Can Porcelain Tiles Be Used Outside?

April 2024
Anton White

When enhancing outdoor spaces, many wonder, "Can porcelain tiles be used outside?" The answer is a resounding yes, though they need to be at least 20mm tiles. This article explores why porcelain tiles are perfectly suited for outdoor applications.

Known for their aesthetic versatility and exceptional durability, porcelain tiles stand up to the elements, making them a prime choice for patios, decks, and other outdoor areas.

As seasoned experts in outdoor decking and accessories, we've observed the transformative effect porcelain tiles have on exterior spaces, marrying functionality with elegance.

Read on to discover the advantages and practical tips for employing porcelain tiles outdoors, ensuring your outdoor haven is both stunning and durable.

What this article covers:

Can Porcelain Tiles Be Used Outside?

From our extensive experience, and after putting various materials to the test, we've found that porcelain tiles stand out as a stellar option for exterior use. But, let's be clear, we're not talking about your run-of-the-mill porcelain tiles.

The porcelain patio tiles we offer have been specifically engineered to withstand the rigours of outdoor conditions. These tiles are not just survivors; they thrive outside, maintaining their beauty and integrity through seasons of sun, rain, and frost.

So, if you're pondering over the suitability of porcelain tiles for your outdoor oasis, rest assured, the answer is a confident yes, as long as they have a thickness of at least 20mm. These tiles are more than ready to meet the challenges of outdoor living head-on.

Why Are Porcelain Tiles Good for Outdoor Use?

Porcelain tiles are not limited to indoor areas like bathrooms and kitchens; they also excel in outdoor environments, enhancing them with elegance and style. Here’s a closer look at their benefits:

Durability And Strength

Porcelain tiles boast exceptional strength and durability, making them well-suited to outdoor areas where they might encounter heavy furniture and frequent foot traffic.

Their robustness is attributed to their low porosity and high density, outcomes of being fired at very high temperatures.

Weather Resistance

The unpredictable British weather demands materials that can cope with its variability, and porcelain tiles are up to the task.

They are frost-proof and water-resistant, ensuring they do not crack in cold temperatures or retain water during wet conditions, offering reliability throughout the seasons.

Low Maintenance

Ease of maintenance is a significant advantage of porcelain tiles. Unlike natural stone, they do not require sealing and are resistant to stains, moss, and mould, making them easy to care for with just regular sweeping and the occasional mopping.

For more information on maintaining your porcelain tiles, be sure to read our guides on can you jet wash outdoor porcelain tiles and can you put bleach on porcelain tiles.

Aesthetic Versatility

The range of designs available in porcelain tiles is vast, offering a plethora of colours, patterns, and finishes.

can you use porcelain tiles outside

In our experience, this variety allows for the emulation of natural stone, wood, or concrete aesthetics, providing the flexibility to match any design theme from rustic to contemporary.

Slip Resistance

Safety is paramount, especially in outdoor areas prone to moisture. Porcelain tiles are available with slip-resistant surfaces, ensuring a safer environment around pools, patios, and other areas that frequently become wet, thereby reducing the risk of slips and falls.

Conclusion

Porcelain tiles stand as an exemplary choice for outdoor spaces, marrying durability, weather resistance, low maintenance, aesthetic versatility, and safety in one robust package.

Their ability to withstand the rigours of outdoor conditions while maintaining their beauty makes them a smart investment for anyone looking to enhance their patios, decks, or garden areas. 

With the added benefit of a wide range of designs and finishes, porcelain tiles offer the flexibility to create the outdoor oasis of your dreams, without compromising on practicality or style.

For those ready to transform their outdoor spaces into elegant, durable, and low-maintenance retreats, Ovaeda is here to guide you through the selection of the perfect porcelain tiles to bring your vision to life. Explore our collection today and take the first step towards your ideal outdoor setting.

Can Porcelain Tiles Be Used Outside? (FAQs)

What is an R11 slip resistance rating?

The R11 slip resistance rating indicates a tile's anti-slip properties, making it suitable for areas exposed to wet conditions. It's an essential feature for outdoor tiles, ensuring safety and peace of mind.

can you use porcelain tile outside

Can porcelain tiles withstand heavy furniture?

Yes, outdoor-grade porcelain tiles are designed to withstand heavy furniture without cracking, thanks to their strength and durability. This makes them ideal for patios and decks where outdoor furniture is used.

How do porcelain tiles cope with extreme temperatures?

Porcelain tiles are engineered to cope with extreme temperatures, from scorching summer heat to freezing winter conditions, without cracking, fading, or deteriorating. This resilience makes them perfect for outdoor use in any climate.

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