A Guide To Choosing The Best Tiles For Outdoor Use

Want to tile your outdoor area? You may have your sights set on a certain style or colour tile, but are you sure it’s the ideal choice for outdoor use? It needs to be both aesthetically pleasing and functional and to ensure it is, the first thing you need to consider is the durability and longevity of the tile. This means it’s UV-resistant, fade-resistant, water-resistant, and handles the weather well. 

In this article, we’re going to show you how to find tiles that will suit your outdoor area perfectly and will give you the longevity you’re looking for! 

1. Focus on durability

Outdoor tiles are going to go through a lot more than indoor tiles would. This means more foot traffic and consistent exposure to the elements. This means durability should be a top priority when selecting tiles. You don’t want tiles that are going to chip and break or become brittle from being in the sun daily. So, invest more in getting better quality tiles, and they’ll prove their worth by lasting a lot longer. 

2. Consider slip resistance 

You also need to factor in safety. Tiles come in different textures, and you should look for tiles that have a decent amount of traction. While it might be funny to watch a video of someone sliding along wet tiles, it’s definitely not fun or safe when your tiles are wet and you can’t walk on them. 

3. Keep your style in mind

Pinterest is a DIY interior designer’s paradise these days. Before you start looking for tiles to purchase, do some research and find a design that suits your style. Finding inspiration for your tile choice will help you narrow down the kind of tiles you want and make the process of selecting them a lot easier as well. 

4. Set a budget

When it comes to remodelling or building, your budget is the boss. Setting a budget and adhering to it will ensure that you don’t spend beyond your means and give you an idea of what you can afford. If you want more extravagant tiles but outside of your budget, then you should save and increase your budget before putting yourself in a tight spot. 

5. Consider light and weather

Sunlight exposure and other weather conditions are big factors to consider. Tiles that get a lot of sunlight tend to fade over the years and are more prone to becoming brittle, so ensure they’re made of hardy materials. Being outside, your tiles will most likely get wet from rainfall. Some tiles are more porous than others, so as to prevent cracking and chipping. So, if your outside area gets a lot of sun, or in an area that gets sufficient rainfall, we’d suggest getting tiles that handle temperature changes better and are less porous, like porcelain. 

6. Choose the right tiles for each area

Consider the type of tile you need in that area. For example, patio tiles should be strong and water-resistant, while pool tiles need to be slip-resistant and easy to clean. Make sure you select the tiles for their functions accordingly. 

7. Think About the Finish

The finish of your tiles affects the final product and how they look used. Here are some options that you can choose from:

• Wood Finish: these are strong, durable, and easy to install. They offer a lovely natural look to the area
• Decking Tiles: also made from water-resistant wood, these fit seamlessly together and are strong and durable
• Carpet Tiles: made to fit together well, the tiles are soft and stick together to the floor
• Interlocking Plastic Tiles: often made from recycled plastics, these tiles are water-resistant and convenient to install
• Rubber Finish: Rubber tiles have a soft feel to them but provide superior traction

8. Select the Right Materials

Selecting materials for an outdoor tile is also something you need to consider. The material you choose is a key contributor to the style of your outdoor area, so choose carefully. Here are some popular options for you:

Natural Stone Materials

• Granite is a High-end material and beautiful when polished, but it can be slippery when wet
•  Sandstone offers a unique texture but is prone to scratches 
• Travertine has a lovely aesthetic, but dirt can often get into the openings, and it can be slippery when polished
• Limestone is available in a few different shades, but it is soft and can crack easily
• Slate ticks all the boxes. It’s durable, water-resistant and readily available
• Marble is often the go-to for harsh climates. It’s hardy, water-resistant and looks good. 
• Soapstone is non-porous, smooth, water and heat-resistant. This makes it ideal for hot climates and pool areas

Man-Made Tiles

• Ceramic is great for patios with light foot traffic. It’s durable and very common, meaning it’s price will be better
• Concrete is a cost-effective solution. While not necessarily a tile, you can get it to mimic tiles
• Quarry tiles are strong, unglazed clay tiles that are perfect for patios or courtyards. They offer a Mediterranean feel to the area and are slip-resistant
• Porcelain tiles are denser than ceramic ones. They’re durable and strong, making them ideal for most outdoor areas

Final Thoughts

Choosing tiles for your outdoor area isn’t a decision to take lightly. Outdoor tiles need to have a good balance of aesthetics with function. This means they need to be weather-resistant, strong, safe, and look good. Remember these key factors when considering materials for outdoor tiles, they’ll help you make the right choice.