Installing Porcelain Tile Outdoors

Suitable for outdoor use.

Installing porcelain tile outdoors.

Unlike ceramic tile porcelain tile is impervious meaning it has a water absorption rate of 0 5 percent or less. The tile itself should also be rated for outdoor use and as a general rule porcelain tends to be more durable than ceramic. Certain natural stone and ceramic tiles are not suitable for outside installations due to their porosity. Under 3 is ideal.

We ve outlined four of the most common installation. The tile industry standard recommendation is no more than 5 porosity. In this section we provide you with an overview of how ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be used in exterior patios walkways porches. Finally choose a grout that will resist stains and fading so your project will still look good for years to come.

Generally ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be installed over suitable substrates in exterior locations including mortar beds over concrete slabs and directly onto concrete slabs. Meanwhile there are numerous porcelain product lines specifically approved for exterior use. Therefore using porcelain tile outdoors in a climate that experiences freezing conditions can be very beneficial to the homeowner. Of course it should also have a slip resistant surface.

When thinking about using porcelain tiles outdoors there are a number of important considerations to take into account. Firstly and very importantly porcelain tiles have different grades and you will need to check that your chosen tiles are grade 5 i e. The material is actually no different to a standard porcelain tile and therefore is treated much the same.