Selecting the right material for building a deck is critical to its success and longevity. 

Although concrete has been a favored decking material because of its strength and cost-effectiveness, porcelain deck tiling — like Russin’s Mbrico line — has recently become a popular alternative due to its superior durability and versatility.

How Porcelain and Concrete Tiles Are Made

Comparing porcelain deck tiles with concrete decking means understanding how each material is made.

Porcelain tiles are made from finely ground materials like clays, sands and minerals. These ingredients, molded under high pressure and fired at high temperatures, create a smooth, elegant, water-resistant texture. The material also becomes very hard and dense, which enhances its structural durability while helping it maintain its appearance over time.

Concrete tiles are produced by mixing cement with aggregates and pouring the mixture into molds to set. The molds can be different shapes and sizes depending on the project. While versatile, concrete is naturally more porous, which makes it more susceptible to the elements and, over time, can take on a stained and worn appearance.

Concrete vs. Porcelain: Comparing Characteristics

To understand which option is best — porcelain deck tiles or concrete deck tiles — it’s essential to examine concrete and porcelain’s durability, versatility and sustainability.

Detailed Durability and Weather Resistance

Concrete deck tiles, though robust, can deteriorate in fluctuating temperatures. They are often prone to developing cracks, especially during quick freeze-thaw cycles.

Conversely, Porcelain’s low porosity makes it resistant to cold, frost and mold, maintaining its integrity during extreme weather conditions, whether hot or cold. 

Therefore, when it comes to durability, porcelain deck tiles are an excellent choice compared to concrete deck tiles, especially in areas with harsh winters or rainy periods.

Aesthetic Versatility and Design Options

One of the standout features of porcelain tiles is their ability to mimic other natural materials. Advanced printing technologies mean you have access to porcelain tiles with textures of wood grains, stone and even marble patterns. 

Unlike concrete tiles, which are limited in appearance, porcelain deck tiles have helped designers and homeowners customize their outdoor spaces without limitations.

As a result, porcelain wins when it comes to versatility and design.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

The production of porcelain tiles is more energy-intensive than concrete. 

However, porcelain tiles’ longevity make them a better choice in the long run. Because of their durability, they are low maintenance and resistant to stains, scratches and fading. 

Concrete often requires more frequent repairs and replacements, which can increase its carbon footprint, even if the materials are abundant. 

Installation Techniques: Mbrico vs. Concrete Deck Tiles

Mbrico Deck Tiles Installation

Russin’s Mbrico deck tiles are engineered for fast and straightforward setup, which is ideal for skilled teams. The installation uses an aluminum track system with built-in spacers for even tile spacing and a grout-free setup that simplifies the process while enhancing durability. 

Stainless steel screws ensure secure attachment. Protective tape is also used during installation to prevent corrosion, contributing to the deck’s longevity.

Standard Concrete Deck Tiles Installation

Standard concrete deck tiles involve more traditional installation methods. The process typically starts with surface preparation to ensure it’s smooth and level, followed by laying the tiles from a corner or the center using a simple click-together method.

Essential tools include a tape measure, pencil, T-square and a saw for necessary adjustments. This method is DIY-friendly, allowing for flexible pattern design and customization.

Designing With Mbrico Porcelain Tiles

When comparing concrete and porcelain deck tiles, porcelain clearly has the upper hand. Porcelain deck tiles, like Mbrico porcelain tiles, combine beauty with functionality, making them perfect for decking projects.

Mbrico tiles come in three different effects — stone, concrete and wood — making them the perfect tiling choice no matter the intended aesthetic.

Stone Effect

Stone Effect Deck Tiles replicate the look of natural stone with the robustness of porcelain. Their timeless elegance and weather-resistant qualities make them perfect for enhancing outdoor spaces.

Concrete Effect

Concrete Effect Deck Tiles offer the sleek, modern appeal of concrete but are made with porcelain for increased durability. This combination delivers a contemporary look and a maintenance-free solution that withstands outdoor conditions.

Wood Effect

Wood Effect Deck Tiles mimic natural wood’s warm, inviting appearance. They are ideal for creating cozy, natural-looking outdoor areas and outperform natural wood in longevity and upkeep.

Create Your Dream Deck With Russin Porcelain Deck Tiles

When it comes to bringing both durable and beautiful deck visions to life, Russin’s Mbrico tile selection does it all. Mbrico tiles can deliver the look you want while providing functional and long-lasting benefits like scratch and dent resistance, color stability, easy installation and more. 

Our experts can help you through the selection process to ensure you pick the material best suited for your project. Explore our options to create a deck that will stand the test of time.

Contact our team today for more information on our Mbrico products or other outdoor living solutions!