Ordinary concrete is fine for your average backyard patio but to create a rich inviting outdoor patio space installing tile is the best way to go.
Can you put ceramic tile outside.
Check with the supplier or manufacturer if you are unsure and double check that they are suitable for extremes of weather if that is relevant to where you live.
Now ceramic tiles are made up of clay and considering they are available in diverse options which it comes to sizes shapes patterns.
But if you do consider using them outside then they need to have a high pei rating.
Generally ceramic porcelain or stone tile can be installed over suitable substrates in exterior locations including mortar beds over concrete slabs and directly onto concrete slabs.
This redgard goes on pink and turns red when it s dry.
Laying tile begins with the layout.
When thinking about using porcelain tiles outdoors there are a number of important considerations to take into account.
These substrates must be structurally sound meet deflection requirements and meet on plane requirements.
Certain natural stone and ceramic tiles are not suitable for outside installations due to their porosity.
Suitable for outdoor use.
Generally speaking though ceramic tile is best suited for light use patios since it will not be as strong as other choices.
Ceramic tile over wood tile concrete or vinyl should be installed by using appropriate products that will allow the right adhesion between surfaces.
Selecting adhesive for laying tile outside similarly you ll need to buy a proper adhesive with which you can lay tile outside and have it hold tight.
The tile industry standard recommendation is no more than 5 porosity.
Always be sure the existing surface has been cleaned and leveled.
There is a huge selection of tile styles and colors for you to choose from and the greatest benefit of using tiles is that they can be laid directly on top of preexisting concrete.
For starters moisture and cracking are bigger concerns outside so you need to apply a waterproofing and crack isolating membrane to the slab before you begin.
To secure the tiles use a polymer modified dry set mortar that is rated for outdoor use and wet conditions.
For about 6 000 years builders have been using ceramic tile outdoors on buildings walkways even streets.
Traditional ceramic floor tiles can be an acceptable choice for outdoor patios provided they carry a pei rating indicating sufficient strength.
Under 3 is ideal.
Consult the following resource for help with this aspect of the patio project including how to mix the adhesive and how much of it you ll need.
Firstly and very importantly porcelain tiles have different grades and you will need to check that your chosen tiles are grade 5 i e.
In places like italy and mexico you can find exterior tile in good condition despite centuries of wear and tear.