14 Outdoor Flooring Options - Ultimate Guide

Every patio needs outdoor flooring. But there are so many options that it can easily become overwhelming. Our ultimate guide walks you through 14 of the best outdoor flooring options, from concrete and brick to peel and stick tiles. We’ll go over the pros and cons of each type of outdoor flooring to help you decide which is best for you.

Poured Concrete

Poured concrete is an affordable and durable option for outdoor flooring. It's laid out in long slabs, unlike pavers which are small pieces that come in different shapes and sizes. They are poured and cured on site. Before it cures, you can stamp wet concrete with a pattern, which is called stamped concrete. This gives your outdoor patio a unique look.

Over time, poured concrete slabs may buckle and crack. Maintaining them can be quite a chore. But they cost less up front than concrete pavers, which we’ll go over next.

Poured Concrete Pros

Cost-effective
Durable - can last a lifetime
Water, fire, and corrosion resistant
Easy to clean
Can be stamped for versatile designs
Low maintenance
Slip and stain-resistant
Contains no VOCs

Poured Concrete Cons

Difficult to repair if cracked
The hard surface can be uncomfortable
Cold to walk on
Prone to mold and mildew if not cured and sealed properly
Noisy to walk on

Is it cheaper to lay pavers or poured concrete?

The upfront cost of poured concrete is cheaper than pavers. But pavers are easier to repair, more durable, and not prone to cracking like poured concrete. So they are a better long-term investment in most situations than poured concrete.

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Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are a modern and ultra-durable outdoor flooring option for your patio. They are common in today’s outdoor patios. They come in many different sizes and styles so you can customize your outdoor patio exactly how you want. Unlike poured concrete, pavers are pre made so they are not poured on site. This makes installation much easier. Repairs are often simpler too. With pavers, you can replace individual tiles that are damaged or cracked. This makes maintenance quick and easy.

Concrete Pavers Pros

Variety of sizes and styles
Can easily repair individual damaged tiles
More durable than poured concrete
Easy to install
Doesn’t need to cure
Slip and stain-resistant
Water, fire, and corrosion resistant
Contains no VOCs
Adds curb appeal

Concrete Pavers Cons

Need additional pavers for repairs
Prone to cracking from roots
Can become crowded with weeds
Requires a base
Can become uneven over time

Which is better, concrete or pavers for a patio?

In terms of durability and looks, concrete pavers are your best option. Although the upfront cost of poured concrete is cheaper than pavers, you’ll get more value out of pavers. It’s easy to replace individual pavers if they get damaged.

Concrete pavers are also better for high-traffic areas because they can handle more pressure per square inch than concrete. If you have heavy outdoor furniture, concrete pavers are the way to go.

Brick Pavers

Brick outdoor flooring is a rustic, traditional choice for your outdoor patio. It can compliment an old-fashioned brick fireplace or pizza oven beautifully. Brick pavers aren’t as popular as concrete, but they’re perfect if you’re after a rustic look. Not to mention they are exceptionally durable.

Brick Pavers Pros

Cost-effective
Durable - can last a lifetime
Low maintenance
Slip-resistant
Environmentally friendly
Retains heat well

Brick Pavers Cons

Difficult to repair or replace
Limited design choices
Hard surface that can be uncomfortable
Retains water which can lead to mold or mildew
Becomes uneven over time due to wear and tear

What do you put down under brick pavers?

Dirt or a sand and gravel composite are two practical options for a paver base. Use about one inch of sand for the most stable base. You don’t always need a base, but it’s recommended if your patio is uneven. An even foundation will keep your brick pavers in great condition for years.

Porcelain

Porcelain is an excellent outdoor flooring option that gives your patio a modern look. Porcelain is clay fired at over 1200º F, making it exceptionally durable. As far as installation goes. It’s not as heavy as stone, concrete, or brick. But it is difficult to cut without professional equipment. If you’re looking for a more high-end option, porcelain is the way to go. Keep in mind that it’s not the cheapest option for outdoor flooring. If you need to save money, go with concrete outdoor flooring instead.

Porcelain Pros

Weather, stain, mold, and water-resistant
Not slippery
Low maintenance
Incredibly durable
Easy to clean
Several styles and colors to choose from
Lighter than concrete and stone

Porcelain Cons

Heavier than other ceramic outdoor flooring
More expensive than other ceramic outdoor flooring
Requires special equipment to cut tiles
Requires a professional to install

Is porcelain tile good for outdoor use?

Porcelain is one of the most durable ceramic outdoor flooring options on the market. They are a more modern option than natural stone or brick and are easy to maintain. Porcelain does not require a sealant like most natural stone flooring.

Ceramic

Ceramic outdoor flooring is a more affordable, less durable alternative to porcelain. Ceramic is made from less refined materials compared to porcelain. It’s more porous and not as dense. Since it’s not as dense, it’s much easier to cut. This makes it a popular choice for avid DIYers. But it’s also not as durable.

