Ditch Glossy Outdoor Floor Finishes For A More Modern Alternative

From polished patios to gleaming garage floors, glossy sealants have long been a go-to choice underfoot in many exteriors. We have to give it to them — they're exceptionally durable, offer strong resistance to the outdoor elements, and are easy to maintain. Their smooth, mirror-like shine instantly brightens up the space, too. Considering all that, it wouldn't make sense to ditch high-gloss outdoor floors, right? Not really. These types of flooring tend to give off a traditional (read ostentatious) feel that looks out of place in contemporary settings. Even worse, the glossier the finish, the more it turns into a slip hazard, which explains why many patio flooring gets terrifyingly slippery when wet. All this is to say, here's your sign to matte it up with a more modern, low-sheen alternative.

Matte outdoor floor finishes reflect far less light, giving them a rather refined and muted appearance. These can include everything from matte tiles to interlocking decking (which, by the way, is one of the best outdoor flooring options on a budget). They're softer on the eyes, plus they reduce visual overload. So whether you're going for a neutral, minimalist outdoor scheme or a maximalist vibe with colorful furnishings, these guys will blend right in without competing for attention. That wouldn't necessarily be the case for high-gloss ones. More importantly, today's selections of outdoor matte floor finishes are just as tough as their shiny counterparts. It's the best of both worlds.

Looks aside, matte floor coatings continue to surprise us with their evolving qualities. They're becoming increasingly durable with a higher resistance against the elements, be it the sun's harsh rays or pet claws. They also do a fantastic job in areas prone to getting wet, like balconies, pool surrounds, and uncovered spaces, thanks to their anti-slip nature. And it's not just wet areas — they're perfect for high-traffic zones as well. Think: patios where kids play, stairwells where adults tend to trip, and outdoor kitchens where spills are common. As a plus, low-sheen surfaces hide scratches and scuff marks better.

Despite their many advantages, matte floors are still more likely to fade (especially when under constant sun exposure) compared to glossy finishes. Essentially, this means you'll need to refinish your outdoor areas periodically with a matte concrete, wood, or tile sealer to prevent them from looking too dull. So while matte floor finishes deliver a pleasing visual effect, they do require more effort and attention to keep them looking fresh. On that note, you don't have to completely get rid of your glossy outdoor flooring if it feels too big of a leap. You could just paint your porch floor, patio, or deck with a matte floor paint, such as the INSL-X S Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint, for a fresh change. Or, choose paint in any color you like and simply seal it with a coat of matte stain.