Main image: The Kerblock stone-effect porcelain stoneware by Casalgrande Padana, designed specifically for outdoor environments

As outdoor space becomes increasingly important and we become more aware of our resource use, exterior flooring is playing an increasingly important role in new build and refurbishment projects.

Let’s look at some current outdoor flooring trends.

1. Stone slabs

Stone slabs have become increasingly popular and offer a myriad of design options. They are available in different sizes, colours and shapes. Stone slabs not only beautify an area, they can also increase the value of your property.

2. Anti-slip tiles

In South Africa, we often experience humid weather or lots of rain. Anti-slip tiles for a patio or terrace are an ideal option to add beauty while keeping safety in mind. Many tile manufacturers now have indoor/outdoor options where your indoor floor blends seamlessly with your outdoor area.

3. Concrete flooring

Concrete floors are a modern flooring solution that is durable and easy to maintain. Polished concrete is another option gaining popularity. Thanks to recent advances in polishing equipment and techniques, contractors are now grinding concrete floor surfaces, whether new or old, to a high-gloss finish.

4. Wood-lookalike pavers

Wood planks add warmth to a space and are ideal for outdoor living. The drawback is wood is not ideal for long-term use. That is why wood-lookalike concrete stones are ideal to achieve the rustic charm of a wood floor.

5. Porcelain tiles

Porcelain tiles are elegant and timeless and can be used for outdoor flooring. Porcelain pavers are durable, slip-resistant, weather-resistant, easy to maintain and are available in many styles.

6. Cement tiles

With the creative use of cement tiles, innovative and striking elements and pattern styles can be used for walkways, patios and outdoor living spaces.

7. Permeable paving (including SUDS)

As water resources become increasingly scarce and floods more frequent, permeable paving has become an increasingly attractive and useful option for outdoor areas. Allowing the surface water to be drained back into the soil and with so many attractive options available, permeable paving is a smart choice for any project today.

8. Rubber pavers

Rubber paver tiles are made from 100 percent recycled rubber material from car and truck tyres. Millions of tyres are discarded annually and seeing as they are not biodegradable and contain toxic chemicals, this is a serious global problem.  When used above ground, recycled rubber materials do not leach into the soil. Rubber pavers are extremely durable, resilient and a great non-slip option. They are also available in various colours and styles.

9. Composite decking

Composite decking gives you the best of both worlds. With modern technology, a gorgeous, realistic wood look without the challenges of traditional wood can be achieved. It is less expensive, easy maintainable and installation, fire-resistant, eco-friendly and 100% recyclable.

10. Wooden decking

There are a variety of decking timber and is ideal for building a beautiful naturally attractive looking deck. It is low-maintenance, durable, comes in a large variety of wood panels and is affordable.

11. Artificial grass

This is an affordable alternative to grass with a soft texture, it is more realistic, has easy maintenance and safe for kids and pets.

12. Rubber flooring

This is the ideal, most durable, and safest option for a playground. It also has low maintenance.

13. Turf flooring

Turf is a firm favourite for use on outdoor sports courts as it can withstand the challenges of weather, water, and temperature changes. The perforated surface allows water and dirt to drain, reducing the need for upkeep. It is slip-resistant, UV-stable and comes in a variety of colours and patterns.

14. Rooftop covering

Roof tiles protect rooftops from loud walking, punctures, and temperature transfer, and are perfect if there is high traffic. Rooftop flooring is durable, can withstand moisture and UV radiation, resists fading and has drainage perforations.

15. Outdoor rugs

An increasingly popular outdoor flooring option for patios, is rugs. With a variety of colourways and designs, outdoor rugs have become a functional and decorative element for your outdoor flooring. Some manufacturers are producing the rugs locally, meaning you can have Made in SA rugs for your patio.

Full acknowledgement and thanks go to https://www.flooringinc.com/blog/outdoor-flooring-options/; https://www.greatmats.com/; https://www.homify.co.za/; https://www.gardenandhome.co.za/; and https://www.homehandyman.co.za/ for the information in this editorial.

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