Ceramic and porcelain are two of the most popular tile options for outdoor flooring. Consider your design preferences and budget when choosing between the two.

Ceramic Pros

Cost-effective
Durable
Variety of colors and styles available
Can be DIYed
Easy to clean

Ceramic Cons

Prone to cracking
Not very weather resistant
Porous, prone to water damage and mold

Is ceramic flooring waterproof?

Most ceramic tiles are water-resistant, not waterproof. It still works well for use in moisture-heavy areas like bathrooms, but porcelain is ideal in those areas.

Composite Wood Decking

Composite deck outdoor flooring is one of the most reliable outdoor patio flooring options. It’s durable, easy to clean, weather-resistant, and eco-friendly. Composite materials sometimes get a bad reputation because they are not the real thing. But the fact that composite decking is so durable and low maintenance has attracted homeowners. Composite deck tiles make the outdoor flooring easy to install too.

Composite Wood Decking Pros

Incredibly durable
Low maintenance
Eco friendly
Many color options
Straightforward to install
Weather, stain, mold, and water-resistant
Doesn’t splinter or rot like natural wood decking

Composite Wood Decking Cons

Not natural wood
More expensive than real wood

Is it cheaper to build a wood deck or composite deck?

A composite deck can be up to twice as expensive as a wood deck. But composite decks are much more durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain than traditional wood decks. In the long run, you'll spend more money maintaining your wood deck.

Traditional Wood Decking

Traditional wood decking is one of the most inexpensive outdoor wood flooring options, depending on the type you choose. Pine is the least expensive, but there are a wide variety of wood decking materials to choose from. They have varying durability and looks, so you have some flexibility. Cedar is a more expensive, but durable and popular, wood decking option.

If you love the look of natural wood, this is the option for you. Just be aware that this type of deck requires more maintenance than composite decking.

Traditional Wood Decking Pros

Easy to install
Affordable
Rustic natural wood look
Variety of wood decking materials to choose from

Traditional Wood Decking Cons

Requires consistent maintenance - cleaning, polishing, and staining
Needs to be pressure treated
Not very weather resistant
Not very durable

How long does a traditional wood deck last?

Most traditional wood decks last about 10 to 15 years. If you keep up with the maintenance consistently you may be able to get a few more years out of your wood deck. The quality of wood impacts the durability too. Pressure-treated pine is less durable than cedar and redwood.

Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is one of the least popular outdoor patio flooring options. But it’s quick and easy to install and requires virtually no maintenance. The main downside is you don’t get the natural look of real grass. You might choose artificial grass if you:

Need a quick and easy outdoor flooring option
Want to cover up some unsightly concrete
Don’t have time to maintain your outdoor patio consistently

Artificial Grass Pros

Durable
Low maintenance
Vibrant green color
Cost-effective
Easy to install and replace

Artificial Grass Cons

Doesn’t look natural like real grass
Not as long-lasting as natural grass
Limited design choices
Can’t grow plants or trees on the turf

Can you put artificial grass on concrete?

Yes, concrete is a great base for artificial grass. A wood base or crushed rock are two alternatives if you don’t want to pour a concrete base. If you already have concrete though, then you’re all set.

Rubber Tiles

Rubber might not be the first material you think of when you’re researching outdoor patio flooring. But it’s surprisingly durable, features plenty of design options, and is quick to install. Rubber outdoor flooring is installed in pieces, so if one gets damaged, it’s easy to replace. You might pay a little more for rubber than your standard wood or concrete outdoor floor. But often the extra investment is worth it!

Rubber Tiles Pros

Easy to install
Durable
Many color and style options
Water-resistant and heat-resistant
Slip-resistant
Easy to replace if damaged
Low maintenance

Rubber Tiles Cons

Expensive
Doesn’t look natural

Are rubber tiles good for outdoors?

Yes, rubber tiles are incredibly durable and easy to maintain. They also stay much cooler than concrete and are comfortable to walk on.

Natural Stone Pavers

Natural stone pavers are a beautiful outdoor flooring option. They are more high end than brick flooring or concrete pavers, but offer beautiful design and great longevity. Stone pavers require a flat base for the best installation, like sand or concrete. This can take some time to prepare. But they are long lasting and low maintenance, so you get your money’s worth.

Natural Stone Pavers Pros

Easy to install
Many different colors and styles
Environmentally friendly
Weather-resistant and water-resistant
Can be individually replaced
Durable

Natural Stone Pavers Cons

Hard surface that can be uncomfortable
Requires a flat surface for installation
More expensive than concrete or brick pavers

Can natural stone be used outside?

