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Outdoor tiles: creating the perfect patio
Guides·February 2025

Outdoor tiles: creating the perfect patio

Extend your living space outdoors with durable, anti-slip porcelain paving. Our guide covers materials, laying patterns, and maintenance tips.

Outdoor porcelain paving has transformed the way people think about patios, terraces, and garden paths. It offers the beauty of natural stone with far less maintenance — no sealing, no moss growth, and virtually no staining.

The most important specification for outdoor tiles is the anti-slip rating. Look for tiles rated R11 or above for outdoor use. Our outdoor ranges are specifically tested for wet conditions and freeze-thaw resistance, so they are built to handle British weather year-round.

Thickness matters outdoors. Most outdoor porcelain paving is 20mm thick (compared to 9-10mm for indoor tiles), giving it the structural strength to be laid on pedestal systems, sand and cement, or even directly onto compacted gravel.

Laying patterns make a big difference to the finished look. A simple stack bond (grid pattern) suits contemporary gardens. A staggered bond adds movement. For a more traditional look, consider a multi-format pattern that mixes two or three tile sizes.

One of the best things about outdoor porcelain is how easily it coordinates with indoor tiles. Many of our ranges offer matching indoor and outdoor versions in the same colour and finish, creating a seamless flow from kitchen to patio.

Maintenance is minimal. A sweep and an occasional wash with soapy water is all that is needed to keep outdoor porcelain looking its best. Unlike natural stone, it will not need re-sealing or specialist treatment.

Ready to start your project?

Visit one of our showrooms to see tiles in person, or order free samples delivered to your door.