How to Choose the Best Outdoor Tile

Why Use Tiles For Outdoor Spaces?

Tiles are incredibly durable, easy to clean, and offer design flexibility for any outdoor area project. Whether considering outdoor floor tiles, porch tiles, or the best nonslip tile for your outdoor patio, you’ll find a material and style suited to your space and lifestyle. Even outdoor stick-on tiles are gaining popularity for quick, budget-friendly makeovers.

What are the Benefits of Outdoor Tile?

Installing tile outdoors isn’t just a design choice—it’s a wise investment in style and function. Here are the top reasons why the best outdoor patio tiles remain a go-to for patios, porches, terraces, and beyond:

1. Exceptional Durability

Outdoor tile materials like porcelain, slate, and granite are built to endure. They resist cracks, chips, and fading even under extreme conditions, making them ideal for high-traffic and weather-exposed areas.

2. Easy to Maintain

The best outdoor tiles for a patio require very little upkeep, unlike wood or concrete. The majority of choices are stain-resistant and easy to clean with simple sweeping or occasional mopping—no sealing or refinishing necessary.

3. Anti-Slip Properties

Many outdoor tiles feature textured, anti-slip surfaces that help prevent accidents on wet surfaces. This makes them safer for pool decks, best tile for outdoor steps, and patios. 

4. Aesthetic Flexibility

From best tiles for exterior walls to rustic stone-look finishes to sleek wood-inspired planks, outdoor tiles allow you to create any style from modern patios to classic porches.

5. Water & Weather Resistance

Outdoor tiles—especially quarry and porcelain—are known for their low water absorption. This makes them resistant to moisture damage, mold, and frost, and perfect for rain-prone or humid environments.

6. Temperature Tolerance

High-quality outdoor tile material won’t warp or crack, even in extreme temperatures—ideal for climates with heavy sun or snow.

7. Versatility

Use outdoor tiles for porch floors, terraces, steps, kitchens, and entryways. There’s a best tile for outdoor porch, best outdoor flooring tiles, or Home Depot outdoor tiles option for every application.

Where Can Outdoor Tiles Be Used?

Outdoor tiles can be used virtually in any outdoor space, including the following:

Outdoor patios: Choose the best patio tile, like porcelain or slate, for a long-lasting, stylish surface. 

Outdoor kitchens: To create a trendy outdoor kitchen, use more durable tiles for the floor.

Terraces and Balconies: Transform these areas with tiles for the terrace or outdoor stick-on tiles for quick updates to your outdoor space.

Entryways: Install outdoor entrance tiles that handle dirt, moisture, and heavy traffic.

Exterior Walls: Choose the best tiles for exterior walls for curb appeal and protection.

Steps and Stairs: Prioritize safety with the best tile for outdoor steps featuring slip-resistant textures.

Porches: Opt for the best tiles for the porch floor for comfort, charm, and weather resistance.

Swimming Pools: You can lay your pool floor and walls with glossy glass tiles or go for mosaic tiles around the edge to add a touch of character while protecting your pool finish.

What to Consider Before Choosing Tile

Don’t pick out outdoor tile solely based on its color or how well you think it will look in your backyard. Consider many other factors to ensure your tile lasts many years and stays looking fresh. 

1. Prioritize Grip and Slip Resistance

Look for textured surfaces and non-slip ratings, especially if tiling a patio, porch, or pool area. The best tile for an outdoor patio nonslip should be rated 4 or 5 for durability.

2. Look for Quality, Strong Tile Materials

So, what tiles are suitable for outdoor use? Porcelain is the best tile for an outdoor patio due to its strength and low water absorption. Slate, granite, and quarry tile are also top performers. Avoid ceramic tile for outdoor use—it’s too porous and can crack in extreme weather.

3. Determine Your Budget

Larger areas cost more to tile, but options like Home Depot outdoor tiles offer affordable selections without sacrificing quality.

4. Consider Natural Light

For darker outdoor spaces, choose lighter tiles to open up the area. In sunlit spaces, darker tiles can work well without making the area feel too bright.

5. Match Your Home’s Style

Select tiles in similar colors, patterns, or textures to coordinate your indoor and outdoor aesthetics and create a seamless transition between spaces.

Quick Comparison: Outdoor Tile Materials

Not all outdoor tiles are created equal. Here’s a quick guide to help you compare popular tile materials at a glance:

• Porcelain: Durable, low-maintenance, and water-resistant—ideal for patios, pools, and high-traffic areas.

• Ceramic: Budget-friendly and decorative, best for covered or lightly exposed areas due to its porous nature.

• Granite: Extremely tough and scratch-resistant—perfect for outdoor kitchens and heavy foot traffic.

• Travertine: Elegant with a rustic finish; stays cool underfoot and works beautifully around pools and in warm climates.

• Limestone: Natural, light-colored stone that reflects heat—great for sunny patios, but requires sealing to prevent scratches.

• Soapstone: Waterproof and heat-resistant; well-suited for pool edges, water features, and fire pit surrounds.

• Slate: Naturally slip-resistant and stylish, excellent for stairs, showers, and uneven ground.

• Quarry: Designed for outdoor use; highly durable with a classic look, though limited in color and style variety.

Oasis Tile: Your Partner For Outdoor Tile

Whether you need the best tile for an outdoor porch, durable tiles for a terrace, or easy-install outdoor stick-on tiles, Oasis Tile offers expert guidance and a curated collection to help you create an outdoor space that lasts for years to come.

Explore our selection of premium tiles