Choosing the perfect tiles for your outdoor space can feel like a big decision, especially when deliberating between natural stone and porcelain. You might be weighing the pros and cons, wondering which is more durable, more affordable, or simply suits your style better. This guide explores all the relevant points that should be considered when choosing an outdoor tile - Weather, Slip Ratings and Thickness. As well as final touches and how to maintain your new outdoor tiles.
We recommend employing the services of a professional installer who has experience installing outdoor paving to achieve the best results.
Tiling your outdoor space can transform it into a stunning extension of your home. If you're on the look-out for some new outdoor tiles, you have probably considered whether porcelain or natural stone is better. Whilst porcelain remains the gold standard for tiling outdoors, due to it's low maintenance and incredible durability, we understand the rustic charm of a natural stone, and understanding the benefits and limitations of both is vital to making your decision.
We've put this guide together so you have all the information available to help you make your decision. The guide will cover:
Understanding outdoor tile specifications - what to consider when choosing a tile for outdoors.
- Weather Conditions & How That Effects Longevity
- Tile Texture & Outdoor Safety (understanding slip ratings)
- Tile Thickness & Application/Installation
- Summary: The Best Material for Every Application
Finishing Touches
- Acclimating Your Natural Stone Tiles
- Choosing the Right Grout
- Bullnoses and Steps (Shop Natural Stone Steps, Shop Porcelain Steps)
- Sealing
Maintenance
- How often do you need to seal your tiles (Sealing Terracotta)
- How to clean your tiles
- What kind of damage to inspect for
Castilla Marfil Grip R11 20mm |
Dorset Stone Marfil Grip R11 |
Understanding Outdoor Tile Specifications
At European heritage we want to give you the no-nonsense truth when it comes to choosing the right tile for your project. And we understand how much choice there is out there not to mention how confusing all the specifications can be so we're breaking it down into 3 important things to consider whilst choosing your outdoor tile; Weather Conditions, Surface Texture and Tile Thickness.
1. Weather Conditions
In a country like the UK where weather is unpredictable and often wet, understanding how some materials react in these conditions is important for an installation that will be long lasting. Being exposed to the worst of the UK elements (rain, hail, snow and frost) can be a recipe for disaster for some types of stone; if you've ever left a terracotta pot outside over winter, only to find it in splinters come Spring, you will know where this is going!
The UK weather patterns put a high demand on our outdoor tiles, the more exposed the tile is to the elements, the higher that demand. We have freeze-thaw cycles and considerable temperature fluctuations; thermal expansion (when water expands as it freezes) can split some materials, and the UV in our summers can fade them. Of course you can choose whether to seal and protect your natural tiles, or if you enjoy their natural wearing process, leave them natural and enjoy how they evolve over time.
Below is a quick reference table on how our experts rate the most popular materials for the UK climate:
| Material | Water Resistance | Frost Proof | UV Resistance | Needs Sealing | Our Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | Excellent | Yes | Yes | No | Suitable for all outdoor zones |
| Riven Slate | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Commonly used on garden paths, terraces, complimenting Victorian floor tiles |
| Travertine | Moderate | Yes | Can fade | Yes | Not commonly seen outside, but can be used if sealed and maintained. |
| Limestone | Poor | Yes | Can fade | Yes | Commonly seen outside, very porous so must be well sealed and maintained regularly. |
| Sandstone | Poor | Yes | Can fade | Yes | Commonly seen outside, very porous so must be well sealed and maintained regularly. |
| Terracotta | Poor | Typically No | Poor | Yes | Only specific terracotta can be used outside, please discuss with a representative if you're unsure. |
| Ceramic | Moderate | Typically No | Yes | No | Typically only used on wall coverings when frost resistant in the UK. |
| Granite (Flamed) | Excellent | Yes | Yes | Optional | Typically only used on patios, drives, commercial zones |
*This is only general guidance, always check with a representative that the material you are choosing is suitable for your use case.
2. Surface Texture
Surface Texture is linked to slip ratings, which directly affects your safety when it comes to outdoor tiles. Whether tiling a garden, a patio, a pool or a public area, you will likely need to consider what the slip rating of a tile is before installing it.
