2023 Outdoor Floor Tile Prices And Installation

Floor tiles are often found inside the home, but some patios, gardens, and other areas can be covered with outdoor floor tiles.

These outdoor tiles are designed to endure the elements without breaking while providing a pleasing aesthetic.

Outdoor Floor Tile Average Cost

The average cost of outdoor tile installation is around $2,300.

Because each home is different, the actual price can vary immensely.

You can sometimes spend as little as $500, but luxurious projects can cost $13,000, consisting of the finest materials and hiring the most expensive contractors. 

Note that outdoor installation is only a blanket term, and many applications exist for these tiles. They can be used in the following places:

• Pool decks
• Walkways
• Patios
• Steps
• Outdoor dining areas
• Outdoor living rooms

Other factors that influence the final price of your project include:

• Labor costs
• Materials
• Location
• Old tile removal
• Land grading
• Landscape design

Most homeowners will usually encounter the first three factors.

Materials can be cheap or cost twice the amount of more affordable options.

Labor costs are necessary, as contractors must be paid fairly due to their experience and equipment.

Location can be a significant factor as well. For example, tiles in one state can cost more than in another.

Ultimately, you’ll want to be careful about prices and check with the company first. 

Some homes have old tiles that contractors must remove, which takes time and money. Removal can be expected to cost around $3 per square foot.

Extra labor, such as tile removal, can also include working on the concrete under the tiles, as there may be damage to address before installation. 

Land grading isn’t always necessary, but it’s essential for bumpy ground that must be leveled before tiles can be installed. Grading can cost $2,000 on average. 

Working with a professional landscaper to revamp the whole yard can cost $4,000 on average. The area type will usually determine the final price. 

Check this chart for the average total cost of installing outdoor tiles. 

Tile Application	Typical Size in Square Feet	Average Total Cost
Pool Deck	360 sq. ft.	$12,000
Walkway	160 sq. ft.	$5,800
Small Patio	50 sq. ft.	$1,750
Stoops or Steps	15 sq. ft.	$470
Outdoor Dining Area	170 sq. ft.	$6,200

What Types Of Outdoor Floor Tiles Are There?

Here are 14 types of common outdoor floor tiles.

We’ll delve into their features, costs, and pros and cons.

We’ll only include the average price per square foot plus labor costs. Therefore, you should take these figures as an estimate and guide more than concrete figures, as costs could vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above. 

Material	Cost per Square Foot
Slate	$13 per Square Foot
Granite	$60 per Square Foot
Limestone	$60 per Square Foot
Sandstone	$60 per Square Foot
Travertine	$30 per Square Foot
Soapstone	$60 per Square Foot
Quarry Tiles	$6 per Square Foot
Ceramic	$12 per Square Foot
Porcelain	$15 per Square Foot
Concrete	$3 per Square Foot
Wood Deck Tiles	$19 per Square Foot
Interlocking Plastic	$4 per Square Foot
Rubber	$2 per Square Foot
Carpet	$3 per Square Foot

Slate Floor Tiles

Slate is a natural material costing an average of $13 per square foot.

Slate is also used in the construction of roof tiles, a testament to its durability.

Slate is water-resistant and comes naturally textured, making it a suitable candidate for pool decks and other wet areas. 

As a sedimentary rock, slate is the result of shale undergoing metamorphosis.

It usually comes in darker colors, like gray or black, but you can shop for outdoor slate  floor tiles in other colors, like green or blue, often blended to create a mesmerizing sight.

Slate has a distinctive sheen that helps it stand out in any garden or patio.

You can choose specific slate tiles for different applications depending on their texture.

Some outdoor slate  floor tiles are smooth, while others are rougher. The latter is more suitable for wet areas, whereas smoother ones are perfect for dry spaces. 

Slate quarried in cold locations will withstand snow and ice. Therefore, it’s a great material even in colder areas, but you’ll need a specific type to be safe.

