Tiles for outside

14 Different Types of Tiles for Outdoor Patios and How to Choose One

Joe Norton

Joe Norton is a hardscape expert who designs and builds walls, patios, and walkways. He has owned and run a hardscape business since 2002. His experience includes professionally working as a mason and tile setter in Maine and Hawaii.

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Updated on 08/09/22

Reviewed by

Johnathan Brewer

Reviewed by Johnathan Brewer

Johnathan Brewer is a home improvement expert with over two decades of professional experience as a licensed general contractor specializing in kitchen and bath. He has been featured on HGTV’s “Super Scapes,” “Curb Appeal the Block,” “Elbow Room,” DIY Network's “House Crashers,” "This Old House," and OWN Network's Emmy award winning show, “Home Made Simple. ” Jonathan is also a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

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The Spruce / Michelle Becker

Tiles for outdoor patios include both natural and made-made materials cut into uniform shapes and thicknesses that are adhered to a solid, level foundation. The vast majority of outdoor patios are constructed with some form of masonry, such as poured concrete (sometimes stained or stamped), or brick or stone paver products. But it is also possible to apply tile to a patio, an option that gives you gives you many more design choices. Laying tile can be a good way to dress up an existing concrete slab or brick patio when it grows old.

Retailers that offer tiles for exposed outdoor applications often sell a rather bewildering array of products, including some you may not have considered for outdoor use. Your determination of the right product depends a great deal on your climate and application. For example, an unsealed sandstone tile that is perfectly appropriate in the bone-dry climate of Arizona is not at all suitable for the damp climate of Maine, where freezing winter temperatures are routine.

Cost Considerations

Estimating the costs of a tile patio is difficult given the enormous range of materials available and the differences in labor costs from one region to another. Natural averages, however, show the following:

Clay tile (porcelain, ceramic, quarry): Materials can range from $2 to $30 per square foot; labor can range from $4 to $14 per square foot.
Natural stone tile: Materials can range from $5 to $35 per square foot; labor ranges from $8 to $20 per square foot. Less expensive choices are sandstone, limestone, and travertine; more expensive options are soapstone, granite, and slate.
Synthetic and wood tile: Costs for plastic, rubber, or carpet tiles average about $3 per square foot; most people install these materials themselves. Wood decking tiles average $8 to $12 per square foot, with composite decking tiles running about $4 to $8 per square foot.

Below, we’ll break down the ins and outs of each type of tile and the factors you should consider when choosing which is best for you and your patio.

01 of 14
Slate

Martin Wahlborg / Getty Images

Best for: High-end patios in any climate.
Slate is one of the better choices for natural stone in outdoor patio locations. Slate is a metamorphic rock formed under great heat and pressure. It is very hard and durable, and also very resistant to water. And unlike some other natural stones, you can select a product with a natural texture that prevents it from being as slippery as some other natural stone. Many people think of slate as a dark gray or black stone, but it is actually available in a variety of colors, including purple, green, and orange.
Tip
Slate and other natural stone materials are also sold in irregular paver slabs to use in outdoor paved surfaces. Typically these are the types of sedimentary stone that cleave naturally along horizontal planes. While still relatively thin, these pavers do not have the same uniformity found in tiles, which are precisely cut to square or rectangular shapes and thicknesses. Slate, limestone, and sandstone are among the stone products that can also be found in these irregular paver slabs, while granite and travertine are more often found in true tile form, which are sawn to a uniform size. Natural stone tiles are best purchased at tile retailers, while irregular slab pavers are normally found at landscape supply stores.
02 of 14
Granite

lingqi xie / Getty Images

Best for: High-end patios that are unlikely to suffer stains.
Yet another natural stone sometimes used for patios, granite is an igneous mineral created as liquid volcanic magma cools. Its composition is usually dominated by quartz. Granite is a high-end, premium paving material, but it has certain drawbacks when used outdoors. Granite tile is usually highly polished, which can make it slippery when wet. And it is a relatively porous stone compared to other forms of tile; it will need to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and water penetration.
Granite tile is not difficult to install over a previously paved surface, but cutting it (and other natural stone) is best done with a wet saw, available at rental centers.
03 of 14
Limestone

