Outdoor Patio Tiles - Stylish Tile Designs for Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor patio tiles are an attractive and durable flooring option that can transform any outdoor space. With so many tile materials, styles, colors, and patterns to choose from, finding the perfect patio tiles to suit your design aesthetic and budget can be exciting and rewarding. This article explores the beauty, versatility and practicality of using stylish patio tile designs to create a stunning outdoor living area. Discover inspiration and tips for selecting, installing and caring for patio tiles that will last for many years to come.

Why Choose Tile for Outdoor Patios

Outdoor patios are an extension of the home and a space to relax, dine, entertain or just enjoy the fresh air. Selecting the right type of flooring is key to creating an outdoor oasis with these attributes:

Durability: Outdoor patio tiles stand up very well to the elements such as rain, sun, snow and temperature fluctuations that can damage or deteriorate other types of decking or pavement. Quality tiles are resistant to chips, cracks and stains.
Easy Maintenance: Tiles do not warp or splinter and never need sanding or refinishing. Occasional sweeping/mopping and re-sealing of the grout lines keeps patio tiles looking like new.
Long-lasting: Natural stone, porcelain, ceramic, concrete and even glass tiles last for decades outdoors when properly installed. Choose tiles with at least a PEI rating of 3 for flooring.
Design versatility: Mix and match shapes, textures, patterns and colors of tiles for customized patios that reflect personal style. Inset decorative tiles as accents.
Enhances curb appeal and home value: Attractive, well-laid patio tiles at the home entryway or off the patio provide visual interest and boost resale value.

For the long-term durability, easy upkeep, style and lasting value they provide, patio tiles are one of the best investments for outdoor floors.

Popular Styles of Outdoor Tile Flooring

One of the most exciting aspects of designing a new or remodeled patio area is choosing from the wide array of tile sizes, colors, patterns and textures now available. Here are some of the most popular patio tile styles:

Stone Tiles

Sourced from quarries worldwide, stone tiles remain the most elegant choice. Types of stone tiles include:

Slate: Available in shades of grey, blue, red, black, purple and green. The naturally uneven, cleft surface adds texture. Slate stands up well to weather and wear.
Bluestone: Indigenous to North America, these dark grey tiles with roughened texture add organic beauty. The non-slip natural surface is perfect for pool decks.
Travertine: Buff colored limestone with light and dark veining, filled or unfilled, for a rustic look. The natural pits and grooves add traction.
Granite: Speckled surface and colors like salt and pepper, gold and crimson suit both traditional and modern designs. Granite has a polished look.
Limestone: Fossil-laden tiles with light earthy shades of ivory, gold and grey create a timeless Mediterranean vibe.
Sandstone: Subtle blend of beige, brown and buff colors impart a linear look. The velvety soft surface requires sealing.

With proper sealing and maintenance, stone tiles stand up to outdoor use for decades, improving in character over time.

Porcelain Tiles

Fired at high temperatures for hardness and density, glazed porcelain tiles are stain, scratch and fade resistant. Porcelain tiles suit outdoor installations because they are:

Impervious to water: Frost-proof and ideal around pools and spas. Avoid slipping on wet porcelain tile floors with textured surfaces.
Ultra-durable: Stronger and less porous than natural stone and ceramic tiles so better able to withstand heavy use and abrasive cleaners.
Color fast: Porcelain tiles maintain their color well and are available in matt, glossy and textured finishes.
Low maintenance: Porcelain patio tiles simply need sweeping, damp mopping and periodic re-sealing of the grout joints.

From the appearance of natural stone, brick and wood without the maintenance concerns, porcelain tiles offer a versatile and easy-care choice for outdoor patios.

Ceramic Tiles

With their vast diversity of colors, shapes, prints and textures, glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles infuse patios with character and visual interest.

