For your terrace, you can choose three types of tiles: ceramic, concrete, or natural stone. Each material has its own appearance, and price, maintenance, and anti-slip properties can influence your choice. Here, we take a closer look at the different tiles.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles have a sleek, modern appearance and are available in many sizes and colours. The most well-known concrete tile is the 30×30 cm with a beveled edge, also known as a pavement tile. A concrete terrace will discolour over time, and the protective layer that should prevent green algae will gradually disappear. Due to the relatively open structure, concrete is susceptible to moss and algae, and a terrace made of concrete tiles will need to be cleaned regularly with a mild cleaning agent. Concrete tiles are not resistant to acids and chemicals. In terms of price per square meter, concrete tiles are the most affordable solution.
Natural Stone
A terrace made of natural stone has an authentic look because it consists entirely of natural materials, and each tile is different. You can choose from a multitude of materials, including bluestone, marble, granite, basalt, and slate. Depending on the type, you give your terrace the desired appearance. For example, a travertine tile fits nicely in a Mediterranean garden. And slate is very suitable for a romantic country garden. Natural stone tiles are susceptible to algae. As with concrete tiles, it’s best to clean them with all-purpose cleaner and water. Here, you will find tips for safely cleaning a natural stone terrace. Certain types of natural stone can become quite slippery in combination with water. Natural stone is the most expensive of the three types of terrace tiles.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are available in many different colours, sizes, and textures. These tiles are very colourfast, wear and scratch resistant, and equipped with an anti-slip layer. Ceramic tiles do not absorb moisture and dirt and are, therefore, the easiest to maintain of the three types. Green algae are easy to remove. You can clean the tiles with any cleaning agent or spray them clean with a high-pressure cleaner. Ceramic terrace tiles are made to resemble natural stone and thus almost have the same natural appearance.