Did you know? Slate has been used in construction for more than a thousand years. Some slate roofs or tiles still exist, dating back to a century ago if not more. 

Pros:

• Extremely durable material
• Non-slip surface
• Beautiful appearance

Cons:

• Difficult to move
• Requires specialized skills to install
• Usually more expensive than most materials

Granite Floor Tiles

Granite floor tiles can be cheap or quadruple the price of some slate tiles, with an average cost of $60 per square foot.

You may end up paying less for more affordable options.

You can get smooth or textured granite tiles based on your needs. 

Granite is used to create countertops, tables, and tiles due to its durability, anti-corrosion properties, and how easily this stone is maintained.

Granite withstands staining and makes for the perfect dining area tile material.

In addition, granite  floor tiles are hypoallergenic, meaning it won’t trigger any allergic reactions in people. 

As outdoor granite floor tiles comes in various colors, homeowners can select tiles according to the home’s color scheme. This makes the material incredibly versatile.

It’s no wonder granite tiles can be found in so many locations. 

Pros:

• Extremely durable material
• Highly scratch-resistant
• Beautiful appearance

Cons:

• More slippery when wet
• Premium tiles are costly

Limestone Floor Tiles

Limestone floor tiles have an average cost of $60 per square foot, but its pricing is similar to granite.

Limestone may not be as well-known as slate or granite, but it’s still a suitable choice for outdoor floor tiles.

The simple elegance and toughness of limestone can be perfect complements to certain homes. 

The ancient Egyptians used limestone and sandstone to build the pyramids, and they chose limestone due to its resilience against the elements. The pyramids are still standing, and they’ve endured strong desert winds, the baking sun, and freezing cold for centuries. 

Pros:

• Many price points to choose from
• Earthy aesthetic
• Proven for millennia

Cons:

• Chips and scratches more easily
• Requires more sealing
• Not the best in harsh winters

Sandstone FloorTiles

Costing $60 on average and similar to its cousin limestone, sandstone is a natural sedimentary rock.

However, sandstone  floor tiles are only suitable for use in locations that don’t have freezing winters due to its natural softness.

Sandstone is even softer than limestone, but its aesthetic properties make it a good choice for outdoor  floor tiles.

Sandstone floor tiles should be regularly sealed to prevent staining and water penetration.

Outdoor sandstone floor tiles usually comes in shaped slabs, but it’s possible to purchase irregular tiles for a different look. 

Pros:

• Beautiful texture
• Can be irregularly shaped for specific designs
• Cheaper than limestone, even with a higher average price

Cons:

• Chips and scratches more easily
• Requires more regular sealing
• Not the best in freezing winters

Pro Tip: Sandstone is perfect for dry patios that will never be exposed to water and snow. Regular sealing will prevent it from staining. 

Travertine Floor Tiles

Travertine floor tiles are a popular pick for warm areas, at an average cost of $30 per square foot.

Travertine is the same material used to build the Colosseum in Rome.

This natural rock is durable and beautiful, though it can be affected by harsh chemicals. 

Due to not absorbing much heat from direct sunlight, travertine floor tiles are suitable for sunny climates, as they’re cool to step on.

Even during cold months, outdoor travertine floor tiles stay warmer than the outside temperature. 
Pros

• Remains at the same temperature 
• Durable 
• Many colors and textures

Cons

• Requires regular cleaning
• Slippery when wet

Soapstone Floor Tiles

Soapstone is a water-resistant and stain-resistant metamorphic stone that costs $60 per square foot.

Soapstone floor tiles are used in sauna rooms as it doesn’t cause slipping, even in the dampest conditions.

The material is smooth to the touch and is comfortable to step on barefoot.

Outdoor soapstone floor tiles have a smooth surface that is relatively easy to clean.

Despite these properties, soapstone is a fragile material that can chip or crack if you drop something on it. 

Soapstone contains talc, a soft material. That’s why soapstone floor tiles are so fragile. But tiles with lower talc content do exist. 

