Terraces and balconies
Porcelain on pedestals or bonded, on patios, balconies and roof terraces. Falls that run to the drain, along the West Sussex coast and further inland.
Outside, water is the job. Every decision comes back to where it goes.
A terrace has to deal with rain, frost and movement, and on this coast it also deals with salt and wind. So we start with the falls and what is underneath, then pick between pedestals and bonded tile.
Our biggest recent one is 110m² of 600x900 porcelain, using SPF1 adhesive and Coffee micromax 3 grout, with bullnosing on the steps.
Outdoor questions
Pedestals or bonded tiles?
Pedestals suit balconies and roof terraces, where you want the falls underneath and water draining below a level surface. Bonded tile suits a sound, well-drained slab. We have done both: 20mm 1200x600 on pedestals for a sea view terrace, and 110m² of 600x900 bonded with a flexible adhesive.
What about falls and drainage?
The falls are built into the substrate, not the tile bed. On a Bosham balcony we made sure all the falls ran back to the drain, and matting went on before tile.
Can you tile a fibreglass balcony or roof?
Only on a specified system, and with your roof warranty checked first. We have tiled onto a fibreglass roof in Brighton using an Ardex system.
When can outdoor tile be laid?
At 5°C and rising, not on a falling temperature. Outdoors in winter that shortens the working day.
Will the coastal weather be a problem?
Wind load on pedestal systems is assessed for each job, particularly on an exposed coastal terrace. External floors also need movement joints every 3 to 5m.
Got a terrace or balcony in mind?
Photos, sizes and what it is built from will get us most of the way.