Should you be using porcelain or sandstone tiles outdoors?

Boston Sand Porcelain Outdoor slab tiles in a garden setting of a home
6 October 2020

When it comes to choosing the kind of tiles you use in your home, this can be a real head scratcher. It all depends on the style you want to adopt and the space you have available.

But in terms of using tiles outdoors, you need to be a little more selective in terms of the materials used.

We hear questions about porcelain tiles and sandstone tiles and how suitable they are for certain uses.

In this blog, we take a look at using these tiles outdoors and how suitable they are, and what you need to be mindful of.

Can you use porcelain tiles outdoors?

Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice of tile for a range of purposes thanks to their stylish surface and classic feel.

This type of tile is great both indoors and outside the home, with a number of great benefits from using porcelain tiles in areas such as patios, driveways, or in conservatories that bring the indoors and outdoors together.

One important consideration with any outdoor tiles is how they will stand the test of the time. The fact that porcelain tiles are frostproof greatly enhances their ability to survive adverse weather conditions, while they are also fade and scratch resistant. That means they will continue looking their best over time and your investment in quality porcelain tiling will last.


This great look can be maintained even with minimal maintenance. Porcelain tiles are tough enough to endure the rigours of outdoor living, meaning you don’t need to worry about constant checking and cleaning.

All in all, outdoor porcelain tilingare ideally suited to standing up to the elements and delivering a really impressive outdoor tiling solution for your home.

Can you use sandstone tiles outdoors?

Sandstone tiles can certainly be used outdoors, and have been a popular choice for garden makeover projects for a number of years.

The shade and colour of sandstone tiles are evocative and have a rugged yet appealing quality.

Sandstone tiles are also associated with country cottages and rural retreats, meaning people looking to create a certain rustic vibe are naturally inclined towards this type of tile.

Outdoor sandstone tiles are durable but also a fairly flexible option in terms of their usage. They work well on patio areas and garden paths. They are porous unlike porcelain, meaning their durability is slightly lower. Owing to their lower porosity they will require sealing to protect the surface and will require additional cleaning maintenance as sandstone tiles can be subject to mould and algae forming. They are however still very durable tiles and a strong option for outdoor spaces.

Shop with Stone Tile Company

If you’re planning an outdoor tiling project, the Stone Tile Company range is second to none.

We are always happy to offer guidance and help, when it comes to our range, and be sure to check our general installation guide and fitting guides if you need more information.


And if you have any questions, be sure to get in touch.