Etsy)
These composite tiles contain marble, granite, glass and quartz chips, making them durable, low-maintenance and suitable for high-traffic areas. However, they can feel quite cold during winter and are relatively costly.
Terracotta outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (californiatilerestoration.com)
Offering an earthy and timeless appeal, terracotta tiles are fired at high temperatures for durability. They are perfect for gardens and terraces but require proper sealing to resist mould and mildew.
Cement outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (Granada Tile)
Intricately patterned cement tiles add an artistic touch to balconies and patios, but they need careful sealing to avoid fading, stains and moisture penetration.
Ceramic outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (parkingtiles.in)
While ceramic tiles can handle mild weather conditions and light outdoor use, they are not as strong as other options. They are better suited for covered patios or areas with less extreme weather changes.
Quarry outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (Ketley Brick)
Water-resistant and slip-resistant when wet, quarry tiles are suitable for rainy climates but not ideal for harsh winters due to their susceptibility to freezing and ice. They can stain easily, so take care of spills.
Slate outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (Floor & Decor)
This natural stone tile offers durability and slip resistance, but its pitted surface can accumulate dirt over time. Polishing the surface can make it smooth but slippery when wet.
Soapstone outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (soapstones.com)
Resistant to stains and water damage, soapstone is an excellent option for various climates and is especially suitable for areas around pools.
Concrete outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (DekTek Tile)
A cost-effective alternative to natural stone, concrete tiles are durable and can withstand harsh weather and heavy foot traffic, but they require periodic resealing.
Travertine outdoor tiles
Source: Pinterest (MSI)
Providing beautifully textured and coloured tiles, travertine is hard but may become slippery when wet. Polishing the surface can prevent dirt buildup.
How to choose outdoor tiles for home?
- Tile type: Consider the purpose of your outdoor space and choose the most suitable tile type. Porcelain, natural stone and ceramic tiles are excellent options for durability and aesthetics.
- Design harmony: Ensure that the chosen tiles complement your home’s overall design and architecture, creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.
- Finishes: Opt for slip-resistant tiles with matte surfaces to prevent accidents, especially in wet outdoor areas.
- Durability: Prioritise scratch and crack-resistant tiles, as outdoor tiles need to withstand harsh weather and high traffic.
- Slip-resistance: Look for tiles with non-slip surfaces to enhance safety in outdoor spaces prone to wetness.
- Weather considerations: Select tiles designed to withstand your specific climate conditions, ensuring they won’t discolour or lose their charm.
- Budget: Set a reasonable budget and choose outdoor tiles that fit within it, balancing quality and cost.
Outdoor tiles: Care and maintenance
- Regularly clean your outdoor tiles to keep them looking their best. Sweep away debris and wash with mild soap and water.
- Use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the tiles’ surface.
- If your tiles are porous, seal them properly to prevent staining and water damage.
- Address stains promptly using appropriate cleaning methods.
FAQs
Can I use indoor tiles for outdoor spaces?
While indoor tiles can be used in covered outdoor areas, choosing tiles specifically designed for outdoor use is best due to their increased strength and durability.
Which tiles are best for colder climates?
Porcelain and slate tiles are excellent choices for colder climates, as they are frost-resistant and can withstand freezing temperatures.
Can I install outdoor tiles myself?
While some DIY enthusiasts may be able to install tiles, hiring a professional is recommended to ensure proper installation, especially for complex tile types like porcelain and natural stone.
What type of outdoor tiles is best for high-traffic areas?
For high-traffic areas, consider durable and scratch-resistant tiles like porcelain or terrazzo.
How do I prevent slips on outdoor tiles?
Choose slip-resistant tiles with a textured finish to reduce the risk of slips and accidents, especially in wet conditions.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |