Whether it’s a complete restoration or transformation, hard landscaping materials are an important element of garden design, and the tiles you choose for a patio are important to the final appearance of your exterior space. Outdoor tiles need to withstand weather and climatic conditions and not be a slip hazard, here are some things to look out for when purchasing:
HOW TO CHOOSE THE MATERIAL OF OUTDOOR TILES
Just like your home interior, you can go for artificial tiles or real stone versions for the exterior. Natural stone is generally the most expensive alternative, but if you want its inherent pattern and color variations and the knowledge that each tile is unique, it’s the best alternative to choose. Artificial tiles – think porcelain tiles – can have the appearance of real stone, look like wood, or create a pleasing neutral surface, plus there are patterned versions that can dress up a patio or path.
Do you want to make a strong bond between the outdoors and the interior of your home? There are floor tiles appropriate for both areas so you can create a continuous surface, take for instance from a kitchen extension with bifold doors or sliding versions to the garden.
NATURAL STONE OUTDOOR TILES
Tiles made from limestone, slate, sandstone, granite, and marble are all possibilities for the exterior if you must install natural stone, keep in mind that natural stone is permeable and will need sealing.
Slate comes in attractive finishes from black and deep grey to livelier tiles featuring tones like green or rust. It blends perfectly for older homes, or creates a contemporary look, so it’s very versatile. It’s highly durable as well.
Limestone offers the choice of beiges, creamier tones and greys underfoot.
Sandstone – including the native version called York stone – is a popular choice for outdoor areas. Colors include creams and greys. The latter is easier to maintain, while cream can be harder work. It has good slip resistance in any case, so a smooth honed finish is possible, as well as more textural finishes that make it look rustic.
Granite needs a textured surface to prevent issues with slipperiness when it’s wet. In grey or black tones, it can provide a timeless backdrop to a dining or seating area in the garden.
Marble is sometimes used for outdoor tiles. Be careful to choose a tile specifically offered for outdoor use, and a textured finish to help prevent slips.
ARTIFICIAL OUTDOOR TILES
Artificial outdoor tiles can prove a budget-friendly and good-looking alternative. Porcelain and terracotta can be used to create the patio or garden path look you’re looking for.
Porcelain tiles offer many advantages. They aren’t permeable, so cracking caused by frost isn’t a problem. Being non-permeable also makes it easy to keep clean. They are resistant to scratching and fading in the sun, too. Choose a finish that offers slip-resistance outside and if kids or those who are infirm are part of the household, a textured finish is best.
To learn how to get the best tiles for outdoor spaces in Spring, Texas, contact Bizaillion floors.