Whether it is extreme heat, rain, snow, heavy use, or all of these, outdoor tiles need to be able to withstand them while providing us with a space that is both attractive and functional. So you need to be bit careful while choosing the appropriate exterior tiles which have the inherent quality of being durable, strong, charming and wonderful by looks.
Just in order to choose the most appropriate exterior tile you need to first understand your exterior space well. Size of the space, purpose of the exterior space, will there be regular traffic, less traffic or heavy traffic, is it fully or partially exposed to weather elements etc. The style of your home, space, or garden can have a big impact on your tile choice according to your design requirements. You need go by your space styling, your space utilization styling (garden area, open terrace with seating, outer courtyard, partially car parking area etc.), and durability of the tile according to the purpose and then last but not the least the color and pattern according
to the surroundings.
Choose the color and pattern of the tile according to the sun exposure to the particular area as; any respective area having partial sunlight exposure may ruin up with your dark color exterior tile designs. You need to put in light colors of exterior tiles where light is dim and dull. You may go for dark colors or contrast theme when the area is exposed to ample amount of light. Matching or contrasting with your house color both are good ideas to go with, but it should be according to the amount of light received by the respective exterior area. A simple rule to follow is: Choose lighter colored tiles for areas with low light, and darker tiles with areas with a lot of light.
You must be thinking why to go for exterior tiles so here are three major advantages that outdoor tiles offer to every kind of exteriors: durability beyond that of indoor tiles, a non-slip surface suitable for all climates and a water absorption rate that can handle freezing and thawing without cracking. It gives a complete and aesthetic appeal to the exterior part of your home, office, hotel, restaurant, etc.
Above all, its rough texture holds up dirt and dust to get inside your interiors.Exterior tiles come in variety of material and types.
You may opt from the following types according to your exterior types, design requirement and budget:
Ceramic Tiles: They are made from clay and are one of the most diverse tiles, as they come in many colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes. They are the most commonly used tiles for indoors and outdoors.
Porcelain Tiles: These tiles are more suited for outdoor use than ceramic tiles. They do not mildew or stain, but they also have such low water absorption rate, that they are nearly waterproof.
Quarry Tiles: These unglazed clay tiles are very tough and function extremely well as outdoor tiles for patio use. Extremely durable and strong. But they come in less variety of color and patterns.
Sandstone Tiles: These tiles are most often seen in white, tan, red, gray, and brown. They are always been popular with outdoor patio styling because of its color, texture and patterns. They are quite strong enough to match you exterior tiles requirements.
Granite tiles: They are naturally waterproof. It is one of the strongest and most durable in stone tiles. They come in endless variety of color and textures.
