Can you use any old tile for outside, or are there options that are a better investment and more suitable for the job? If you’re planning on tiling an outdoor patio to relax on or creating a decorative outdoor walking area, you must think about more than aesthetics; you need to prioritise functionality. Climate and exposure to the elements will always warrant using a more robust and durable tile outdoors. While there are many different outdoor tiles, porcelain tiles are one of the best options out there. Here’s why:
5 Reasons to use porcelain tiles outdoors
There are a lot of options when it comes to tiles for the outdoors, but one of the materials we won’t focus on for its benefits and availability is porcelain tile:
They don’t absorb water
One of the biggest advantages of porcelain tiles is their low water absorption rate. Because they’re fired at extremely high temperatures, porcelain becomes dense and non-porous. This makes them ideal for outdoor use in Australian conditions, where sudden rain or humidity can wreak havoc on other types of tiles. Unlike more porous materials, porcelain won’t crack, swell, or become slippery due to water absorption. It’s especially useful in coastal areas or regions that experience heavy rainfall.
They have anti-slip properties
Safety is a big factor when it comes to outdoor flooring. Many porcelain tiles designed for exterior use come with textured or matte finishes that help improve grip underfoot. This makes them a great choice for around swimming pools, outdoor showers, or anywhere that’s exposed to the elements. In Australia, where backyard pools are common, slip resistance is not just a luxury, it’s a must. Look for tiles rated with a P4 or P5 slip rating to meet Australian safety standards.
They are suitable for walls
Porcelain isn’t limited to floors. It also works beautifully on vertical surfaces like feature walls, outdoor fireplaces, BBQ surrounds, or retaining walls. Lightweight options are available that make installation easier, and the variety of textures and styles can add serious visual appeal to your space. Using porcelain on walls helps tie your whole outdoor design together and adds durability where paint or cladding might wear down over time.
Get them in various colours
Porcelain tiles come in an impressive range of colours and styles, from neutral greys and soft creams to bold charcoals and even timber-look finishes. This makes it easy to find something that complements your landscaping, exterior paintwork, or overall design theme. Whether you’re going for a sleek, modern vibe or something more rustic and natural, there’s a porcelain tile to match.
Go natural
If you love the look of natural stone or timber but don’t want the upkeep, porcelain is a great compromise. Modern manufacturing techniques mean these tiles can convincingly mimic materials like sandstone, granite, marble, and wood, without the cost, sealing, or regular maintenance that natural products usually require. You get the visual warmth and texture, but with a longer-lasting and easier-to-care-for surface.
What are other outdoor tile materials to consider?
If porcelain isn’t the tile you’re looking to buy, here are some other outdoor tile materials you may want to consider:
- Natural stone
- Travertine
- Granite
- Marbel
- Concrete pavers
- Terracotta tiles
What is the ideal thickness of outdoor tiles vs indoor tiles?
We already know that outdoor tiles need to withstand a beating. If your outdoor tiles are entirely exposed to the sun, rain, and other weather conditions, you must invest in quality tiles to ensure they last. This usually includes buying thicker tiles. The standard thickness for outdoor tiles is usually around 20mm. At this thickness, they are strong, durable, and comfortable underfoot.
Indoor tiles, on the other hand, don’t need to be as thick, especially in low-traffic areas. Ideally, indoor tiles could be between 0.8mm and 0.12mm, with the latter thickness used in high-traffic areas.
Find the best outdoor tiles here!
If you want to explore your options for outdoor tiles, Cheap Tiles Online has a helpful page that you can browse through. Here you’ll find a range of outdoor tiles that will ensure you find the perfect ones that match your vision and needs for your outdoor area.
Final thoughts
With so many options for different outdoor tiles to choose from, porcelain tiles have proven their worth time and time again thanks to their strength, durability, and versatility. Consider the type of tiles mentioned above and how they fit into your plan for your outdoor area, and remember to balance functionality and aesthetics, not simply one or the other.
With a Master in Architectural Studies from University of Pennysylvania, Marwa Haydar has pioneered living spaces since 2005. Her expertise, initially honed in a prestigious architectural firm, is evident in her approach to creating environments. Marwa became part of our team in 2019 and has since been a driving force in our home improvement section, known for her practical yet stylish solutions. She’s been spearheading our design workshops since then, infusing her passion for teaching into her work. In her leisure time, Marwa enjoys exploring historic architecture and is an enthusiastic pottery hobbyist, further enriching her understanding of form and texture.
