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You can forget about the hassles of concrete slabs and stone. Outdoor porcelain tile is the most versatile and durable outdoor flooring material.
According to historians, porcelain was created by the ancient Chinese more than 1000 years ago. Although porcelain is often associated with figurines and delicate kitchenware, the medieval Chinese recognized its more excellent potential long before that. The Nanjing porcelain tower, measuring 260 feet in height, was built with porcelain bricks in 1431. It remained standing for over four centuries.
Porcelain tiles have increased popularity and availability, particularly for outdoor uses.
What is Porcelain tile?
Porcelain tile belongs to the ceramic family. However, it is made to higher standards than other ceramic products. High-quality clay is refined and cured. It is fired at higher temperatures and for more extended periods than other ceramics. This results in a highly customizable and durable material used indoors or outdoors.
What are the Different Types Of Porcelain Tiles?
Unglazed Porcelain Tiles
They have no exterior finish, so each tile is unique. Unglazed porcelain tiles can be used outdoors without a protective coating. You can make unglazed tiles with any type of texture and be polished to give them a shiny appearance. There are two types of unglazed tiles:
- Through-body or full-bodied tiles, which are without additional color. Each tile is characterized by its veins and grain patterns.
- Two-layered tiles are made from two layers of clay that have been pressed together. They are durable and can be used in high-traffic areas. You can combine two layers of different colors to create unique patterns.
Glazed Porcelain Tiles
They are protected with a protective coating. Glazed Porcelain tiles can be patterned or solidly colored. Buyers can choose from a matte, semi-polished, or gloss finish. There are two types of glazed tiles:
- Printed tiles are printed using a unique glazing process that publishes a digital image on the tile. This allows porcelain tiles to be imitated in convincing ways wood, stone, or any other floor type.
- Color-bodied tiles that have been colored through their entire thickness and a glaze on the surface protect and enhance the aesthetic value.
The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) divides porcelain tiles into five grades. Grade one is the most fragile, and grade five is the longest-lasting.
Porcelain Tiles Are Good for Outdoor Use
Porcelain tiles can be used outdoors for many reasons.
- Porcelain tiles are water-resistant, with a minimum of 0.5 percent absorption. Porcelain tiles don't crack under freezing temperatures because they absorb very little water.
- Even when placed directly in the sun, porcelain tiles are resistant to UV fading.
- Porcelain tiles are stronger and more durable than ceramics in high-traffic areas because of their manufacturing process.
The pros and cons of porcelain tiles
Pros
- Ceramics tiles with high-traffic areas have superior durability to other ceramics.
- Outdoor applications are ideal for this product.
- They are versatile — they can be used indoors or outdoors and come in various textures, colors, and patterns.
- It is lighter and thinner than concrete and stone, which are outdoor materials.
- Low maintenance
- Fire, moisture, and stain resistant
Cons
- Higher priced than other ceramic products
- It is heavier than other ceramic products.
- Without specialized equipment, it is difficult to cut.
Cost and Buying Tips
Porcelain tiles typically cost between $3-10 per square foot. However, specialized or patterned tiles may cost up to $35 per square foot. Unglazed and glazed porcelain tiles are weather-resistant and durable in outdoor environments.
The most important thing to consider when purchasing porcelain tiles is their PEI rating. PEI grade 3 and higher should be used for flooring applications with moderate traffic. Marazzi and Interceramic are well-known suppliers of porcelain tiles.
Installation
Porcelain tile installation looks similar to other outdoor tiles. This is a time-consuming task that requires technical knowledge. Porcelain tiles can be challenging. This makes them very durable. However, you will need special equipment to cut them. If you aren't an experienced DIYer and are willing to invest in the tools, don't attempt to install porcelain tiles.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Porcelain tiles are easy to clean with water and mild detergent. To clean stricter dirt, you can use a vinegar-water solution or a dedicated tiles cleaner with a soft-bristle toothbrush. If possible, avoid using brushes on polished or glazed tiles. Use bleach, ammonia-based cleaners, and oil-based detergents.
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