Installing tile outdoors can add visual interest and durability to concrete surfaces like patios, walkways, and pool decks. With the right materials and proper installation techniques, tile can withstand the elements and transform dull concrete into an attractive outdoor living space. This guide will walk you through the steps for how to install outdoor tile over concrete.
Choose Appropriate Outdoor Tile
The type of tile you select will impact how well it withstands weather and wear-and-tear in an outdoor environment. Consider the following factors when choosing tile:
Climate
Select tile rated for freeze-thaw resistance if you live in an area with cold winters. This keeps the tile from cracking when temperatures fluctuate. Tile with a high coefficient of friction rating provides more traction for safety in wet climates.
Usage
For high-traffic areas like paths and patios, a tile with a PEI rating of 3 or higher will better resist scratches, chips, and cracks. Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles are very durable. Natural stone works well for low to medium traffic areas.
Design
Match the tile aesthetic to the overall style you want. Charming terra cotta adds Mediterranean flair while sleek porcelain makes a contemporary statement. Mosaics create visual interest. Large format tiles up to 24” x 24” expand the look of small spaces.
Cost
Porcelain and ceramic cost less than stone. However, stone offers a wider range of styles and natural beauty. Weigh durability against your budget when selecting.
Tile Formats
Common outdoor tile formats:
- Square and rectangular tiles in sizes from 12” x 12” to 24” x 24”
- Hexagons, octagons, and other unique geometric shapes
- Mosaics made up of small square or rectangular tiles
- Patterned tiles with designs like grooves, ridges, dots and more
- Tile that mimics natural stone, wood, or other designs
- Bricks or pavers
Pick Appropriate Prep Materials
In addition to the tile itself, you’ll need the proper setting materials to achieve a long-lasting outdoor installation over concrete:
Mortar
Use polymer-modified mortar which contains resins or latex. This creates a stronger bond and makes it more flexible to handle temperature changes outdoors.
Grout
Choose a grout rated for exterior use. Epoxy grout is a good choice as it resists water and withstands temperature fluctuations. Similarly, furan grout or polymer-modified sanded grout are suitable options.
Concrete Backer Board
This cement board provides a stable and weather-resistant underlayment for the tile. Use a waterproof backer board for wet areas.
Sealer
A penetrating sealer protects theinstalled tile and grout from moisture damage. Use a water-based acrylic formula.
Tools Needed
Have these tools on hand for the installation:
- Notched trowel for spreading mortar
- Rubber grout float for spreading grout
- Grout sealer
- Mixing bucket
- Mixing paddle and drill
- Spacers for a consistent grout line width
- Tile cutter or wet saw with a diamond blade
- Safety gear like gloves, goggles and knee pads
How to Prepare the Concrete Surface
Proper prep work ensures the tile bonds tightly to the concrete for a long-lasting finish. Here’s how to get the concrete ready for tiling:
Clean and Etch
Remove all dirt, grime, oils and existing coatings from the concrete using detergent and a stiff scrub brush. Etch the surface with an acidic concrete etching solution. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. This roughens the concrete for better adhesion.
Check Level
Confirm the concrete is level before installing tile. Use a straight 2×4 board and 4-foot level. Mark any high or low spots.
Patch Cracks and Holes
Mix concrete patch compound per manufacturer instructions and trowel it into any cracks or divots up to 1 1⁄2” deep. Over larger holes, cut away the concrete until you reach solid material. Then pack in new concrete mix and smooth flush with the surrounding surface.
Install Backer Board
Cut concrete backer board panels to fit the area to be tiled. Place with a small 1⁄8” gap between panels. Attach to the concrete using polymer-modified thinset and screws. Offset seams in adjacent rows. Fiber cement or Ditra underlayment are other good options.
Waterproof (For Wet Areas)
For pool decks or shower floors, apply a waterproof membrane over the surface before adding tile. Roll on liquid waterproofing or set preformed pan liners according to the product instructions.
If needed, use floor leveling compound in any low spots to get the surface ready for tile. Follow the leveling product guidelines.
How to Lay the Tile
Once your concrete is prepped, you’re ready to start installing the tile itself. Follow these steps for proper placement:
Step 1: Apply Mortar
Work in sections of around 5 square feet at a time so the mortar doesn’t dry out before adding tile. Use a notched trowel held at a 45-degree angle to spread on a layer of polymer-modified thinset mortar.
Step 2: Set Tile Pieces
Firmly press each tile into the mortar, using a twisting motion for a strong bond. Use plastic spacers between tiles for consistent grout line spacing. Cut any edge pieces as needed with a wet saw fitted with a diamond blade.
Step 3: Check Level
As you work, lay a straight piece of 2×4 on the tile and check the level often. Make adjustments by lifting corners and adding or removing mortar.
Step 4: Allow Mortar to Cure
Let the mortar fully cure beneath the tile according to manufacturer directions, typically 24-48 hours. Avoid walking on the tiles during this time.
How to Grout Outdoor Tile
Once the thinset mortar has cured, it’s time to grout the tile joints. Follow this careful process:
Step 1: Apply Grout Sealer
Brush or roll grout sealer onto the clean tile surface. Avoid getting it in the joints—this keeps the grout from bonding to the tile so it can be easily cleaned off.
Step 2: Spread Grout
Use a rubber grout float or squeegee held at a 45-degree angle to completely pack the joints with exterior grout. Take care to avoid removing grout from the joints.
Step 3: Clean Excess Grout
Let the grout harden until a light haze forms on the tile. This takes about 10-15 minutes. Use a damp grout sponge in a circular motion to remove any grout sitting on the tile surface. Rinse the sponge frequently.
