Did you know that when choosing flooring for outdoor areas, appearance and price are not the only factors you should consider? . Not to mention that each environment has its own particularities, which means that the flooring you choose for a sidewalk may not be the best option for a swimming pool, for example.

In this article, in addition to learning about some types of outdoor flooring available on the market, you will see which factors you should take into account to make the right choice. Let’s go!

Types of flooring for outdoor areas

Good news for those looking for outdoor flooring is that there are options for a wide range of environments, tastes and budgets.

So, to get started, check out some of the options available on the market below:

• Cement flooring

one of the most widely adopted options in Brazilian construction. It is non-slip, resistant and does not retain as much heat;

• Ceramic

one of the best value for money options. In addition to being more affordable, it offers good resistance and durability;

• Porcelain

an excellent alternative for those looking for a feeling of spaciousness and who don’t want to spend so much time cleaning. Because it has small joints, the accumulation of slime is also reduced. It also has a low water absorption rate and good resistance and durability;

• Marble

another alternative for those seeking sophistication. Like granite, there are models with a non-slip texture that allows it to be used outdoors;

• Wood

it is versatile, which allows it to be used in the most different environments and projects, it is resistant to weather and gives a cozy feel to the outdoor area;

• Ecodreno

  a draining floor that allows for a 100% usable paved area and at the same time is completely permeable, in addition to maximizing the built area, providing high thermal comfort and being an ecological option.

• Natural stones

in addition to being an alternative for those looking to give a more rustic look to the environment, it is naturally non-slip and provides thermal comfort;

• Rustic granite

also known as fulgent, it is a mixture of stones and additives that has a rougher texture and an anti-slip effect;

• Interlocking

works like a kind of puzzle, in which you need to fit together separate pieces. It is also a strong, durable and environmentally friendly option.

Outdoor flooring: how to choose the best one?

With so many options available on the market, it can be difficult to choose which outdoor flooring to use, right? But the truth is that there are some factors that you should take into account when making this choice. First of all, you need to consider the purpose of the space in question. This is because the function of the covering can vary from floor to floor.

Furthermore, as the outdoor area ends up having greater contact with rainwater, the floor needs to be non-slip or at least have a rough texture to prevent the surface from becoming slippery.

In this case, it is also necessary to observe whether the friction coefficient of the chosen floor is greater than 0.4.

It is also necessary to assess whether the floors for outdoor areas will need to support weight and/or heavy foot traffic..

And finally, if there are children or elderly people in the house, which ends up requiring increased security, if the outdoor floors will be exposed to the sun or under some kind of covering and the frequency of maintenance and cleaning.

Rooms X Floors

Sidewalk: For high-traffic areas that require constant cleaning, choose pavers, natural stones, cement, or ceramics as good options.

Concrete or Paver: Determine which option works best for sidewalks.

Swimming Pool: In wet areas, invest in a non-slip floor made from resistant materials to ensure safety. Consider porcelain and cement flooring, but eco-drainage also serves well, especially at the pool’s edges, as it increases the constructed area by functioning as a permeable surface.

Barbecue: Since the barbecue area exposes flooring to grease, select materials that absorb less dirt and are easy to maintain, such as satin porcelain or ceramic tiles.

Backyard: The backyard also gets dirty easily, so opt for coverings that are easy to clean, resistant, and durable, like traditional concrete flooring. Learn more about the different types of concrete flooring.

Garage: Resistance becomes crucial in the garage due to vehicle traffic and overload. Good options include concrete, ceramic, and Portuguese stone slabs.

Balconies and Terraces: While many people prefer wood for these spaces, unpolished porcelain tiles also make a popular choice. If the space is near a pool, ensure you select a non-slip coating.

Special care required for outdoor floors

Another issue that needs to be clear is that some outdoor floors require special care during installation, cleaning and maintenance.

stone and slabs require specialized labor for installation. A drainage system ensures proper drainage, while treated wood prevents damage, and waterproofing on cement flooring stops water and grease absorption. When cleaning and maintaining outdoor flooring, marble needs special care to avoid stains. For materials like cement, stone, and porcelain, prioritize using neutral detergent.

Specific detergents are available for cleaning wood, but you still need to apply stain to protect it from sun and rain.

Conclusion

Outdoor flooring plays a vital role in enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces. With a variety of materials available, such as pavers, wood, and porcelain tiles, homeowners can choose options that suit their specific needs, whether for patios, gardens, or walkways. Prioritizing durability and maintenance can ensure that these surfaces withstand the elements while providing a beautiful and safe environment for outdoor activities.