The surfaces of decks and patios can become excellent to view if we add some unique outdoor tiles. Any tile that will serve this purpose must also have high durability and stability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. This feature must also be straightforward to maintain as permanent structures than mere pavers.
Also, different types of outdoor tiles can match the different styles and bring strength to the surfaces. This article also analyses some outstanding features of having these outdoor tiles in place.
The Best Outdoor Tiles in 2022
Natural Stone Tiles
The natural stone covers all the limestone, granite, slate, and travertine tiles. All these materials are also famous for working smoothly in an outdoor tiling environment. You can also do more to recreate the appearance if you add a new level of creativity.
Moreover, polished stone materials are perhaps the easiest to care for. Still, they can get really slippery when they are wet. At the same time, the tumbled natural stone tiles have an inbuilt resistance that is safer.
Granite
Granite is the most burdensome natural stone formed into tiles, and you can find them very resilient and durable. The use of granite is infinite, including strength to cut through many details. Therefore, granite material is one of the natural sources of outdoor tile materials. And if you live in any part of the country, the weather changes from one season to the other assures you that granite can give you a great experience.
Marble
Unlike granite, marble is less complicated and porous. Those qualities can become a limitation in using them as outdoor tiles. If a designer wants marble stuff, he may have to seal up the marble surface to withstand high traffic usage and extreme weather conditions.
Marble material is also unique, with the vein adding to a rather sophisticated look that pleases homeowners. At the same time, marble can also come in diverse colors of reasonable interest, such as white and black. What again can we say about its slip resistance, which makes it suitable for poolside and its polishability to bring out its luster?
Slate
Slate is softer than marble and granite, yet it is tough enough to make this list a probable substance as outdoor tiles. It can also serve equal duty both on the patio or deck. And unlike the other natural stones in this category, there are no two slates precisely the same.
Something will be different about each one, such as the texture or color. And the more unique they are, the more suitable they can be for visual interest. Some of the other natural slates can come in earthy hues, including brown, green, grey, orange, and tan.
Limestone
As for limestone, this natural substance is a softer and more porous stone. Therefore, it also needs some level of sealing to make it suitable for use as an outdoor tile. Another reason for closing the limestone is to protect the layer from weather damage and even stains. Limestone used as outdoor tiles may also wear quickly.
So a designer may have to think twice before using it in dense traffic areas. At the same time, they are not suitable for all weather conditions because they may crack under cold weather. It also has distinctive pits capable of unusual textures of limestone for all lovers of outdoor tiles. In addition, limestone can come in different colors or come in a pale appearance.
The color options range from white to brown, which complements its versions. Meanwhile, when you polish limestone, it can get slippery when wet, which may not be safe outdoors. But there is good news; there are non-slip versions of limestone suitable for patios and pools when they are not undercover.
Travertine
Travertine is a particular limestone type that contains calcite for a significant part of it. It also has the texture and composition you will expect from a typical limestone. However, it is a little bit softer and brittle in this texture. As it is about limestone needing sealing, travertine also requires sealing because it is also very porous and pitted.
If it gets the proper treatment, it may withstand extreme weather conditions. Still, it may also eventually crack when the weather is too cold. Also, these tiles have softer and can be prone to even faster wearing than many of the other stones. In whatever case, it is not advisable to subject these materials to extreme conditions of heavy use or weather to keep them intact.
Porcelain Tiles
When you mention the name porcelain tiles, the first place people think of is the bathroom. But what if the porcelain tiles are also meant for outdoor usage as decorative tiles? What if they can be your ideal choice for covering your deck and patio. Remember that they are made of clay and made to be non-porous, durable, and fade resistant.
When fired inside the hot kiln, these porcelain tiles become suitable material against extreme weather conditions. As a result, it becomes the number one choice when you need a natural stone, especially in hot summers or snowy winters. Therefore, you can see these porcelain tiles in bathrooms and is capable of repelling water. The outdoor tiles made of porcelain will ever absorb moisture, which is a good thing, especially when it rains.
Wood and composite decking tiles
Apart from the other tiles that we have mentioned that can work as outdoor tiles, wood tiles are another credible option. These wood tiles are made from hardwood, making them fundamentally strong to bear weights and traffic.
Two of the most popular wood species are Ipe and Bangkirai woods for this purpose. The former has an attractive natural grain resistant to insect attack, fire, and decay. On the other hand, the Bangkirai wood is also resistant to insects, including termites. It is perfect for indoor and outdoor usage. Click here to read about Things to consider before hiring a tiler for your outdoor tiles.
Conclusion
The options above are the top outdoor tiles materials available in the market for you to choose from. However, you should get free samples and learn about each one before making your final choice. One thing is sure, if you need any help with it, we will be here for you.