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Among them, the famous choice of floor covering. And for good reason, choosing the covering for your terrace is no easy task. Resistance, cost, aesthetics and even maintenance must be taken into account. Despite the options, tiling is still one of the most chosen coverings. Find out everything you need to know about it, from advantages to disadvantages.
Why choose a tiled terrace?
What flooring should I choose for my terrace? To this question, tiles are the obvious answer in all circumstances. Because they are known to be durable and resistant, they can support the weight of heavy furniture and intensive use without deteriorating. This makes them perfect for active families or frequent receptions. In addition to their robustness, this flooring is known for its resistance to bad weather.
Designed to withstand UV rays, frost and temperature variations, they do not warp or fade, regardless of the weather conditions. This makes them an ideal material for terraces exposed to the elements all year round. The longevity of tiles is another of their advantages. Indeed, a tiled terrace can last for many years without requiring repairs. An ideal economic ally, they are, for most households, a wise long-term investment.
What are the disadvantages of a tiled terrace?
Although tile has many advantages, this covering is also known for its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages concerns the maintenance of the joints. Present between the tiles, they can accumulate dirt, mold and algae, especially in humid or shaded areas. Although a tiled terrace is easy to maintain, cleaning must be regular to eliminate any risk of fungus. Once these are installed, it is almost impossible to dislodge them. Thus, a black color sets in, tarnishing the overall appearance of your floor.
Another of the most common defects is the risk of slipping. Although there are non-slip tiles, they do not guarantee total grip, especially in case of heavy rain or frost. It is therefore essential to warn all members of the family of the potential dangers. Another disadvantage: its temperature. The tiles can actually become very hot under the sun. If it benefits from direct exposure, it will be almost impossible for you to walk on it barefoot. This choice must therefore be thought through, because despite the many attractions of this covering, its disadvantages can quickly catch up with you.
How to install a tiled terrace?
Tiling your exterior is no small feat and requires careful preparation. First, you will need to clean and level the ground. Then, installing a layer of gravel followed by sand for drainage will be essential. One of the other key steps is none other than the concrete screed. This will need to be made to measure using a wooden frame.
It is only once the concrete is dry that the installation of the tiles can begin. You will therefore need to apply tile adhesive to a small section at a time, lay the covering using spacers and fill the joints with mortar. So keep in mind that this installation is more of a renovation than a simple DIY project. However, if you want to embark on the adventure, many tutorials exist online. Building professionals can also intervene to advise or help you.
What budget should you plan for tiling your terrace?
The budget for tiling a terrace varies depending on several factors, such as the surface area to be covered, the type of tiles and labor costs. The first prices start at around 20 euros per square meter for entry-level tiles. For better quality suitable for outdoors and with a non-slip coating, you will need to count at least 65 euros per square meter. Thus, for a 20 m² terrace, the price of the raw material can vary from one to four times.
Additional materials such as glue, joint mortar and underlay are also included in the calculation. Here again, depending on your choice, many factors can lower or increase the price. Concrete screed costs between 20 and 40 euros per square meter depending on the quality of the cement and its thickness. So remember to budget at least 2000 euros to cover your entire terrace with tiles.