Everything You Need to Know About Outdoor Tiles

Transforming your outdoor space into an extension of your home has never been easier. While outdoor pavers and decking remain popular choices, outdoor floor tiles offer a world of design possibilities that combine style, durability, and practicality. From sun-drenched outdoor patio tiles that create the perfect entertaining zone to elegant outdoor wall tiles that add architectural interest, tiles provide versatile solutions for every outdoor application.

If you’re dreaming of a backyard renovation, you’ll just need to keep in mind where your tiles will be used and the overall look you desire. For instance, is your backyard modern? Will your tiles be installed near a pool area? To help you choose the perfect external tile for your space, we’ve answered some of our most commonly asked questions below to help with your selection process.

What makes outdoor wall and floor tiles different?

Not all tiles are created equal, and outdoor tiles are specifically engineered to handle conditions that would damage standard indoor tiles. Understanding these differences is crucial when planning your outdoor project. Here’s what to look out for:

• Low water absorption: Less than 0.5% for porcelain (making them frost-resistant)
• High slip resistance: P4 or P5 rating for wet areas around pools or regions prone to high rainfall
• UV resistance: Prevents fading and colour degradation in direct sunlight
• Thermal shock resistance: Handles extreme temperature fluctuations
• High PEI rating: PEI 4 or 5 for heavy traffic outdoor areas
• Appropriate thickness: Typically 10mm or more for outdoor applications

Can all tiles be used outdoors?

It would be nice to, but no. External tiles are uniquely crafted and rated to meet the demands of outdoor areas. When you choose the right products and install them correctly, outdoor tiles can withstand Australia’s harsh climate — from scorching summers to frosty winters — while maintaining their beauty for years to come. 

And it’s not just the weather they’re protected against, it’s families too! Whether it’s your kids dribbling basketballs each day after school or dropping metal utensils at BBQs, outdoor patio tiles are uniquely designed to maintain their look and withstand busy lifestyles.

Are ceramic tiles suitable for outdoors?

This is one of our most frequently asked questions, and the answer is: it depends. While it’s best to leave tiles rated for indoor use on the other side of the back door, outdoor-rated ceramic tiles with low water absorption (less than 3%) and suitable slip resistance can perform exceptionally well in covered outdoor areas or mild climates.

That said, porcelain tiles are generally the superior choice for Australian outdoor conditions. Porcelain is denser, less porous, and more resistant to moisture, frost, and thermal shock than ceramic. It’s also your best bet in areas with heavy foot traffic and uncovered spaces left exposed.

What surface finish is best for outdoor use?

In our outdoor tile range, we have products with External, Grip, Structured, Rock, Anti Slip and Alfresco finishes. Any of these are perfect for outdoor use, and really, the finish name is entirely dependent on the preference of the supplier. They essentially all mean the same thing!

From walls to floors, what else can outdoor tiles do?

Sure, you can stick to tiles as your flooring solution or wall cladding, but why stop there? External tiles are incredibly versatile, allowing you to install them in various applications. From utilising different patterns and layouts to separate entertaining areas from walkways and driveways, to furnishing other surfaces, they offer endless possibilities to design your alfresco spaces, including:

• Feature walls behind outdoor dining areas
• Pool walls and water features
• Outdoor fireplace surrounds
• Garden walls and planters
• Outdoor kitchen backsplashes
• Boundary walls and privacy screens

Are outdoor tiles suitable to lay in wet areas, like around a pool?

Yes, however, we would recommend certain tiles more than others due to their technical rating. When browsing our range online, all the technical information you need to know is included in the specifications for each product. But if you’d like some help navigating this information, it’s always best to pop into your nearest store. Our expert staff will be on hand to assist you in selecting the most suitable tile for your outdoor space, taking into consideration your design, the area being tiled and any technical information that’s relevant to your project.

Are outdoor tiles slippery?

It depends. Outdoor wall tiles don’t require the same slip resistance as floor tiles, giving you more freedom to choose decorative finishes like glossy surfaces, intricate patterns, or textured 3D effects.

Your outdoor floor tiles should have an excellent grip, allowing you to walk confidently after it has been raining. But it doesn’t mean you need to compromise on the design you want, either. Modern outdoor tiles offer stunning designs with excellent slip resistance, so you don’t have to choose between beauty and functionality.

