The Best Patio Flooring

Buying Guide

One of the biggest differences between decks and patios is the ground you stand on. While decks traditionally feature wood, patios are generally built on some form of concrete.

But there are other options. With patio flooring tiles, you can turn your patio into a comfortable, attractive outdoor living space. Often these are built for easy installation, meaning you can do the work without the use of tools or professional technicians.

Although wood is the go-to look for patio flooring, it’s important to take a close look at the type of material you’re getting. It needs to be something that can withstand various weather conditions, from rain to hail to sleet to snow. Plastic that looks like wood can also be built to last without taking away from the look you’re going for.

Another thing to consider is the location of your patio. If you’re installing flooring near a pool, for instance, you’ll want to make sure it has anti-slip features built in. This is especially important with plastics, which can be slippery if not built specifically to provide friction. If your patio gets direct sunlight, you may want to consider traditional wood over plastic since plastic can retain heat.

• Patio flooring is often sold as tiles that can be placed as needed. You’ll be given a dimension for the set you’re buying, but you can also put multiple sets together to cover a larger area.
• Some flooring tiles can be used either indoors or outdoors. This type of flooring may also work great as a floormat or shower mat.
• Weather resistance can depend on the material, but some are also coated in a finish that provides extra durability.
• If you’re buying plastic tiles, make sure they’re built for proper water drain-off so that mildew doesn’t become a problem.
• Occasionally you’ll need to spray off your patio. Make sure you purchase flooring that can be easily cleaned using water and maybe a little soap.
• Check the installation process carefully for any wood flooring you choose. Some might need hardware, while many others simply lock together.
• If your patio gets direct sunlight for any part of the day, there are a couple of considerations. One is fading. You’ll want flooring that can hold up under harmful UV rays. Another is how the material retains heat. This is especially important if you have pets or young children who might want to walk across it barefoot.