Clive Nichols / Getty Images

Best for: Warm, dry climates.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock consisting mostly of carbon-based remnants of marine life compressed over millions of years. It's not uncommon to spot minuscule fossils in limestone—sometimes even in paving tiles. Limestone has been a favorite construction material for millennia, thanks to its relative abundance and ease of fabrication. Most limestone is found in various shades of tan, brown, red, or gray, and the lighter colors are especially good at reflecting heat. Limestone is a softer stone than slate or granite and thus can be rather easily scratched or chipped. And it needs to be regularly sealed to prevent stains. It is more appropriate for patios in dry climates and not well suited to regions with harsh winters.
Tip
Limestone is also a very popular material for paving outdoor areas with irregular slabs. This type of more informal patio is often installed as a "sand-set" surface—laid on a flattened bed of gravel, with the joints then filled with porous paver sand. Installed this way, rather than with mortar, a flagstone patio can be a completely practical surface in colder climates, as moisture is safely shed as it seeps through the joints and gravel bed. Such a patio will not, however, have the formal smooth surface provided by a limestone tile installation laid with mortar.
04 of 14
Sandstone Tiles

SMedia / Getty Images

Best for: Dry climates without frost.
Sandstone is another sedimentary rock, even softer than limestone and subject to the same limitations. It forms from layers of sands compressed over time and has a beautiful texture.
Sandstone is quite soft and vulnerable to scratching, and it needs to be regularly sealed to prevent staining and water penetration. This is another stone best suited for patios in dry climates without winter freeze-thaw cycles. But it is usually considerably cheaper than limestone and other natural stone tiles.
Sandstone is another one of the natural stone products available in irregular slabs for outdoor paving in sand-set installations.
05 of 14
Travertine Tiles

Aisedora / Getty Images

Best for: High-end patios in dry climates.
Travertine is a form of natural sedimentary stone with beautiful texture and color. Considered a form of limestone, this stone is mined around natural mineral spring deposits. Although very attractive and hard, it has a slightly pitted surface that may collect dirt unless it is polished smooth. And highly polished travertine can be very slippery when wet. The quality of travertine varies considerably, depending on where it was quarried. For patio use, travertine from Turkey or Italy is regarded as a more water-resistant choice than stone from Mexico or China.
06 of 14
Soapstone Tiles

SMedia / Getty Images

Best for: Any climate; where water- and stain-resistance is critical.
Named for its smooth, silky texture, soapstone is a non-porous natural stone that is quite resistant to water and staining. It has high heat resistance, making it useful in very hot climates. It is an excellent stone to use around swimming pools and also performs well in wet, freezing climates. Soapstone is often thought to be a black or dark gray stone, but it also comes in shades of green and bluish-gray.
Soapstone tiles can be harder to find than other forms of natural stone; ordering from specialty retailers or online sources may be necessary. These are not often stocked by chain tile shops.
07 of 14
Quarry Tile
Hyper-Studio / Getty Images
Best for: High-end patios in warmer climates.
Despite the name, quarry tile is not mined from natural quarries but is instead a kind of hybrid artificial stone made from a very dense type of unglazed clay combined with pulverized natural minerals and fired to create a hard product—much the way that traditional bricks are formed. These are extremely strong tiles that function very well as a paving material for patios. In fact, this form of tile was created specifically for outdoor use in courtyards and patios.
Unlike ceramic and porcelain tiles, quarry tiles are available in a limited range of colors, including red, brown, or gray. Quarry tiles provide a Mediterranean look that is much prized by many homeowners. Even though they are usually unglazed, quarry tiles have good resistance to water, and their texture prevents them from being slippery when wet.
Quarry tile is not a great choice for climates where winters are dominated by freezing temperatures. It is also somewhat notorious for being easy to stain unless regularly sealed. In the right climate, though, this is one of the best patio choices. And it works very well as a flooring surface for sunporches in any climate.
08 of 14
Ceramic Tile

the_burtons / Getty Images

Best for: Light-use patios in warmer climates.
Traditional ceramic floor tiles can be an acceptable choice for outdoor patios, provided they carry a PEI rating indicating sufficient strength. They are made from clay fired at high temperatures and glazed to create a hard surface layer. Generally speaking, though, ceramic tile is best suited for light-use patios, since it will not be as strong as other choices. If you do choose ceramic tile, make sure it is a floor tile sturdy enough for patio use; ceramic tiles marketed as wall tile are never strong enough for floor or patio use. Like porcelain tile, material costs vary widely for ceramic tile, though they tend to be somewhat cheaper than porcelain and a lot less expensive than natural stone.
Make sure to select porcelain tile with a textured, matte surface; shiny, smooth tiles can be extremely slippery when wet.
Tip
Man-made tiles (ceramic, porcelain, quarry tiles) when used indoors are normally installed with thin-set adhesives. They can loosen or crack rather easily should water seep beneath the tiles in cold-winter climates. The expert advice if you want to use manmade tile in outdoor applications is to apply an isolation membrane over the base concrete slab, and to use tile grout that is rated for outdoor use. Outdoor grout usually has a high percentage of latex to improve flexibility.
09 of 14
Porcelain Tile

