Your terrace is a place that combines the beauty of the surrounding nature with the comfort of our home. Therefore, when choosing the right terrace tiles, it is crucial to take care of all aspects of use. This will allow you to create both aesthetic and functional space.
Ceramic Tiles for the Terrace: Choosing Between Porcelain and Clinker
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for finishing a terrace. They are not only aesthetic, but also very practical. Why? Mainly because they are easy to keep clean. This is extremely important for terraces that are exposed to weather conditions. Stoneware and clinker tiles are two popular types of ceramic tiles that are often chosen for terrace lining.
Choosing Terrace Tiles: Color, Pattern and Size
Terrace tiles available on the market vary in color, pattern and size. The choice should be adapted to the character of the building and façade, but also to our individual preferences. Stoneware and clinker tiles are available in a wide range of colors, from subdued shades of white to intense graphite black. The choice of color may depend on the color of the building’s facade or interior panels, creating consistency between the interior and the terrace. For buildings with minimalist architecture, tiles imitating concrete are available, which adds elegance and modernity to the terrace. However, if you dream of a rustic atmosphere, tiles that imitate aged wood may be an excellent choice.
Properties of terrace tiles: Resistance and Anti-slip
When choosing patio tiles, it is important to pay attention to several key features. Firstly, terrace surfaces should be frost-resistant to withstand changing weather conditions. Frost resistance is combined with low water absorption. Tiles with water absorption lower than 3-4% are more resistant to damage due to frost. Another important feature is abrasion resistance. Terrace tiles should have at least abrasion class III (PEI) to withstand loads and surface abrasion. Slip resistance is key, especially outdoors. Therefore, it is worth choosing tiles marked at least R10.
Porcelain Tiles for the Terrace: Durability and Strength
Stoneware tiles are often chosen for terraces because they are exceptionally durable. They are resistant to mechanical damage and temperature differences. Their water absorption is usually less than 0.1%, which makes them cope well with moisture and rain. Additionally, stoneware tiles are resistant to chemicals and acids in basic concentrations. Available in a variety of finishes, including polished and glazed, which provides a smooth structure and additional protection.
Clinker Tiles for Terrace: Resistance to Frost and Damage
Clinker tiles are also perfect for finishing terraces. They are known for their low water absorption, which makes them resistant to frost. Moreover, clinker tiles are hard and durable, which allows them to maintain their perfect appearance for many years. They do not absorb dirt, which makes it easier to keep them clean.
Size of terrace tiles: Adapted to the surface
The size of terrace tiles can be adjusted to the size of the terrace. For larger spaces, large-format tiles are recommended, as they add elegance and modernity. However, for smaller surfaces, smaller tiles, such as 30 cm x 30 cm or 40 cm x 40 cm, will work best. There are also hexagonal tiles available on the market, which are perfect for creating interesting patterns. Large formats such as 40 x 60 cm, 80 x 80 cm and even 120 x 120 cm are becoming more and more popular. Rectangular tiles, especially those imitating wood, measuring 20 x 120 cm or 30 x 180 cm, allow you to create an effect imitating natural wood. It is worth considering choosing the format that best suits the size of our terrace.
