Slate Tile For Outside Patio?

ridgeline_dev

Ok, we are doing a job and the plan is to put some type of slate/ceramic over the cement patio to give it a finished look. I have heard slate does not do well outside (especially in freezing climates).

However, I have heard Quartzite has a very similar look to slate but has the resistance to withstand the elements.

Anyone have any experience with this, or any input to help us decide.

Thanks.

__________________
James
-Ridgeline Development

Floorwizard

I know that Porcelain will do well.

__________________
------------------------
"in 20 years you will regret more what you did not do than what you did"

diego79

I would stay away from most slate.

Go with an man made product, that have some really nice porcelain/ceramics out there that you may be very happy with.

__________________
Tampa Tile & Grout Cleaning

"All you need in this life is ignorance and confidence,
and then success is sure".

-Mark Twain

Shaughnn

Hello James,
There are some very good stone-pattern porcelains available today, that have a broad range of stamping and color applications. The old stone-look porcelains looked cheap because the manufacturers used too few stamping templates and the color was usually "spotty". All fixed now!
What's the condition of the pad you'll be setting to and what's the weather like in your area?
Best of luck,
Shaughnn

ridgeline_dev

I am located in Denver, CO...so the winters are fairly mild, but we do get snow. As far as the slab goes, it is in excellent shape. I can't find a crack in it anywhere.

Thanks.

__________________
James
-Ridgeline Development

stacker

i am currently on a job where the homeowner is putting down 16x16 slate on the front and back porches.about 1200 sf.this is some rough stuff,i am having hell tring to keep the tile smooth.also,th ho wants 1/4 grout joints,but tile are not all square,so i am having to eyeball,with some bigger and some smaller grout joints.and to top it off,i have to wait for the ho "enhance"the tile before i can grout.all i can say is it is a pain in the azz and would recommend anything other than slate

__________________
life is short,do your masonry naked!!
http://ok.local.yahoo.biz/knabemasonry/index.html

Mike Finley

Go to Florida Tile on Jason st and check out Pietra Art Slate.