Your outdoor area can be an extension of your living space, perfect for some downtime, hosting parties, or hanging out with family. By using outdoor decking tiles, you can create a stylish, functional area that adds great looks and value to your garden.
Bringing Life to Your Garden
Adding outdoor decking tiles can give your garden a fresh vibe. These tiles are a great way to build pathways, patios, or even fancy spots by the pool. It doesn't matter if you've got a tiny terrace or a huge garden – decking tiles can fit what you’re working with.
With these outdoor floor tiles, you can mix colours and patterns that match your garden’s natural charm, plus they’re built tough to handle the outside elements. If you’re worried about slipping around, especially when it rains, non-slip outdoor tiles can help you out.
Benefits of Outdoor Decking Tiles
Outdoor decking tiles bring plenty of perks to any garden makeover:
Built to Last: These tiles stand up to all sorts of weather, from blazing sunshine to pouring rain.
| Material |
Toughness Score (1-10) |
| Porcelain |
9 |
| Travertine |
7 |
| Terracotta |
6 |
Easy to Set Up: You often don’t need a lot of prep or fancy tools to install decking tiles. Most come with easy-to-use snap-in systems so you can lay them down without breaking a sweat.
Good Looks: With options like porcelain outdoor tiles or travertine outdoor tiles, there’s plenty on the menu to fit your style taste.
Low Fuss: Keeping these tiles tidy is a cinch, usually just a quick sweep and a bit of washing when necessary. Need more cleaning tips? Our guide on how to clean outdoor tiles has got you covered.
Quick Look at the Benefits
| Benefit |
Details in a Nutshell |
| Built to Last |
Handles weather like a champ |
| Easy to Set Up |
Quick to lay down with interlock systems |
| Good Looks |
Loads of options available |
| Low Fuss |
Easy peasy maintenance |
These perks make outdoor decking tiles a top choice for giving your garden a nice makeover. By checking out the different materials and styles, you'll find the right tiles to turn your outdoor space into a stunning place to chill. For more ideas, check out our article on outdoor tiles for alfresco and find the designs that tickle your fancy.
Material Matters
Finding the perfect material for your outdoor decking tiles can transform your garden into an oasis of style and practicality. Each type of tile brings its own flair and charm, so let’s chat about your options.
Types of Outdoor Decking Tiles
Outdoor decking tiles come in all sorts of varieties, each offering its own perks and quirks. Let’s check out some of the popular ones:
Wood Decking Tiles
Want a classic vibe? Wood tiles, usually crafted from sturdy hardwoods like teak or eucalyptus, offer a timeless look. They're tough cookies too, standing up to whatever the weather throws at them.
Composite Decking Tiles
These tiles are sneaky; they look like wood but come with less baggage. Made from a mix of wood fibres and plastic, they're hardy against rot, mould, and nosy insects.
Plastic Decking Tiles
If you're after something light and easy to pop into place, plastic tiles are your mate. Often made from recycled stuff, these come in a rainbow of colours and styles.
Stone Decking Tiles
Hello, elegance! Stone tiles like granite and slate bring a slice of posh to your garden. They last forever and laugh in the face of bad weather.
| Tile Material |
How Tough? |
Pamper Level |
Looks Like |
| Wood |
High |
Medium |
Natural |
| Composite |
Super High |
Low |
Wood-Like |
| Plastic |
Okayish |
Low |
Versatile |
| Stone |
Super High |
Low |
Fancy |
Pros and Cons of Different Materials
Every tile type comes with its ups and downs. Knowing these can steer you in the right direction for your outdoor sanctuary.
Wood Decking Tiles
Pros:
- Appeals to nature lovers
- Built to last
- Can be customized with stains or seals
Cons:
- Demands regular pampering like staining and sealing
- Without proper care, can fall prey to rot and bugs
Internal links: wood decking tiles
Composite Decking Tiles
Pros:
- Minimal upkeep
- Immune to rot, mould, and pesky bugs
- Comes in a bunch of colours and designs
Cons:
- The price tag might give you pause at first
- Sun can make them bleach out over time
Internal links: composite decking tiles
Plastic Decking Tiles
Pros:
- A breeze to carry and set up
- Don't require babysitting
- Eco-friendly, often using recycled stuff
Cons:
- Don’t quite mimic the natural world
- Can get fragile when temperatures plummet
Internal links: plastic decking tiles
Stone Decking Tiles
Pros:
- Tough as nails and will last a lifetime
- Sit back and enjoy with minimal fuss
- Instantly adds glamour to any space
Cons:
- A bit of a workout to install
- Might need to save up for these beauties
Internal links: stone decking tiles
Picking the right material for your outdoor decking tiles is all about balancing style and practicality. Consider the ins and outs of each type, along with their durability and upkeep needs, to land on your perfect choice. For more handy tips, see our advice on installation tips and maintenance and care for a garden space that stays gorgeous year after year.