Yes, natural stone is a great option for your outdoor flooring. It’s exceptionally durable. The earthy colors blend in perfectly with the outdoor environment. As the name suggests, the stones are natural. That means they are non-toxic and environmentally friendly!

Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles are easy to install and durable. Vinyl is made of durable synthetic material that is water-resistant and easy to clean. It won’t look as natural as brick flooring or stone but it’s a great option if you like the look!

Vinyl Tiles Pros

Stain and scratch-resistant
Durable
Can imitate natural hardwood
Easy to clean
Water and weather-resistant
Comes in sheets or planks

Vinyl Tiles Cons

Must be installed in enclosed or covered outdoor patios
Not ideal in high traffic areas
Can’t support heavy weight
May contain VOCs

Can you use vinyl flooring outside?

Yes, but it’s best to install vinyl floors in an enclosed temperature-controlled patio. Vinyl floors can expand or contract when they come into contact with extreme temperatures. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your vinyl flooring is built for outdoor use.

Is outdoor vinyl waterproof?

Yes, outdoor vinyl flooring is waterproof. It’s a fantastic alternative to hardwood or brick, both which are prone to water damage and mold growth.

Peel and Stick Tiles

Peel and stick tile is a versatile and affordable outdoor flooring option for your patio. You have countless design options to customize your outdoor space. Peel and stick tile doesn’t involve the hassle of cutting tile with a tile saw. It’s a great option for beginner DIYers.

Peel and stick tile is also less expensive than real tile. It requires a steady hand, though. If you don’t align your tile correctly the first time, it’ll be difficult to remove it.

Peel and Stick Tiles Pros

Inexpensive
Many style and color options
Easy to install
Little to no mess
Can install over existing tile

Peel and Stick Tiles Cons

Requires a steady hand
Not very water-resistant
Not modern
Must properly prep the surface
Adhesive wears down over time

Can you use peel and stick tiles outside?

Yes, but they often don’t look as real as traditional materials like vinyl or laminate. Peel and stick tiles can buckle and lose their shape over time, especially when in contact with harsh weather.

Can you put peel and stick tiles on concrete?

Yes, concrete is a great surface for peel and stick tiles. As long as the base is even with no gaps, you will have no problem installing them over concrete. Make sure that you stick the tiles on properly the first time, though. It will be difficult to remove the adhesive from concrete.

How long do peel and stick tiles last?

Peel and stick tiles can last anywhere from a few years to a few decades. In high traffic areas, they will not last as long. Or if your tiles come into contact with water often, they’ll wear down faster.

Are stick on tiles waterproof?

Most peel-and-stick tiles are waterproof. But water can still seep in between the tiles, since there’s no grout. This will decrease the longevity of your tiles. You can use a sealant to help keep water out.

Laminate Outdoor Flooring

Laminate outdoor flooring is one of the easiest types to install. It’s installed over a foam pad or flooring called an underlayment. The tiles aren’t glued down but instead installed on top of the foam pad.

Laminate is a durable composite flooring that can last decades. It is a composite material that’s made up of three layers: a plastic top layer, an image layer that makes the floor look realistic, and a bottom durable wood composite layer. For outdoor use, it’s important to seek out waterproof flooring.

Laminate Outdoor Flooring Pros

Scratch and slip-resistant
Easy to install
Inexpensive
Easy to clean

Laminate Outdoor Flooring Cons

Not very water-resistant
Chips easily
Contains VOCs
Requires a stable subfloor
Can’t be refinished - will eventually require replacement

Can you use waterproof laminate flooring outside?

Yes, as long as your laminate flooring is waterproof and weather resistant, you should be fine. The bottom layer of laminate flooring is wood so it’s typically not waterproof. Just look for laminate floors specifically designed for outdoor use.

How long will laminate flooring last outside?

Outdoor-approved laminate flooring can last up to 25 years on your outdoor patio. In high traffic areas, it’ll last about 10 years. Most laminate flooring is manufactured for indoor use.

Pea Gravel

Pea gravel is a unique option for your outdoor patio. It’s not glued down, poured, or installed in sheets like other flooring options on this list. Pea gravel is easy to clean and isn’t prone to cracking. It will require refilling every few years though.

Over time, gravel tends to move around and track into your home or yard. But, with a porous floor, gravel drains easily. You don’t have to worry about puddles or water damage.

Pea Gravel Pros

Easy to clean
Great drainage
Prevents weeds from growing
Affordable
Won’t crack or buckle like other outdoor floors
Comfortable to walk on

Pea Gravel Cons

Uneven surface
Requires consistent maintenance
Gravel moves and spreads easily
Difficult to de-ice
Requires refilling every few years

Can I use pea gravel as a patio base?

Pea gravel is not the ideal material for a patio base. Most pea gravel is about ⅛” to ¼” thick, which is a little small for a patio base. Typically, gravel for patio bases is ¾” thick. Pea gravel won’t compact as tightly which means it may shift over time.

