The outdoor areas take center stage at this time of year, when the high temperatures invite us to live on the street. Creating accessible and comfortable outdoor spaces is key to getting the most out of these and achieving it begins with choose a good exterior flooring.
Choosing a pavement that responds well to the inclement weather of the place where we live is very important. But so is that responds to our practical needs in terms of cost, style and maintenance. Suitable alternatives for paving a patio, terrace or porch there are many, but which one is the best for us?
Analyzing the weather conditions is important since not all materials respond in the same way to them. But it is also important to consider what use will be given to these outdoor areas and how much we are willing to work on their maintenance. They are not few the factors you should take into account:
- The climate
- The use
- maintenance
- Durability of material
- The cost
- The ease of installation
Once you have reflected on these factors, the small cards that we have prepared for the different types of exterior flooring will help you choose the most appropriate one. They are not all that they are, but they are the most important.
Natural stone
Natural stone is one of the most popular alternatives and also more durable to pave outdoor spaces. Among the most used you will find stones, slabs and slabs of quartzite and slate, very resistant to changes in temperature and humidity.
Regardless of what your choice is will require very little maintenance. However, you must bear in mind that the cost will be high since to the high price of the material itself you will have to add that of the professional who carries out the work.
- Pros: Durability, low maintenance, and rustic look
- Against: High cost
Ceramic stoneware
There are numerous ceramic materials designed to pave outdoor spaces. Ceramic stoneware is one of the most appreciated for its resistance to inclement weather and its durability. And porcelain stoneware for being the most Moisture resistant thanks to its low porosity.
Beyond the technical advantages, ceramic stoneware also has numerous decorative advantages. It is a material able to perfectly imitate the textures of natural materials such as stone, marble, rust or wood. They are also presented in different formats and finishes.
- For: Resistance and versatility
- Against: The price (if we talk about porcelain stoneware)
Concrete
Concrete has revolutionized the world of interior design. This material is one of the most appreciated both indoors and outdoors to create sober spaces with an industrial and contemporary aesthetic. An aesthetic, the latter, to which the absence of joints, the possibility of creating continuous surfaces, contributes especially.
Properly sealed, it withstands adverse weather conditions very well. Compared to the rest of the options that we have already considered, it is a cheap material. Neither its cost nor its maintenance will keep you awake.
- In favor: Modern aesthetics, low cost and maintenance.
- Against: Cold aesthetics.
Composite
Composite is a recycled and recyclable material that does not crack, chip, swell, rot, or discolor. It is non-slip, very resistant and offers high durability even in the most adverse conditions. It does not require maintenance and adopts a finish similar to that of wood, being able to choose from a wide variety of tones and formats.
- In favor: resistance, durability, price and installation
- Against: -
Wood
The wooden floors still enjoy a high demand despite the maintenance they require to stay in good condition. The warmth they bring to outdoor spaces is undeniable but they suffer greatly if exposed to sudden changes in temperature and conditions of constant humidity.
Durability will depend on both the type of wood and the conditions to which it is subjected and the maintenance that is provided. The pine wood that you will find in many formats is the most economical, but not the most suitable. The most appropriate for outdoor use are the tropical woods like Teka or Acacia.
- In favor: Natural and warm aesthetics
- Against: Durability and need for annual maintenance.
Which of these types of exterior flooring would you choose for your terrace or patio? Remember that you do not have to choose just one, you can combine them to achieve the best of each of them.