John Keeble / Getty Images

Best for: Stylish patios in warmer climates.
Porcelain tile is a particularly dense and strong form of ceramic, made from finer clays fired at higher temperatures than standard ceramic tiles, so most porcelain tiles rated for flooring use can also work in many patio applications. The best choices will be textured, matt tiles without a high gloss surface that will be slippery when wet. Most porcelain tiles are thick and sturdy enough to use on floors, but make sure your product is rated for such use.
Prices vary quite widely for porcelain tile, but they are usually more expensive than standard ceramic tiles but more affordable than natural stone. Porcelain tiles can be fabricated to mimic the look of marble, granite, and other materials—even wood or metal—thus, they offer great design flexibility.
Tip
Clay-based tiles (ceramic, porcelain, and quarry tiles) are more commonly used indoors, and may not be rated for outdoor use. Make sure to check specifications to make sure your tiles are approved for outdoor installation. This is most likely to be an issue in climates that see regular rainfall or freezing winter temperatures. Consult a local tile retailer for advice. A tile that works just fine in a dry, mild climate with minimal temperature swings, like San Diego, may be entirely unsuitable for a patio in Chicago.
10 of 14
Concrete Tiles

shunli zhao / Getty Images

Best for: Very durable, affordable surfaces.
For the look of natural stone at a fraction of the cost, consider concrete tiles, which are molded from poured concrete and given textures and colors to resemble natural stone or high-end ceramic tile. Most concrete tiles for patio use are textured products that are easily stained unless they are regularly sealed.
11 of 14
Wood Deck Tiles

Jacek Kadaj / Getty Images

Best for: Deck-like patios.
These are large squares of wood or composite planking attached to backing strips, usually with interlocking edges. Usually made of weather-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood, the effect of decking tiles is that of a ground-level deck but without the need for an under-structure. These are quite easy for DIYers to install onto a concrete patio already in place, but there can be considerable preparation in leveling and flattening if you want to install them on a new site.
12 of 14
Interlocking Plastic Tiles
Best for: Easy-to-install, non-slip surfaces.
A relatively new form of tile is represented by plastic tiles with interlocking edges. The advantage of these tiles is that the texture can guard against slips and falls, and they are easy for DIYers to install. Simply lay them out on a flat surface and interlock the edges. This is not the most elegant of patio solutions, but it can be a good—and extremely easy—way to cover an existing concrete slab patio that is in need of a touch-up. They are extremely durable and easy to remove when you need to. The tiles are perforated to allow water to drain through.
13 of 14
Rubber Tiles

Prapat Aowsakorn / Getty Images

Best for: Sports courts, play areas.
Often used for sports courts and other play areas, rubber tiles are similar to plastic interlocking tiles, featuring interlocking edges that join together to form a uniform, resilient surface. Very soft rubber tiles are available for covering areas where children play. Rubber tiles can also be a good choice around pools. Installing rubber tiles is an extremely easy DIY project.
14 of 14
Carpet Tiles

Marbury / Getty Images

Best for: Comfortable, colorful surface for dry climates.
For something completely different, consider carpet tiles made from indoor-outdoor carpeting. Depending on the type, the tiles may be peel-and-stick, adhered with adhesive tape, or have interlocking edges. They can be easily installed over concrete slabs, and are easy to remove should a tile need to be replaced due to staining or damage.

Choosing Tiles for Outdoor Patios

Talk to a sales representative at a tile retailer when shopping for outdoor patio tiles. When explaining your needs, emphasize that you will be using the product outside. From region to region, there can be a wide variation in what products are appropriate for outdoor use. Generally, colder, damper climates will have a more limited choice of materials, particularly if there are frost-thaw cycles.

Your best bet is to make your purchase at a store that specializes in outdoor patio tile, perhaps one that also offers installation services. Such a retailer will have a strong interest in seeing to it that your installation will hold up over time, and should steer you away from products not suitable for your application.

An initial consultation with a landscape contractor who builds outdoor patios can also be helpful. Discussions with the contractor will make it clear what types of tile are most appropriate for your situation. Whether or not you choose to buy services from the contractor, you will come away with a good understanding of your options.

