Pros & Cons of Outdoor Porcelain

When it comes to outdoor flooring choices, homeowners are increasingly turning to porcelain tiles as a versatile and stylish option. The seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces and the array of design possibilities make outdoor porcelain an attractive choice. However, like any material, it comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In this blog, we'll delve into the pros and cons of outdoor porcelain to help you make an informed decision for your outdoor living spaces.

Pros:

1. Durability:

   Outdoor porcelain tiles are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and fading, making them well-suited for high-traffic areas and exposure to the elements.

2. Low Maintenance:

   Porcelain tiles are relatively easy to maintain. They are resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, requiring only regular cleaning to keep them looking pristine.

3. Versatility in Design:

   Outdoor porcelain comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, providing homeowners with ample design flexibility.

4. Temperature Resistance:

   Porcelain tiles have excellent temperature resistance, making them suitable for varying climates. They can withstand freezing temperatures without cracking, making them a reliable choice for outdoor spaces in regions with cold winters.

Cons:

1. Installation Challenges:

   Installing outdoor porcelain tiles can be more complex than other materials, and it often requires professional installation to ensure a proper and lasting result. Our team at the Gault Stone showroom can help advise your mason on the proper installation process.

2. Weight:

   Porcelain tiles can be heavy, posing a challenge in certain settings. The substrate and foundation must be robust enough to support the weight of the tiles. If considering porcelain for balconies or rooftop decks, please consult with a structural engineer to determine if your structure can withstand the weight.

Outdoor porcelain tiles present a compelling option for those seeking a durable and stylish outdoor flooring solution. While the installation complexity should be considered, the longevity, low maintenance, and design versatility often make outdoor porcelain a worthy investment for creating a stunning and enduring outdoor living space.

Debuting in 2024, The Gault Collection of outdoor porcelain pavers offers homeowners and designers alike some of our most popular stone flagging as a porcelain design. Visit our Gault Stone showroom to see it for yourself.

Why Porcelain Pavers are Ideal for New England Winters

Designing an outdoor space that can withstand New England's harsh winters requires choosing materials that combine beauty and durability. Porcelain pavers are the perfect solution, offering exceptional frost resistance, slip resistance, and low-maintenance care, making them an ideal choice for homeowners looking to create outdoor spaces that last through every season.

Porcelain pavers are highly resistant to the freeze-thaw cycle thanks to their extremely low absorption rate (less than 0.5%). This means they won’t absorb water that can freeze and cause cracking, unlike natural stone or concrete pavers. With this frost resistance, porcelain pavers will keep your outdoor surfaces intact and functional, no matter how cold the winter gets. Additionally, many porcelain pavers feature textured surfaces that provide excellent slip resistance, reducing the risk of falls when snow and ice accumulate.

Winter can be tough on outdoor materials, but porcelain pavers stand up to snowmelt, salt, and other winter elements. Their nonporous surface prevents stains, so they maintain their clean, pristine look all season long. Plus, porcelain pavers are precision-manufactured, offering uniform sizing for easy installation and a smooth, even surface that helps prevent ice buildup and tripping hazards.

Hear from Gault Stone Specialist Estuardo Juarez, and Alvaro Iglesias from Ash Meadows Landscaping & Masonry about our Porcelain Collection.

With a wide variety of colors, patterns, and textures, porcelain pavers offer flexible design options to suit any aesthetic. Whether you're creating a sleek modern patio or a more rustic walkway, these pavers will enhance the beauty of your outdoor space. And best of all, they require minimal upkeep - just regular sweeping and occasional washing to keep them looking fresh.

In short, porcelain pavers combine durability, slip resistance, and style, making them the ideal choice for New England winters. Whether you're upgrading your driveway, patio, or walkways, these pavers offer the perfect balance of performance and aesthetic appeal. Visit Gault Stone & Landscape Supplies to explore The Gault Collection and find the ideal porcelain pavers for your outdoor space. Let us help you create a landscape that will stand strong, no matter the season.