Whether you’re building a patio or redoing it, you need some options to choose from apart from hiring a patio contractor. You have bricks, stones, and tiles. Now, tiles can be of many different types. Here are some popular tiles for patios.
Types Of Patio Tiles
Granite Tiles
If you’re looking for a foolproof option when it comes to outdoor or patio tiles, then granite will not disappoint you. A little bit on the expensive side but extremely durable and long-lasting, granite tiles will endure almost all weather conditions and your patio will remain in pristine condition for long.
Granite tiles are also lighter and easier to handle, so they’re going to be a breeze to install. But given the cost of granite, you should always have a professional install it.
You can get granite tiles in plenty of colors and finishes and if you want them to ace the longevity game, then you can seal them in the end as well, which makes the entire patio waterproof.
Sandstone Tiles
Sandstone is another warm and inviting tile option for your patio and the best part is that these tiles don’t become slippery even after snow. The texture of sandstone tiles prevents the patio floor from turning into a frosty and slippery mess and the clean-up is also a breeze.
However, sandstone is a very soft material. So, it can be prone to scratches, especially if you drag heavy furniture over the surface. So, keep this thing in mind if you don’t want to ruin your patio.
Slate Tiles
Slate is a very beautiful material and it’s essentially a metamorphic rock that is created under high temperature and pressure. You might know that slate is a reliable roofing material, but you can use it many other things as well like for your patio.
This tile option is great for almost all weathers, however, it’s one of the pricier tile materials. But it also has many merits that make it worth the price. It is stain resistant and extremely durable. It doesn’t crack or break under impact and the overall appearance is very minimal and chic.
Slate is also available in a lot of colors including light and neutral colors although people think that it can’t be in other colors than the shades of black and gray.
It’s texture also makes it non-slippery. All in all, slate is an wonderful and durable choice for your patio.
Limestone Tiles
Limestone is a very readily available material. It is used a lot in construction because it’s decently durable and it is also very versatile. Limestone tiles also have many options to choose from that revolve around brown, red and gray.
However, be warned, limestone is softer and more porous than granite and other harder natural stones. This fact makes the tile susceptible to water damage and the tiles are also prone to permanent stains because liquid absorption is quick.
If you want to protect your outdoor patio from spills and stains, then sealing limestone tiles is a must. Other than that, limestone is great for outdoor spaces, especially if the climate is super dry. But avoid this material if you live in a cold and wet region.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are probably the most fragile tile option available for patios, but if there’s not a lot of foot traffic, then they can last a reasonable amount of time. These tiles are known for their beauty and endless variety in colors, designs, and finishes. Ceramic tiles are essentially made out of clay and they’re very thin but easy to install.
They can withstand mild weather conditions, but can get damaged in extremely hot and cold climates, so that’s something you’ll need to keep in mind. If you still want to go for ceramic tiles, then choose something with a rough and textured surface because it won’t be as slippery when wet.
A better option than ceramic tiles is porcelain tiles. It’s a more durable cousin of ceramic tiles. Look for porcelain tiles made for outdoor use.
Quarry Tiles
Quarry is a man-made material and it is manufactured in the same way bricks are. It is made out of pulverized stones mixed with clay and then the whole thing is baked to give the tile impeccable strength. However, quarry tiles are only available in a few colors, namely red, gray, and brown. So, there might not be a lot of options for someone wants unique and fun colors.
However, quarry tiles are perfect for outdoor spaces like patios because they are specifically designed to last long in dry, wet, harsh, and ever-changing climates.
Soapstone Tiles
Soapstone is a wonderful material to use in hotter climates because it’s naturally heat resistant. It is also very soft and slippery in feel, but it has an amazing grip, so it’s perfect to choose for your outdoor patio.
Soapstone is hard and doesn’t let scratches ruin its perfect look. This material is available in a plethora of darker colors, so if that’s your cup of tea, then go for it. The only downside of soapstone tiles is that they’re not commonly available. Some special retailers only sell variants of soapstone. So, you’ll need to comb through several retailers to find your desired soapstone variant.
Travertine Tiles
Travertine is a very versatile option depending on how the tile has been finished. Untreated travertine is rough and considered to be great for patios where you don’t want to lose your footing and slip. However, the pitted and uneven surface of travertine can be hard to clean. This is where polished travertine comes in.
Polished travertine is smooth and borderline shiny, so it will give your patio that shimmery and opulent feel, but it can be really hard to walk on this surface, especially when it gets wet. So, choose the finish wisely.
Concrete Tiles
If you’re looking for a more affordable yet durable tile option, then concrete is here to save the day and your wallet. Concrete can be made into any design, texture, and shape of tile depending on your preference. It also looks like natural stone but without the blaring price point.
The only thing you need to remember is that concrete tiles can easily get stained because this material is like a solid sponge, that can suck water or moisture within no time. So, you’ll need to regularly seal the tiles.
Moreover, if you don’t like the dull color of concrete, you can pay a bit more for stamped concrete and choose any color and texture you want.
Plastic Tiles
Plastic is virtually maintenance-free and there’s little to no work in installing these tiles. These tiles are not tacky at all and they have a very beautiful and refined appearance. The best part is that they can be snapped in place with overlapping edges.
These tiles also have drains for water to pass through, so there will be no accumulation. Lastly, they are also very easy to remove, so you can change the tiles up or they can be used as a backup covering option, in case your patio needs some repair.
Wooden Tiles
If you want to capture that rustic, cabin-like vibe and turn your patio into deck, then hardwood tiles are perfect. They’re usually larger than regular tiles and they’re really easy to install, with interlocking edges, so it’s a perfect project for a DIY fan. If you’re worried about wood getting damaged by water and moisture, then pump the brakes because these tiles or planks are made out of weather-friendly wood like cedar or redwood.
The only labor-intensive thing before the installation of these planks is the preparation of the ground level, especially if you’re building a new patio that hasn’t been leveled before.
Conclusion
Patio tiles not only look beautiful, but they’re easier to install and they’re elevated in style and appearance. Whichever tile you choose, make sure to connect with a patio builder Long Island for installation.