While many of the same considerations used for indoor tiles also affect your choice of outdoor patios tiles, there are some issues that need to be kept foremost in mind:

Strength: Unlike the tiles used for indoor walls and floors, outdoor tiles need to be particularly strong and able to withstand a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. And just how strong they need to be is dependent on the level of use you anticipate. A patio for a sedate retired couple calls for different materials than for a family with active children throwing play equipment around.
Budget: A patio can be quite an expansive space, and covering it with luxury tile can cost far more than tiling a smaller indoor space, such as a bathroom. For this reason, the cost is a very important factor when choosing a patio tile. The range in price can be enormous, from as low as $1 per square foot for a material such as carpet tiles or basic ceramic tile to $50 per square foot to have a high-end slate or soapstone patio installed.
Style: Outdoor patios must blend in with the overall looks of the landscape and the architectural features and materials of the house. Choose materials with colors and textures that are consistent with the overall look of your property.
Texture and slip resistance: The texture and "slipperiness" of a tile are far more important in outdoor applications than for indoor tiles. Moisture is often inherent on an outdoor patio, and the tile texture must provide some "tooth" that keeps users from slipping. Non-slip surfaces are critical for outdoor tiles, and some material choices are eliminated for this reason. The texture of the patio surface can also affect your choice of patio furniture.
Weather conditions: If you live in an area exposed to the cycle of freezing and thawing, you will need an outdoor patio tile that can withstand extreme changes in temperature. Porcelain, for example, has a very low water absorption rate, while sandstone is fairly porous. If water is absorbed by a piece of tile and that water then freezes, the process can crack your tile or break the joints between the tile.
Light exposure: Although it's not often recognized, the amount of sunlight a patio gets has an impact on the best tile to choose. Bright, sunny spaces call for darker tiles, while dim, shady areas should be tiled with a brighter material that lightens up the space.
DIY-friendliness: While any of these tiles can be installed by DIYers with moderate skills and some energetic ambition, some are more amenable than others. Natural stone, for example, is quite heavy and difficult to cut, while other options such as deck tiles, rubber, or interlocking plastic are a breeze to install. In general, any DIYer familiar with indoor tile installation can also install a tile patio, though the methods and materials may be slightly different.

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Can you use ceramic tiles outdoors? Atlas Ceramics.

The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Outdoor Tile

Patios are one of the outdoor living spaces that add the most value to your home. But before you can start setting up your furniture, water features, or fire pits, you need to install the floor first. Deciding on the right type of floor can be a daunting process if you don’t know what you should be looking for. That’s why we’ve put together a complete guide to choosing the best outdoor tile for your exterior tile installation below.

Let’s get started!

What’s the Difference Between Indoor Tile and Outdoor Tile?

Indoor tile and outdoor tile differ from each other in two main ways: design and durability.

Here’s what we mean by that.

Outdoor tiles often have the appearance of stones, pavement, concrete, decking, or other outdoor elements. But on top of that, the surface of outdoor tile is more textured than indoor tile. This creates a slip-resistant surface that’ll give you, your pets, and your patio furniture traction.

Outdoor tile is also much more durable than indoor tile. It can withstand direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions without getting damaged.

So before you start laying tile in your patio, make sure you have outdoor tile. Otherwise, your hard work won’t last very long.

Tips for Choosing the Right Outdoor Tile for Your Home

There are a number of outdoor tiles to choose from, so if you don’t know what to look for, the decision can seem overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a few tips that’ll help you narrow down the choices and pick the best outdoor tile for your home.

Before you start shopping, make sure you ask yourself these five questions.

1. What’s Your Budget?

The first thing you have to think about when buying outdoor tile is your budget. The amount you can afford will limit the selection you can choose from.

For example, if you can’t spend more than $12 per square foot of material, things like high-quality natural stone tile will be out of the question.

So decide on a budget first. You’ll be more likely to remember and stick to your budget if you see it in writing.

Don’t let yourself get fooled by “cheap” prices. Spending $20 per square foot might not seem like much, but it can add up fast. “A well-designed patio is one that offers lots of functionality for your favorite activities. Before you begin building or redesigning your space, sit down with a piece of paper, and write out how you want to use your patio. If you have a family that you share the space with, talk to them about outdoor activities they might be interested in doing at home if they had space. Do this early on in the design or renovation phase. That way you can craft a space that really works with clear objectives in mind.” says Isabella Caprario on her article How to Create an Indoor/Outdoor Space That’s Fun and Functional.

2. Where and How Will You Use Them?

While all outdoor tiles can withstand the elements, they aren’t all built the same.

Some outdoor tiles are tougher than others. That means some outdoor tile is prone to scratches, cracks, and other damage. Make sure you get an outdoor tile that can last in your area.

You should also think about how you plan to use your tile. Do you plan to use it on a wall? Are you installing in on the ground?

The answer to this question might affect the type of tile you need.

Some outdoor tile works better on walls. Other outdoor tile works better when you install it on the ground. Make sure you get the right type for your project.

3. What’s the Weather Like in Your Area?

Do you live in an area with mild weather conditions? Do you get snow in the winter? Rain in the spring? Record high heat in the summer?

