5 Things to Know Before Buying Outdoor Porcelain Pavers

In the outdoor design world, hardscaping options are plentiful. From concrete to wood, the materials are numerous, each with its own unique perks. Yet, among the choices, one stands out: porcelain pavers.

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Porcelain pavers have emerged as a popular pick for outdoor applications in residential and commercial settings, offering many desirable characteristics that perfectly suit the challenges the outdoors present. From non-slip surfaces to remarkable UV, stain, and freeze-thaw resistance, this material will withstand the elements and maintain pristine beauty for years.

Furthermore, these pavers offer easy maintenance and cleaning, strong warranty coverage, and eco-friendliness, a well-rounded investment for elevating your outdoor oasis. From sweeping pool decks complemented by creamy accents and rippling blue water to cozy lounges perfect for relaxation, this tile meshes seamlessly with it all.

Understanding the Characteristics of Porcelain Pavers

Every outdoor hardscaping option has unique characteristics that set it apart, and porcelain pavers are no different. This material boasts impressive characteristics with helpful benefits, from its non-slip surface to its versatility.

Non-Slip Surface

Petra Beige™ Arterra® Pavers

When crafting the perfect outdoor paradise, particularly those with water features, it’s important to consider the slip factor. While some outdoor materials can become slippery with exposure to water or moisture, making them less than ideal for pool decks and other high-moisture spaces, the opposite is true for porcelain pavers.

These tiles offer solid traction, minimizing slips and falls even when wet. For example, our Arterra® Premium Porcelain Pavers boast proprietary ZeroSlip™ technology that offers remarkable slip resistance on dry and wet floors, an excellent fit for outdoor spaces.

Remarkable UV, Stain, and Freeze-Thaw Resistance

Wave goodbye to unsightly stains, faded colors, and damage due to temperature fluctuations when you choose our Arterra® porcelain pavers. This material offers impressive resistance against sun rays, ensuring your tiles remain beautiful and vibrant for years.

Furthermore, it holds up well against freeze-thaw cycles, whether on a concrete slab or grass. Porcelain is non-porous, so moisture cannot seep in and freeze, minimizing damage due to temperature fluctuations.

This non-porous nature also lends well to accidental spills, so colorful liquids slide off without causing deep-set stains.

Lasting Durability

Praia™ Carrara Arterra® Pavers

Porcelain pavers withstand time, offering remarkable durability that resists nature’s fury. From the non-porous surface that prevents water damage and staining to the ultra-dense surface that resists mold and moss growth, this material is built to last.

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain can last decades, even in high-traffic areas. So, whether you want to use them in your quiet backyard refuge or a bustling pool deck, this option is a lasting investment.

Easy Breezy Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintaining backyard spaces can be a nuisance, especially with the finicky outdoor elements. With porcelain tiles, you needn’t worry about demanding maintenance or cleaning schedules.

Since porcelain doesn’t absorb dirt or spills, cleaning and maintenance are minimal. And with Arterra® Porcelain Pavers, it’s as simple as wiping up spills with regular cleaning products as they occur. This material isn’t as sensitive to chemicals as natural stone pavers, making for easy cleanup. Most spills and stains are easily removable with a garden hose.

Strong Warranty Coverage

Terrazo Glacier™ Arterra® Pavers

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While porcelain is known for its durability and longevity, it doesn’t hurt to have a strong warranty to back up your investment. Warranties vary from one product and seller to the next, but when you choose our Arterra® Porcelain Pavers, you get the peace of mind a lifetime warranty offers.

This lifetime warranty applies to residential applications, protecting against stains, mold, mildew, fading, and discoloration. Commercial applications receive an impressive 10-year warranty.

Engineered for Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable option, these pavers are an excellent fit. At MSI, we’re proud to be Green Building Counsel and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified, a certification designed to establish a foundation for ultra-efficient, healthy, and cost-effective green options.

Our Arterra® Premium Porcelain Pavers boast FloorScore and GreenGuard Gold certifications, which recognize indoor air quality requirements by ensuring products bearing the labels meet strict criteria for various elements, such as formaldehyde.  

Versatile Beauty

Fauna Arterra® Pavers with Coordinating Fauna Luxury Vinyl Planks

The design possibilities and application opportunities are endless with porcelain pavers. From enchanting sprawling courtyards to pool decks that set the stage for hours of fun, these paving slabs work in many applications.

There are various shapes, sizes, and colors, including the appearance of natural stone, wood, and concrete. Whether you want to create an ultra-modern space with sleek black accents or a cozy sanctuary teeming with warm wood tones and soothing neutrals, these tiles can do it all.

Are you aware that you can enhance both your indoor and outdoor areas by using complementary pavers and tiles? At MSI, we offer a variety of coordinated collections of indoor and outdoor pavers and luxury vinyl planks, enabling you to design a living space that effortlessly connects the interior and exterior, resulting in a unified and visually appealing look.

