What Type Of Tile Is Best For Outdoor Tables
What Type of Tile Is Best for Outdoor Tables
Tile-topped outdoor tables combine artful design with long-lasting durability. The right tile not only defines the table’s appearance but also determines how well it withstands sunlight, rain, and temperature changes. Choosing a suitable tile requires balancing beauty with performance.
At Sunstone Outdoor, every table is built using weather-tested materials designed to perform year after year. Below are the tile types most commonly used in outdoor table construction — and what makes each one excel.
Table of Contents
1. Porcelain Tiles: The Industry Standard
Porcelain is widely regarded as the best tile for outdoor tables. Fired at extremely high temperatures, it forms a dense, non-porous surface that resists moisture, stains, and fading.
Advantages:
Withstands heavy rain, frost, and UV exposure.
Maintains color and texture for years.
Easy to clean with mild soap and water.
Porcelain’s hardness also makes it scratch-resistant, ideal for dining and fire-pit tables. Sunstone Outdoor frequently uses matte-finish porcelain tops paired with aluminum frames for a refined yet low-maintenance aesthetic.
2. Natural Stone Tiles: Timeless Luxury
For those seeking natural character, granite, slate, or travertine tiles provide organic beauty and strength.
Granite: Exceptionally hard, heat-resistant, and perfect for outdoor kitchens or fire-pit tables.
Slate: Offers rich texture and earthy tones that complement garden or Bohemian themes.
Travertine: Brings warm color variation but benefits from annual sealing for water resistance.
At Sunstone Outdoor, stone tiles are factory-sealed with UV-stable coatings to prevent cracking and discoloration over time.
3. Ceramic Tiles: Affordable Versatility
Ceramic tiles are lighter and more budget-friendly than porcelain or stone. While not as dense, glazed ceramics perform well in covered or mild-climate patios.
Wide variety of patterns and colors.
Suitable for accent or mosaic-style tabletops.
Should be sealed to prevent moisture penetration.
They are best used in shaded or semi-sheltered outdoor settings where weather exposure is moderate.
4. Mosaic Tiles: Artistic Expression
Mosaic tiles combine function and creativity, often used in café tables or Mediterranean-inspired patios. Small pieces of ceramic, glass, or stone form decorative patterns sealed with outdoor-grade grout.
Adds color and artistic charm.
Works best in partially covered areas.
Requires periodic resealing for long-term durability.
Sunstone Outdoor designs can incorporate custom mosaic inlays upon request, merging handcrafted artistry with structural stability.
5. Composite and Glass Tiles: Modern Appeal
Glass and composite stone tiles provide a contemporary look and high resilience to water and heat.
Tempered glass tiles reflect light and resist heat distortion.
Composite stone (crushed minerals and resin) offers reduced weight and increased flexibility.
These materials are ideal for modern outdoor kitchens, Bar Tables, and poolside designs that emphasize sleek surfaces and easy maintenance.
6. Key Factors When Selecting Outdoor Table Tiles
When choosing a tile for your table, evaluate:
Porosity: Low-absorption materials like porcelain or granite prevent frost damage.
UV Stability: Ensures colors stay vibrant under constant sunlight.
Slip Resistance: Matte or textured finishes are safer in humid environments.
Maintenance Needs: Sealed surfaces reduce staining and cleaning effort.
Conclusion
The best tile for outdoor tables depends on your climate, design style, and usage. For most conditions, porcelain tiles offer the ideal mix of strength, low maintenance, and aesthetic flexibility. For a more natural or artistic feel, stone and mosaic options add unique texture and personality.
At Sunstone Outdoor, our engineers and designers combine advanced tile technology with precision-built frames to create tables that are both durable and beautiful. Each tabletop is crafted to withstand real outdoor life — delivering lasting comfort, quality, and style.
Explore more at Sunstone Outdoor Tables and discover how premium materials and smart design can redefine your outdoor space.