Have you ever got really excited about a tile – selected the colour and style that works, received approval from your client – only to find at the final hurdle that it isn’t suitable after all?
Perhaps it’s too heavy to work with your pedestal system? Or it doesn’t meet anti-slip regulations? Or it isn’t the right fit for the surroundings?
Use our checklist – call it the A to W of outdoor tiles – to ensure you take every factor into consideration, and make those frustrating moments of realisation a thing of the past.
As a designer or architect, the look you’re aiming to achieve will always be your starting point. But don’t get carried away before considering the bigger picture. Heritage and local surroundings are key here.
Once you’ve decided on the look, you need to think about finding a material that’s fit for purpose. Now’s the time to consider what the tiles are going to be used for.
Specially, anti-slip compliance. Commercial buildings and public spaces are governed by regulations which you need to take into account. And restrictions for tiles on pavements next to roads are stricter.
Outdoor tiles need to stand the test of time and be able to withstand the elements. For example, porcelain tiles have a low water absorption rate, meaning they’re less likely to grow moss and algae.
We’re always around to give advice on paving laying methods. But it’s often worth involving an engineer for advice on the substructure.
Your tile supplier needs to be aware of your deadlines and able to commit to them. There’s nothing worse than being held responsible for a project going off track.
You need to have the budget in mind all the time. But you may find it’s persuasive to emphasise the long-term benefits of an upfront investment.
You may think your design ideas are spot on. But there’s always room for a bit of tweaking and improvement.
It’s all very well getting fixated on a Riven sandstone only to discover that the paving will be used for chairs and tables.
Last but by no means least, don’t forget the question of weight. This can be a particular challenge for roof terrace projects, where the tiles need to be strong yet light enough to be laid on a pedestal system.
Looking for paving that’s smooth and anti-slip? Read our blog.