Outdoor tiles are essential to complete the design of outdoor spaces. Ideal for terraces, patios and gardens, they are easy to maintain, beautiful and resistant. International MTC offers its public a wide variety of outdoor tiles in order to adapt to the needs of the consumer. But, not sure which tile to choose? Don’t worry! In today’s article, we tell you what types exist and which are the best materials for outdoor tiles.
What materials are the outdoor tiles made of?
When talking about floor tiles, few people imagine the world of possibilities they offer!
Porcelain stoneware
These tiles are very resistant and durable, as they are hard, compact, coloured, non-porous ceramic tiles. They are used for terraces. They are non-porous, have very low water absorption and resist frost and wear. Available in different shapes and colours, or imitating textures of other materials such as stone or wood.
Glazed stoneware
The composition of glazed stoneware or normal double-composition stoneware makes them slightly less resistant than porcelain stoneware. However, the dyeing between the glaze layer and the base makes the difference in colour unnoticeable in case of knocks.
Glazed porcelain stoneware
Porcelain stoneware tiles also have clay among their components and are of higher quality. They are more resistant and have good resistance to abrasion. The “double-loaded” ones are usually used in places with high traffic such as hospitals, etc.
Granite
Granite resists the passage of time very well. Totally natural material, it comes in many colors due to its origin. It is easy to maintain, non-porous and has a good grip. Not very sensitive to scratches if polished. Good for outdoor use. Very solid.
Earthenware
Ideal for creating a rustic atmosphere on the terrace, more handmade, with an irregular texture and finish. They resist outdoors, although, being very porous, they can resist frost badly and it is necessary to treat them with anti-stain protectors. You will have to avoid the grease from the barbecue falling on the floor!
Marble
The marble ones are not recommended for exteriors since they do not resist well to temperature changes. If you like marble, and you want to use it for exteriors, take the precaution of applying a product that increases its resistance.
Tiles with effects
This is one of the big trends of the moment: tiles imitate wood, concrete, etc. A perfect solution to achieve the same visual effect, without any of the maintenance inconveniences. These are 5 examples:
- Wood effect tile: from light wood imitation to dark wood imitation and from solid wood to laminate.
- Concrete effect tile: industrial or loft style, comes in a wide range of greys. The polished and shiny effect of this tile is highly appreciated.
- Square effect cement tile: traditional antique style, gives the character of the floors of yesteryear.
- Stone effect tile: many colours and looks depending on the stone imitated. We find among others among the imitations:
- Tile with metallic effect: guaranteed industrial style, with a surface that imitates rust in shades of bright orange.
The 4 types of outdoor tiles that you can find in the market
1. Rectangular tile
As with the indoor tiles, also in the outdoor tiles we find a wide range of sizes and formats such as rectangular tiles of 30 x 60 cm and also 45 x 90 cm. They can be laid in a classic straight pattern, or use your imagination to play with the effects of the veins. Adapt the size of the tile according to the surface to be covered.
2. Square format tile
The square formats cover the exterior to create a continuity with the interior. Here you can also find the sizes of: 33 x 33 cm; 40 x 40 cm; 45 x 45 cm; and 60 x 60 cm.
For large terraces a large tile will be more aesthetically pleasing.
3. Tile in slat format
The great novelty continues being the format that imitates the wooden slats. They are available in different widths to be able to play with the sizes, mixing different formats. Imitation parquet tiles allow you to show off an outdoor terrace with a wooden floor without having to worry about maintenance.
4. Clip-on tiles
Clip-on tiles are quick and easy to lay. They can be reused and adapt to any flat surface. Made of polypropylene, they do not require any glue and are easily attached by a clip system.
Finally, do not forget that it is important to identify well the place where the tiles are going to be installed and to take into account other elements such as, for example, if it is a more or less sunny or humid place, the average temperature, etc.
It is also important to pay attention to the colours and finishes of the tiles. Very light colours reflect a lot of light, while dark tones absorb heat. Choose resistant tiles if you live in a region with low temperatures! You know that ice can break stones!
Also read: 7 Things to Look for When Shopping for Tiles Online