Outdoor Tiles: What Types Exist and What are the Best Materials

Bring Siena Matte Grey Ceramic Cross-Shaped Tile to an eye-catching feature in the garden or to tie together an outside lounging space.

Now more than ever, homeowners are bringing the comfort and solace of the indoors outside. Outdoor tiles are a great option for a gorgeous patio, deck, garden paving, and pool area. Of course, not all tiles are created equal. Material used outside has a lot more to stand up to than it does on an indoor fireplace surround or as a kitchen backsplash tile.

Exterior tiling requires a little more durability and resilience. And even more so for new flooring. Choose the wrong kind of tile and it can be a costly mistake that detracts from the beauty of your space.

So, which types exist and what’s the best material to use that will prove robust, safe underfoot, and lastingly appealing? If you are considering revamping your outdoor space, this guide will help you choose the best material for your project.

Why Choose Tile For Your Outdoor Space?

Escape, unwind, and relax in the company of Celestial Glossy Rich Electric Blue Glass Mosaic Tile. 

Our homes are much more than the interiors. And so is tile. At the heart of alfresco dining, poolside lounging, and all-year entertaining is a tough finish that can endure whatever you throw at it. The ideal outdoor tile can weather various conditions, has a slip-resistance feature, and maintenance is a breeze.

Versatility with tile gives you a myriad of materials, colors, sizes, and finishes to create an inviting atmosphere. Whether you want to add elegance to the patio, pool deck, or garden, the right material meets modern needs for functionality and exquisite styling.

Best Tile Options for Outdoor Living

With outdoor tile shopping, the aim is to choose material with a PEI rating indicating sufficient strength for exterior use. Splendor Matte Gray Porcelain Mosaic Tile is a foolproof pick.

• Mosaic tiles

Mosaic tiles bring a distinct touch to outdoor spaces. Available in porcelain, glass, and natural stone, these dainty pieces are a fabulous idea for sprucing up the patio, garden, or swimming pool. Explore a dazzling variety of colors, sizes, and shapes to create a personalized look. Multiple grout lines crisscrossing the floor are a great feature for better grip underfoot.

• Porcelain tiles

As well as its vast creative possibilities, porcelain tile is an exceptional choice for all landscaping needs. Thanks to its strength and durability, it remains unchanged even in the face of harsh weather and heavy foot traffic.

Another standout feature is its resistance to frost, moisture, stains, and scratches. These qualities take the strenuous work out of outdoor maintenance. Opt for a textured, matt version for good traction in wet seasons or areas that hold water elements. 

Outdoor porcelain tiles are sturdy and with a 20mm thickness able to be used on grass, gravel, pedestals, or a cement screed. While initial costs for porcelain tile may be high, its resilience represents remarkable lifetime value.

• Porcelain effect tiles: wood, stone, and marble

Decking out the outdoors with beautiful materials like marble and wood is a dream for many. But while these materials are showstoppers, their fragile nature doesn’t do well outside. 

The good news is porcelain can mimic the look of most natural products. And in turn, you have all the beauty without the practical concerns. Stone-effect, wood-effect, and marble-effect tiles allow you to get creative with garden décor.

• Marble tiles

Marble has a wondrous appeal that favors luxury home décor. But this natural stone is less hard, more porous, and scratches and stains easily. It requires sealing to withstand high footfall and extreme temperatures.

• Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tile isn’t limited to indoor installation. Options designed for the outdoors are durable enough to handle light use. It is vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and water seepage when subjected to freeze-thaw conditions.

Consider outdoor ceramic tile for covered patios or areas that don’t experience extreme temperature changes. While this classic tile tends to be cheaper than other varieties, it’s crucial to balance cost with durability so you get the most value for your investment.