Outdoor vs Indoor Tiles: What is the Difference?

Published on: July 16, 2022
Written by Eric Devin / Fact-checked by David Rowan

When planning a tiling project, it’s critical to select the appropriate material. One thing to think about is whether the tiles will be used indoors or outside and what is the differences. The location will determine which tiles are appropriate for the task. You may limit your tile choices by understanding the distinctions between outdoor and interior tiles.

Can Indoor Tile Be Used Outside?

The moment has arrived to install or replace your Adelaide home’s flooring! It is critical that you examine the appropriate type of flooring material for your application. It might be a difficult undertaking, but we’re here to assist you in choosing the correct floor tile for your home’s outside.

While you may utilize tiles throughout your home, both inside and out, it is critical that you research the sorts of tiles that are appropriate for each region. Aurees Tiles has over 10 years of industry expertise and can assist you in selecting the ideal tile for your outdoor space. We recognize that determining which kinds to use might be tough.

Durability

Heat, frost, and direct sunshine are all circumstances that indoor tiles cannot tolerate. The correct outdoor tile, on the other hand, can easily resist these circumstances.

When compared to the inside of your home, the outside of your Adelaide home is subjected to a tremendous amount of wear and tear. For example, your outside spaces are constantly exposed to not just the elements of the weather, but also heavy traffic – people strolling about in their shoes, kids messing around, and gardening tools dragged across the floor on occasion. For these reasons alone, it is critical that you choose a tile designed specifically for outdoor use. We have a large selection of outdoor tiles at Aurees Tiles.

Non-slip Textured Finish

Another important distinction between indoor and outdoor tiles is the surface texture. Because your outdoor tiles are outside, they are subjected to a variety of weather conditions, which can sometimes result in a slippery surface. Naturally, you want a non-slip tile floor to safeguard yourself, your family, and your visitors. This is why outdoor tiles should always have a rough surface, since this will aid shoe grip and lessen the likelihood of accidents.

Is There a Difference Between Indoor Tile and Outdoor Tile?

Tiles can be utilized both inside and outside the property. They have a diverse beauty and are long-lasting.If you’ve been considering tiles for your house, you’re making a wise decision because they’re more popular than ever.

What is the distinction between indoor and outdoor tiles? What are the distinctions between indoor and outdoor tiles? While tiles provide a contemporary touch, choosing which tiles to use inside and outside your house may be tricky. Because of the circumstances, if you pick the improper tile, your floor may be prone to corrosion and damage. The extreme temperature variations that our Denver weather delivers are not for everyone.

So, what are the distinctions?

• Tiles can be utilized both inside and outside the property. They have a diverse beauty and are long-lasting.
• Indoor tiles, while sturdy, are not designed to withstand elements such as cold or strong sunshine. Outdoor tiles, on the other hand, can withstand all of these circumstances and more.
• The surface of outdoor tiles should be textured to help them resist slipping. Some particular outdoor tiles have a somewhat grainy surface, which gives good grip when the surface is wet. Slip-resistant tiles will collect more debris and, as a result, will require more frequent cleaning.
• Because outdoor tiles must survive elements such as weather and temperature, they must be able to tolerate wear and tear.

Porcelain, ceramic, marble, and slate are the most frequent interior tiles. Ceramic, stone, and mosaic tiles are the most prevalent exterior tiles. Porcelain tiles are created from a finely ground clay tablet that is crushed under extreme pressure and heat, far beyond that of ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are often denser than porcelain tiles.

Types of Tiles You Can Use for Outdoor Patios

Typical Tile Materials:

Porcelain

Because porcelain tile is a particularly thick and sturdy type of ceramic, most porcelain tiles designed for flooring may also be used in a variety of patio applications. Textured, matt tiles without a very shiny surface that would be slippery when wet are the best option. Most porcelain tiles are thick and durable enough to be used on flooring, but check to see if yours is. Porcelain tile costs vary significantly. See also: Choosing Guide for Porcelain Tile Cutters

Ceramic

Traditional ceramic floor tiles might be a good option for outdoor patios if they have a PEI certification that indicates their strength. Ceramic tile, on the other hand, is best suited for light-use patios since it is not as durable as other options. If you choose ceramic tile, be sure it’s a floor tile that can withstand the elements on the patio; ceramic tiles sold as wall tile are typically not durable enough for the floor or patio. Ceramic tile, like porcelain tile, has a broad range of material costs, however they are generally less expensive.