Terracotta: Distinctive rust orange color; textures range from smooth to hand-worked. Requires sealing.
Spanish style: Vivid colors and decorative patterns like Moroccan serve as tile inserts or entire patios.
Geometric: Funky shapes like hexagons, diamonds or triangles create modern patterns.
Traditional: Subway tiles, mosaics and classic designs. Use indoors and out.
Handpainted: Unique tiles with original artwork, customized designs and murals.
Textured: Coarse surfaces, such as Spanish quarry tiles, prevent slipping when wet.

For cost-conscious homeowners, ceramic patio tiles offer plenty of quality and design options.

Glass Tiles

Adding a touch of sophistication to the patio, glass tile is a novel decorative choice:

Shimmering appearance: Reflects light beautifully. The tiles come in clear, frosted and tinted colors. Metallic glass tiles really sparkle.
Mosaics: Tiny glass tiles assembled into intricate artistic patterns like spirals, waves, flowers and sea life.
Glows at night: When lit up, glass tile oases become magical. Some tiles are photo-luminescent.
Durable: Tough glass-ceramic tiles stand up to weather and daily use. Proper installation is key.
Stain resistant: The non-porous glass surface does not absorb stains. Easily cleaned with vinegar, water and mild detergent.

For a glamorous and luminous patio floor, glass tiles are an innovative option to create a stylish focal point.

Concrete Tiles

For the natural, raw yet refined look of concrete, these versatile outdoor tiles are available in an array of options:

Poured in place: Concrete poured and molded at the site into geometric shapes. Creative license with colors and aggregate designs.
Pre-cast pavers: Molded off-site into interesting brick, stone and geometric shapes.
Overlays: Concrete toppings adhered to existing flat concrete for a fresh new look.
Stamped textures: Patterned and textured molds impart natural stone, brick, wood or other appearances into poured concrete.
Stained concrete: Integral pigments produce colorful patios with modern appeal. Buy outdoor concrete stain resistant to sun and moisture.
Polished concrete: Grinding and polishing yields an ultra-smooth surface that dazzles. Not the best choice outdoors.

For industrial chic style on a budget, concrete tiles lend outdoor spaces a sleek, contemporary vibe.

Composite Tiles

Blending durability, aesthetics and easy care, composite tiles for outdoor use continue gaining popularity:

Ceramic-like appearance: Composite tiles realistically mimic stone, concrete, travertine and marble without the drawbacks like fragility.
Sturdy and stable: Made of hardy, dense pressed composite material or porcelain. Resists cracks, breaks and moisture damage.
Low maintenance: Mold, mildew and stain resistant. Easily cleaned using soap and water without special cleansers.
Relatively affordable: Composite tiles are generally lower in cost than natural stone.
** Easy installation:** Lightweight compared to stone allows DIY-friendly installation.

For an authentic look with robust physical performance, composite patio tiles offer a versatile solution.

With countless tile materials, textures, patterns, prints and colors to explore, designing a custom patio floor that expresses personal flair is an exciting endeavor. Consult a professional tile contractor early in the planning process to translate patio tile design inspirations into well-constructed, durable reality.

How to Select the Best Tile Material for Outdoor Patios

Once the patio tile style that best complements the landscape design and architecture is selected, choosing the right type of tile material is essential to create an outdoor floor that endures and functions well in local climatic conditions.

Here are key considerations when selecting patio tile materials:

Choose Appropriate Tile Type for Climate

In hot climates, light colored tiles deflect heat and are cooler underfoot. Avoid dark tiles that retain heat and get uncomfortably hot. Porcelain and composite tiles withstand sun exposure well.
In regions with cold winters, frost-resistant tiles like porcelain, composite and bluestone handle freeze-thaw cycles. Salt and chemical de-icers require impenetrable surfaces like porcelain.
Where heavy rain and humidity are factors, porous tiles require diligent sealing and maintenance. Impervious porcelain and composite tiles are better choices.
In coastal zones, salt air corrodes many building materials. Use durable porcelain or concrete tiles to prevent deterioration.

Evaluate the regional climate and select patio tiles with properties to withstand the respective elements.

