Outdoor tiles for Thornbury courtyards, decks and paths

Many Thornbury homes have a small rear courtyard, a side path and a back deck that is ready to be replaced. Tiling these areas makes them easier to keep clean and can link the garden to a renovated kitchen. This guide covers what matters outdoors. Our showroom at 214 Broadway, Reservoir, about 10 to 15 minutes from Thornbury, has outdoor ranges on display, and our tiles for Thornbury homes page covers every other room.

Grip comes first

Outdoor tiles get wet from rain, hoses and pools, and they collect leaves and grit. Choose a tile made for outdoor use with a grip finish and a slip rating that suits the area. Covered alfresco areas need less grip than an open path or a pool surround. Your builder or certifier can confirm the rating needed for your site. Our outdoor tiles and slip ratings guide explains the ratings.

Indoor to outdoor flow

Many porcelain ranges come in a matt indoor finish and a matching outdoor grip finish. Laying one look from the kitchen through bifold doors to the courtyard makes a small Thornbury block feel bigger. Line up the grout joints at the door, and plan the step or threshold so water stays outside. Browse indoor and outdoor tiles and all outdoor tiles.

Bases, falls and drainage

• A solid base: tiles outside are usually laid on a concrete slab. Old timber decks are not a suitable base. The reactive clay soils common in Melbourne's north make a well built slab important.
• Falls: the surface should fall away from the house so water does not pool against walls or doors.
• Drainage: plan grated drains at doorways and low points.
• Movement joints: larger outdoor areas need them to allow for heat and cold.

Choosing a look

Mid tones hide dust and leaves better than pale or very dark tiles. Stone and concrete looks suit most homes; warm sandy tones sit well with red brick bungalows, and cooler greys with modern extensions. For a garden wall or outdoor shower, a feature mosaic rated for outdoor use adds character. Natural stone outside should be sealed.

Pool surrounds

A pool surround is a wet, barefoot area and needs a higher slip rating, plus coping that suits the pool edge. Read our pool tiles and coping guide before you choose, and check with your pool builder.

Planning your order

Measure the area, add about 10 percent for cuts, and more for irregular courtyards. A free measure takes the guesswork out. Tiles are call to order and usually ready for pickup in 2 to 4 days, or delivered to Thornbury. Installation by our qualified trades can be quoted as a paid service.

Common questions

What tiles are best for a Thornbury courtyard?

Porcelain with an outdoor grip finish and a slip rating suited to the area, in a mid tone that hides dirt.

Can I tile over my old timber deck?

No. Outdoor tiles need a solid base such as a concrete slab with the right falls and drainage.

Can my kitchen floor tile continue outside?

Yes, if you choose a range with matching indoor and outdoor finishes.

Do outdoor tiles need sealing?

Porcelain usually does not. Natural stone used outdoors should be sealed.

Visit us or shop online

See the range in person at our showrooms: Geelong at 35A Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, phone (03) 5223 2765, and Reservoir at 214 Broadway, Reservoir VIC 3073, phone (03) 9867 5051. Both are open Monday to Friday 9:30am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:30am to 3:00pm, and Sunday by appointment only.

Planning a renovation? Request a quote and a free measure, and ask us to include installation by our qualified trades if you would like it quoted. Prefer to shop from home? Order online with Australia-wide delivery, or pick up from either showroom, usually ready in 2 to 4 days.