Design and Style Options
When you're thinking about decking tiles for your backyard, the choices are mind-boggling! Picking the right ones can make your outdoor hangout spot inviting, like a slice of paradise just outside your door.
Patterns and Finishes
There's a smorgasbord of patterns and finishes you can choose from, depending on what tickles your fancy. Whether you're a fan of classic or cutting-edge looks, there's something out there that'll make your backyard pop.
Patterns:
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Straight Lay: This old-school grid pattern keeps it simple yet stylish.
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Diagonal: Crank it up a notch by tilting those tiles 45 degrees for an eye-catching vibe.
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Herringbone: This zigzag pattern not only turns heads but adds a dash of sophistication.
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Chevron: Like herringbone's cool cousin, with its uninterrupted lines, it screams modern.
Finishes:
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Matte: A natural, laid-back finish that doesn't shout for attention.
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Glossy: Super shiny and perfect for brightening up snug spaces.
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Textured: Keeps your feet firmly planted, especially when things get slippery.
Find more on grippy options in our piece on outdoor tiles non slip.
Colour Selection
The colour you go for can jazz up your outdoor area, setting the vibe and syncing with nature or architecture around you.
Natural Tones:
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Brown: Think of it as Mother Nature's own hue, blending right into your garden.
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Beige: This warm shade wraps up your space in a quilt of coziness.
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Grey: Cool and adaptable, perfectly fitting modern or traditional settings. See what grey can do for you here.
Vibrant Colours:
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Blue: A splash of the sea in your yard, perfect next to the pool.
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Green: Matches seamlessly with plants and trees, refreshing your eyes & soul.
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Red: For bold souls, red tiles become the garden’s star attraction.
Fancy something out-of-the-ordinary? Peek at our terrazzo outdoor tiles for more unique choices.
Colour Durability:
| Colour Type |
Durability Rating* |
| Natural Tones |
9/10 |
| Vibrant Colours |
7/10 |
| Neutral Shades |
8/10 |
*Measured by how tough they are against sun and wear over time.
Choosing the right patterns, finishes, and shades for your outdoor decking tiles not only spruces up your backyard but ramps up your home’s vibe and usability. Want to get into the nitty-gritty with different types? Dive into outdoor floor tiles and outdoor porcelain tiles.
Installation Tips
Preparation and Planning
Getting ready to install those outdoor decking tiles? Let's make sure you're all set for a hassle-free project. You've got to start with the basics—take a good look at your space. Grab that tape measure and note down the area, so you're not coming up short on tiles. Seriously, always grab a few extras. Trust me, a little extra never hurts, as it covers those 'oops' moments and future fixes.
| Step |
Action |
| 1 |
Measure the area |
| 2 |
Purchase extra tiles |
| 3 |
Clean and level the surface |
| 4 |
Plan the layout |
When you've got your measurements, don't forget the cleanup. Clear out any junk, dirt, or fossils of past flooring that might cause trouble down the line. If the ground resembles a roller coaster, grab a level to smooth things out. A steady base means your tiles won’t be playing a wobbly game of musical chairs.
All set on the surface front? Time to dream up your layout. Before you start flinging tiles around, make sure to visualise and adjust as needed. Sneaky tricks like a chalk line or your trusty ruler will help you map it out right.
Alright, time to arm yourself! Having the right gear makes this process so much easier. Stock up with these essentials:
- Tape Measure
- Smooth Level
- Hammer's kinder cousin, the Rubber Mallet
- Line of chalk for those straight guides
- Spacers for that organized look
- Tile cutter or saw to slice anything tricky
- Safety buddies: gloves and goggles
Start your tile journey at a corner of your chosen space. Spacers are your new best mates for keeping those gaps even. Follow your chalk lines like a treasure map to keep things uniform. If your tiles lock together like a puzzle, follow the steps in the manual to get them secure.
Forwards march with your Rubber Mallet to gently press the tiles in place—they should fit like a comfy slipper. Hitting a tricky edge? Time to cut those tiles to shape. Use your cutter or saw for precision but don’t forget the safety gear!
Got one tile sticking out like a sore thumb? Yank it up and level out the ground before setting it back down. Alignment is everything for that professional look-n’-feel.
Curious for more tricks or maintenance tips on outdoor tiles? Dive into our deep-dive articles on outdoor floor tiles and outdoor patio tiles. And don't skip our essential guide on keeping them sparkling clean: how to clean outdoor tiles.