You should always look for outdoor tile that can handle your specific weather requirements. A tile that can hold up to heat may not do well with snow or ice. If you get a lot of rain, your tile might need an extra grip.

Figure out what type of weather your area gets then base your tile search off that.

4. How Much Light Do You Get?

Dark tile colors can make a shady area feel dank and gloomy. Similarly, light tile colors can make a sunny area feel washed out.

To get the best visual effect, always install light colored tile in places that don’t get a lot of sun. If your patio gets a lot of direct sunlight, use dark tile instead.

5. What Is the Current Style and Color of Your Home?

Don’t choose a tile style that’ll clash with the design of the rest of your home.

For example, rustic outdoor tile will look odd and out of place with a sleek, modern home. Find something that’ll complement your style rather than detract from it.

You should also think about the color.

Do you want your outdoor tile to match the color of your home? If not, make sure you pick a color that will blend in with the rest of your aesthetics.

Popular Types of Outdoor Tile

Now that you have some tips that’ll help you pick the best outdoor tile for your home, let’s take a look at some of your options.

Here’s a quick list of some of the most popular outdoor tile choices.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic can handle mild weather conditions and light outdoor use, but it isn’t as strong as other types of outdoor tile. Because of this, you should only pick ceramic for covered patios or patios that don’t see a lot of extreme weather changes.

And remember, not all ceramic tile is made the same.

Some types are weaker or stronger than others, so make sure you pick a durable option. Depending on what you buy, ceramic can be an affordable choice, but there is a lot of flexibility in the price range.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is dense and strong, which makes it a good choice for outdoor use. But make sure you find porcelain tile rated for the outdoors.

Indoor porcelain tile often has a glossy surface that will become very slippery if it gets wet. Instead, you’ll want your porcelain to have a textured surface.

Quarry Tile

However, this isn’t a great choice if you live in a location that gets harsh winters. Quarry tile doesn’t hold up well to freezing and ice.

Rain, on the other hand, isn’t a problem. Quarry tile is water resistant, and they don’t become slippery when wet.

But be careful with other liquids. This type of tile can stain easily.

In warm climates, quarry tile can be one of the best outdoor tile options for your home.

Slate Tile

Slate is a type of natural stone (which we will see more of on this list).

This tile is durable and strong, and it also has a natural surface texture. This means it will be slip-resistant without you having to do anything else to it.

You can find slate in a variety of colors, including dark colors like black and grey and brighter colors like green or orange.

Granite Tile

Granite, another natural stone, makes beautiful indoor countertops, but it doesn’t hold up as well outside.

Apart from being slippery, granite is also a porous material.

In other words, it will absorb moisture, causing stains and other damage, if you don’t seal it every few years.
.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tile gives you a cheaper way to get a “natural stone” outdoor floor. Manufacturers mold the concrete into the right texture and color them to make them look like natural stone.

This gives your home a high-end look for a fraction of the cost.

Concrete tile is durable and can withstand harsh weather and heavy foot traffic. However, you will have to reseal it every few years.

Travertine Tile

Travertine is a natural stone that creates beautifully textured and colored tile.

This tile is hard, but it also has a pitted surface that can gather dirt over time.

You can avoid this problem by polishing the surface so it’s smooth. But if you choose to do this, it will become slippery when wet.

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Soapstone Tile

Soapstone is also a natural stone, but it has a smooth and non-porous quality. This makes it resistant to stains and other types of water damage.

It can also withstand high levels of heat and freezing temperatures. Because of this, soapstone is a good option for almost any climate. If you’re looking for something to surround your pool, you might want to consider soapstone.

Limestone Tile

Limestone is a soft stone, meaning it can scratch and chip easily.

You also have to seal this type of tile often to prevent water damage.

Don’t install limestone in your patio unless you live in a dry, mild environment.

Sandstone Tile

While sandstone has a beautiful texture, it is even more fragile than limestone. Since this tile is made from layers of sand compressed together over time, it is soft and prone to scratches, chips, and cracks.

Water can also cause a lot of problems for sandstone. But if you live in a dry area and seal it often, this tile can make a beautiful addition to your yard.

Choosing the Best Outdoor Tile for Your Home

Now that you know what outdoor tile suites your home the best, it’s time to start the installation process. But before you can get to work, you need the right tools.

Not sure where to find them?

Make sure you click here to find the tiling tools you can’t work without.

What is facade tiles: types, features, installation technologies

To protect the walls of private houses and commercial buildings from destruction, to give them a beautiful appearance, facade decoration is used. The construction market has a large selection of materials: ceramic tiles, porcelain stoneware, plastic panels, decorative siding and other materials. They are used for cladding new buildings and the reconstruction of old ones.

