Outdoor Garden Cladding: Styles and How to Install

What is outdoor cladding?

Outdoor cladding is where components, such as tiles, are attached to the primary structure of a building to form a non-structural, external surface. This is usually done for decorative purposes as well as to reinforce the structure and protect it from moisture or mould.

What are the benefits of porcelain outdoor cladding?

Porcelain is a non-porous material, making it lightweight, yet strong. It is water-resistant, fireproof and weather-resistant, making it the ideal choice for outdoor use. Long-lasting, durable and hardwearing, this material is available in a range of different styles, sizes and colours, making it an attractive choice for interior and exterior design.

How do you install outdoor cladding?

Outdoor porcelain cladding should be tiled onto a completely flat, non-flexible surface such as brick or mortar. It is not a suitable material for wooden fences, as these can expand and contract under different weather conditions.

If you are tiling onto a surface that is not completely flat, then you can use a backer board such as our Tile Backer Board. We recommend using one that is at least 10mm thick and can be mechanically screwed into the wall, with an additional layer of tile adhesive beneath the boards to eliminate any voids.

In addition, we recommend that you do not tile higher than 3m as this can cause serious damage or injury if a tile were to become loose and fall. If you are tiling higher than 3m, then we suggest mechanically fixing them to the wall using both hanging brackets and adhesive. If tiling over a backer board, you will need to ensure the hanging brackets are screwed directly into the solid substrate behind

Make sure to place an expansion gap every 3m on either side of your cladding so that it has room to expand and contract in different weather conditions. Darker tiles should have an expansion gap every 2m as they attract the sun more and are therefore more likely to expand in the heat.

Here at Walls and Floors, we have some stunning porcelain outdoor cladding options available for you to choose from…

Vesuvius Split Face Effect Tiles

grey vesuvius split face slate effect porcelain outdoor cladding exterior tiles

Above, Vesuvius Charcoal Split Face Effect Tiles

Vesuvius has a characterful multi-level textured surface that provides a striking, contemporary look for your outdoor space – perfect for creating a naturalistic background for a relaxing social space.

Order a free cut sample here: Vesuvius Split Face Effect Tiles

Casa Brick Slip Effect Tiles

beige brick effect porcelain outdoor cladding exterior tiles

Above, Beige Brick Slip Effect Tiles

If you’re looking for a more rustic look for your outdoor space, then check out our Casa Brick Slip Effect Tiles. These brick-effect tiles have a realistic, rural look that creates a captivating environment to relax or socialise.

Flint Stone Effect

Above, Flint Stone Effect Tiles

Captivate guests with the look of these stunning, natural stone effect Flint tiles. A textured, multi-levelled stone effect tile, it features a variety of different colours for a bold, eye-catching look.

Order your free cut sample here: Flint Stone Effect Tiles

Now you seen our outdoor garden cladding how to, which of these outdoor cladding styles do you like the most? We’d love to see your projects! Tag us in your projects on Instagram @wallsandfloors.

Anna Marie Clementson
Anna Marie Clementson