Tiling a Deck

Fiberglass grating is a sturdy, drainable substrate option for exterior stone and ceramic tile

The tiles were butted closely together and installed without grout, allowing water to drain between the tiles and through the fiberglass grating. Kim Katwijk

Not many deck builders offer tile as an alternative to wood or composite decking. That's a shame, because stone or ceramic tile is well-suited for both indoor and outdoor use, making it an excellent flooring choice for clients who want a seamless transition from their kitchen to their deck. Another selling point is that tile is extremely durable and holds up well under the heavy foot traffic that you find at an entry. And where stone has been used for pathways or on a patio, installing a matching or complementary pattern on the deck can be a great way to tie the landscaping together.