Outdoor Flooring Dos and Don’ts

When upgrading your outdoor space, choosing the right flooring can be a daunting task. Whether you're transforming a patio, rooftop deck, or poolside area, outdoor flooring must handle varying weather conditions, high foot traffic, and still complement your overall design vision.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the dos and don’ts of outdoor flooring to ensure your new surface is not only beautiful but durable and safe.

Key Takeaways:

• Know your climate and choose materials suited for your region’s weather.
• Prioritize safety with slip-resistant, durable materials.
• Factor in maintenance — some materials require more upkeep than others.
• Design should meet function — select textures and colors that work with your space.
• Avoid common mistakes like installing indoor tiles outdoors or ignoring drainage.

What Are the Best Outdoor Flooring Materials?

Choosing the right outdoor flooring material starts with considering your environment and the demands of the space. Here are some top materials that work well for Arizona’s harsh weather, and for homeowners looking for quality, long-lasting options:

Concrete Pavers: Durable, Budget-Friendly, Versatile

Concrete pavers are one of the most popular choices for outdoor flooring options due to their durability and versatility. They are ideal for high-traffic areas like patios or walkways.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available.
• Easy to install with a DIY option.
• Customizable in terms of design and pattern.

Cons:

• Can shift over time if not installed properly.
• Requires regular cleaning to prevent staining.

Best For: Patios, walkways, and driveways.

Porcelain Tile: Stylish, Weatherproof, Low-Maintenance

Porcelain tiles are becoming a favorite for homeowners who want style and durability in one package. They can withstand the harsh Arizona sun and require minimal upkeep.

Pros:

• Non-porous, resistant to staining and fading.
• Available in various colors, textures, and sizes.
• Highly resistant to moisture and mold growth.

Cons:

• Can be slippery when wet — opt for textured tiles.
• Installation can be labor-intensive.

Best For: Pool areas, patios, and outdoor kitchens.

Composite Decking: Wood-Look with No Rot or Splinters

Composite decking combines the look of wood with the durability of synthetic materials, making it ideal for Arizona’s intense sun and dry climate.

Pros:

• No maintenance required — no staining or sealing.
• Highly resistant to rot and insects.
• Available in a range of colors and textures.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than traditional wood.
• Can get hot underfoot in extreme heat.

Best For: Decks and balconies.

Natural Stone: High-End, Textured, But May Require Sealing

Natural stone, such as travertine or slate, adds a luxurious touch to any outdoor space. However, it requires careful maintenance to preserve its beauty.

Pros:

• Timeless, sophisticated look.
• Very durable and weather-resistant.
• Great for high-end designs.
  

Cons:

• Prone to staining if not sealed regularly.
• Heavier and more expensive.

Best For: High-end outdoor spaces, pool areas.

Gravel & Pea Stone: Fast-Draining and Cost-Effective

For a more rustic look, gravel and pea stone are excellent options. They're easy to install, cost-effective, and allow for efficient drainage.

Pros:

• Affordable and readily available.
• Perfect for creating drainage areas.
• Can be used for walkways, driveways, and garden paths.

Cons:

• Not ideal for high-foot-traffic areas — can be uneven and uncomfortable to walk on.

Best For: Low-traffic areas, garden paths.

Artificial Turf (Optional): Good for Patios with Pets or Kids

Artificial turf is becoming increasingly popular, especially for homeowners with pets or children. It provides the look of a lush lawn without the maintenance.

Pros:

• Requires no watering or mowing.
• Soft underfoot—great for families and pets.
• Easy to install in small spaces.
  

Cons:

• Initial installation cost can be high.
• May need occasional cleaning to avoid odor buildup.

Best For: Patios, play areas, and pet-friendly spaces.

Outdoor Flooring Dos (Backed by Experts)

Do Consider Your Climate (Freeze-Thaw Zones, Sun Exposure, Moisture)

The best outdoor flooring is tailored to your region’s climate. For Arizona, choose materials like porcelain tile or composite decking that handle intense sun and dryness.

Do Plan for Drainage and Surface Prep

Proper surface preparation and drainage are critical to ensuring your outdoor flooring lasts. Be sure to prepare the base properly to prevent water from pooling and damaging the material.

Do Choose Textured, Non-Slip Materials

When installing outdoor flooring tiles near pools or wet areas, safety is paramount. Opt for textured tiles or materials with a non-slip surface to avoid accidents.

Do Think Long-Term (Maintenance, Repairs, Wear)

Consider the long-term maintenance needs of the flooring. Materials like porcelain tile or composite decking offer durability and minimal upkeep compared to traditional wood decking.

Do Match Flooring to Your Lifestyle (Barefoot vs. Grill Master vs. Kids & Pets)

Think about how you will use the space. If you entertain often, choose materials that are easy to clean and resistant to stains. For homes with kids or pets, choose softer options like artificial turf or textured tiles.

Outdoor Flooring Don’ts (Mistakes to Avoid)

Don’t Use Indoor Tiles Outside (They’ll Crack or Fade)

Indoor tiles are not designed to withstand outdoor conditions. Exposing them to rain, extreme sun, or temperature changes can cause cracking or fading.

Don’t Skip Sealing or the Underlayment

Proper installation is key. Avoid cutting corners by skipping the necessary sealing or underlayment layers. This can lead to moisture damage or uneven flooring.

Don’t Choose Slippery Materials Near Pools

Tiles or decking with smooth surfaces can be dangerously slippery when wet. Make sure to choose materials that offer a high level of grip around wet areas like pools or hot tubs.

Don’t Ignore Transitions Between Indoor/Outdoor Surfaces

Ensure that the transition between indoor and outdoor areas is smooth and safe. A misalignment can cause tripping hazards or make the area look unkempt.

Don’t Forget Expansion Gaps (Especially with Composite Decking)

If you’re using composite decking, leave proper expansion gaps to allow for material movement in response to temperature changes.

Quick Picks by Style & Function

• Low-Maintenance: Composite decking, stamped concrete
• Pet-Friendly: Porcelain tile, artificial turf
• Budget: Gravel, concrete pavers
• High-End: Travertine, natural stone slabs
• Poolside: Textured porcelain, slip-resistant concrete
  

FAQs About Outdoor Flooring

What Flooring is Best for Hot Climates?

Porcelain tile and composite decking are ideal for hot climates as they are weather-resistant and won’t warp or fade under the sun.

What’s the Safest Flooring for Around a Pool?

Textured porcelain or slip-resistant concrete is the safest option for poolside areas to prevent slips and falls.

Can Porcelain Tile Be Used Outdoors?

Yes, porcelain tile is durable, moisture-resistant, and ideal for outdoor spaces like patios and pool areas.

Can You Use Ceramic Tile Outside?

Ceramic tile is not recommended for outdoor use as it can crack or fade under extreme weather conditions.

Can You Use Vinyl Flooring Outdoors?

Vinyl flooring can be used outdoors, but make sure it's specifically rated for exterior use to withstand weather conditions.

What Can I Put Over Concrete Floor Outside?

You can install materials like pavers, porcelain tiles, or composite decking over concrete floors for a fresh look.

Final Thoughts: Design an Outdoor Space That Lasts

Outdoor flooring plays a crucial role in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home’s exterior. By following these dos and don’ts from Baker Bros flooring experts, you can ensure that your outdoor flooring project is successful and long-lasting.

Ready to upgrade your outdoor space?
Explore Outdoor Flooring at Baker Bros and visit our showroom today!