Pros:

• Comfortable to step on
• Anti-slip
• Easy to clean

Cons:

• Fragile
• Not good for freezing winters but can withstand cold

Quarry Floor Tile

On average, outdoor quarry floor tiles are usually found for $6 per square foot, and they’re considered an affordable outdoor tile material.

Contrary to what many believe, these outdoor floor tiles are not processed in a quarry but are a mixture of minerals and stones, such as clay and shale.

After heat treatment, quarry tiles become durable and water-resistant suitable for outdoor flooring. 

Many homeowners are fond of outdoor quarry tiles as they have a warm look.

Quarry floor tiles can be used as patio flooring, steps, and more.

These thicker tiles don’t require sealing but need high-quality grouting. 

Due to their rougher texture, quarry floor tiles are sometimes placed on swimming decks. The roughness remains even when the tiles get wet. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Durable choice
• Anti-slip properties

Cons:

• Fragile
• Not suitable for freezing winters but can withstand cold

Ceramic Floor Tiles

Due to their artificial nature, ceramic floor tiles are also affordable, selling for $12 per square foot.

Ceramic is clay that has been glazed and treated to become hard, though they are brittle. This material is ubiquitous and can be found anywhere in the U.S. 

Ceramic tile is considered one of the few materials that work anywhere inside or outside the home.

Its water resistance rating is excellent, and the outdoor ceramic floor tiles don’t become slippery when wet. That’s why many bathrooms and kitchens have them. 

One issue with ceramic is that it gets cold in the winter.

Unlike soapstone, outdoor ceramic floor tiles are not as comfortable to step on.

Transporting these heavy ceramic floor tiles can get strenuous after prolonged periods. 

Did you know? Ceramic tiles are challenging to cut to size, and installing them requires extensive experience. 

Pros:

• Affordable
• Durable choice
• Common
• Many colors and styles

Cons:

• Brittle
• Not very comfortable to step on
• Heavy

Porcelain Floor Tiles

Porcelain floor tiles have an average cost of $15 per square foot but can be found at lower prices.

Porcelain is highly similar to ceramic, to the point where people consider the terms interchangeable. But this is not the case.

The main difference between porcelain and ceramic is the water absorption rate.

Porcelain cannot absorb at a rate of more than 0.5%, while ceramics have a higher absorption rate. Therefore, porcelain floor tiles are even more suitable for wet areas. 

Thanks to the more stringent manufacturing procedures, porcelain is typically also harder than ceramic. However, it costs more than its softer cousin. 

Pros:

• Water-resistant
• Non-slip properties
• Best for wet locations

Cons:

• Brittle
• More expensive
• Tougher to install than ceramic

Concrete Floor Tiles

Concrete is among the cheapest tile material choices, usually going for $3 a square foot.

The wet concrete mixture is poured into molds to form solid tiles later installed outdoors or elsewhere.

Concrete is incredibly durable and takes much effort to damage. 

Even if the material is inexpensive, it’s possible to make concrete floor tiles look like natural stone.

Manufacturers add textures and colors to the outdoor concrete floor tiles to help them look aesthetically pleasing. 

Concrete floor tiles can be stained if they have not been sealed. This process must happen regularly to ensure the surface stays attractive.

Pros:

• Lasts for a lifetime
• Easy to clean
• Matches styles without much work

Cons:

• Extremely heavy
• Not the most aesthetic material at lower prices

Wood Deck Tiles

On average, wooden deck tiles cost $19 per square foot, since they’re cheaper than traditional deck planks.

The choice of wood type will affect the final price, but using the proper wood for the location is a good idea, as some woods cannot survive in certain locales for too long.

Many homeowners install wood deck tiles on patios, as wood is comfortable to step on.

The wood deck tiles commonly seen are usually made of cedar or redwood. These materials are excellent for DIY fans, but professionals can perform the job faster. 

