How to Choose the Best Outdoor Tiles 

For outdoor installation, you must opt for high-density porcelain tiles – the best is from European collections – or tiles made of natural stones. Porcelain tiles are ideal thanks to their durability, resistance to elements, ease of maintenance and aesthetic looks. But you do have to make sure they are suited for exterior installation. And tile flooring doesn’t have the same requirements depending on the place where it is installed: patio, garden path, deck, around a pool… For a terrasse, for instance, you should choose a collection that matches your house’s existing façade as well as your indoor floors. You could even use the same tiles inside and out – let’s say it is suited for outdoor use – to create a visual continuity. That’s a great advantage of tiling, in addition to being easy to maintain and offering a good quality-price ratio. 

Sun exposure will also impact your choice of tiles. A lighter finish will reflect the light and may become too bright, while a darker finish will tend to absorb more heat. 

Finally, if you plan on installing tiles around your pool, select anti-slip tiles that have water-repellency properties to prevent risks of falling. Plus, one of the most important things to look out for is the proper substrate that goes underneath your tiles. This substrate can vary from one collection to the other, so make sure to get the best advice from our experts in store. 

Be aware that exterior installation requires the use of specific products (right adhesive and grout, underlayments, balcony profiles, etc.) as well as specific conditions. For example, the installation area must be protected from sun and rain, and the surface temperature on which you will apply the adhesive must remain between 10 and 38°C for several days – sometimes up to 7 days. Tile laying companies are not always willing to work on such technical projects, since it depends so much on weather conditions. If you prefer installing everything yourself, we strongly recommend seeking advice from our experts in store, to make sure you follow the installation time requirements and choose the right drainage system. 

Which Tiles are Suited for the Outdoor 

Here are three types of tiles suited for your deck, terrasse or patio floor. 

Natural Stone Imitation Tiles

Stone-inspired collections blend perfectly in exterior living spaces. They create such an aesthetic design. Travertine and slate are great examples of effect that results in authentic style, while terracotta tiles are ideal for a more Mediterranean look. 

Wood Effect Porcelain Tiles  

A wood finish, without the complicated maintenance part! Wood aspect tiles offer great quality for a good price while being super easy to keep in good shape. They’re resistant to wear and tear as well as to humidity, plus they are durable and bring the natural warmth of wood to your décor.  

Oversized Concrete-Looking Tiles 

Simple and elegant, concrete imitation tiles create a raw and more contemporary design. 

What are Paver Supports 

Installing tiles on blocks increases in popularity in Quebec. And you’ll understand why! This installation system is called TROBA-LEVEL (from Schluter®) and uses self-supporting slab supports for exterior installation.  

• Efficient and precise installation, without the use of a substrate. 
• Quick and easy to install, without joints. 
• No risks due to freezing and thawing since water drains through the open joints. 
• Quick and easy access to waterproofing, drainage, and ventilation systems. 
• Level surface (even for sloped substrates up to 5%) by combining blocks. 

Due to the open joints between the tiles and pavers, surface water can freely drain on to the substrate and, if fitted, into the drainage system beneath. This system must be used with 2 cm-thick tiles, which was specifically designed for terrasses, patios and decks. Thinner tiles are not suited for installation on blocks and are likely to break. 

In short, using exterior tiles is a smart choice for your patio flooring. However, keep in mind that exterior tiling requires particular attention for installation. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice in store. And make sure not to miss any of our informative blog articles by subscribing to our newsletter.