Outdoor wall tiles add color, texture and elegance to your patio, deck or pool area. They can also be used to provide privacy or a barrier between your outdoor living space and your neighbor’s. Whether you want a more rustic look or a more contemporary one, there’s an outdoor tile that suits your taste and budget.

1. Determine Your Budget and Pick a Style

When shopping for outdoor wall tiles, it’s important to know how much you can afford to spend. A smaller budget will allow you to get a more cost-effective tile, while a larger budget will give you access to better quality materials.

2. Choose the Right Type of Tile for Your Outdoor Project

When selecting outdoor wall tiles, it’s a good idea to determine your climate and what kind of weather you usually experience. Tiles that aren’t rated for the type of weather you typically get won’t last as long and may crack, chip or discolor over time.

3. Use a Grout Sealer

A good grout sealer will protect your outdoor wall tile from moisture, mold, and mildew. It will also help it hold up better against high humidity and fading.

4. Make Sure Your Walls Are Prepared for Installation

Before you can start tiling, you must clean your walls and ensure they are prepared for installation. Using a stiff brush, sweep up any dirt or debris and clean the surface thoroughly. If you need to, use a water sprayer or sponge and wipe down the surface before tiling.

5. Find the Right Adhesives for Your Outdoor Project

Whether you’re going to install your outdoor wall tiles yourself or hire a professional, it’s important to use strong, dependable adhesives. Modified thin-set mortar and polyurethane-based adhesives are both excellent options. They are both water-resistant, and they’re stronger than traditional construction adhesives.

6. Keep Your Walls Dry and Avoid Damaging the Tile

When laying outdoor wall tiles, it’s a smart idea to leave your walls dry for at least 24 hours after you’re finished. This will prevent damage to the tiles, and it will also keep them from getting soaked by rain and snow.

7. Install Your Tiles in a Pattern

To create an attractive design, you should lay the tiles in a pattern that will compliment your patio or other outdoor living space. The most common patterns include subway, chevron and herringbone. These patterns can make your outdoor wall look stylish and contemporary, or rustic and classic.

8. Identify Your Favorite Tiles and Choose Them

There are many different types of outdoor wall tiles to choose from, so it’s important to find the ones that work best for you. These include natural stone, ceramic and porcelain, quarry, and sandstone tiles.

9. Consider Concrete and Travertine Tile

When it comes to creating a textured outdoor floor, you can’t go wrong with concrete tile. This is a more cost-effective alternative to natural stone that is durable and easy to maintain.