Porcelain stoneware tiles for the protection of private and commercial buildings. It is popular due to the wide variety of textures and colors. Let us consider in more detail the technologies of cladding and the advantages of materials for finishing facades.

Material features

Materials used in facade cladding are subject to special requirements. They should not only create a decorative effect, but also provide high technical and operational properties. Facade tiles are affected by many negative factors - precipitation, high temperatures, scorching sun, sharp gusts of wind (often with sand or small debris). And if low-rise buildings can hide behind trees and other buildings, then the aggressive impact on the facades of high-rise buildings increases with each floor.

Therefore, tiles are used for facades, which:

Maintains color vibrancy and saturation throughout the entire period of use. Under the influence of ultraviolet light, it does not fade, does not fade, does not change the shade.
Will not bend or deform under its own weight. When facing skyscrapers, each subsequent layer presses on the previous one, so the finishing material must be strong.
Gives high technical performance during the service life. The optimal service life of facade tiles is at least 40-50 years.
Does not crack at negative temperatures due to the low level of water absorption. It does not absorb water, which means that ice cannot crush the tile from the inside, violate its integrity.
Easily tolerates temperature fluctuations and sudden jumps. This is a prerequisite for use in northern latitudes.
Not afraid of rain, snow. With prolonged exposure to moisture, mold, moss, and fungus do not form on the surface, since water drains and is not absorbed into the tile.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - photo example No. 1

Does not burn, does not melt in case of ignition, fire.
Does not emit toxic substances: natural and safe materials are used in the production. Nothing threatens human health.
Not afraid of mechanical influences. The hit of small stones, punches, the collision of birds with skyscrapers - does not leave marks on the surface.
Resistant to chemicals and corrosive processes. Easy to clean and does not lose its properties.

Tiles can be mounted on any surface, so it allows you to hide all the flaws in the construction and uneven walls behind the cladding, and prevent the destruction of the walls. The laying method depends on the type of tile, the expected effect.

Installation of large-format plates is carried out on a metal frame, this allows you to additionally insulate the walls, arrange ventilation, and improve sound insulation. A wide variety of textures, colors, sizes and shapes in stores allows you to create a design that is limited only by the imagination of the customer.

Although modern production methods can achieve amazing results in finishing, there are several drawbacks that are more due to the wrong choice of products than the characteristics of the tile:

Total construction weight. In an effort to increase strength, many buyers choose thicker facade tiles without considering the characteristics of the product. But the thicker the tile, the harder the facing is. We have to calculate whether the mounts will withstand the total weight of the structure or not. Indeed, during the reconstruction of old buildings, the walls may simply not withstand. It is easy to solve the problem - use porcelain stoneware for finishing. It is dense and durable.
Brittleness. Although the facade tiles withstand mechanical stress, they break when they fall, and the corners break off when cut. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully consider the process of transporting the material.

To get high-quality and beautiful cladding, you need to correctly choose frame structures, select glue and take into account the characteristics of the material. Employees of the Estima Ceramics Studio are always ready to help with the choice of porcelain stoneware, suggest what thickness and size tiles are suitable for facing a particular building.

Variety of assortment

A wide range of house facade materials allows you to create unique design solutions for private households, commercial buildings, skyscrapers, shopping centers and other buildings. Depending on the planned effect, facade tiles are selected. It differs in the method of production, the raw materials used, texture, shape, decorative features, sizes and other characteristics.

Natural stone

Noble and sustainable home decoration that will last for more than a hundred years. Differs in frost resistance, durability, resistance to mechanical and chemical influences. Marble or granite is chosen as a facing material. But due to production costs, few can afford such a facade finish.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - photo example No. 2

Shell rock, sandstone

These are natural materials that "breathe" well, keep warm, do not load the walls due to their low weight and are inexpensive. But under the influence of the external environment: precipitation, temperature changes, prolonged exposure to the sun - they are gradually destroyed.

Used as modular slabs in the form of regular squares, rectangles or free-form figures with torn edges. For exterior decoration of the facade of the house, dense gray or dark gray models are suitable. The cladding with shell rock gives the buildings a fresh look, and the real shells found in the structure give originality.

In order for the finish to serve for a long time and please the owners, regular treatment with moisture-repellent compounds is required. And installation work should be carried out in warm and sunny weather.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - example photo No. 3

Agglomerate

Artificial stone, which is obtained by pressing marble, quartz or granite chips with a binder (polyester resins, cement). To create an interesting texture, colored glass, shell rock, metal shavings, and synthetic pigments are added. To ensure strength, a reinforcing mesh is placed in the tiles at the production stage.

