The Beautiful & Durable Paver Stones That Are Perfect For A High-Traffic Outdoor Space

Having a beautifully designed exterior is the ultimate goal (and we all know flooring plays a huge role in elevating a space's aesthetics). At the same time, you want the surface to be durable, especially if your outdoor space is where the fun happens. You wouldn't want it to fade under the scorching sun, nor do you want a patio flooring that gets terrifyingly slippery when wet. Let's not even get started on those fragile tiles that crack when the kids drop their bikes. The good news: Porcelain pavers tick off all the right boxes in terms of functionality. Want even better news? They're stylish, to boot.

If you didn't know, outdoor porcelain pavers are man-made from a mix of natural materials, including sand, clay, and quartz. These mixed powders then undergo a pressing and firing process that allows each slab to withstand loads of up to 2,000 pounds. That's right, whether for entertaining or daily living, these types of paver stones can handle it all, without being a slip hazard or staining from inevitable spills and pet accidents.

You can also add easy-to-clean to the list, since all you need is a quick scrub or wipe with warm water and a mild detergent for the most part. Oh, and did we mention they're resilient against all weather conditions, be it dry summers, rainy days, or even frosty winters? No wonder porcelain pavers are among the top highest-rated pavers you can find at stores like Home Depot. Here's a closer look at the outdoor flooring solution that can elevate any patio, terrace, outdoor kitchen, pool deck, or walkway.

Starting with the sizes, outdoor porcelain tiles can measure anywhere from a square 8 x 8 inches to a slim 8 x 48-inch rectangle, all the way up to a massive 40 x 40-inch slab. Let's say you're decking out a modern exterior. From an aesthetic point of view, these pavers naturally exude a luxe, minimalist feel. You might opt for larger tiles in sleek black or gray or even those faux wood-effect designs for added character. Speaking of which, this flooring can mimic the look of other materials, such as wood, granite, and marble to name a few.

If your style runs more traditional, there are options for you, too. Classic and timeless styles, like a brick-look paver (available for $85 per 10 square feet at European Heritage), are your best bet. Or, why not choose patterned porcelain tiles to spice up a boring garden? Something eye-catching like the Marbella Decor XXL Porcelain Tiles from Royale Stones (for around $100 per 10 square feet) would look fab in any setting, traditional or not.

With all the advantages laid out, you might be wondering what the catch is. Exterior porcelain pavers aren't the most budget-friendly if you're planning on covering a large area. Though keep in mind, you're paying for both long-lasting durability and versatile style. And here's a silver lining: you can simply install them over your existing surface (whether grass, concrete, or gravel) to make the transformation a lot easier.