More often than not outdoor areas are paved in bricks, concrete and slate but these all have a distinctly 'rustic' look. Homeowners are often looking for an outdoor surface that is more sophisticated. Ceramic tiles can fulfill this purpose even though they are not often seen outdoors, and designers prefer to limit their use to kitchens or bathrooms. This is partly due to their size, but also to their durability, which can be compromised by outdoor weather. But if the tiles are real porcelain, the very short answer is “Yes”. Nonetheless there are other factors the customer should be aware of.
Frost
Frost is the most common cause of ceramic tile damage outside. Water is absorbed into the tile. In winter it can freeze, expand and crack the tile. Normal ceramic tile with less than 3 percent absorption is more resistant to cold conditions, but tile rated with less than 0.5 percent absorption is most often used to resist frost. This is the rating for real porcelain.
Frost
Frost is the most common cause of ceramic tile damage outside. Water is absorbed into the tile. In winter it can freeze, expand and crack the tile. Normal ceramic tile with less than 3 percent absorption is more resistant to cold conditions, but tile rated with less than 0.5 percent absorption is most often used to resist frost. This is the rating for real porcelain.
Heat
Ceramic tiles are much more resistant to heat than cold. The temperatures that the clay was fired at are far above any natural climate conditions, so they will handle even the hottest desert conditions. The tile will breathe slightly in the heat, so tiles set in the wrong mortar or too close together may warp or crack.
Tiles Under Foot
If ceramic tiles are installed outdoors as patios or walkways, they should be unglazed. Glazed ceramic tile is slippery and especially dangerous when wet. In addition it can easily be chipped and scratched in outdoor conditions. Unglazed full-body tile is more slip resistant and is the same color and texture throughout the tile so it will not show any chipping that does occur. An even safer alternative is to use a textured tile or one designed with an anti-slip surface especially for areas like pool surrounds.
Sunrooms
For sun rooms and other areas that are between indoors and outdoors, ceramic tiles are strong enough. A firm subfloor and adequate grout and expansion joints are the most important factors. A solid cement foundation is the best option for a sunroom-style floor, since it will channel heat more easily.
All the best,
The Link International team, KREM tiles.
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