Using tiles for your outdoor entertainment or living area, paths, and pool surrounds is a practical way to achieve gorgeous flooring. As a versatile, affordable, and durable flooring option, it’s no wonder that tiles are one of the most popular choices when it comes to both indoor and outdoor flooring.
You also have plenty of choices if you opt for tiles. From different materials like ceramic and porcelain to all sorts of shapes and sizes for limitless design and layout options.
Since tiles are available for many applications and environments, it’s always possible for you to find one that will suit your style, budget, and safety requirements. With all these benefits, outdoor tiling is definitely a great solution if you’re looking for a beautiful, easy-to-maintain flooring for your patio, pool, and other outdoor areas.
Although both generally use similar processes and materials, the harsher environment of the outdoors requires outdoor tiles to be much tougher than indoor tiles. On top of this, you’ll also have to use a tile adhesive that is suited for outdoor use, that is, the adhesive should minimise movement caused by temperature changes, reduce water absorption and create a strong bond.
Outdoor tiles are generally harder to cut and look a lot tougher than indoor tiles. Similar tile materials can be used for both outdoor and indoor applications. For instance, ceramic tiles can be used for your indoor and outdoor kitchen, but the outdoor ones should be properly rated for outdoor use.
When choosing outdoor tiles, it’s very important to consider the tile’s slip rating and water absorption. Basically you’ll want your tiles to be as non-slip as possible and absorb very little water. Porcelain tiles absorb about 0.5% of water while glazed ceramic absorbs roughly 5% or less.
As for tile slip ratings, there are already certain Australian standards in place. Most tiles have a rating based on the wet pendulum test. For your outdoor paths, a rating of R10 or higher would be good. To better understand tile ratings or get advice on which tiles suit your application best, seek a professional tiler out. Their experience and training will definitely come in handy.
Although you can easily pick out the tile pattern and layout style that you want, choosing the specific tile for the job is a lot more challenging. Not only would you have to be familiar with tile grades and ratings, you also have to know how each of these ratings affect your choice.
If you’re not confident with your tiling knowledge, just consult a professional tiler. Hiring an expert to do your outdoor tiling job can be the more cost-effective option for you as well.