Do porcelain tiles really work as an outside tile?

[dulwichquine]

We have to decide on tiles for our kitchen extension. We need large patio area tiled as well. Keen to get some feedback on whether standard non slip porcelain tiles, advertised as suitable to be used outside, really are up to the job. Builder not that keen! We have found a tile which could work outside and in but not sure if we are about to make a very expensive mistake. Does anyone have any thoughts? Much appreciated.

[OnePlanOnHouzz]

They are usually thicker - and if advertised as suitable - then should be ! Builder may be worried that if they crack you will call him back - reassure him you'd call the supplier first !
Or he may be worried that if they are in a place that won't get much sun they may get skippy due to algee growth ...
Builders are usually ( ok - some are ) a font of knowledge - so might just be simpler to ask him why he's not kean ?

[OnePlanOnHouzz]

Lol ! *slippy !!! Not skippy !!!

[ConnieSpry]

I have them and its fine - indoor version in kitchen , outdoor version in same range on our minuscule patio. I think they are Casa Nera.

[dulwichquine]

Thank you for messages. Builder not fantastically keen as he reckons they are too thin to be resilient enough for frost but tile company says they are suitable for exterior use and they are non slip. I am minded to give it a go. Key thing is I guess to make sure adhesive is right. @connieSpry did you give the exterior version a sealant to seal in colour?

[ConnieSpry]

@connieSpry did you give the exterior version a sealant to seal in colour?

Dulwich, as far as I know , no. I think it was a simple as the tile manufacturer said they were suitable for outdoor use and I believed them . They have been down 3 - 4 years now and are fine. Mine are in a v small courtyard and tiled right up to walls on all sides so none of the edges of the tiles are exposed if that makes any difference. Also with it being walled it is sheltered. But I don't recall any querying from the tiler. I think these are mine www.worldsendtiles.co.uk/p-2631-nera-white-strutturato-600x1200x12mm.aspx

[dulwichquine]

Thank you! Went ahead and bought mine today. I like your ones as well!