Are porcelain tiles safe for outdoor use?

Eazi Business • 8 January 2023

The use of outdoor porcelain tiles in the UK is becoming increasingly common place. One customer asked us how these might be made safer / nonslip.

The use of outdoor porcelain tiles in the UK is becoming increasingly common place. One customer asked us how these might be made safer / nonslip.


There are a few ways of achieving this result. To make outdoor porcelain tiles non-slip:


1.          Use tiles with a textured or matte finish: These types of finishes have a rougher surface that provides more traction, making it less likely for people to slip.


2.          Apply a non-slip coating to the tiles: There are several products on the market that can be applied to the surface of the tiles to increase their slip resistance.


3.          Use an anti-slip tape or adhesive strips: These can be applied to the surface of the tiles to provide an additional layer of traction.


4.          Use area mats: Placing rubber mats on top of the tiles can help to add some additional grip to the surface. You will have seen these in swimming pool areas and changing rooms.


It's also important to make sure that the tiles are properly installed and that the surface they are laid on is even and stable. If the tiles are not level or if the surface beneath them is uneven, it can increase the risk of slipping.

 

More about non-slip coatings for porcelain tiles.


There are several products on the market that can be used to apply a non-slip coating to outdoor porcelain tiles. These coatings typically work by creating a rough surface on the tiles that provides additional traction, making it less likely for people to slip.


To apply a non-slip coating to outdoor porcelain tiles, you will need to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you are using. In general, the process will involve:


1.          Cleaning the tiles thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants.


2.          Sanding the surface of the tiles to create a rough texture that will help the coating to adhere better.


3.          Applying the non-slip coating according to the manufacturer's instructions. This may involve using a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the coating to the tiles.


4.          Allowing the coating to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

It's important to note that not all non-slip coatings are suitable for use on outdoor porcelain tiles. You should check the manufacturer's instructions and make sure that the product you are using is suitable for this type of application.

 

Examples of products


Here are a few examples of non-slip coatings that may be suitable for use on outdoor porcelain tiles:

1.          SlipDoctors Non-Slip Coating: This water-based coating is designed for use on tiles, concrete, and other surfaces. It creates a rough, slip-resistant surface when it dries.


2.          SafetyGrip Solutions Anti-Slip Coating: This coating is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including tiles, concrete, and wood. It creates a rough, slip-resistant surface that is resistant to water, oil, and other contaminants.


3.          Krylon Non-Skid Coating: This spray-on coating is designed for use on a variety of surfaces, including tiles, metal, and wood. It creates a rough, non-slip surface when it dries.


4.          Rust-Oleum Anti-Slip Spray: This spray-on coating is suitable for use on a variety of surfaces, including tiles, metal, and wood. It creates a rough, slip-resistant surface when it dries.


It's important to note that these are just a few examples of the many non-slip coatings that are available on the market. You should always read the manufacturer's instructions and ensure that the product you are using is suitable for your specific needs.

Case Study – Building Without Insurance

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
A homeowner commenced building works on their property without arranging appropriate site insurance. This is not uncommon. There is often an assumption that either the contractor’s insurance will be sufficient, or that an existing household policy will continue to provide cover. In this case, neither applied. Partway through the project, it became clear that there was no valid insurance in place. At that stage, the position became significantly more difficult. Insurers were unwilling to provide cover retrospectively. From their perspective, the risk had already begun without protection, and they were being asked to step into an unknown position. The property was effectively uninsured during an active construction project. We were instructed to review the situation. A structured approach was taken, including: Clearly defining the scope and stage of the works Presenting the risk in a transparent and credible way Engaging directly with specialist insurers Following extensive discussions, we were able to: Secure appropriate site insurance cover Bring the project back within an insurable and protected framework This was not straightforward. It required persistence and a clear understanding of how insurers assess risk. On a construction project, the absence of insurance is not a minor oversight. It is a significant exposure. If you are planning a build, it is worth ensuring that the right cover is in place before work begins. 

