What Tiles Can I Use Outside?

Choosing the right tile for an outdoor space is one of the most important decisions you can make when renovating your garden or patio. Think about how you actually use it... Are you out there all day soaking up the sun, or is it more of a late afternoon and evening spot for entertaining? Either way, the tile you choose needs to look great, stay safe in all weathers and stand up to the elements for years to come. Get it wrong and you could end up with cracked tiles, slippery surfaces or staining that is difficult to shift.

This guide covers everything you need to know before you buy.

Not every tile is built to handle the outdoors. Outdoor tiles need to withstand a range of conditions that indoor tiles simply are not designed for, including frost, rain, temperature fluctuations and regular foot traffic. There are a few key things to look for:

Frost Resistance - Any tile used outdoors must be able to handle freeze thaw cycles without cracking. When water gets into a tile and freezes, it expands, and if the tile is not dense enough it will crack or pop. Outdoor porcelain tiles are tested specifically for this, with water absorption rates typically below 0.5%, meaning moisture simply cannot penetrate the surface.

Slip Resistance - A tile that looks great but becomes slippery in the rain can be a safety risk. Slip resistance is measured using different standards, including R ratings and PTV (Pendulum Test Value), and ratings are typically tested under shod foot conditions rather than barefoot. At Topps Tiles we verify the slip resistance of our outdoor tiles through in house PTV testing, so you can be confident the rating is accurate before you commit to a purchase.

Thickness and Laying Flexibility - A 20mm outdoor porcelain tile, such as Everscape, can be laid on mortar beds, pedestals, grass or gravel. A standard 10mm tile is generally limited to a cement screed with adhesive, which can add cost and complexity. If you want flexibility in how your patio comes together, 20mm is the more practical choice.

Abrasion Resistance - Patio tiles need to hold up to foot traffic, garden furniture and general wear without the surface deteriorating over time. Always check abrasion resistance alongside slip resistance when choosing any tiles for your garden.

Some natural stone tiles can work outdoors, but they require more careful selection and ongoing maintenance than porcelain. Granite and travertine are among the more suitable options, provided they have a textured finish for grip. Natural stone is porous though, which means moisture and dirt can penetrate the surface and cause staining over time. Regular sealing is recommended to keep it looking its best.