How to Lay Outdoor Tiles

Laying outdoor tiles is a great way to create a beautiful area for entertaining, to make a statement in your landscaping, or to make decks more durable and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you are attempting to breathe new life into an old deck or want to create a space from scratch, learning how to lay outdoor tiles is a positive first step towards a landscape you can be pleased with.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tile
• Landscaping cloth
• Architectural rock
• Tamper
• Broom
• Sand
• Shovel

1. Choose the area where you will be laying outdoor tiles. Select the tiles you wish to lay outdoors. Remember that these tiles should be suitable for exposure to the elements.

2. Create the pattern you want to use in your outdoor tiles.

3. Level off the area where you'll be applying the tile. The ground will shift and change over time, but you want this area as flat as possible when laying the tiles.

4. Prepare a moisture barrier. Place a layer of landscaping cloth on the ground in the area where you will be laying the outdoor tiles. Spread architectural rock over the landscaping cloth. Pour sand over the top of the architectural rock.

5. Lay the tiles in the preselected pattern.

6. Apply sand to the top of the tile. Sweep sand into cracks. Use a tamper to drive sand into cracks. Remove excess sand by gently brushing with the broom.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution with the tamper to avoid chipping or breaking the tiles.

Resources

• Tiling Outdoor Decks
• Installing Outdoor Tiles