Installing tile outdoors can upgrade patios, pool decks, walkways and more by adding aesthetic appeal, value, and durability. With proper planning and execution, you can create an attractive outdoor tiled area that will last for years to come. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to successfully install outdoor tile.
Choose the Right Tile for Outdoor Use
Choosing the proper tile is the first critical step for a long-lasting outdoor installation. Consider these factors when selecting tile:
Weather Resistance
Outdoor tiles must withstand exposure to sun, rain, snow and ice. Look for tiles rated for exterior use, such as:
- Porcelain – Dense, impervious porcelain resists water and freezing. It offers durability and many style options.
- Ceramic – Glazed ceramic with low water absorption works well outdoors. Unglazed tile can work too but requires sealing.
- Natural Stone – Durable granite, slate and travertine have weather resistance. Softer sandstone and limestone need sealing.
- Mosaics – Small stone or glass pieces create patterns. Use mesh-backed sheets for easy installation.
Slip Resistance
Tiles get slippery when wet. For pool decks, patios and paths, choose tiles with coefficient of friction (COF) ratings of 0.60 or above. Textured surfaces provide traction.
Appearance
Consider the tile style, color, pattern, size and thickness to complement your landscape. Larger tiles can expand outdoor spaces visually. Mosaics add interest.
Poolside Tile
Tiles used around in-ground pools must withstand long-term water submersion without damage. Porcelain and certain mosaics work well. Avoid natural stone.
Select the Right Installation Materials
Using the proper setting and grouting materials boosts the durability of outdoor tile:
Mortar Bed
A mortar bed underneath tiles evens out the surface and prevents cracks. Use modified mortar bed with latex or polymer additives to improve adhesion and flexibility.
Thin-set Mortar
For installing tile directly onto surfaces like concrete, use a exterior-grade thin-set mortar modified with latex or polymers. Allow extra mortar cure time in cold temperatures.
Grout
Use sanded grout for joints 1/8 inch or wider. Unsanded grout works for smaller joints. Choose a waterproof grout with silicone or polymers for outdoor use. Avoid plain cement grout outdoors.
Sealants
Seal porcelain, ceramic and natural stone with exterior tile sealers to prevent staining and improve longevity. Apply sealants after grouting. Re-apply annually.
Prepare the Installation Surface
Installing on a proper surface prevents outdoor tiles from cracking or becoming detached:
Concrete
New or old concrete makes a durable surface for tile. Ensure it has fully cured first. Level any surfaces sloped for drainage. Clean and roughen the surface so the mortar adheres.
Plywood
On balconies, rooftop decks and other raised areas, install outdoor-rated plywood over joists, leaving a 1/8 inch gap between sheets. Waterproof and seal plywood before tiling.
Packaged Mud Beds
These pre-mixed lightweight mortar beds provide slope for drainage and can be applied 1-2 inches thick in a single pour. Let mud beds fully cure before tiling.
Shower Pan Liners
Use hot-mopped or pre-formed shower pan liners over wooden decks and existing slabs when tiling pool surrounds. This helps waterproof the surface beneath.
Membranes
Sheet-style waterproofing/crack isolation membranes provide a protective layer over the sub-surface while allowing thin-set mortar to adhere tiles directly.
Existing Tile
Outdoor tile can be installed over existing tile if the old tile is in good condition. Rough up slick glazed surfaces first for mortar adhesion.
Gather the Necessary Tile Installation Tools
Having the right tools makes outdoor tile installation much easier:
- Tile saw with diamond blade for cutting tile
- Tile spacers to maintain even grout joint width
- Notched trowel for spreading mortar
- Rubber grout float for applying grout
- Grout sealer applicator
- Mixing paddle and bucket for mortar/grout
- Safety gear – gloves, goggles, knee pads
- Rubber mallet and pry bar
- Sponges and buckets for cleaning and water
Follow the Step-by-Step Installation Process
With the prep work done, you’re ready to install the outdoor tile. Follow these key steps:
Step 1: Lay Out the Tiles
Dry lay the tile over the surface to visualize placement. Mix tile orientation for visual interest. Adjust to avoid narrow cut pieces along the edges. Use spacers to set grout joint width.
Step 2: Apply the Mortar
Use a notched trowel to spread a layer of thin-set mortar over just one section at a time, roughly 10-15 square feet. Apply even layers to the substrate and tile back to ensure proper bonding.