As already established, the UK experiences some pretty wet weather, and wet = slippery! But thankfully we can measure how safe a tile is in wet conditions. The typical recommended values for outside use in the UK are in the table below for more information on slip ratings please see our detailed blog on slip ratings:
| Test / Rating | Typical Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Pendulum Test (BS 7976) | PTV + 36 (wet) |
| R-Rating (DIN 51130) | R11 or higher |
| Barefoot Rating (DIN 51097) | B (good), C (best) |
*These tests are typically only carried out on porcelain tiles, your tile may have one or multiple of them. Please consult with a representative if you have any questions.
Below is a list of the typical recommended finishes that we recommend for outside use in the UK:
| Tile Type | Surface Finish | What Does This Mean? | What Does This Feel Like? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain | Grip/Anti-slip | Typically it is tested to one of the above mentioned ratings. |
Smooth when dry, but adds grip when wet. It can feel like a light sandpaper. Grippy when dry and wet. Very heavily structured, almost bush hammered. |
| Natural Stone | Seasoned/Etched Finish | This typically means the surface has been acid etched to provide texture. | It can feel like a light sandpaper. Grippy when dry and wet. |
| Riven (Slate) | It has a naturally uneven surface texture created through the splitting process. | Has ridges from where the slate is naturally split. | |
| Tumbled | Surface and edges have been distressed through a tumbling process, adding texture. | It doesn't feel rough but it isn't a smooth/honed finished. Has some texture. | |
| Flamed (Granite) | The surface is exposed to high heat, causing the surface to rupture and add texture. | Rough and coarse to the touch, like heavy sandpaper. |
*Make sure you order a sample before proceeding and please speak to a member of the team if you have any questions.
3. Tile Thickness
Tile thickness plays a vital role in determining how well a tile performs outdoors, particularly in terms of durability, load capacity, and how it can be installed. The right thickness ensures not only long-lasting performance but also prevents breakage, especially in high-stress environments like driveways, patios, and pool areas. Generally speaking, standard format tiles come in thicknesses from ±8mm to ±20mm, where the thickness can effect the following:
- Durability: Thicker tiles are more resistant to cracking, chipping, and surface stress.
- Load Capacity: Increased thickness handles greater static and dynamic loads (e.g., furniture, vehicles).
- Weather Resistance: Better resistance to freeze-thaw cycles and thermal expansion.
- Installation Options: Thicker tiles have more installation options, they can be laid on grass, gravel, sand, or pedestal systems.
- Longevity: Reduces maintenance and replacement costs over time.
Knowing what thickness of tile to invest in depends on elements such as traffic volume, load bearing requirements, placement and installation requirements. The following table dictates tile thickness for application choice:
| Application | Minimum Recommended Thickness | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Balcony / Porch | 8 mm |
Must be a solid substrate, typically concrete or timber construction. Tiles are adhered to the substrate using an S1 flexible tile adhesive. we recommend laying over an anti-fracture membrane. |
| General Outdoor Use | 20 mm |
Industry standard for dry laying. Dry laying - Typically installed on 150 mm MOT Type 1, compacted & 30 mm sharp sand Loose Laid (on leveled turf) - Leveled turf with compacted base patches |
| Driveway / Parking |
20 mm (Porcelain) 30 mm (Natural Stone) |
Requires strong base (concrete & sub-base) to support vehicles Tiles are adhered using a flexible S1 adhesive. |
| Floating / Raised Systems | 20 mm (Porcelain only) |
The pedestal system itself must be supported by a solid substrate. Great for floating floor with drainage below; For High-rise buildings consider wind uplift in exposed areas |
4. Summary: The Best Material for Every Application
In our professional opinion, 2cm (20mm) porcelain tiles with R11B and/or PTV+36 when wet offer both beauty and durability, and it earns it's title as the gold standard for outdoor tiles. Natural stone may have rustic charm, but advances in technology mean we can replicate many of the appealing characteristics of natural stone in our porcelain tiles; we can replicate surface texture, colours and even get creative and blend both natural and man made features.
