Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Finishes
As summer unfolds and the days grow longer and warmer, our outdoor spaces become the heart of backyard BBQs, garden parties, and leisurely afternoons by the pool. These areas offer a sanctuary for relaxation, entertainment, and a deeper connection with nature. A versatile and visually striking option for enhancing these spaces is the use of ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles. Traditionally reserved for indoor applications, tiles are now making a bold and stylish impact in gardens and patios. This season presents the ideal opportunity for an outdoor makeover, promising years of enjoyment. Join us as we delve into some of the finest outdoor tiles that can transform your home into the ultimate retreat.
Credit: Sensi Collection
Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Tiles
When it comes to tile selection, understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor tiles is crucial for achieving both safety and durability in your design.
Slip Resistance: Indoor tiles often feature a glossy, slick, glazed surface that's easy to clean. In contrast, outdoor tiles typically have a textured surface to prevent slips, falls, and other accidents. This feature is especially important for outdoor floor tiles, as moisture and water can create slippery conditions. For areas near water features or swimming pools, tiles with good grip are essential. The same applies to stair applications, regardless of whether they will be exposed to water.
Durability: Outdoor tiles must endure harsh weather conditions and are generally thicker and non-porous compared to indoor tiles. Opting for high-quality ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles ensures durability and resistance to weather elements, laying the foundation for a long-lasting and low-maintenance outdoor design.
Credit: Thermae Collection
Best Tiles for Outdoor Spaces
Natural Stone: Natural stone tiles blend seamlessly into natural surroundings, creating a stunning outdoor space. They offer timeless elegance and durability, making them ideal for patios and walkways.
Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are an excellent option for outdoor use due to their durability and affordability. Densely packed during manufacturing, porcelain tiles are incredibly strong and nearly waterproof, making them perfect for areas near pools, water features, or in rainy climates. They are also frost-resistant, which is important for regions with freezing temperatures.
Ceramic: Ceramic tiles can be slippery when wet, so they are best used for outdoor countertops, backsplashes, small accents, or wall tiles rather than flooring. Experts recommend choosing ceramic tiles with a PEI rating indicating sufficient strength for external use.
Glass: Glass tiles are an exceptional choice for pools and wet areas due to their stunning visual appeal and water-resistant properties. They reflect light beautifully, creating a shimmering effect in water features and pool areas. Glass tiles are non-porous, resistant to mold and mildew, and easy to clean. Their durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions make them a smart choice for outdoor design.
Terra Cotta: Terra cotta is very durable and naturally resistant to the elements, making it an excellent choice for outdoor use. Its rustic charm and ability to blend with natural surroundings add a touch of Mediterranean flair to patios, walkways, and garden areas. Terra cotta tiles also improve with age, developing a beautiful patina over time that enhances their appeal.
Credit: Icon Collection
Where to Use Tiles Outdoors
Outdoor Countertops: Porcelain, granite, or quartzite slabs are ideal for outdoor countertops.
Backsplash or Wall Accents: Ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone tiles work well for outdoor backsplashes or wall accents, especially under a covered space.
Patio Floors: Porcelain or natural stone (excluding marble) are excellent choices for patio floors.
Pool Areas: Glass, slate, travertine, or porcelain tiles are suitable for pool areas.
Outdoor Fireplaces or Fire Pits: Ceramic, porcelain and natural stone tiles can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor fireplaces or fire pits.
Walkways and Driveways: Durable materials like porcelain and natural stone are perfect for walkways and driveways.
Home Facades: Natural stone tiles like limestone, marble, slate, and travertine can enhance the exterior appearance of your home.
Credit: Icon Collection
Transforming outdoor spaces with tiles opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of natural stone tiles, the artistic charm of mosaics, or the modern appeal of large-format tiles, each choice contributes to turning your garden into a personalized retreat. The versatility, durability, and aesthetic allure of tiles make them an ideal option for adding both beauty and functionality to your outdoor areas. Let your creativity soar and embark on a journey to create an outdoor haven that seamlessly blends nature with the sophistication of tiles.
Explore All Natural Stone’s unparalleled selection of rare and exotic stone, luxury porcelain, and handmade tile at a showroom near you. Visit one of our Bay Area showrooms conveniently located in San Jose, Burlingame, Dublin and Berkeley, conveniently serving Marin County.
Our team of professionals is here to help you select the perfect finish for any project and to ensure the chosen material matches your specific needs. Learn more or schedule an appointment at allnaturalstone.com.
Credit: Brazilian Slate Collection
Trending at All Natural Stone
Introducing one of our best-selling collections, Brazilian Slate—a porcelain tile that flawlessly mimics the rich, natural beauty of real slate. With its striking color variations, dynamic movement, and smooth, sleek surface, this collection is designed to elevate any space. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, Brazilian Slate adds timeless elegance and durability to everything from patios to living areas.