Maintenance and Care
Alrighty then, let's chat about keeping those outdoor decking tiles of yours in tip-top shape while making sure they stick around for the long haul. Here's the lowdown on cleaning them up and making them last longer than your neighbour's barbecue grill.
Cleaning and Upkeep
Keeping your decking tiles sparkling isn't just about makin' 'em look good—it's about ensuring they hang around as reliable as your morning cuppa. Dirt, algae, and all that outdoor gunk can mess things up. So, here's your tile-cleaning cheat sheet:
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Sweeping: Bust out a broom on the regular to shoo away loose dirt and stuff. This stops scratches and keeps your tiles looking fresh as a daisy.
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Washing: Mix up a bit of mild detergent with some warm water and give those tiles a scrub with a soft brush or mop. Be a pal and skip the harsh chemicals—they're as bad for your tiles as bad jokes at a dinner party.
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Rinsing: After you're done sudsing, rinse with fresh water until the tiles are squeaky clean. No one wants to play slip ‘n slide by accident.
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Drying: Let the tiles sunbathe to dry off completely before you trot back over them. Moisture plus time can mean you’ve got a mould or algae garden sprouting overnight.
For customised cleaning hacks based on your tile types, check out our how to clean outdoor tiles guide.
| Cleaning Task |
Frequency |
| Sweeping |
Weekly |
| Washing |
Monthly |
| Rinsing |
Monthly |
| Deep Cleaning |
Every 6 months |
Enhancing Longevity
Keeping those tiles looking fine and fancier than a cat's pyjamas takes a bit of foresight. Here are some tips on what to do:
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Sealing: Slap on a proper sealant, especially if your tiles guzzle moisture like terracotta or travertine. This wards off pesky stains and dreaded water. Aim to reseal every year or two, like a dentist appointment, but more fun.
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Protecting from Heavy Objects: Think twice before dragging heavy furniture across your tiles. Unless you’re after a cracked tile dance floor, then, by all means, go ahead.
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Inspecting for Damage: Keep an eye out for tile nicks, cracks, or wobbly bits. Nip issues in the bud before they're as big a headache as Monday mornings.
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Weather Protection: Invest in some stylish rugs or covers for high-traffic areas to protect tiles from sunburn or rain dance parties.
For specific advice based on your decking tile style, check out our guides on maintaining travertine outdoor tiles or porcelain outdoor tiles.
Stick with these handy tips for cleaning and boosting your tiles' lifespan. It's a surefire way to keep your outdoor space lookin' sharp and stayin' strong!
Showcasing Your New Oasis
You've got those swanky new outdoor decking tiles down, and now it's time to show off your spruced-up garden. With the right furniture and decor, you could turn your outdoor hangout into a dreamy escape. Plus, putting your garden's potential to full use means you'll get even more enjoyment out of it!
Furniture and Decor Ideas
Getting the right furniture and decor is key to making those outdoor decking tiles pop. Check out these suggestions:
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Outdoor Seating: Think comfy lounge chairs, sofas, and benches that call out for relaxation.
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Dining Sets: Perfect for chowing down under the open sky with your nearest and dearest.
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Accent Tables: Handy little numbers for resting your drink or snack on—simple yet effective.
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Planters and Greenery: Add potted plants or hang up some greenery for that splash of nature.
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Outdoor Rugs: Rugs can work wonders by sectioning off spaces while keeping them snug and warm.
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Lighting: String some lights, plop down lanterns, or install path lighting for improved vibe and visibility.
Here's the lowdown, all nice and neat:
| Item |
Purpose |
| Outdoor Seating |
Comfort and relaxation |
| Dining Sets |
Alfresco dining |
| Accent Tables |
Convenience for beverages and snacks |
| Planters and Greenery |
Natural touch |
| Outdoor Rugs |
Area definition and cosy feel |
| Lighting |
Ambiance and visibility |
Want to up your game even more? Maybe introduce some outdoor wall tiles for that extra layer of texture and design.
Maximizing Your Outdoor Living Space
You want your garden space to live up to its fullest potential, right? Here are a few tips to do just that:
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Zoning: Break the area up into lounging, dining, and gardening spots.
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Multifunctional Furniture: Look for furniture that does double duty, like benches with storage.
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Vertical Space: Make use of vertical spaces with shelves and hanging planters.
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Compact Furniture: For the snugger spots, foldable or stackable furniture is your best mate.
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Integrate Pathways: Lay some outdoor patio tiles to guide folks smoothly from one hangout zone to another.
With these simple tweaks, your outdoor space won't just look ace, it'll be ready for anything from quiet coffee mornings to weekend BBQ fiestas. If you're curious about keeping those tiles looking sharp for years to come, have a gander at our guide on how to clean outdoor tiles.
