We’ve seen the popularity of external porcelain tiles explode over the last year, and it’s no surprise since the list of benefits is a long one. Not only are they extremely hard-wearing and long-lasting, they are also frost, fade and stain resistant which makes them really easy to look after.
When choosing your tiles it is important to make sure they are suitable for use outdoors. We only recommend tiles that are at least 18mm thick, double the thickness of a standard internal porcelain tile, as this is more suitable for external use. Slip resistance is also important, so look out for an ‘R’ rating on outdoor tiles that is 10 or higher.
We stock two ranges of external porcelain paving tiles at The London Tile Co. – Valverdi Indoor-Out and PorcelPave Precision Porcelain Paving. Valverdi is a range of co-ordinating 10mm indoor and 20mm outdoor porcelain that is designed to create a seamless link between living spaces. PorcelPave is an outdoor only product that ranges from 18mm to 20mm in thickness and is available in many different styles. External tiles from both ranges can be installed using one of the three below methods.
Installing onto a Solid Base Using Adhesive
Unlike natural stone or concrete paving, porcelain tiles need to be fixed using adhesive onto a solid base and not onto sand. The tiles must be laid into a solid bed of a suitable polymer modified cement based adhesive. The base should incorporate expansion joints and appropriate falls (slopes) to allow for drainage. Once the tiles are installed the joints can be grouted using a flexible grout suitable for outdoor use. We recommend using BAL Protective Sealer before grouting as it protects the tiles from any grout residue which can be hard to remove from tiles with a textured or anti-slip finish.
Installing Using a Raised Pedestal System
This method can be used for a patio on a solid base, or over an existing patio, and is particularly useful for balconies and terraces. Eterno Ivica Pedestals are adjustable and can therefore be used to create a level floor over an uneven base. The joints are left open to allow for drainage, and the tiles can be taken up at any time to access the area underneath. The below video shows how to install porcelain tiles onto the Eterno Ivica pedestals.
Installing onto Lawns
If you want to use porcelain tiles to create a path or stepping stone effect you can install them directly onto your lawn, so they are surrounded by grass. Place the tile where you want it and cut around it using a spade, then remove the turf and topsoil to a depth of 75mm. Add a layer of geotextile fabric, then 50mm of 2-6mm chippings. Tamp down the chippings, level and carefully lay your tile on top.
Samples are available of both Valverdi and PorcelPave tiles – choose from a free cut sample or a full size tile sample using the buttons below each tile. Get in touch if you have any questions about the tiles or how to install them.
Update: Find out more about the NEW PorcelQuick Adped installation system for external porcelain tiles.
Installing Using PorcelQuick Adpeds
PorcelQuick have released a new system designed to make installing porcelain paving onto patios quicker and easier. Starting with a free draining sub base, a series of solid pedestals are created using Adpeds and a mix of sharp sand & cement. These need to be positioned at the corners of the tiles, which are then installed on top of the hardened Adpeds using a suitable tile adhesive. Grout Backer Rod can be compressed into the joints to allow you to grout them, providing a modern look. This system reduces materials needed by up to 80% and is therefore much more eco-friendly than other installation methods. Find out more here.