Finishing Touches
Once your tiles are selected and ready for installation, it's time to start considering the finishing details, these are what elevate your outdoor space from good to flawless. Here’s how to get them right:
1. Acclimating Your Stone Tiles
Before installation, particularly with natural stone, it’s important to let your tiles acclimatise to their environment. Leave them in their intended outdoor space for at least 48 hours before installation. This helps the tiles adjust to ambient moisture levels and temperature, reducing the risk of movement or stress post-installation.
2. Choosing the Right Grout
Grout can make or break both the appearance and longevity of your tiling project. For outdoor use in the UK, it must be water-resistant, frost-proof, and flexible. For more information on how to choose the best grout for your project see here.
- Cement Based Grout: Most opt for a flexible cement-based grout, such as Mapei Ultracolor Plus, which is rapid-setting and has mould-resistant properties.
- Epoxy Based Grout: The most robust and stain resistant grouts are the epoxy based grouts Mapei Kerapoxy Easy which offers excellent durability as a waterproof grout for exterior use.
- NB, please note if grouting natural stone that you should be sealing the stone before and after grouting
3. Bullnoses and Steps
Bullnose tiles and step treads are not just aesthetic - they’re important safety features! A bullnose finish provides a smooth, rounded edge that reduces the chance of chips and makes transitions (e.g. between patios and steps) safer, and a tread is there to provide more grip on the steps.
- For porcelain ranges, bullnosed or mitered steps are typically fabricated from the same batch of tiles that are being installed to ensure you have the same look throughout the installation. This can be done on site by your fitter, alternatively European Heritage does offer this as a service.
- If you're working with natural stone, some ranges may already be available with bullnose options, but just as with porcelain, your needs can be fabricated for you.
4. Sealing
Whether you need to seal your tiles depends on the material. Porcelain tiles typically do not require sealing, but natural stones almost always do, to protect against water ingress, stains, algae, and frost damage.
Some products we recommend:
- Fila MP90 Eco Xtreme: Ideal for limestone, travertine, sandstone, and slate. It’s an eco-friendly penetrating sealer that provides water and oil resistance without changing the tile’s appearance.
- Fila StonePlus: this sealer enhances colour while providing robust protection from oil and water.
Apply sealer after the tiles are clean and dry. Always test on a small area before full application and always follow instructions from the manufacturer. Seal again after grouting.
Maintenance
Long-term care is just as important as correct installation. Even the most robust tiles need a little attention to keep them looking their best.
1. How often do you need to seal your tiles
- Porcelain: No sealing required - easy!
-
Natural stone: Reseal every 2–3 years, or sooner if the stone shows signs of water absorption, dark patches, or staining.
Tip: A quick water-drop test will tell you if the stone still repels water. If the drop soaks in, it’s time to reseal.
2. How To Clean Your Tiles
Outdoor tiles are exposed to the elements, and over time they can accumulate algae, dirt, or stains from leaf matter and BBQ oils. We have a full blog dedicating to cleaning your tiles here.
Fila Cleaning Products:
- Fila PS87 Pro – An effective alkaline cleaner for removing organic dirt, greasy stains, and algae from natural stone or porcelain.
- Fila Deterdek Pro – Use this acid-based cleaner only on acid-resistant materials (like porcelain or flamed granite) to remove cement residues or limescale. Avoid on limestone or marble.
Routine Maintenance Tips:
- Use a soft broom or jet washer with a fan nozzle on a low-pressure setting for weekly/monthly cleaning.
- Avoid using bleach or patio cleaners with harsh chemicals on natural stone - it can etch or discolour the surface.
3. What Kind of Damage To Inspect For
Keep an eye out for:
- Efflorescence: White, powdery salt deposits on the surface - common on newly installed stone. Use Fila Deterdek Pro to remove (check stone compatibility).
- Cracked grout joints: These allow water to penetrate and undermine the base. Rake out and regrout if cracks appear.
- Stains or discolouration: Can indicate that the stone needs resealing or that cleaning products used are unsuitable.
-
Movement or lifting tiles: A sign of improper base prep or water damage = particularly in freeze-thaw conditions.
If you're committed to a stunning and long-lasting finish, using the right products and techniques for finishing and maintenance is paramount. If you're renovating a home or garden area, come visit us in store or online, we will always help you make the right decisions to build a beautiful space!