Choosing the right outdoor tiles isn’t just about style, it’s also about safety. In Ireland’s ever-changing weather, non-slip outdoor tiles are essential for patios, garden paths, steps, and other exposed areas. Whether you're entertaining outdoors or simply walking to your shed, slippery surfaces can be a serious hazard - especially when wet, frosty, or moss-covered.
Why Non-Slip Outdoor Tiles Matter
Outdoor tiles are exposed to:
- Rain and moisture
- Moss and algae growth
- Frost and ice
- Sloped or uneven ground
In these conditions, standard indoor tiles or glossy finishes can become dangerously slippery. That’s why outdoor tiles need a textured, anti-slip surface and a high slip resistance rating (also known as the R rating).
What Is an R-Rating for Outdoor Tiles?
Tiles are rated for slip resistance from R9 to R13:
- R9: smooth and least slip-resistant (for indoors only)
- R10: slightly textured (ok for covered patios)
- R11: ideal for most outdoor applications (recommended)
- R12-R13: for high-slip areas like public steps, pool surrounds
We recommend R11-rated porcelain tiles for most Irish patios, garden paths, and outdoor steps.
Best Non-Slip Outdoor Tile Types
1. Textured Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain is the most popular material for outdoor use. It’s frost-resistant, low-maintenance, non-porous and available in slip-resistant finishes. Modern porcelain tiles come in natural stone or wood-look styles, with built-in anti-slip textures that don’t feel rough underfoot.
- Best for: Patios, steps, balconies, and high-traffic garden paths
- Slip Rating: Look for R11 or higher
- We recommend: Elias Cotto Brick Porcelain Tile 11 x 23cm, for a brick effect pathway. Please note that if a tile is less that 2cm thick, it will need a concrete base.
2. Structured Stone-Effect Tiles
Natural-looking outdoor spaces are in, but real stone can be slippery or require sealing. Stone-effect tiles give you that natural texture without the hassle.
- Popular looks: Slate, sandstone, limestone
- Tip: Choose a tile with structured texture or a bush-hammered finish for added grip.
- We recommend: Adobe Silver Modular Porcelain Tile 50 x 50cm, the modular style gives an authentic stone effect. With a 10mm thickness, it can be laid on a concrete base
3. Terracotta Coloured Tiles
Create a warm atmosphere, even in rainy weather. Terracotta tiles can add a Mediterranean charm to your outdoor space, bringing rich, earthy tones that feel both timeless and inviting.
Whether used on patios, garden paths, or even steps, their sun-baked colour evokes warmth and relaxation - perfect for creating an outdoor setting that feels like an escape, even when the Irish skies are grey.
- We recommend: Livorno Cotto Porcelain Tile 40.2 x 40.2cm. This stone effect porcelain tile combines the warm tones of traditional terracotta with the durability of modern porcelain.
4. Inside Out Collection
If you love a cohesive, flowing look between indoor and outdoor spaces, our Inside-Out Collection is designed just for that. These tiles are specifically selected and rated for both interior and exterior use, meaning you can extend your kitchen floor straight out onto your patio or carry your hallway tile into a sheltered outdoor space - all without compromising on safety or durability.
By using the same tile in both areas, you create a visually larger, more open environment that’s perfect for modern homes with sliding doors, open-plan layouts, or garden-facing extensions. And since these tiles are non-slip and weather-resistant, they’re as practical as they are beautiful.
- We recommend: Colourful patterned tiles like the Sweden Stamp Slab Porcelain Tile 20mm, Tea Olivia Slab Porcelain Tile 20mm and Tea Pine Slab Glazed Porcelain Tile 20mm. These 20mm tiles don't require a concrete base.
Outdoor Areas That Need Non-Slip Tiles
You should prioritise slip resistance in the following areas:
- Uncovered patios
- Sloped garden paths
- Garden steps
- Outdoor kitchen or barbeque areas
- Surfaces near water features or hot tubs
Shop Non-Slip Outdoor Tiles at Delforno
At Delforno, we stock a range of R11+ rated outdoor porcelain tiles, perfect for Ireland’s damp and unpredictable climate. Whether you're tiling a large patio or creating a safe walkway through your garden, our experienced team can help you find the right non-slip solution - without compromising on style.
Our range of outdoor tiles are now available on our website. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us, or all in into one of our showrooms (Cork/Dublin)