Consider Tile Material Composition

Porcelain – Virtually non-porous, extremely durable in all conditions, resistant to stains, abrasion and moisture. Withstands temperature extremes. Easy maintenance.
Ceramic – Glazed tiles offer good freeze-thaw durability. Terracotta can crack in severe cold climates. Requires frequent sealing and cleaning.
Natural stone – Granite is very resilient to weather. Sandstone is porous and requires significant sealing. Travertine and limestone less durable.
Concrete – Durable, but prone to cracks. Stains easily. Must cure adequately before exposure to prevent surface damage.
Glass – Withstands weather well, but cracks easily if installed improperly. Use indoor rated glass outdoors.
Composite – Impervious to weather and very durable. Stain, mold and mildew resistant. Handles temperature swings.

Analyze tile composition to determine appropriate outdoor durability.

Evaluate Tile Density and Porosity

Dense tiles like porcelain and ceramic have low porosity and high strength. They resist cracking and deterioration from exposure to weather, pool chemicals and freeze-thaw cycles.
Porous, softer stones like travertine and sandstone absorb liquids easily and require sealing regularly to prevent staining and etching.
Impervious porcelain, ceramic and glass tiles have a water absorption rate of less than 0.5%. They handle weather extremes well.
Check manufacturer specs for the tile water absorption percentage. The lower, the better for outdoor use.

Denser patio tiles with minimal porosity have superior durability and stability outdoors.

Assess Slip Resistance Rating

Tiles used for outdoor pool areas, patios and paths should have surface traction to prevent slipping and injuries.

A dry coefficient of friction (COF) above 0.60 indicates good slip resistance. Wet COF should exceed 0.42.
The DCOF AcuTest measures exact dry and wet COF. Class III tiles with >0.42 wet COF are adequate outdoors.
Textured finishes, like honed or flamed stone, have better grip. Glazed and very smooth tiles are slippery, especially when wet.

Confirm slip resistance ratings before installing patio tiles in wet, high traffic zones.

Check Freeze-Thaw Resistance

In regions with sub-freezing winter temperatures, patio tiles must withstand repeated freeze-thaw cycles without cracking, spalling or delaminating.

ASTM C1026 test indicates freeze-thaw durability. Tiles tested to 300+ cycles will endure most weather extremes.
Impervious tiles like porcelain and ceramic are intrinsically frost-proof. Natural stone may require treatment to resist moisture saturation and damage.
Dye testing stone tiles identifies durability. The more dye absorbed, the more prone to frost damage.

Install patio tiles rated for adequate freeze-thaw cycles to prevent winter deterioration.

Match Tile Strength to Use

On patios designed for lounge furniture only, most tile materials work fine if laid on a stable base. High loads like parked vehicles, hot tubs or food prep counters require robust tile:

Heavy-duty porcelain and ceramic tiles endure concentrated high forces. Check manufacturer specs.
Certain durable natural stones like granite, quartzite and basalt resist breakage from heavy impacts.
The PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) abrasion score reflects tile strength and durability. Use PEI Class 4 and 5 tiles on patios.

Select patio tiles with sufficient strength and durability ratings for the intended use.

By evaluating tile properties and performance specifications, homeowners can determine the optimal materials for patio floors that remain beautiful and sound for many years.

Choosing Tile Colors, Textures and Patterns

Beyond the practical performance considerations, selecting patio tiles that enhance the outdoor living space both visually and physically is an opportunity to express personal design sensibilities. Follow basic principles to create an appealing aesthetic:

Color Palette

Neutral tiles in shades of grey, brown and beige blend well with diverse landscape environments and allow flexibility in décor choices over time.
Monochromatic tile colors—variations of a single hue—provide a soothing and seamless look.
Contrasting dark and light tiles in geometric layouts add lively graphic interest.
Complement the exterior colors of the home. For example, cream tiles pair nicely with tan stucco.
Vibrant tile colors introduce excitement to the patio. Reserve bold colors for accents.

