What is the Best Flooring for an Outdoor Patio? Exploring Options
An outdoor patio is a vital part of a design project, acting as an extension the indoor living space while showcasing both creativity and practicality. So, naturally, choosing the best outdoor patio flooring involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and functionality.
Options range from natural materials like slate and travertine to modern options like terrazzo and cement, each offering a unique set of pros and cons. This article delves into the many exterior tiles available for patio and rooftop deck flooring, exploring the characteristics, benefits, and considerations of those materials to inspire exceptional spaces.
Discover our curated patio tile collection and reimagine what’s possible for your outdoor space.
What Is the Best Flooring for an Outdoor Patio?
Choosing the “best” patio floor starts with assessing how the surface will age over time. Freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, salt or coastal spray, standing water, and heavy foot traffic all shorten the useful life of a material unless it’s designed for those stresses. In addition, materials that look flawless on day one can fade, spall, or craze within a few seasons if they’re the wrong choice for the climate or installation method.
For that reason, the best type of outdoor tile balances long-term performance with the aesthetic and programmatic goals of the space rather than being a single material picked in isolation.
Defining “Best” Through Design, Durability & Function
“Best” is a three-part promise. The patio flooring must look exceptional, stand up to the local environment, and support how you or your client will use the patio.
From a design perspective, a luxurious patio floor has material integrity (like real stone or high-performance porcelain), refined details (like tight joints or large-format layouts), and thoughtful transitions to interior floors.
From a durability perspective, the best choices resist water absorption, UV fading, freeze-thaw damage, and everyday abrasion — qualities found in well-specified porcelain pavers, dense natural stone, and properly installed cement pavers.
From a functional perspective, consider slip resistance for wet areas, heat gain underfoot for sun-baked patios, and maintenance needs for busy households. Some high-end solutions like porcelain pavers or sealed stone marry low maintenance with a premium look.
Why Material Choice Matters in Outdoor Environments
Materials respond differently to climate. In cold and wet regions, porous materials that absorb water can crack from freeze-thaw cycles or spall if not sufficiently dense and frost-rated. In hot and sunny climates, on the other hand, UV stability and thermal mass matter. (Dark, dense stone can become uncomfortably hot to walk on and may fade over time.) Coastal sites add salt corrosion and windblown grit to the equation, pushing designers toward non-corroding, low-porosity finishes.
Beyond climate, site conditions such as slope, drainage, exposure to sprinkler systems, and usage dictate whether you prioritize slip resistance, stain resistance, or load capacity. Thoughtful material selection keeps a patio beautiful longer and reduces lifecycle costs.
The Role of Aesthetic Vision in Patio Flooring
A patio’s floor sets the stage for your outdoor life, so aesthetic goals are going to drive your (and your client’s) material and pattern choices. Truly high-quality flooring has a sensory quality. Think: cool, honed stone underfoot for an elegant terrace; porcelain mosaic tile that lends a seamless indoor-outdoor flow; or warm, low-maintenance slate for a cozy, furniture-forward lounge.
Style decisions also correlate with spatial goals. Small patios benefit from large-format tiles laid with minimal joints to visually expand the space. Meanwhile, rustic country settings often gain character from natural stone or brick pavers.
It’s all about the details, too. Precision installation, recessed planters, integrated lighting, and thoughtful material pairings can reinforce the space’s architectural intent.
Explore artisan-crafted outdoor patio tiles designed to bring your vision to life with beauty, resilience, and heritage.
Choosing the Best Flooring Materials for an Outdoor Patio
As architecture, interior design, and landscape experts well know, choosing the right tile floors for an outdoor patio involves weighing the intended use, aesthetic goals, and environmental factors. Each material offers unique benefits, making it important to match the flooring to the specific needs of the project. Here are some of the best outdoor flooring options to consider as you find the perfect solution for your client.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo offers a sleek, modern look with its polished finish and intricate patterns. Composed of chips of marble, quartz, or granite embedded in cement, this material is highly durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. (It’s also relatively low maintenance.) Terrazzo is an ideal option for those seeking a unique look that combines artistry with resilience.
Case in point: Dolce Vita Terrazzo. This collection marries museum-quality craftsmanship with elevated design, allowing it to excel in both exterior applications and demanding interiors. It’s even freeze-thaw rated for clients in more varied climates.
Cement
Cement flooring lends a minimalist and industrial aesthetic that’s both versatile and durable. It’s a good choice for outdoor areas where a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor flooring is top priority. With all the brightly colored and intricately patterned options available, it offers endless design possibilities, too.
The cement offerings of OUTERclé show exactly what makes cement one of the most versatile flooring options. With Colore Frattura, you get a sensual, silken patchwork quilt of moods and hues that's patinated and weathered from the start. Meanwhile, Pavimenti: Lanterni and Pavimenti: Savoy explore cement’s more romantic and unexpected sides.
Brick
Brick brings timeless charm and a natural look to outdoor patios. Known for its strength, durability, and slip-resistant properties, it’s a good option that works well in traditional and rustic designs. While regular maintenance such as sealing is required, brick is a popular choice for creating an inviting and classic space.
If your client is drawn to tried-and-true brick pavers, BrickWorks is as classic as it gets, combining timeless gravitas with an easy, organic vibe. Burnished red, soft tan, woodsy brown, or charred black — the hue is entirely up to you.