Pros:

• Not challenging to install
• Weather-resistant
• Great for patios

Cons:

• Not as durable as stone
• Can be stained if not treated

Interlocking Plastic Floor Tiles

Commonly found in gyms, interlocking plastic floor tiles are incredibly cheap, as you can buy them for around $4 a square foot.

They’re not the most appealing solution for outdoor flooring, but interlocking plastic floor tiles are more than reliable.

Anyone at home can install interlocking plastic floor tiles on any solid, level, clean surface. 

Plastic tiles made for outdoor applications tend to have holes to let water drain.

Many use outdoor interlocking plastic floor tiles to cover a concrete floor, as they tend to look better and are more comfortable underfoot. 

Pros:

• DIY-friendly
• Easily obtained
• Durable 

Cons:

• Not elegant
• Not a permanent solution

Did you know? Plastic tiles can be placed in home gyms above concrete floors. They can absorb impact very well without breaking.

Rubber Floor Tiles

Similar to the plastic tiles above, rubber floor tiles cost $2 a square foot.

Outdoor rubber floor tiles are mostly used for play areas and sports courts due to their safety and resilience.

Rubber floor tiles are waterproof, making them durable outside. 

When laid outside, rubber floor tiles can get slippery after rain, and the moisture can make them emit a rubbery smell.

Nevertheless, outdoor rubber floor tiles are a cost-effective and DIY outdoor flooring solution.

Having outdoor rubber floor tiles installed by professionals can eliminate the water problem, as the pros can ensure proper drainage for an outdoor sports court.

Pros:

• DIY-friendly
• Waterproof
• Absorbs impact

Cons:

• Unpleasant smell
• Slippery when wet

Carpet Floor Tiles

Sometimes called carpet squares, carpet floor tiles cost $3 per square foot, depending on brand and type.

Outdoor carpet floor tiles tend to be attached to the floor by adhesives or nails.

There are many types of outdoor carpet floor tiles to choose from. 

Carpet floor tiles can be made of artificial or natural fabric. The latter is usually more expensive, but it emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These are harmful to the human body and must be cleared from the house with proper ventilation. 

Pros:

• Highly affordable
• Great anywhere
• Not too hard to replace depending on model

Cons:

• Artificial carpets can emit harmful VOCs
• Some types are difficult to replace

What Is the Most Cost-Effective Outdoor Flooring?

There is no clear answer to this question, as some of the cheapest outdoor floor tiles aren’t the best for specific situations.

However, concrete is a good choice that can also be covered with other tiles, such as plastic or rubber, which are cheap and DIY-friendly. 

Can You Use Ceramic Tiles On A Patio?

Yes, because you can technically use ceramic tiles anywhere.

However, using ceramic tiles on a patio is not the best choice, and there are better options if you prefer them, such as wood deck tiles.

It’s up to you to decide whether they suit your patio. 

Do Outdoor Tiles Need Grout?

Those made of natural stone or processed minerals will require grout to stay in place.

Rubber, plastic, and carpet tiles don’t need grout as they’re attached using other methods. 

Can Tile Be Used On An Outdoor Patio?

If it fits your home’s design, tiles are an excellent choice for outdoor patios.

Tiles are easy to clean and durable, depending on the material chosen.

Can You Put Outdoor Tile Over Concrete?

As long as the concrete is clean and dry, it’s possible to install outdoor tiles over a concrete floor.

Any damage to the concrete needs to be fixed first before overlaying with outdoor floor tiles. 

What Kind Of Outdoor Flooring Can You Put Over Concrete?

Natural stone tiles, softer tiles, and carpet tiles are all excellent choices to beautify or make concrete floors more comfortable. 

Which Floor Tiles Are Best for Outdoors?

The answer depends on what you want to achieve.

The best general answer is concrete, because it can later serve as a base for other outdoor floor tiles.

Beautiful and Enduring

Installing proper outdoor floor tiles can increase a home’s curb appeal and result in a higher return on investment.

While not every tile is suitable for every location, there’s always a choice that suits your needs.

In the end, it’s best to consult a trained landscaper to find out the best material for your space and budget.