What Tile Works Best for Outdoor Spaces?

What is DCOF? Quick Rundown of DCOF

DCOF (dynamic coefficient of friction) measures the slip resistance of a surface when wet on a scale of 0.1 to 1.0 with 1.0 being the highest. It's a scale that will help you choose the right tile for the job.

General Use Guidelines

Dry or Wet Level Interior	Exterior and Pool	Ramps and Inclines
≥ 0.42	≥ 0.60	≥ 0.65

Other Important Factors

It's important to remember no tile is "slip-proof", this info only helps mitigate potential risk.

Proper maintenance is critical. Improper maintenance and improper maintenance products can result in a build-up on the surface of the tile causing the tile to be slippery. Read our tile maintenance recommendations.

Porcelain Outdoor Tile

Porcelain is one of the best choices for outdoor use because it’s dense, water-resistant, and frost-proof. It handles extreme temperatures and moisture without cracking, making it ideal for patios, walkways, and pool areas.

Porcelain tiles come in a variety of textures, including slip-resistant (commonly called R11) finishes, to ensure safety in wet conditions. For tile that may get wet, it is generally recommended to have at least a rating of 0.42 or greater.

Natural Outdoor Tile

Stone tiles, such as slate, travertine, and granite, offer an elegant, natural look that blends well with outdoor environments. They provide excellent durability and traction, but they require sealing to protect against moisture and discoloration. Natural stone works best for patios, walkways, and garden paths, especially in designs that aim for a rustic or earthy feel.

Concrete Tile

Concrete tiles are durable and perfect for modern outdoor spaces. They are customizable in color, texture, and size, making them a versatile choice for patios, driveways, and outdoor steps. With proper sealing, they resist moisture and wear from heavy traffic.

Decorative Outdoor Tile

These tiles come in a wide range of styles, from rustic natural stone looks to sleek modern finishes, allowing you to create a visually stunning outdoor environment. Whether used as a feature wall on patios, along garden borders, or even around outdoor fireplaces, decorative wall tiles can elevate the look of any space while providing a cohesive design element that ties together your outdoor area. Their versatility means they can complement various architectural styles, making them suitable for both traditional and contemporary settings.

In addition to their aesthetic benefits, decorative outdoor wall tiles offer practical advantages. They are typically designed to withstand the elements, making them weather-resistant and ideal for year-round use. Many are made from durable materials like porcelain or natural stone, which can resist moisture, heat, and frost, ensuring they maintain their appearance and integrity over time. Some options are also UV-resistant, which helps preserve their color even in direct sunlight. Moreover, these tiles are relatively low-maintenance, requiring little more than occasional cleaning, which makes them a great long-term investment for enhancing the exterior of your home.

In summary, selecting the right tile for your outdoor spaces is essential for both aesthetics and durability. Porcelain, natural stone, concrete, and quarry tiles are all excellent choices depending on your style preferences and the area’s specific needs. Porcelain tiles stand out for their water-resistance and slip-resistant textures, making them perfect for patios and pool areas. Natural stone tiles provide a timeless, elegant look but require some maintenance. Concrete and quarry tiles offer modern and rustic designs with great durability and slip resistance, ideal for high-traffic areas.

More Tile Info