When it comes to creating a beautiful and durable outdoor space, choosing the right tiles is crucial. Outdoor tiles not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your patio, deck, or pool area but also provide durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. With a wide range of options available, it can be overwhelming to select the perfect tile for your outdoor space. In this article, we will explore the top exterior tile options that are known for their longevity and ability to withstand the elements.
Exterior Tiles
Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to their exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements. Made from dense clay and fired at high temperatures, porcelain tiles are highly resistant to moisture, stains, and fading. They are also frost-proof, making them suitable for areas with freezing temperatures. Additionally, porcelain tiles come in a variety of colors, textures, and sizes, allowing for endless design possibilities.
One of the key advantages of porcelain tiles is their high slip resistance, making them ideal for pool areas or outdoor spaces prone to wet conditions. According to a study conducted by the Tile Council of North America, porcelain tiles with a textured surface have a dynamic coefficient of friction (DCOF) rating of 0.42 or higher, which meets the safety standards for slip resistance.
Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles, such as granite, limestone, and sandstone, offer a timeless and elegant look to outdoor spaces. These tiles are formed from natural materials, giving them unique variations in color and texture. Natural stone tiles are known for their durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions.
Granite, in particular, is a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to its high resistance to scratches, stains, and heat. It is also non-slip, making it a safe option for pool decks or areas prone to wet conditions. According to the Marble Institute of America, granite has a slip resistance rating of 0.6 or higher, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are a versatile option for outdoor spaces, offering a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. These tiles are made from clay and other natural materials, which are then fired at lower temperatures compared to porcelain tiles. While ceramic tiles may not be as durable as porcelain or natural stone, they still provide a long-lasting solution for outdoor areas with moderate foot traffic.
One of the advantages of ceramic tiles is their affordability compared to other options. They are also easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional mopping. However, it is important to note that ceramic tiles may not be suitable for areas with freezing temperatures, as they can crack or chip due to the expansion and contraction of moisture.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles have gained popularity in recent years for their durability, versatility, and modern aesthetic. These tiles are made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water, which is then molded and cured to create a solid and resilient surface. Concrete tiles are available in various colors, shapes, and finishes, allowing for endless design possibilities.
One of the key advantages of concrete tiles is their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and extreme weather conditions. They are also resistant to fading, stains, and scratches, making them suitable for outdoor areas that require low maintenance. Additionally, concrete tiles can be customized with different patterns or textures to create a unique and personalized outdoor space.
Travertine Tiles
Travertine tiles are a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to their natural beauty and durability. These tiles are formed from sedimentary rock, which gives them a unique and rustic appearance. Travertine tiles are available in various colors, ranging from warm earth tones to cool greys, allowing for versatile design options.
One of the key advantages of travertine tiles is their ability to stay cool even in hot weather, making them comfortable to walk on barefoot. They are also resistant to heat, making them suitable for outdoor areas exposed to direct sunlight. However, it is important to note that travertine tiles require regular sealing to maintain their durability and prevent staining.
Slate Tiles
Slate tiles are known for their natural beauty, durability, and slip resistance, making them an excellent choice for outdoor spaces. These tiles are formed from metamorphic rock, which gives them a unique texture and color variation. Slate tiles are available in various shades of grey, green, and black, allowing for a sophisticated and timeless look.
One of the key advantages of slate tiles is their high slip resistance, making them ideal for pool decks or areas prone to wet conditions. According to the Tile Council of North America, slate tiles with a textured surface have a DCOF rating of 0.6 or higher, which meets the safety standards for slip resistance. Additionally, slate tiles are resistant to fading, stains, and scratches, making them suitable for high-traffic outdoor areas.
Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta tiles have been used for centuries to create beautiful and durable outdoor spaces. These tiles are made from natural clay and are known for their warm and earthy tones. Terracotta tiles provide a rustic and timeless look to outdoor areas, making them a popular choice for Mediterranean or Spanish-style designs.
One of the advantages of terracotta tiles is their ability to absorb and release moisture, which helps regulate the temperature of outdoor spaces. They are also resistant to fading and scratches, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. However, it is important to note that terracotta tiles require regular sealing to prevent staining and maintain their durability.
Glass Tiles
Glass tiles offer a unique and contemporary look to outdoor spaces, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. These tiles are made from recycled glass, which is melted and molded into various shapes and sizes. Glass tiles are available in a wide range of colors and finishes, allowing for creative and eye-catching designs.
One of the key advantages of glass tiles is their ability to reflect light, creating a vibrant and luminous effect in outdoor spaces. They are also resistant to fading, stains, and scratches, making them suitable for areas with high exposure to sunlight. Additionally, glass tiles are easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular wiping with a non-abrasive cleaner.
Quarry Tiles
Quarry tiles are a durable and cost-effective option for outdoor spaces, offering a rustic and natural look. These tiles are made from natural clay and are fired at high temperatures, giving them exceptional strength and resistance to wear. Quarry tiles are available in various earthy tones, allowing for a warm and inviting outdoor space.
One of the advantages of quarry tiles is their high slip resistance, making them suitable for areas prone to wet conditions. According to the Tile Council of North America, quarry tiles with a textured surface have a DCOF rating of 0.6 or higher, which meets the safety standards for slip resistance. Additionally, quarry tiles are resistant to fading, stains, and scratches, making them suitable for high-traffic outdoor areas.
Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles offer a creative and artistic approach to outdoor spaces, allowing for intricate patterns and designs. These tiles are made from small pieces of glass, ceramic, or natural stone, which are arranged to create a mosaic pattern. Mosaic tiles are available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, allowing for endless design possibilities.
One of the key advantages of mosaic tiles is their ability to add visual interest and personality to outdoor spaces. They can be used to create focal points, borders, or decorative accents, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area. Additionally, mosaic tiles are durable and resistant to fading, stains, and scratches, making them suitable for outdoor areas with moderate foot traffic.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tiles for your outdoor space is essential to create a long-lasting and visually appealing area. Porcelain tiles, natural stone tiles, ceramic tiles, concrete tiles, travertine tiles, slate tiles, terracotta tiles, glass tiles, quarry tiles, and mosaic tiles are all excellent options that offer durability, resistance to the elements, and a wide range of design possibilities. By considering factors such as slip resistance, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic preferences, you can select the perfect tile to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and enduring oasis.