Choose a thoughtful tile color scheme that fits the style of the house and surroundings.

Texture and Pattern

Relatively smooth tiles like polished porcelain and honed limestone are comfortable underfoot for leisurely patios.
Rustic, uneven tiles with slightly abrasive finishes like travertine plank pavers and quarry tiles ensure safe footing on active pool decks.
Grid, stack bond and herringbone patterns impart movement. Offset layout adds interest.
Large format tiles 12”x24” or bigger make small patios appear more expansive.
Contrasting textures prevent monotony. Combine stone slate and ceramic brick tiles for example.

Thoughtfully integrate tiles of varying textures and patterns to enhance patio ambience.

Style Cohesion

Mediterranean patios pair well with terracotta tiles, Talavera patterns, and travertine or limestone.
Modern minimalist patios require sleek porcelain or concrete tiles with clean lines. Avoid ornate tiles.
Rustic suburban patios are complemented by slate or bluestone with uneven stone edges and earthy tones.
Glass tiles with gold mosaic inlays elevate elegant, formal patios.

Select patio tiles that align with the prevailing architectural style for cohesive design.

By tailoring tile colors, textures and layout to the home’s design, the surrounding landscape and intended patio use, homeowners can curate stylish outdoor floors that withstand the elements.

How to Install Outdoor Tile Floors

Installing tile outdoors shares many techniques with interior tile installation but involves additional critical steps to create professional looking floors able to withstand the elements long-term.

Follow this general process to properly install durable, level outdoor tile floors:

Plan Tile Layout

Ahead of purchasing tiles, map out the tile configuration and pattern. Avoid awkward tile cuts.

Prepare the Substrate

Excavate 2-4 inches depth. Compact soil thoroughly. Level and slope slightly for drainage.
Install concrete, rebar reinforced slab or gravel base according to local building codes.
Ensure substrate is plumb and smooth.

Thorough substrate preparation prevents shifting, settling and cracks in the finished patio.

Select Appropriate Thinset Mortar

For natural stone, concrete or glass tiles use latex or polymer fortified mortar. Unmodified mortar can stain.
Use white mortar for light colored stone like limestone to avoid shadowing.
Mortar suitable for exterior use provides better adhesion and allows slight movement.

Match tile material with appropriate adhesive mortar and carefully follow mixing instructions.

Set the Tiles

Apply thinset mortar using notched trowel in small sections to prevent drying.
Set tiles in substrate mortar, maintaining uniform gaps. Use spacers for consistency. Check levels frequently.
Back-butter tiles exceeding 8”x8” to fully coat the bottom. Press down firmly.

Proper thinset coverage and tile installation technique ensure durable bonding.

Cut Border Tiles

Measure and cut border tiles to fit using a wet saw or tile cutter for clean edges. Grind cut edges smooth.
Fill out pattern symmetrically on opposite sides of patio.

Precisely cut and install perimeter tiles for seamless finish.

Grout the Tile Joints

Let tile set 24 hours before grouting with an outdoor epoxy or cementitious grout.
Push grout firmly into joints with rubber grout float. Avoid sealing cracks with excess grout.
Clean grout residue once partially dried using sponge and water. Rinse often.

Grout tiles zones less than 1/8” gap for stability and weather resistance.

Seal and Finish

Upon grout curing fully (72 hours), seal porous tiles with an exterior grade water-based sealant.
Caulk edges along the house, posts, stone walls using exterior grade, flexible caulk.

Sealing and caulking complete the patio and prevent moisture intrusion.

With proper planning, substrate preparation, tile setting, grouting and sealing, even DIYers can install outdoor tile floors that remain beautiful and blemish-free for decades. Engage a professional tile installer for best, long-lasting results.

Caring for Outdoor Tile Floors

Installed correctly using quality materials, outdoor tile floors are easy

Outdoor Patio Tiles – Stylish Tile Designs for Outdoor Spaces