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Best Outdoor Flooring for Deck

For your deck, you have two options: traditional or composite wood decking. Both types are easy to install and affordable. Composite decking is easier to clean and maintain than traditional decking. It is also more durable and weather resistant. The main downside to composite outdoor flooring is that you don’t get the look of real wood.

Best Outdoor Flooring Material for Snow

Porcelain or slate pavers stand up well to cold temperatures. Concrete and brick flooring are more porous which can lead to cracks over time. But quality concrete and brick pavers are a safe option as well. Check out the manufacturer’s instructions to confirm that your outdoor material is safe in cold climates.

Best Outdoor Flooring for a Balcony

Three popular options for your balcony are rubber tiles, vinyl tiles, or composite wood decking. All three of these options are exceptionally durable, water-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Best Outdoor Flooring Over Concrete

Composite hardwood, vinyl, or laminate flooring are all great options over a concrete slab. These floors are all installed in sheets or pieces which makes installation easy for most DIYers.

Best Outdoor Flooring Over Grass

Vinyl or rubber tiles are effective options over grass. These tiles can be a temporary or permanent option depending on your needs. Composite decking over grass is possible, but requires quite a bit of prep. You have to clear the base of any plants and rocks and level it before installation.

Best Outdoor Flooring for Hot Weather

For hot weather, you have several options for outdoor flooring. Avoid wood flooring because it can discolor in the sun over time.

Vinyl
Porcelain
Concrete
Rubber
Travertine

Best Outdoor Flooring for an Uneven Surface

Outdoor carpet, vinyl, and laminate flooring are reliable options for outdoor flooring on uneven surfaces. Hardwood flooring and pavers won’t last long on uneven surfaces. It’s best to level out the foundation for your floor, if possible. This will increase its longevity and make it easier to maintain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of flooring is best for outdoors?

The best type of flooring for outdoors depends on your patio setup, design preferences, and budget among other factors. Concrete, laminate, and peel-and-stick tile are on the less expensive end, while pavers and porcelain are more high-end options. Vinyl flooring is one of the best outdoor flooring options in enclosed temperature-controlled spaces.

What is the cheapest outdoor flooring option?

One of the cheapest outdoor flooring options is poured concrete. It is durable and easy to clean, but is prone to cracking. Laminate flooring is also quite inexpensive for your outdoor patio. It’s easy to install too.

Can I use hardwood flooring outside?

Yes, as long as the wood is treated for outdoor use. Composite wood flooring is often a better option because it is more durable and requires less maintenance than natural hardwood.

What can you put over concrete floors outside?

You have a lot of options, including vinyl, artificial grass, concrete pavers, brick pavers, peel and stick tile, and more. If your concrete subfloor is uneven, laminate is a great option. Avoid pavers; they won’t stay in place and will be difficult to walk on.

What is the least slippery outdoor flooring?

Concrete, concrete pavers, brick pavers, and rubber tiles are all incredibly slip-resistant and durable. Ceramic and porcelain, on the other hand, are known to be quite slippery.

That wraps up our complete guide on outdoor flooring options. There are so many options at your disposal!

Here’s the list once again:

Poured concrete
Concrete pavers
Brick pavers
Porcelain
Ceramic
Composite wood decking
Traditional wood decking
Artificial grass
Rubber tiles
Natural stone pavers
Vinyl tiles
Peel and stick tiles
Laminate outdoor flooring
Pea gravel

Before you settle on an outdoor flooring material, make sure you do your research. We want your floor to last you decades!

When choosing patio floor covering and exterior flooring for your porch or outdoor patio, there are plenty of cheap outdoor flooring solutions to consider. For heat resistant flooring that can stand up to the elements, look into patio floor options like poured concrete, pea gravel, or rubber tiles. These durable, affordable outdoor floor coverings are easy to install and maintain. If you want a natural wood look without the hassle, composite decking makes a great outdoor patio flooring idea. Or go classic with brick pavers or porcelain tile. With so many patio flooring ideas to choose from, you can find cheap, durable options to suit your style and budget. Focus on low-maintenance, weather-resistant best outdoor flooring ideas that will last for years to come.

For more inspiration on patio floor covering, cheap outdoor flooring solutions, exterior flooring for porch, and the best outdoor flooring ideas to suit your space, keep reading. Discover how to choose the perfect exterior flooring for your porch or patio. Get tips on installation and maintenance to ensure your new outdoor patio flooring ideas will stand the test of time. Achieving your dream outdoor living space is easy with the right outdoor floor covering that fits your lifestyle and budget.

We hope you were able to find the one for you from this list of best outdoor flooring options.

For more outdoor patio content, outdoor flooring ideas, and inspiration, check out the articles below!

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