Why Choose Decking Tiles Over Traditional Decking Materials?

There are several compelling reasons why choosing decking tiles is a smarter option for pet owners compared to traditional wood decking or other surface materials. Decking Tiles are extremely low-maintenance and pet-proof. Unlike wood, they will not crack, splinter or rot over time with use or exposure to the elements. Spills and pet accidents involving water, food, dirt or other messes are easily cleaned up with just a hose or mild cleaner since decking tiles have a non-porous surface that does not absorb odors or stains.

Top Decking Tile Options for Your Patio or Backyard

There are several popular decking tile materials currently on the market, each with their own unique attributes to consider:

Wood-plastic Composite Decking Tiles

A blend of recycled wood and plastic provides the look of wood with superior durability and stability.

Solid core PVC Decking Tiles

Made of pure polyvinyl chloride, these options provide extreme longevity and will not rot, warp or splinter like wood. Completely impervious to moisture, they are a very low maintenance choice.

Capped Composite Decking Tiles

Combining a wood or faux-wood visual accent atop Composite Decking Tiles core, brands flexible, cutting down installation labor. Their sanded texture resists slipping.

Interlocking Rubber Decking Tiles

Like Rubber Flooring tiles lock together without adhesives or fasteners. Molded from recycled rubber, they are exceptionally slip-resistant and comfortable for bare feet year-round.

Porcelain Decking Tiles

A premium category, porcelain the look of stone, concrete or hardwood. Highly durable and custom color options abound.

Quarry Tiles

Authentic reclaimed or manufactured quarry tiles from Tile Giant and others last indefinitely and complement industrial, rustic or cabin decor.

Installing Decking Tiles for Your Outdoor Space

Installing decking tiles is a straightforward DIY project. Proper preparation and layout will ensure a professional-looking, long-lasting installation:

Surface preparation: Sweep the area completely clean and level any uneven spots in the surface. Consider adding a waterproof membrane for extra protection beneath tiles.

Layout: Measure and mark grids or offset patterns on the surface to ensure tight joints. Leave gaps at perimeter for expansion. read more

Attachment method: Most tiles simply drop into place due to interlocking edges or a peel-and-stick backing. For loose-lay tiles, apply an outdoor-rated adhesive in straight beads using a caulk gun.

Installation: Lay tiles according to marked layout, pressing firmly into adhesive or allowing them to snap together. Cut tiles as needed to fit around obstacles using a miter box or angle grinder with diamond blade.

Sealing: For groutable seams, apply silicone caulk into gaps and tool smooth. On fully-adhered surfaces, all edges and cuts must also be sealed to prevent water infiltration.

Completion: Sweep then hose entire surface to remove debris before use. New installations should fully cure before subjecting to foot or pet traffic.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pet-Friendly Decking Tiles

With the right care, decking tiles can last many seasons while keeping your outdoor space fresh, clean and safe for pets. Light, regular maintenance is usually all that’s required:

Sweep or blow away debris like leaves, dirt and plant matter from tiles periodically to prevent scratching.
Hose down the entire surface monthly or as needed to remove seasonal deposits, pet accidents or food/drink spills. A soft bristle broom helps dislodge stubborn debris.
For tough dirt or stains from pet accidents, spot-clean with a deck cleaning product safe for your tile type. Non-toxic, pH neutral cleaners are best.
Inspect tiles annually for any damage that requires repair. Replace cracked, broken or lifting tiles as soon as possible to prevent water damage underneath.
Reapply a waterproofing sealant or protective coating as the manufacturer recommends, usually every 1-3 years. This helps protect pigments and repel moisture.
Consider a pet odor remover or enzymatic cleaner to banish more persistent pet smells from grass, paws or accidents.
Clear rain gutters and area beneath decking to promote drainage and dryness beneath tiles.
Rinse thoroughly with water after cleaning to remove residues that could attract repellant-resistant pests over time.

FAQs

Will tiles get too hot for pet paws in summer?

While all surfaces will heat up in direct sun, dark tiles less so than others. Consider lighter colors and providing shade. The paws of furry pets are quite heat resistant but try testing temperature with your own hand first.

How well do they withstand dog/cat claws and chewing?

Most tile materials like PVC and composite are highly puncture and scratch resistant. Severe chewing damage by large dogs is possible but unlikely over time. Porcelain stands up best, followed by solid materials.

Are tiles suitable for above-ground pools?

Yes, most tile types are suitable unless installed in the bottom track where flexing occurs. Rigid tiles have less tolerance for small movements. Reinforced composite products work very well in pool decks withstanding splashing, cleaning chemicals and more.

What’s the best way to handle muddy paw prints?

For occasional dried mud, simply sweep away debris once dry. For saturated paws after a storm, blot excess with a towel then spray rinse with a hose. Avoid harsh scrubbing which could damage non-porous surfaces over time.

Tips for choosing non-slip tiles for senior or disabled pets?

Look for textured or ribbed tiles like composite or rubber options. Also consider tread/traction additives that create a subtle gripping pattern without height variations that could cause joint/balance issues. Test sample tiles for yourself in different conditions.