Exterior tiles: gardens, balconies, terraces, facing tiles

Tiles for balconies and terraces: an excellent choice

TERRIER Delphine
Posted on: 02/06/2023

Anti-slip properties of outdoor balcony and patio tiles

Outdoor installation, for example on a terrace or balcony, requires certain conditions to be met. Several factors related to the resistance of porcelain stoneware tiles for terraces or balconies to different stresses must be taken into consideration.

Check the R... slip resistance standard

First of all, it is necessary to choose a product with the right level of slip resistance, which is determined by the European standards DIN 51130 (for areas where people walk with shoes) and DIN 51097 (for areas where people walk barefoot). In general, we recommend that you choose a balcony or terrace tile that has a minimum rating of R11 according to DIN 51130 (with shoes). This value corresponds to PC20 according to the French standard.

Check the U-value for wear resistance...

Another important element in the choice of patio and balcony tiles is the resistance to wear due to foot traffic. This is defined by the letter U of the UPEC classification and refers to the frequency of traffic. This classification, established by the CSTB, recommends choosing a balcony tile that will resist for a long time without being damaged by wear and tear and therefore a U3 for a private balcony or a hotel room balcony, while a U4 classification is required for terraces in commercial or residential buildings. This value is also required for private terraces and balconies intended for collective use.

2 cm thick terrace and balcony tiles for outdoor use

The tiles from the outdoor range in our catalog are perfectly suited for outdoor installation on terraces and balconies, flat roofs and low-traffic roads.

The special feature of porcelain stoneware tiles is that they are 2 cm thick, which expands the range of possible installation types. This range of 2 cm porcelain stoneware tiles for terraces can be laid without glue directly on the gravel, on the grass or in a raised installation on studs to leave space for irrigation pipes or lighting cables. Of course, the traditional method of glue-down installation on screed is still possible.

The technical characteristics of the balcony and terrace tiles in this range make them resistant to frost and temperature changes (-50° to +60°). They also have a level of slip resistance suitable for outdoor installation. The aesthetics of these 2 cm tiles have been carefully studied by our Spanish and Italian tile manufacturers, who have chosen to reproduce the same effects as the interior tiles. This also ensures an aesthetic continuity between the interior and exterior. Whether wood, stone or cement effect, terrace and balcony tiles meet all aesthetic requirements and help define the style of your home.

Decoration: the aesthetic aspect of balcony and terrace tiles

Terrace and balcony tiles reproduce many materials, both natural, such as wood or stone, and more design aesthetic effects. The list of aesthetic effects is varied and each porcelain stoneware terrace tile contributes to creating unique spaces. It is also possible to coordinate terrace tiles between indoor and outdoor floors as our tile collections are often available for both indoor and outdoor use.  They have the same aesthetic effects as indoor tiles.

First of all, outdoor tiles perfectly reproduce the characteristics of wood, the grain and knots defining its specific identity. Warm and timeless, wood effect tiles combine beautifully with different furnishing styles, from ethnic to boho chic to more exotic trends. The comfort of wood will be perfect for your balcony or terrace and will transform it into a peaceful oasis.

For environments where elegance and uniqueness are required, stone effect tiles can be installed as a terrace covering. The reproduction of natural stone is of high quality and no detail has been overlooked. Indeed, stone effect tiles never go out of fashion and offer their unmatched charm combined with the deep character of this noble material. In this case, balcony tiles decorate the floor with character and become an exceptional wall covering.

Concrete-effect exterior tiles

Finally, if your tastes are closer to the industrial and modern loft style, the modernity of concrete effect tiles will not leave you indifferent. Cement-effect porcelain stoneware patio tiles create an idyllic setting where modernity finds its place in this calm and serene atmosphere.

Large format outdoor tiles

In the same style, you can also choose designer patio tiles. This option gives a refined and timeless touch to your terrace. Designer tiles are also available in large formats, ideal for large terraces, and in a wide range of subtle and discreet colors. 

Terracotta Tiles

Finally, terracotta effect tiles can be used as balcony tiles and, in this case, warm up the atmosphere by giving a Mediterranean touch that evokes the sun and the vacations.