Step 3: Set and Level the Tiles
Working in sections, set the tiles firmly into the mortar, maintaining the layout pattern. Twist tiles back and forth to collapse the mortar ridges. Make sure tiles are even by checking levels and utilizing spacers.
Step 4: Cut Border and Accent Tiles
Measure and cut any tiles needed around fixed objects, edges and borders using a wet saw. Cut accent tiles for pattern inserts as needed. Rub cut edges smooth with a stone.
Step 5: Grout the Tile Joints
Let the thin-set mortar fully cure per directions, usually 24-48 hours. Mix grout and use a rubber float to spread it over the tiles, pressing into joints. Remove excess grout with a sponge.
Step 6: Seal and Protect the Tile
Once grout has cured, apply a penetrating exterior tile sealer with an applicator sponge or paintbrush. Sealers prevent stains and enhance weather resistance. Re-apply annually.
Tips for Successful Outdoor Tile Installation
Follow these tips for best results from your outdoor tiling project:
- Allow adequate slope for drainage to prevent water pooling on tile surfaces.
- Install an expansion joint where tilework meets restrained surfaces like walls or steps.
- Arrange a tile pattern that disguises uneven cuts along edges and obstacles.
- Add tile trim and finished edges for a clean, professional appearance.
- Grout carefully on textured tiles to ensure grout fills the joints fully.
- Check thin-set mortar coverage by lifting a tile occasionally as you work.
- Cut drain holes in mortar beds when tiling on sloped surfaces.
- Avoid foot traffic until grout has fully cured to prevent damaging joints.
Common Outdoor Tiling Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these pitfalls when installing outdoor tile:
- Not allowing thin-set mortar to fully cure before grouting, resulting in weak bonds.
- Choosing poor quality or improper outdoor tile or installation products.
- Applying tile sealant before grouting. Sealants prevent proper grout curing.
- Mixing tile types, styles or sizes without planning proper layouts.
- Setting tiles in cold temperatures without taking extended curing times into account.
- Using unsanded grout for joints wider than 1/8 inch. It will crack in broader gaps.
- Allowing mortar to dry on surface of tiles. This prevents proper bonding.
- Not sloping patio tile sufficiently for drainage. Water pooling damages tile.
- Failing to apply grout sealer annually. Outdoor grout needs regular sealing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Outdoor Tile
Get answers to common questions about tiling outdoor spaces:
Is porcelain or ceramic better for outdoor tile?
Both porcelain and ceramic provide durability outdoors. Porcelain is denser and even more water resistant. Ceramic works with proper sealing but requires more maintenance.
Can you put tiles directly on dirt?
No, an adequate foundation is necessary beneath tiles. Install them over poured concrete, gravel bases or patio surfaces. Proper drainage and compaction are key.
How long does thin-set mortar take to cure outdoors?
Standard thin-set mortar needs 24-48 hours to cure in normal temperatures before grouting. Extended cure times up to 5-7 days may be required in colder weather installation.
How do you prevent algae and moss growth on outdoor tile?
Use light tile colors that reduce heat absorption. Sloped surfaces and proper drainage prevent water pooling. Re-apply penetrating sealants annually. Regular cleaning also deters growth.
Can you use the same tile indoors and outdoors?
It depends on the tile type. Porcelain, masonry and ceramic tiles made for exterior use with low water absorption also work indoors. Do not use regular indoor tiles outside.
What color grout is best for outdoor tile?
Lighter grout suits outdoor tiles better. Dark grout absorbs heat and is more likely to develop algae or discoloration issues from moisture exposure. White or off-white sanded grout is a good exterior choice.
How do you clean outdoors tile floors?
Sweep regularly and use pH neutral tile cleaners to prevent grime buildup. Annual deep cleaning with alkaline-based outdoor tile cleaners helps restore surfaces and remove stains or mildew.
Should outdoor tile have spacing between pieces?
Yes, proper expansion joints are important outdoors. Leave at least a 1/8 inch gap between tiles and fill with flexible sealant. Also allow gaps where tilework abuts walls, steps, posts, etc.
Can you install tile over existing concrete?
Yes, adding tile over plain concrete is possible if the slab is clean, level, and structurally sound. Use methods like etching, grinding or applying mortar for proper adhesion.
Conclusion
Installing tile on your outdoor living spaces provides beauty, durability and style that can be enjoyed for years. Pay attention to tile selection, proper installation materials and techniques like allowing adequate mortar cure times. A quality outdoor tile project requires careful planning and execution, but the results are well worth the investment for upgraded patios, pool decks and walkways.