Case Study – Council Tax, Planning Delays and Structural Issues

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
A homeowner commenced a significant renovation project with the intention of improving and extending their property. The project did not proceed as expected. There were delays with planning, and during the course of the works, structural issues emerged which required a reassessment of the build. Ultimately, a substantial part of the property had to be demolished mid-project. At this stage, the property was clearly uninhabitable. However, the local authority took a different view. They imposed double council tax on the basis that the property was empty, applying the standard premium used to discourage long-term vacant properties. Representations were made to explain the position. These were rejected. The authority maintained a rigid stance and would not accept that the condition of the property and the nature of the works justified relief. The charges continued to accrue. We were instructed to review the situation. A detailed and structured approach was taken, including assembling the appropriate evidence, reframing the basis of the claim, and engaging with the local authority in a more targeted way. The outcome was clear: Full council tax waiver achieved Over £10,000 recovered for the client Ongoing liability removed This is not an uncommon scenario. Local authorities will often apply standard rules without properly considering the specific circumstances of a construction project. Initial refusals are frequent, but they are not always correct. A properly prepared and presented case can materially change the outcome. Situations like this arise regularly on construction projects. Addressing them correctly can make a significant financial difference. Sunil K Radia The Building Guidance Partnership Telephone (020) 8076 3110 WhatsApp +44 7507 705376 www.theBGP.co.uk

Regulatory Compliance Oversights That Could Sink Your Construction Project

by Niket Kapur • 20 March 2026
Most homeowners focus on design, finishes and cost when undertaking a building project. Very few focus on compliance. That is where serious problems arise. This note sets out the key regulatory and risk areas that are frequently overlooked. These are not minor technicalities. They are issues that can expose you to financial loss, uninsured risk and legal liability. 1. Notifying Your Mortgage Lender If your property is subject to a mortgage, your lender has a legal charge over it. That property is their security. Most mortgage terms require you to notify the lender before carrying out structural works Some lenders require formal consent Failure to notify can place you in breach of your mortgage conditions This is often ignored. It should not be. 2. Insurance During Construction Standard household insurance is usually not valid during major renovation or structural works. Many policies specifically exclude properties under construction Continuing without appropriate cover can leave you completely exposed You should: Notify your existing insurer before works commence Arrange specialist renovation insurance where required Ensure cover includes fire, flood, theft, vandalism and public liability Do not assume you are covered. Check. 3. Contractor Insurance Is Not a Substitute Many homeowners assume the contractor’s insurance will protect them. That assumption is dangerous. You must verify: The level of cover is sufficient for the scale of the project The policy includes public liability, employer’s liability and contract works Cover extends to damage to neighbouring properties Liability includes injury to third parties, including trespassers Do not accept a certificate at face value. Review the detail. 4. VAT: Getting It Wrong Is Expensive VAT treatment in construction is complex but critical. New builds may qualify for 0 percent VAT Properties empty for two years or more may qualify for 5 percent VAT on renovation works Evidence of vacancy is essential and must be properly assembled Failure to structure this correctly can cost many thousands of pounds. 5. Council Tax on Uninhabitable Properties Where a property is genuinely uninhabitable, relief or exemption from council tax may be available. In practice: Applications are often rejected at first instance Local authorities do not always guide applicants through the correct route A structured and informed approach is required to secure the correct outcome We regularly assist clients in securing substantial savings, including backdated recoveries where appropriate. 6. Site Safety and Residual Liability Even when a contractor is in possession of the site, the homeowner can still carry risk. If someone is injured on site, including a passer-by or trespasser, liability may arise Simply appointing a contractor does not remove your exposure You should ensure: Proper site security is in place Risk assessments and method statements are being followed Insurance arrangements align with the actual risks on site This is not theoretical. Claims do arise in these circumstances. Final Thought These issues are rarely considered at the outset, yet they carry real consequences. Getting them right early avoids problems later. Contact us today so that we can review your arrangements.  Sunil K Radia The Building Guidance Partnership Telephone (020) 8076 3110 WhatsApp +44 7507 705376 www.theBGP.co.uk