Sarasota Outdoor tile

Porcelain tile or pavers?

• Outdoor porcelain tile goes on a concrete slab: lanais, balconies, covered patios and outdoor kitchens. Its textured finishes match many indoor lines.
• Pavers are thicker and made for the ground: pool decks, walkways and open patios. Depending on the site, they're set on a compacted base, on pedestals, or in mortar on a slab.
• Natural stone, travertine above all, gives a softer look outside, and it's sealed against stains.

Where does the water go?

Outdoor floors are laid with a slight slope so rain and pool water run off, and pavers on a base let some water drain away between them. A balcony over living space needs waterproofing under the tile, and long runs of tile in the sun need room to move with the heat. We plan all of it with you at the free estimate.

How do you look after outdoor tile?

Sweep it, rinse it, and wash off pool chemicals, salt spray and leaves before they stain. Keep sealed stone sealed, and top up the sand between pavers when rain washes it out. Go easy with a pressure washer, which can blast that sand out too; the maker's care guide says what each surface can take.

What works on a balcony?

Outdoor porcelain, laid with the slope and the waterproofing the balcony needs. In a condo, check the association's rules first.

Do you install pavers too?

Yes. We sell and install pavers, and more than 100 are laid out in front of our showroom, so you can see them in daylight and walk on them.

Do outdoor tiles and pavers need sealing?

Porcelain doesn't. Natural stone such as travertine usually does, and concrete pavers often are; the maker's care guide says what and how often.

Will the sun fade outdoor tile?

Not porcelain: its color is fired in, so years of sun don't bleach it, and water and salt air don't get into it. Natural stone and concrete weather more, so ask how a paver ages before you choose.