Terracotta
Terracotta patio floor tiles add a warm and Mediterranean feel to an outdoor space. Made from natural clay, they offer a rustic look that’s perfect for projects evoking a relaxed, earthy aesthetic. Friendly reminder: It’s important to use sealed terracotta for outdoor areas to protect it from moisture and temperature changes.
Looking for a pure and natural take on terracotta? FezBrick leaves Moroccan clay bare of any glaze for a look that’s evocative, timeworn, and effortlessly sophisticated. It’s a high-end option, to be sure, but certainly worth the upfront cost.
Ceramic
Ceramic outdoor tiles are a versatile option for outdoor use (especially for patios that border a pool area). These tiles are available in a plethora of different sizes, colors, and finishes, making them the ultimate outdoor flooring for many designers and homeowners.
Porcelain tiles, a subtype of ceramic tiles, are particularly well-suited for outdoor flooring due to their low porosity and durability. Fired at higher temperatures during production, these tiles are highly resistant to moisture and temperature changes. As a general rule, they are a better option for outdoor use compared to standard ceramic tiles.
For a few outdoor porcelain tile ideas, explore Colorwerks and Lido, OUTERclé’s two collections of porcelain tile. With Colorwerks, you get a whole smattering of industrial, factory-made standards created from the highest-quality porcelain — in your (and your client’s) pick of color and hue. Opt for Lido, and you’ll get to choose from over 1000 shapes, textures, forms, and vibrant colors to channel any mood.
Natural Stone
There’s nothing quite like classic stone patio tiles. Natural stone is synonymous with luxury and durability, available in options like slate, travertine, and marble. This material offers an organic feel and, conveniently, can also withstand high traffic areas.
While natural materials like stone require proper sealing and regular maintenance, they offer unmatched beauty and a connection to the environment, making them a durable option for outdoor flooring (including front porch tile flooring and stone patio steps).
For designers dipping into the world of stone, Pemberley Pavers offers a multitude of classic options in travertine — tumbled for a timeworn look. Drawn to the inimitable veining of marble? Lapidary could be your perfect match. Then there’s Grangestone, OUTERclé’s foray into primal and sophisticated slate.
Outdoor Patio Flooring Ideas
Incorporating creative backyard patio tile ideas into your design can transform an outdoor area into a stunning extension of the indoor environment. Here are some examples of doing exactly that.
A Modern Outdoor Oasis
For contemporary designs, consider porcelain tile with a glazed finish or terrazzo for a seamless and sophisticated look — each one an excellent outdoor flooring option. Neutral tones and clean lines will help create a minimalist ambiance, perfect for a modern outdoor space. Pair these materials with modern furniture, lighting, and a sleek outdoor bar top to complete the aesthetic.
A Nature-Inspired Retreat
Bring the outdoors in with natural materials like slate or travertine patio pavers. These options will blend seamlessly with the backyard or landscape, providing a harmonious and organic feel. Using materials with earthy tones and textures enhances the connection to nature while maintaining durability (a must for an outdoor floor, to be sure).
Mosaic Tiles for Impact
Add artistic flair to an outdoor patio with smaller mosaic tiles (that is, tiles that are less than 2 square inches in size). These can be installed in a monochromatic palette or in an intricate design, creating a unique look and focal point. Mosaic patterns can highlight seating areas, pathways, or walls, offering a visually stunning and personalized touch to outdoor get-togethers.
Tips for Choosing Outdoor Patio Flooring
When selecting the best outdoor flooring option, designers and architects must consider several factors to ensure the material aligns with the project’s goals and environment. Whether you’re designing a large area or creating a small and comfortable gathering area, here are some things to keep in mind.
Consider Weather & Wear
Outdoor areas are exposed to extreme temperatures, UV radiation, and lots of water. Materials like porcelain tile and natural stone are excellent choices for their durability and resistance to temperature changes. Understanding the local climate helps narrow down the options so you end up with a stunning and sturdy floor.
Complement the Existing Aesthetic
Outdoor patio flooring should align with the overall design of the home. For a seamless transition, choose flooring materials that complement indoor tiles and other architectural elements. This creates harmony between the interior space and the exterior one.
Don’t Overlook Safety & Slip Resistance
Safety is paramount in outdoor areas, especially in high-traffic areas, on tiled stairs, and in spaces near water. Slip-resistant tiles and raw finishes are essential for minimizing accidents while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Natural stone and brick are some of the most popular tile options in this regard.
Compare Maintenance Requirements
Different materials have varying maintenance needs. Natural materials like stone and terracotta require regular sealing, while porcelain tiles and cement are low maintenance. Considering the upkeep required can help determine the best option for the space (and who will be using it).
Conclusion
Choosing the best flooring for an outdoor patio involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Whether it’s the timeless charm of brick, the modern appeal of terrazzo, or the versatile durability of porcelain tile, the options are as diverse as the designs they inspire. With thoughtful selection and expert installation, outdoor patios can become stunning, enduring extensions of any project.
Begin your design journey with tiles that elevate patios into timeless outdoor sanctuaries.
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Calacatta Viola
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lapidary
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Blanco
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Dolce Vita Terrazzo
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Torrone IV
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Shale
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Pemberley Pavers