Light colors for a zen-like exterior

The wide range of shades from light gray to anthracite to ivory of porcelain patio tiles enhances all outdoor spaces and balconies, regardless of the type of decor. Indeed, light or dark colors are different and can easily be combined with your style. Often, beige, ivory and taupe tiles communicate a sense of calm and serenity. Warm tones are an excellent choice for porcelain stoneware balcony or patio tiles because they perfectly match the characteristics of these outdoor spaces. On the other hand, dark colors, such as dark gray or brown, will add character to your tiled patio.

The choice of tiles according to the garden

For shaded areas, it is recommended to choose light colored outdoor patio tiles, such as light gray, because they give brightness. Finally, the many shades of gray tiles, from light to charcoal, are a great asset because of their color versatility.

What sizes of balcony and patio tiles are available?

There are different sizes of patio tiles to enhance any room, whether large or small, such as a balcony. You can choose from:

Medium-sized outdoor balcony tiles, such as 45×45 cm or 60×60 cm. These tile sizes are fairly standard and are a good choice because they fit any size of terrace.

Large format tiles (80×80 cm and 90×90 cm) are usually recommended for large terraces to increase the feeling of space and lightness.

Small format porcelain patio tiles include sizes such as 20×20 cm or 30×30 cm. These more traditional outdoor formats are much more classic and are well suited for renovations of old buildings, where small tiles were used.

Rectangular patio tiles such as 30×60 cm, 60×90 cm or 60×120 cm (to name a few) are also available. This choice of sizes allows you to create graphic and geometric effects on your terrace or balcony and brings a surprisingly modern touch.

Benefits of patio and balcony tiles

Porcelain stoneware patio tiles offer the many advantages of this durable material and are well suited for outdoor installations.

Tiles that retain their color over time

First of all, the appearance of balcony tiles does not change over time and retains its original finish. Indeed, the sun does not lighten their color because they resist UV rays without changing their appearance. It is also important to note the resistance of porcelain stoneware to frost and weather. Therefore, they can be installed outdoors without fear.

Tiles that are easy to maintain

Exterior balcony tiles are easy to clean, regardless of their aesthetic effect. Because of the minimal porosity of terrace tiles, stains will remain on the surface of the tiles and can be easily removed with a cloth and clean water. If, on the other hand, they become embedded and more stubborn, aggressive professional products or a high-pressure cleaner can be used.

Tile resistance to wear and tear

Finally, another significant advantage is the strong resistance of balcony tiles to wear. The appearance of porcelain stoneware terrace tiles will not change even if they are subjected to heavy traffic, as is the case with common outdoor terraces and walkways, even in shopping centers or public buildings.

Frequently asked questions about porcelain stoneware tiles for balconies and terraces

What maintenance is required for porcelain stoneware patio tiles?

Terrace tiles do not require any particular maintenance. Indeed, whatever the aesthetic effect chosen, wood stone or cement, porcelain stoneware balcony tiles have the necessary characteristics to be installed outside. There is no need to apply surface protection treatments to preserve their original appearance, and daily cleaning is easy for porcelain patio tiles thanks to their almost zero porosity. In fact, stains remain on the surface and can be easily removed with very hot, clean water (while still fresh), or with a pressure washer if they are particularly stubborn.

How do I install patio and balcony tiles?

Porcelain stoneware for balconies can be laid using the traditional method, i.e. glued to a screed. But it can also be laid using other techniques thanks to the 2 cm thick range of tiles, which are all suitable for outdoor installation. Outdoor Plus tiles for balconies and terraces can be laid without glue, directly on gravel or grass. A final option is the installation of tiles on studs, which is an ideal solution because it leaves space for the passage of pipes and cables for the lighting and irrigation system.

What color patio tile to choose?

In general, balcony or patio tiles play an essential role in the design of the outdoor space. The patio tiles and balcony ceramics in our catalog are available in a variety of colors to meet every need and create unique and personalized spaces. For example, a terrace with light colored tiles, such as wood effect in ivory or beige tone, will remind of nature and have a cozy nest look, while the modern shades of a concrete effect balcony tile in porcelain stoneware will create a relaxing and contemporary atmosphere. It all depends on the atmosphere you want to create on your terrace or balcony.