Are your newly installed outdoor tiles losing their colour and grace? Are you seeing a chipped corner of the tiles even though it’s just a few years old? Are you questioning your decisions? Well, I hate to tell you, but you might actually have made some mistakes, and that is why all these problems are occurring, even though your tiles are actually new. 

Modern outdoor floor tiles options are huge today, you can get multiple options, but you need to decide wisely so you can make a good investment to your home. So we are here to help you out, so that the next time you get outdoor floor tiles for your home, you do not repeat the same mistakes that you have been making unknowingly. 

1. Judging only by the looks

Yes, it is understandable that looks do matter, but it should not be prioritized more than functionality. A glossy finish, a gorgeous texture, or a beautiful pattern can steal your heart immediately, and it is natural to get attracted to appearance. You are not wrong for choosing that, but if you do not consider the factors like rain, dust, mud, food stains, and of course the rays of the Sun, then you are wrong. 

Falling for the look is okay, but not checking the strength, slip resistance, and durability is a big mistake. Outdoor floor tiles design should be the icing, but the performance should always be the cake.

2. Not Considering Slip Resistance

It is still not believable that not considering the slip-resistant factor is one of the most common mistakes that people make when they buy outdoor tiles for the home. I mean, why don’t people understand that safety of your family is the most important factor?  

Non-slip tiles are not just an idea that you might think about, but they are necessity for you to consider. You get it right? Whether it’s raining or your outdoor plants are getting a shower, the floor can get wet anytime, and this can cause your family members to slip and fracture their backs. But with the non-slip outdoor tiles, you can avoid such incidents from occurring.  

3. Size and thickness choice

There are many people out there who are going to tell you to go with the large format tiles, as they give a spacious look, but the thickness of the tiles is to consider by you. If your base is uneven and you are installing large-format tiles with a thin sheet, you are making a big mistake, because they can break easily. 

To be honest, the outdoor tiles’ thickness should be more than the indoor tiles, because outdoor tiles tend to experience more load.

4. Wrong pick of indoor tiles for outdoor 

Yes, nowadays, moder outdoor floor tiles are aesthetic, and charming and not like the ones we used to see in homes before. But in order to meet the aesthetic criteria, you should never compromise the utility, and should never choose an indoor tiles for outdoor purpose. 

Good looking or not, outdoor tiles and indoor tiles are very different from each other, and indoor tiles are usually not as sturdy as the outdoor tiles. Outdoor tiles are made to handle the harshness of the outside, and if you choose indoor tiles to handle such harshness, then you are gonna suffer, my friend. 

5. Neglecting weather and climate

When choosing outdoor tiles design, one factor that is the most important factors is definitely the weather and climate. You need to understand that the climate outside plays a crucial role in the longevity of your outdoor floors.

Just don’t choose a tiles because you like them, verify if your chosen tiles can actually withstand the weather around you. Coastal humidity, freezing winters, and direct sunlight can all affect tiles differently. Consider features like UV-resistant, low water-absorptive, and other weather factors when choosing your outdoor tiles. 

6. Skipping grout and adhesive

Many people in India make the mistake of not considering good grouting and adhesive usage for their outdoor tiles, but in reality, your outdoor tiles need such care more than the indoor tiles. Harsh weather conditions can cause them to wear off easily, the tiles can get loosen, but with good grouting and adhesion the tiles stay better for longer.

7. Maintenance Requirements Missing

Like the weather condition factor, maintenance is another factor that can decide whether your tiles will last or not. If your outdoor tiles need regular cleaning and you don’t have time for that, it can be a mistake. Aesthetic tiles that trap dust easily can be a big disadvantage for you. So you should go with low maintenance, and easy to clean tiles, because they will stay in good condition for a long time. 

8. Inadequate Drainage Planning

No matter how good your tiles are, and how carefully you have chosen them, but your tiles can get damaged because the drainage planning that you have is inefficient. Before you install the tiles, ensure that there is a gentle slope and proper drainage planning was done. The good outdoor tiles design will stay good only when you maintain proper drainage planning. 

9. Wrong colour selection 

Colours behave differently outdoors. Very dark tiles may absorb heat and feel hot under bare feet. Extremely light tiles show stains easily. Go with colour tones such as earthy tones, natural stone shades, and even greys because they can blend really well with the outdoor space. 

Modern outdoor tiles come with different colours and technology that helps the colours to stay the same for years without fading. Find the tone that matches the surroundings and also lasts well for years. 

10. Choosing price over quality

Okay, I know, you have a budget for your tiles, but that does not mean that you can compromise on the quality. Many people make the mistake of choosing an outdoor floor tiles design that is cheap in price, but what they forget is that a low price means cheap quality as well. So of course stay in your budget, but also maintain the quality, or else you are going to regret the decision later, when the tiles will get damaged soon. 

FAQs

1. Which tiles are best for outdoor areas?

Vitrified tiles are the most recommended choice for the modern outdoor floor tiles. The low water absorption and strong and sturdy structure of the tiles make them the best outdoor tiles. 

2. Can indoor tiles be used outside?

Absolutely not, indoor tiles are not designed to handle harsh conditions of the outside, and therefore, they will get damaged soon if used outside. 

3. Are matte tiles better outdoors?

Yes, matte tiles are generally slip-resistant, and have better grip, as a result, they are quite a good choice for outdoors. 

4. How do I maintain outdoor tiles?

Regular sweeping and cleaning with mild detergent is usually enough. Pressure washing occasionally also helps.

5. Do outdoor tiles need sealing?

Most porcelain tiles do not need sealing, but natural stone may require it. Always check manufacturer instructions.

Final Thoughts 

Outdoor tiles should make your space beautiful, comfortable and safe. If you keep these points in mind, avoid the common mistakes and pay attention to quality, your outdoor area will stay strong and stylish for many years.

Learn More: How to Plan Tile Layout