Australians love spending time outdoors, and as spring approaches now is the time to consider renovating your outdoor living space. Tiles and natural stone are ideal materials for outdoor use – they are durable, heat-resistant and enhance both the utility and aesthetic style of your backyard. My Tile Market offers the best selection of quality tiles, pavers and natural stone in Sydney at the lowest prices, so you are sure to find the right tiles for your outdoor area right here.
Not sure what type of outdoor tiles will suit your home? Here are 4 things to consider when choosing outdoor tiles:
Climate
The first thing that you need to take into consideration when choosing outdoor tiles is the climate. Within Australia weather conditions can vary significantly, so your chosen tiles need to be able to endure heat, moisture and cold. Particular types of tiles are better suited to withstand changing weather conditions, while others can crack under extreme temperature changes. You should look for tiles with high durability and a low water absorption rate, such as porcelain, ceramic, travertine and marble. Tiles with low porosity are also less likely to develop issues with algae, lichen, rot or staining. Natural stone is a logical choice for outdoor areas, as it harmonises with the natural landscape and is easily able to withstand the elements.
You also need to consider where the tiles will be used in your backyard. For example, will the tiles be undercover or in the open? Will they be exposed to direct sunlight or in shade? Are they to be used as a floor covering, on a feature wall or as pool surrounds? All these questions will help you decide which type of outdoor tile is most suited to your needs.
Looking for inspiration? Our Inspiration features a range of residential and commercial tiling projects.
Safety
The next thing to consider when choosing your outdoor tiles is safety. Because outdoor tiles are exposed to wet conditions, especially those used in the pool area, there is an increased risk of slips, falls and injury. Choosing tiles which are unglazed, unpolished and with a more abrasive texture can help to minimise this risk, although no tiles are completely slip-resistant. My Tile Market provides a Slip Rating classification for all our products in line with Australian industry standards, which is based on a slip test report produced from tests administered under laboratory conditions.
It is important to note that the environment in which tiles are laid affect their slip rating, as do factors such as grouting, wear and tear, build up of residue, and wet weather conditions. If you would like more information on slip resistance, our expert tiling staff are always on hand to discuss your requirements and help you source the right tiles for the job.
Style
One element which can be overlooked when selecting tiles is how your outdoor space will complement the existing style of your home. There is no point designing an outdoor area which completely clashes with the interior. One of the most popular interior design styles at the moment is to continue the same type of tile from indoors outside, creating flow and the idea that your living space extends into your outdoor area. This sense of open-plan living can add value and a cohesive sense of style to your home.
Neutral coloured tiles suit most existing colour schemes, while using mosaic or patterned tiles can give your backyard a sense of individuality and contrast. When selecting colours, we advise taking lighting into account – darker tiles work well with brightly lit backyards, while lighter coloured tiles can be used to lift an outdoor area with dim or inconsistent lighting.
Already know your ideal style? Our full range of outdoor tiles, pavers and natural stone can be found here. You can also Request a Quote on your order and receive a reply within 48 hours.
Durability
Another crucial thing to consider when choosing outdoor tiles is durability. Ideally they should be low-maintenance, resistant to stains and weather changes, and easy to clean. Because of their low porosity, porcelain tiles are very durable and can be maintained easily with regular sweeping and household cleaners. Natural stone is also durable but more porous. My Tile Market recommends that all natural stone tiles should be sealed with a penetrating sealer which soaks into the surface. Sealing your outdoor tiles will not make them completely stain-resistant, but will provide protection from common issues such as efflorescence, as well as making them easier to clean.
My Tile Market prides itself on stocking a wide range of tiles and natural stone to suit your tiling or renovation project, whatever the size.
Contact Us on our website, or visit us in store today!