Elevate Your Outdoor Oasis With Porcelain Pavers

When creating the foundation for your backyard haven, porcelain pavers are hard to pass up. Between lasting durability, straightforward maintenance, and timeless beauty, these pavers are an excellent fit for nearly any outdoor space, whether you want to create a crisp, contemporary space or a laid-back, cozy ambiance.

If you’re ready to transform your outdoor spaces with porcelain pavers, our experts are here to help! Chat with us online, contact an authorized MSI retailer, or visit a local MSI showroom to see all that we have to offer.

READ MORE ABOUT PORCELAIN PAVERS

If you’re working on redoing your outdoor space, you should consider porcelain tiles for the flooring option. Porcelain tile generally is a good option for outdoor use over other types of tiles. However, choosing porcelain for outdoor use requires consideration as it needs to be able to withstand various weather conditions and retain its aesthetic appeal. Five important factors to keep in mind when choosing porcelain for outdoor use include durability and resistance, size and thickness, slip resistance, fading and color fastness, and maintenance and cleaning.  Durability and resistance: You’ll want to look for porcelain tiles with durability and resistance to outdoor elements such as rain, snow, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. We suggest opting for tiles with a low water absorption rate. This will prevent cracking and damage during freeze-thaw cycles. Size and thickness: Consider the size and thickness of the porcelain tiles based on the specific outdoor area you will be using them. Larger tiles can create a seamless look with fewer grout lines, while thicker tiles offer added strength and stability. Slip resistance: Safety is crucial for outdoor spaces, especially in wet conditions. You’ll want to choose porcelain tiles with slip-resistant properties to minimize the risk of accidents. Look for tiles with textured or anti-slip surfaces to provide better traction. Fading and color fastness: Ensure the porcelain tiles you choose are fade-resistant and have excellent color retention capabilities. This is particularly important for areas exposed to direct sunlight, because some tiles may lose their vibrancy over time if not designed for outdoor use. Maintenance and cleaning: Outdoor areas are subject to dirt, leaves, and other debris, therefore you’ll want to choose porcelain tiles that are easy to clean and maintain. Also, be sure to choose tiles with a non-porous surface. They are more stain-resistant and can be cleaned with simple washing or pressure washing.

In addition to these 5 important characteristics, you’ll want to inquire about the manufacturer’s warranty and recommendations for outdoor use. You’ll also want to ensure proper installation by experienced professionals for the tiles to perform optimally in an outdoor setting.

Is poreclain tile good for outdoor use?

The kitchen sink is essential to any kitchen design; we wash our hands, dishes, utensils, produce, fruits, and other items here. This plumbing fixture is the key to keeping a clean, hygienic, and tidy kitchen. We can’t prepare food properly or clean up after the preparation without it. A kitchen sink needs to be durable, easy to clean, hygienic, scratch and stain resistant, and withstand fluctuating temperatures. It also helps if it’s attractive and quiet. Now, let’s look at how porcelain sinks stack up to the daily demands of a busy family kitchen. Yes, porcelain tile is an excellent choice for outdoor use. Porcelain is a ceramic tile made from finer clay and fired at higher temperatures, making it denser and more durable than standard ceramic tiles. This inherent durability and resistance to various environmental factors make porcelain tile well-suited for outdoor applications. Here are some reasons why porcelain tile is a good option for outdoor use: Durability: Porcelain tiles are highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, weather exposure, and other outdoor stresses. They are less likely to crack, chip, or break compared to some other outdoor flooring options. Color Fastness: Porcelain tiles retain their color and appearance well, even when exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. They are less likely to fade or discolor due to UV rays. Low Maintenance: Porcelain tiles are relatively easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for outdoor areas that may accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. Water Resistance: Porcelain tiles have a low water absorption rate, which means they are highly resistant to water penetration. This characteristic makes them ideal for areas that are exposed to rain, snow, or water splashes, as they will not be affected by moisture. Frost Resistance: High-quality porcelain tiles are frost-resistant, making them suitable for use in regions with freezing temperatures. They can endure freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or deteriorating. Versatility: Porcelain tiles come in various designs, colors, and sizes, allowing you to choose a style that complements your outdoor space’s aesthetics. While porcelain tile is an excellent option for outdoor use, it’s essential to ensure that the specific tiles you choose are rated for outdoor applications. Not all porcelain tiles are designed for outdoor use, so it’s crucial to verify their suitability with the manufacturer or retailer. Additionally, proper installation and adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines will ensure that the tiles perform optimally in an outdoor environment.

Is porcelain tile durable?

Porcelain tile is known for its exceptional durability. Porcelain tiles are made from a type of ceramic clay that is fired at very high temperatures, resulting in dense and hard material. This high-temperature firing process gives porcelain its characteristic strength and durability, making it one of the most resilient flooring options available.