The properties of agglomerate tiles are similar to natural stone, they contain up to 95% stone chips. But installation is quite laborious, the cost is high, although it is much cheaper than natural stone.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - example photo No. 4

Ceramic tiles

Products are distinguished by strength, moisture resistance, fire safety, environmental friendliness, wear resistance and durability. Facade tile is a familiar tile, but with a high frost resistance. After all, if you use an ordinary tile outside, then it will crack in the first winter. And the ceramic front tile maintains negative temperatures.

But the color scheme is not as wide as for indoor use. Monochromatic soft shades, imitation of brick, stone are common.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - example photo No. 5

Terracotta tiles

The peculiarity of the material is that dyes are not used in the production. And different shades (from beige to black) are obtained due to different temperatures and duration of firing. There are models with imitation of brick, stone and even wood. For the convenience of finishing, you can use panels up to 60 cm wide, up to 180 cm long. But the tile looks more aesthetically pleasing.

Differs in high strength and durability. But it is used only in those places where there will be no direct contact with moisture (rain, snow). The tile absorbs water and collapses. You can increase the service life due to the hydrophobic coating.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - photo example No. 6

Clinker

Tiles are made from slate clay, which gives improved technical properties compared to other ceramic materials. Differs in sound and noise insulation, resistance to mechanical stress and precipitation. Easily tolerates severe frosts, does not crack, does not exfoliate. In terms of frost resistance, it surpasses even porcelain stoneware. The minimum service life is 50 years.

Clinker is produced in the form of tiles and panels that imitate brickwork. You can find models with insulation. Color solutions - from yellow to brown, but there are color models. At the same time, the shades in different packages are very different from each other. When facing, all facade tiles are often mixed to get a chaotic pattern.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - example photo No. 7

Bituminous tiles

Sections that imitate brickwork and are similar in structure to roof tiles. Differ in flexibility, softness, resistance to mechanical influences. Such facing does not burn out on the sun, does not pass moisture and serves at least 30 years. Installation is simple - the sections are glued from the bottom up with a slight overlap. For greater reliability, they are nailed around the perimeter.

Porcelain stoneware

For the production of porcelain stoneware tiles, natural materials are used, which are fired at high temperatures (1200–1300°C) and pressed. The combination of these methods gives high strength products, resistance to mechanical stress and moisture, as well as a long service life - up to 50 years, subject to installation conditions.

Porcelain stoneware is ideal for cladding the facade of buildings of any type:

available in square and rectangular shape;
is suitable for buildings with a wooden base;
when installing ventilated facades enhances airflow due to the gaps between the tiles;
increases the life of the house, as it protects it from moisture, wind, and the scorching sun;
does not settle dust, dirt, which increases the period between washing the facade.

The use of natural dyes allows you to get any color - from bright solid colors - blue, yellow, orange, gray - that do not fade in the sun, and ending with natural textures - wood, marble, stone. Estima presents various lines of porcelain tiles - Ametis by Estima, Estima Solutions, Estima City and Estima XXL - a line of large-format porcelain tiles.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - example photo No. 8

Porcelain stoneware can be used to achieve a variety of home decorating effects. When using gloss - luxury and richness, matte - sophistication, metallized - worn or platinum shine, mosaics - creating a unique design.

House facade mounting technologies

Two technologies are used to install tiles on the facade.

"Wet" - laying tiles on an adhesive base. Suitable for lightweight facade tiles of small size, which are mounted on a practically flat surface. For example, for foam concrete and brick walls.
"Dry" - the formation of a crate, which is attached to the walls of buildings. Suitable, for example, for timber or stud walls.

Wet method

The façade is tiled with special cement, polymer or resin based compounds. At the same time, they should be marked "frost-resistant". Otherwise, the lining will fall off at the first cooling to negative temperatures.

Installation work is carried out in the standard way:

prepare the surface;
apply an adhesive solution;
lay facade tiles with a slight pressure from the bottom up;
form even seams due to special crosses;
the seams are rubbed after the glue has dried.

It is desirable to carry out work in the warm season so that the adhesive composition can dry and give reliable adhesion to the surface.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - photo example No. 9

Dry method

The method is based on the installation of a frame that takes on the load from the facade tiles. The structure is mounted at a small distance from the wall, which ensures air circulation between the tile and the facade. The gap is left empty or filled with insulation.

The main stage of such cladding is the choice of components and assembly of the frame. After all, the designs are selected strictly for the facing material in order to withstand the weight and ensure the correct distance between the elements. This method is relevant for large format tiles.

Installation includes:

installation of the frame - marking of the facade, installation of brackets;
laying thermal insulation;
plate assembly - from bottom to top and to the side.

To correctly and beautifully arrange the corners, use special elements.

