Outdoor slab tiles have grown hugely in popularity over the past few years and that trend show no sign of slowing down. If you’re thinking of fitting some of these 20mm thick porcelain beauties in your exteriors then read on as we bring you five useful tips for installing outdoor slab tiles that will help your project go smoothly…
Safety First
Outdoor porcelain tiles can be very heavy and therefore it’s essential that you have someone to help you lift, move, and lay them. If you’re installing these absolute beasts of a tile yourself (as opposed to getting in a tradesman to do the job) then we recommend working with a friend or family member to reduce the strain of lifting and maneuvering the tiles into position. Your back muscles will thank you for it!
Know Your Sub-Base
Outdoor tiles can be laid onto a few different sub-bases. The sub-base you choose will determine what materials, adhesives etc you’ll need to complete the job. Whereas in days gone by, the only really effective way to install outdoor tiles was on a solid concrete screed, technologies have advanced and there are now other methods to choose from including laying directly onto a hardcore base using a product such as the Rock-Tite™ Exterior Porcelain & Stone System from Norcros. Watch our How To Install Outdoor Slab Tiles Onto Three Different Substrates video for more information.
Make Sure You Have The Right Tools for the Job
Outdoor porcelain tiles can be very stubborn to cut if you don’t have the correct cutting tools. A simple cut can quickly turn into a nightmare by using the wrong equipment. It’s good to make a list of what you will need before you start – if you’re struggling then don’t worry, just check out our Five Essential Tools For Installing Outdoor Tiles article!
Get The Correct Materials
When tiling outdoors there is a range of specialist materials to use such as outdoor tile adhesive and grout. Be sure to see what is suitable to ensure you are using the best materials possible for the job. Using the wrong materials will compromise the quality and integrity of your installation. Check out our Which Adhesive & Grout To Use With Outdoor Tiles.
Plan Your Design
Correctly measuring up and dry laying your tiles before fixing them down is something you should do ahead of any tile installation, but this bit of forward planning is especially pertinent when it comes to outdoor porcelain tiles. The bigger the tile, the harder it is to fetch back up when laid should you realise you’ve made a mistake. Don’t get caught and take time planning and dry laying – ensure cuts at each end of the wall or floor are equal and make concessions for awkward cuts such as drain pipes etc.
Taking heed of the above should see your outdoor slab tile installation go smoothly, but if you need any further advice you can always give our friendly and helpful customer services guys a call on 01782 223822 or use the LiveChat function on our website and they’ll be happy to help where they can.
Here at Tile Mountain, we not only have a huge range of tiles to suit every purpose, we also have a wealth of tiling knowledge gained from over 30 years in the tile industry, (which we’ll do or best to share with you across these very pages).
Whether you’re looking for the perfect tiles for your next home improvement project, are searching for some style inspiration, or simply need a bit of help and advice, you’re in the right place.