Quarry

Quarry tiles, despite their name, are no longer created from natural quarries, but rather from a highly thick sort of unglazed clay. They are incredibly durable and work well as patio pavement. This type of tile was made primarily for use in courtyards and patios outside. Quarry tiles, unlike ceramic and porcelain tiles, come in a restricted color palette of red, brown, or gray.

Many homeowners prefer the Mediterranean appearance that quarry tiles create. Quarry tiles, while being unglazed, offer high water resistance and their roughness prevents them from becoming slippery when wet. Quarry tile is not recommended for locations where the winters are harsh.

Plastic Tiles That Interlock

Plastic tiles with interlocking edges represent a relatively new type of tile. The texture of these tiles helps protect against slips and falls, and they are simple to install for DIYers.. 

Tiles for Decking

Large squares of wood or composite planking, generally with interlocking edges, are bonded to backing strips. Decking tiles, which are often constructed of weather-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood, have the appearance of a ground-level deck without the requirement for an under-structure.

FAQs

Is It Possible to Place Tile on the Patio Outside?

Tile can be laid over an existing concrete patio or pathway as long as water drains away from it and any cracks are stable and level (one side of the crack should not be higher than the other). Seasons broaden and narrow cracks gradually, but if they’re becoming wider year after year, don’t tile over them.

Is It Possible to Use Any Tile Outside?

For various reasons, porcelain tiles are an ideal material for outdoor applications: Because porcelain tiles absorb less than 0.5 percent of water, they are stain and weather-resistant. Porcelain tiles, unlike other materials, do not shatter in cold conditions because they absorb practically no water.

Are There Any Special Considerations When Selecting Outdoor Versus Indoor Tiles?

Yes, there are a few special considerations when selecting outdoor versus indoor tiles. Outdoors, and tiles need to be durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and heavy rain. They should also be slip-resistant since they will be exposed to different kinds of weather and potential moisture. Additionally, outdoor tiles need to be able to resist fading due to UV exposure. Indoor tiles, on the other hand, need to be able to handle foot traffic and moisture, but they don’t need to be as durable as outdoor tiles. They should also be easy to clean since they will likely need to be wiped down regularly. Lastly, indoor tiles should be chosen based on their aesthetic appeal and how they will match the rest of the decor in the home.

Is It Possible to Put Ceramic Tiles Outside?

For outdoor surfaces such as decks and patios, both porcelain and ceramic tiles can be utilized. They’re both formed of clay shaped into thin sheets and fired in a kiln, and they’re both hard, moderately durable flooring materials.

Are There Any Environmental Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Outdoor and Indoor Tiles?

Yes, there are several environmental factors to consider when choosing between outdoor and indoor tiles. Outdoor tiles are often made of materials that are more durable and resistant to moisture, UV rays, and cold temperatures. Indoor tiles, on the other hand, may consist of materials that are more prone to staining, scratches, and fading. Additionally, outdoor tiles usually require more frequent cleaning due to their exposure to outdoor elements. Lastly, outdoor tiles may require more maintenance in the form of sealing and grouting to prevent water damage to the underlying substrate.

Conclusion

Here is the ending of Outdoor vs indoor tiles: what is the difference? Stones, pavement, concrete, decking, and other outside features are frequently imitated in outdoor tiles. Furthermore, the outdoor porcelain tile or balcony tile has a more rough surface than the inside tile. This produces a traction-enhancing surface for you, your dogs, and your patio furniture. In addition, outdoor tile is far more durable than inside tile. They are resistant to harm from direct sunshine and harsh weather conditions.

References :

• https://newwaveflooring.com.au
• http://artsaics.com

Relevant Resources:

• 11 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Summer Weather
• How to Declutter and Organize Your Garage