What to look for when choosing

So that the design does not bother and evokes positive emotions, consider:

Colour. Variegated shades for private homes quickly get bored and eventually begin to annoy. Solid colors look good on commercial buildings, while darker options evoke a stifled feel. An interesting solution is light or natural colors and their combinations.
Invoice. A smooth facade creates the effect of a “flat surface”, a monolithic structure. Such a facade is easy to care for, but more difficult to mount. And the textured walls look interesting, voluminous. They are easy to mount, but more difficult to maintain, as dirt and dust collect on the ledges.
Size. Facade ceramics are available in various sizes. But it is limited by the aesthetic moment. For small buildings, the best option is a small facade tile, and for high-rise buildings, commercial and industrial facilities, large-format products are chosen. But when installing a ventilated facade of a building, large-format facade tiles are installed even on small buildings.
Marking. Manufacturers on the packaging indicate all the necessary information - frost resistance, tensile strength, water absorption and other characteristics. Don't know which indicators are optimal? Employees of the Estima Ceramics Studio will help you choose porcelain tiles that will match the type of building.

And remember that there is no universal material for facade cladding:

Castle-style houses are well suited to natural materials or textures that mimic them. They give the building volume, texture and depth.
To create accent moments, you can use shell rock in combination with decorative plaster.
Porcelain stoneware is suitable for both private homes and commercial buildings. Experimenting with the texture of the material, you can get interesting solutions.
Clinker tiles add volume and originality. Harmoniously combined with natural stone, plaster, porcelain stoneware and other materials.

House exterior: what is facade tiles? - photo example No. 10

Not sure which material to choose? How to choose the optimal solution? Calculate the area to be covered. Then decide on the maximum budget that you are willing to spend on facade work. Most likely, the circle will decrease significantly. The next step is choosing a color and texture. To make it easier to make a choice, look at photos in printed company catalogs and online, pay attention to live examples. And remember that facing tiles need to be attached to something - glue, frame. And this is also a cost.

At Estima Ceramics Studio we will help you choose porcelain stoneware for finishing the facades of residential and commercial buildings. A wide range of colors and textures for natural materials will allow you to implement the most daring decisions. Come to branded salons or contact official representatives.

Products in Article

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Outdoor Porcelain Tiles | Atlas Concorde

Design outdoor spaces

Outdoor Design is a range of outdoor porcelain stoneware wall and floor tiles. With extra thickness and a special anti-slip surface, this tile is high performance and suitable for any application.

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AtlasConcorde BoostNatural 009 00 Ecru-Umber

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Concrete & Resin Look

This outdoor floor and wall tile comes in a neutral color palette and mimics the texture of concrete and resin hand-smoothed with a spatula.

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Wood effect

Wood look outdoor floor and wall tiles with a natural vein and knot pattern. Ideal for creating a cozy natural environment.

Metal look

Metal-effect porcelain stoneware reproduces the iridescent hues of the original material, giving outdoor spaces a contemporary urban flair.

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Indoor and outdoor

The combination of outdoor tiles with Atlas Concorde indoor tiles allows you to create holistic projects in which indoor and outdoor spaces are organically linked into one stylistic whole.

Solutions for complete projects

Atlas Concorde outdoor tiles combine aesthetics and durability, so they can be used to decorate any area: terraces, alleys, paths, stairs, verandas, pools, recreation areas, etc.

Porcelain stoneware: beauty and functionality

Outdoor floor and wall tiles retain their original beauty for many years.

Easy to clean
Durability
Durability
Impermeability
Easy to clean

Easy to clean

Outdoor tiles are easy to clean. To restore it to its original appearance, water and ordinary neutral detergents are enough.

Durability

Thanks to its high density and increased thickness of 20 mm, outdoor porcelain stoneware is resistant to foot traffic, scratches and abrasion.

Durability

Outdoor porcelain stoneware suitable for places where vehicles pass: cars, motorcycles, forklifts, pallet trucks.

Impermeability

The low water absorption of outdoor tiles prevents the risk of cracking and moisture seepage, which can lead to moss, mold and cracks.

Easy care

Unlike natural materials, outdoor porcelain stoneware does not require special treatments or any special care.

Stone effect on the street: beauty and high performance

Natural stone is one of the oldest building materials and is still associated with durability, prestige and reliability. Stone effect porcelain stoneware embodies and reinterprets all these qualities in an original way, offering them to modern architecture.

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4. How Much Light Do You Get?

5. What Is the Current Style and Color of Your Home?

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Porcelain stoneware

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Outdoor Porcelain Tiles | Atlas Concorde

Design outdoor spaces

Solutions for complete projects

Porcelain stoneware: beauty and functionality

Easy to clean

Durability

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Impermeability

Easy care

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