Can porcelain tile be used outdoors?

Yes, porcelain tile with a water absorption rate below 0.5% is frost-proof and suitable for outdoor patios, walkways, and pool decks. Use a textured finish for slip resistance.

Why is porcelain tile more expensive than ceramic?

Porcelain is fired at higher temperatures with finer clay, creating a denser, harder, more durable product. The manufacturing process costs more, but the tile lasts longer and performs better.

Porcelain Floor TileGenerating image…

Flooring

Tile

$3-$15 per square foot

Porcelain Floor Tile (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 15, 2026|Sources & methodology

Porcelain floor tile is made from refined clay fired at higher temperatures than ceramic, resulting in a denser, harder, and more durable tile with very low water absorption. Its frost-proof rating makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. Available in large format sizes, realistic wood-look planks, and natural stone reproductions.

Key Features

Very low water absorption (under 0.5%)
Frost-proof for outdoor use
Through-body color on full-body porcelain
Large format sizes available
Extremely durable and scratch-resistant

Specifications

Sizes: 12x12

12x24

24x24

6x36

8x48 inches | Thickness: 8-12mm | Water Absorption: Less than 0.5% | PEI Rating: IV-V (heavy to extra-heavy traffic) | Mohs Hardness: 7-8

Applications

Bathrooms
Kitchens
Outdoor patios
Commercial floors
High-traffic areas
Shower walls and floors

Installation Overview

Requires a rigid, level substrate. Apply modified thinset mortar with a notched trowel sized for the tile format. Use a leveling system for large format tiles. Back-butter tiles over 15 inches. Allow 24-hour cure time before grouting.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Extremely durable and hard
✓ Frost-proof for outdoor use
✓ Very low water absorption
✓ Resists stains and scratches

Cons

✗ More expensive than ceramic
✗ Harder to cut without wet saw
✗ Heavier than ceramic
✗ Requires modified thinset for adhesion

Top Brands

Daltile

Mohawk

Code Requirements

Must use modified thinset for proper adhesion due to low porosity. DCOF slip resistance ratings apply for wet areas. Large format tiles require minimum 95% mortar coverage. Outdoor installations require frost-proof rating.

Buying Tips

Use full-body porcelain where chips would show (high-traffic areas). Rent a wet saw for clean cuts. Modified thinset is essential for proper adhesion. Budget for a tile leveling system when installing large format tiles.