Some reasons why porcelain tile is considered durable include: Hardness: Porcelain tile is harder than most other flooring materials, including natural stone and standard ceramic tiles. Its hardness makes it highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring that it maintains its appearance even in high-traffic areas. Fade Resistance: High-quality porcelain tiles are resistant to fading due to exposure to UV rays. This characteristic allows them to maintain their color and appearance, even in areas with significant sunlight exposure. Temperature Resistance: Porcelain tiles can handle extreme temperatures without warping or cracking. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, including areas with hot or cold climates. Water Resistance: Porcelain tiles have a low water absorption rate, typically less than 0.5%. This makes them highly resistant to water damage, stains, and mold growth. It also means they are suitable for areas prone to moisture exposure, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Chemical Resistance: Porcelain tiles are not easily affected by chemicals and acidic substances, which makes them an ideal choice for areas like kitchen countertops where spills and cleaning agents are common. Longevity: When properly installed and maintained, porcelain tiles can last for decades, making them a cost-effective and durable flooring option While porcelain tile is durable, it’s essential to note that not all porcelain tiles are the same. There are varying grades and quality levels available in the market. When choosing porcelain tiles, opt for reputable brands and high-quality products to ensure maximum durability and performance. Additionally, proper installation by experienced professionals is crucial for optimizing the tile’s durability and longevity.

Is porcelain tile slippery?

The slipperiness of porcelain tiles can vary depending on their surface texture and finish. Some porcelain tiles have a smooth and polished finish, which can be more slippery, especially when wet. On the other hand, other porcelain tiles have a textured or matte finish, which provides better traction and reduces the risk of slipping.

Here’s a breakdown of different types of porcelain tile finishes and their slip resistance: Polished Porcelain Tiles: Polished porcelain tiles have a smooth, reflective surface that can be somewhat slippery, especially when wet. They are more commonly used in indoor applications like living rooms or bathrooms but may not be the best choice for outdoor areas or spaces prone to water exposure. Textured or Matte Porcelain Tiles: These tiles have a non-slip surface due to their textured finish. They offer better traction and are often used in areas where slip resistance is a concern, such as outdoor patios, pool decks, or bathroom floors. Structured or Grip Porcelain Tiles: These tiles are specifically designed with enhanced slip resistance. They have surface indentations or patterns that improve grip, making them suitable for wet and high-traffic areas. When selecting porcelain tiles for areas where slipperiness is a concern, it’s essential to consider the tile’s slip resistance rating. The slip resistance is usually indicated using a coefficient of friction (COF) value. A higher COF value indicates better slip resistance. It’s a good idea to check the product specifications or consult with the manufacturer to understand the slip resistance rating of the tiles you’re considering. In areas where slip resistance is crucial, such as pool decks, outdoor walkways, or bathroom floors, it’s best to choose textured or grip porcelain tiles that are specifically designed for those applications. Additionally, using proper floor mats and ensuring the surface is kept dry can further enhance safety in areas with porcelain tiles.

Is porcelain tile waterproof?

Porcelain tile is not completely waterproof, but it is highly water-resistant. This distinction is important to understand when considering its use in wet areas or locations where water exposure is a concern. Porcelain tiles have a low water absorption rate, typically less than 0.5%. This means that they do not absorb much water and are highly resistant to water penetration. As a result, porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for areas that are exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. The low water absorption rate of porcelain tiles makes them less susceptible to water damage, staining, and mold growth compared to other types of flooring materials like natural stone or standard ceramic tiles. While porcelain tiles are highly water-resistant, it’s important to note that they are not entirely waterproof. The grout lines between the tiles and the surface beneath the tiles are not water-resistant. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that proper sealing and waterproofing measures are taken during installation to protect the subfloor and prevent water from seeping through the grout lines.

Is porcelain tile heat resistant?

Porcelain tile is generally heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for various applications where heat exposure is a concern. The high-temperature firing process used to manufacture porcelain tiles gives them excellent heat resistance properties. However, while porcelain tiles are heat resistant, it’s essential to remember that extreme and prolonged heat exposure can potentially impact the grout and adhesive used to install the tiles. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the installation materials are also rated for high-temperature applications.

Is porcelain tile easy to clean?

Porcelain tile is generally easy to clean and maintain, which is one of its many advantages as a flooring material. Its smooth and non-porous surface makes it resistant to stains, and regular cleaning is often straightforward. Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning of spills are key to keeping porcelain tile surfaces looking their best. Following the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations and avoiding abrasive materials or harsh chemicals will help preserve the tile’s appearance and durability.

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If you are considering choosing porcelain tile for your outdoor space, we can help. Whether you are looking for advice about your best flooring options or samples, our experts are available for a consultation. Contact us today to start the conversation.