Step 4: Apply Grout Sealer
Once all grout haze is gone, seal the grout lines with an exterior grout sealer according to manufacturer instructions. This adds waterproofing.
Step 5: Cure the Grout
Allow the grout to fully cure for 72 hours. After 24 hours, you can walk on the tile carefully. Avoid heavy use during the curing window.
Tips for Achieving a Professional Outdoor Tile Installation
Follow these pro tips as you install tile over concrete outdoors:
- Always start tile layout from the center of the area, moving outward in each direction.
- When cutting border and edge tiles, leave a 1/8” gap between the tile and any walls, posts, or permanent edges. This allows for very slight movement of the concrete below without cracking tile edges.
- On large concrete surfaces, divide the area into sections using tile strips or divider joints. This compensates for normal concrete expansion and contraction.
- When setting tile on a sloped surface, work upward from the bottom of the slope. This avoids lippage where the edges of each tile rise up unevenly.
- To handle draining on uneven or sloped concrete, use a mortar bed installation method rather than applying tile directly to the concrete face.
- Take time to make any full tile cuts accurately before laying tile using a wetsaw or tile cutter. Adjust fit as needed with an angle grinder or tile nippers.
- Use tile leveling clips beneath tiles if having difficulty getting an even surface. Remove clips before grouting.
- When laying a geometric pattern, dry lay tiles first to ensure the spacing works out evenly across the concrete.
- Work in the shade to avoid mortar or grout drying out too quickly in direct sun. Mist the mortar if it becomes dry and re-trowel smooth.
- Don’t walk on newly installed tiles for at least 24 hours. Avoid heavy foot traffic, moving furniture, etc for 72 hours while grout fully cures.
Ongoing Outdoor Tile Care
Regular maintenance preserves your tile’s appearance and performance. Follow these care guidelines:
Inspect Annually
Check for any cracked, broken, or missing grout once a year. Regrout joints as needed to avoid moisture issues.
Re-seal Every 1-2 Years
Reapply penetrating grout and tile sealers every 12-24 months to protect from water damage and stains.
Clean Tile and Grout
Sweep debris from the tile surface weekly. Use pH-neutral cleaners for periodic deep cleaning; avoid acidic cleaners. Rinse well and allow to fully dry.
Address Spalling Concrete
If the concrete beneath the tile begins spalling, immediately replace any loose tiles and contact a contractor to assess repair options.
Make Repairs Promptly
Don’t delay fixing any chips, cracks, broken tiles, or other damage that occurs. Catching issues early prevents bigger problems.
Watch For Efflorescence
White, powdery efflorescence crystals can form on cement-based grout. Use an efflorescence cleaner if this occurs; avoid excessive water on the grout.
Adjust Outdoor Elements
Keep sprinklers, plants, furniture, mats and other items from excessively wetting the tile surface or creating uneven pressures.
With the right tile choice, proper installation, and routine care your outdoor tile can continue enhancing your concrete surfaces for decades to come. Paying close attention to preparation, weatherproofing, and maintenance ensures your tile withstands the elements. Use the techniques in this guide and get ready to enjoy the upgrade tile provides to your outdoor concrete!
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Outdoor Tile on Concrete
What type of thinset mortar should I use for outdoor tile?
Use a polymer-modified thinset mortar rated for exterior use. This type of mortar has latex or resin added to it which makes it more flexible and water-resistant compared to regular thinset.
How long does outdoor tile mortar need to cure before grouting?
Check the mortar product instructions, but typically 24-48 hours of curing is needed. This ensures the mortar has reached adequate hardness and adhesion strength before grouting.
Should spacers be used when installing outdoor tile?
Yes, plastic spacers help maintain a consistent width between tiles for straight, evenly sized grout joints. Remove spacers once tiles are set before grouting each area.
What are the largest tile sizes that can be used outdoors?
Thanks to improved manufacturing processes, porcelain and ceramic tiles up to 24” x 24” can often be used outdoors. Always follow manufacturer limits based on the product performance ratings.
Can I use pre-mixed mastic instead of mortar for outdoor tile?
No, mastic should not be used for permanent outdoor installations. The adhesives in mastics break down more quickly compared to mortar when exposed to moisture and weather.
How soon can I grout outdoor tile after a rain shower?
It’s best to allow 48 hours of dry time for the mortar bed to fully cure if rains saturate the installation area mid-project. Damp tiles can be lightly grouted after 24 hours.
Should sanded or unsanded grout be used outside?
Sanded grout is recommended for outdoor tile installations. It resists shrinkage and cracking better than unsanded mixes. Use polymer-modified sanded grout for the highest durability.
How do I clean efflorescence off outdoor tile?
Efflorescence, a white powder deposit, can form on cement grout when moisture evaporates. Use an efflorescence cleaner according to manufacturer directions to gently dissolve and rinse it away. Avoid acid-based cleaners.
How do I prep concrete for outdoor tile installation?
Clean the surface fully, etch with an acidic solution to roughen texture, patch any cracks or holes, and install concrete backer board before tiling. Waterproof if needed.
Can I apply tile directly to existing concrete?
In most cases, yes – installing tile over properly prepared existing concrete is fine. The concrete must be in good condition, level, and have proper drainage.
Conclusion
Installing tile on an outdoor concrete surface brings beauty, texture, enhanced durability, and style to spaces like patios, walkways, pool decks, and more. With the right preparation, high-quality setting materials, proper installation techniques, and ongoing care, tile can withstand years of exposure to the elements. Pay attention to details like mortar and grout selection, concrete conditioning, appropriate tile formats, weatherproofing, expansion gaps, and routine maintenance for success. With this reliable process, it’s easy to upgrade plain concrete into an eye-catching focal point that adds value, functionality, and design flair to any outdoor setting.