Slip resistance ratings you’ll want to consider include:

• P1: Low slip resistance, suitable for dry internal areas with minimal foot traffic

• P2: Moderate slip resistance, ideal for indoor areas that may occasionally get wet

• P3: Higher slip resistance, suitable for most outdoor residential areas such as patios and balconies

• P4: High slip resistance, recommended for wet areas including pool surrounds, outdoor showers, and frequently hosed spaces

• P5: Very high slip resistance, typically used in commercial or high-risk wet areas and generally unnecessary for residential projects

Will outdoor elements affect my outdoor tiles?

No, the majority of our outdoor tiles are UV, fire and frost resistant. This means you can rest assured the natural elements would not change the aesthetic or structural integrity of your tile. And luckily, if they do need freshening up, the tiles in our outdoor range are super easy to clean.

What are the benefits of choosing timber look tiles over traditional decking?

Where do we begin? The beauty of timber look tiles is they require no maintenance. Unlike traditional decking, they don’t require ongoing sealing, cleaning or upkeep. They’re also super hard wearing and won’t fade from UV exposure or regular use. Timber look tiles aren’t just a great option for outdoor use, they’re also an amazing eco-friendly and durable alternative to floorboards.

Continue reading and discover six reasons why you should incorporate timber-look tiles in your home.

How do I keep my outdoor tiles looking like new?

Once your outdoor tiles are installed, proper maintenance will keep them looking fresh and beautiful. The good news? Cleaning outdoor tiles is straightforward when done regularly.

How to clean outdoor tiles (regular maintenance)

Create a schedule so that cleaning outdoor tiles becomes a routine task.

On a weekly or fortnightly basis, sweep or use a leaf blower to remove debris, leaves, and dirt, preventing them from being ground into the tile surface and grout. Don’t leave it for another month, it takes just 5-10 minutes and prevents major cleaning jobs later.

Monthly or as needed:

1. Hose down the area: Use a garden hose to wet the entire tiled area
2. Apply cleaning solution: Use a pH-neutral tile cleaner diluted according to the instructions, or make your own by mixing warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap.
3. Scrub with a brush: Use a stiff-bristled broom or deck brush to scrub the tiles and grout lines.
4. Pay attention to grout: Grout lines trap dirt, so give them extra attention.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Use the hose to rinse away all cleaning solution and loosened dirt.
6. Squeegee if desired: For a streak-free finish, especially on smoother tiles.

What to avoid when cleaning outdoor tiles:

• Harsh acids or bleach (can damage grout and fade tiles)
• High-pressure washers on maximum setting (can damage grout and tile surface)
• Abrasive scrubbers on glazed tiles (will scratch the surface)
• Oil-based cleaners (can leave residue that attracts dirt)
• Allowing cleaning products to dry on tiles

How to clean stained outdoor tiles

You’ll need to take a different approach to remove stains from external tiles. While there are dedicated products you can use, timing is key. Addressing any spills or marks as early as possible offers the best chance that no residual trace or colour is left behind.

Organic stains (leaves, berries, mould, mildew):

• Create a paste with baking soda and water
• Apply to the stained area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes
• Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly
• For stubborn mould, use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), rinse well after
• Commercial mould removers designed for outdoor surfaces also work effectively

Oil and grease stains:

• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on fresh stains to absorb oil
• For set stains, apply a degreasing dish soap directly to the stain
• Let it sit for 20-30 minutes
• Scrub with a stiff brush
• Rinse with hot water if possible

Rust stains:

• Use a commercial rust remover designed for tiles
• Follow product instructions carefully
• Test in an inconspicuous area first
• Rinse thoroughly after treatment

Does Elegance Tiles have an external tile to suit my style?

Why, yes of course!

The beauty of sourcing product from the best suppliers around the world is that we can offer our customers a great range to suit all styles and budgets. If you love an ultra-modern concrete look, we’d point you in the direction of our Beton Grey or Charcoal External. And if you’re keen on a timber effect without the constant upkeep, you’re sure to appreciate our Eco Wood Canela External. From classic stone to contemporary trends, we have an external tile to complement your desired style.

Whether you want a concrete outdoor paver effect or a more low maintenance alternative to traditional decking, you’ll be able to find exactly what you’re looking for at Elegance.

Want to know more about our outdoor tile range? Book an appointment and chat to our expert team in store, they can lead you through our wide range of products and help you make the right choice for your area.