Outdoor Tiles vs Pavers: Compare Looks, Durability & Best Uses

Outdoor tiles and pavers are two of the most popular materials for building beautiful and durable exterior spaces. Whether you're upgrading a patio, pool deck, or driveway, choosing between these two options requires more than picking a style. It also depends on how you use your space, your local climate, and the look you're aiming for.

At Oscar Surfaces, we help homeowners and designers across Seattle make the right choice—blending function, safety, and style into every outdoor project.

What Are Outdoor Tiles?

Outdoor tiles are flat slabs made from porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone. They are designed specifically for outdoor use, meaning they can handle moisture, UV rays, and freeze-thaw cycles. In addition, modern outdoor tiles come in many colors, textures, and finishes to suit a range of design styles.

Most importantly, outdoor tiles offer a sleek, cohesive look that often continues from indoor spaces to exterior zones—especially when design continuity is a top priority.

What Are Pavers?

Pavers are thicker, interlocking blocks made from concrete, clay, or natural stone. Unlike tiles, they are usually installed over compacted sand or gravel, which allows for flexibility and easy drainage. As a result, pavers are ideal for driveways, walkways, and areas that need to withstand heavy loads.

Furthermore, pavers provide a more rustic or traditional appearance, making them a strong choice for garden paths or old-world inspired landscapes.

Outdoor Tiles: Pros & Cons

Pros

• Stylish, modern look
  
• Easy to clean and highly stain-resistant
  
• Comes in many large-format and slip-resistant options
  

Cons

• Needs a perfectly flat, stable surface for installation
  
• May be slippery unless rated R11+ for outdoor safety
  

In addition, outdoor tiles work best for patios, pool decks, and outdoor kitchens where aesthetics and comfort matter most.

Pavers: Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent for load-bearing areas like driveways
  
• Easy to repair by replacing individual units
  
• Offers a natural, textured look
  

Cons

• Smaller size range and fewer finish options
  
• Can shift or settle over time, requiring maintenance
  

Especially for high-traffic surfaces, pavers offer practical durability and a time-tested look.

Best Uses for Each Material

Moreover, both surfaces can be customized to fit your design style—whether you want modern minimalism or timeless charm.

Why Choose Oscar Surfaces?

Oscar Surfaces offers a curated collection of premium outdoor tiles, plus expert guidance on when pavers may be the better option. Our Seattle showroom is stocked with slip-resistant, frost-proof, and UV-stable materials suited for Northwest weather.

We provide:

• Outdoor design consultations
  
• Contractor referrals and install guidance
  
• Nationwide sample delivery
  
• Tile and paver options for all budgets and styles

Furthermore, we help clients balance performance with beauty—ensuring each space is as durable as it is stylish.

Need Help Choosing Between Outdoor Tiles and Pavers?

Let Oscar Surfaces assist you in planning your exterior upgrade. Whether you're designing a modern patio, a functional driveway, or a luxurious pool area, we’ll help you compare materials and select the best fit for your lifestyle and climate.