As Canada’s deck life experts, we are often asked about outdoor porcelain tiles. Every day, contractors, landscape architects and homeowners reach out to us with their questions about using porcelain tiles in their outdoor projects like decks, patios and even driveways. Here are the top 12 questions we receive about outdoor porcelain tiles:
Can Porcelain Stay Outside in Winter?
Porcelain tiles are virtually impenetrable, making them a perfect choice for exterior use in regions with temperatures that dip below freezing. Thanks to their water-repelling nature, these tiles won’t crack due to extreme cold – making them one of the most weatherproof materials available.
Is Porcelain Tile Strong?
Yes, porcelain tile is a strong and durable option for flooring and other surfaces. Boasting an exceptional load-bearing strength, it is highly resistant to scratching, chipping, and moisture absorption, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial spaces. Porcelain tile is even used in driveways.
Can I Use Porcelain Tile Outdoors?
Yes, porcelain tile can be used outdoors. Porcelain tiles are suitable for outdoor applications as they are highly durable and resistant to temperature changes and other elements. Porcelain’s impermeability means it does not absorb moisture, so it can resist winter’s freeze & thaw cycles. Additionally, when installed with a pedestal system, it allows for the water drainage of any moisture or rainfall that may accumulate on top of the tile.
Are Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Frost Proof?
Yes, porcelain tiles are known for their frost-resistant properties, making them a popular choice for outdoor applications.
Are Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Slippery in the Winter?
Outdoor porcelain tiles are exceptionally slip resistant, making them ideal for winter outdoor patios, around outdoor hot tubs or even walkways.
Does Porcelain Tile Lose Its Shine?
Porcelain tiles are made to be long-lasting and resilient, and the high-gloss finish that it comes with can last for a long time if maintained properly. Avoid using cleaning chemicals and simply power wash it instead to retain its freshly installed good looks.
Do Outdoor Porcelain Tiles Crack Easily?
Outdoor porcelain tiles are a popular choice for exterior paving because of their high durability and low maintenance requirements. Porcelain tiles are highly resistant to cracking and chipping, making them an ideal choice for outdoor use. While they can chip or break under extreme conditions, such as impacts from large objects, they are generally much more durable than other types of tile material and rarely crack in normal outdoor conditions.
How Do You Clean Outdoor Porcelain Tiles?
Porcelain tiles require minimal maintenance. Simply give them a good power washing at the beginning of the season to return them to their freshly installed good looks.
Do Porcelain Tiles Need a Concrete Base?
You can use a concrete base with outdoor porcelain tiles, but better solutions exist. Adjustable pedestals are an easier alternative, one that can save you time, labour and money.
Can You Scratch Porcelain Tile?
Porcelain tiles are made from fired clay and are generally more durable than ceramic tiles, so they should not easily be scratched.
How Long Do Porcelain Tiles Last?
Porcelain tiles can last for a very long time. Depending on the environment, quality of installation and other factors, porcelain tiles can easily last decades without showing any signs of wear or damage.
Can Water Damage Porcelain Tiles?
Porcelain is exceptionally water-resistant. They are ideal in places where they might get wet, like patios, pool decks and around a hot tub. However, you probably don’t want to immerse them in water for long. For more information about how you can use outdoor porcelain tiles in your projects, and their benefits over alternative materials, visit Stone Deck.ca – Canada’s hardscaping experts or contact us directly.