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Is there any real difference between interior and exterior tile? We’re looking at redoing the exterior entryway to the house. The wife likes some interior tile. Will it last? It’s in a spot that is shielded from direct sun/weather.

(02-22-2024, 09:14 PM)EatenByLimestone Wrote: [ -> ]Is there any real difference between interior and exterior tile? We’re looking at redoing the exterior entryway to the house. The wife likes some interior tile. Will it last? It’s in a spot that is shielded from direct sun/weather.

Normally exterior tile has more texture for slip resistance.    Roly

Try looking for either stone tile or outdoor rated porcelain tiles. I would really urge the use of the stone tiles. Menards carries a few.

Typically exterior tile has more traction and may be thicker. I like porcelain. Brittle on the edges but much stronger than ceramic. Real stone is less brittle and doesn't really need an edging to protect the edges. 

I found a 3/4" thick porcelain outdoor tile at Lowes and did my front porch with them. They were being sold in the garden department by the pavers. Cheaper than other thick porcelain I found and they look nice. 24x24 Porcelain. You'll need an industrial 24" tile cutter. No scribe and snap with these. I set all the interior tiles first. Then rented a saw and cut all the border tiles in 1 day. Cleaned and dried them and set them the next day. Used a poly modified thinset and an additive to the grout to help prevent water/ice damage. Ideally, you'd want an epoxy grout outdoors. I just don't like working with it, it sets pretty fast.

They're dirty but...

The wife found a porcelain tile she likes. I broke out the old stone and painted concrete below it. I did not expect it to be bedded into 3” of concrete. I had to upgrade hammers a few times. I ended up with a 5lb hand sledge. My forearm was sore that night. Lol.