Can I Install Tiles on Composite or Wood Decks?
Installing tile over a standard deck frame in an exterior environment is a recipe for trouble. The combination of tile, grout, wood and water in an environment with temperature and moisture fluctuations makes it nearly impossible to get the long-term performance that most occupants expect. For a deck that is partially enclosed under a roof and protected from heavy precipitation, a conventional tile floor could probably be achieved, but otherwise, proprietary systems designed for deck applications should be considered.
There are a few products on the market that allow for a finished tile look on an elevated wood-framed deck. Some systems involv special tiles designed to install without grout in a grid system. These systems allow for movement and drainage. There are also systems designed for dry-laid pavers to be installed on decks, providing a similar look to a tile floor. New products are consistently being developed and brought to market, so it’s worth exploring if a tile deck is the look you are interested in. In evaluating such a product, keep in mind the environment it will be installed in. It will likely need to accommodate differential movement between materials and provide water drainage.
Decking Patterns
Installing your decking at a 45-degree angle is a popular style for decks. This can be done to reduce decking seams or just for appearance.
How to Install and Fasten Deck Fascia
Installing deck fascia can be easy if you have the proper tools, fasteners, and practical information that you’ll find right here.
Picture Frame Decking
Install a picture frame or perimeter board to finish the edge of your deck with style.
How to Build Box Steps for Your Deck
Learn how to build a set of box platforms to act as stairs for a low deck. You don't need to cut stair stringers.
Planning to Land Stairs on a Future Patio
Learn how to determine the location of your stair landing and how to install a concrete slab using forms. Follow these step-by-step DIY instructions.
More Helpful Resources
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![Footings](/media/3vsas025/all-articles_footings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
![Framing](/media/5wrarsgy/all-articles_framing-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
![Decking](/media/meljt4np/all-articles_decking-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
![Stairs](/media/2sopl0br/all-articles_stairs-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
![Railings](/media/hpwbuyzr/all-articles_railings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
![Features](/media/tvcahlmk/all-articles_features-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
![Design](/media/3bvpzvtz/all-articles_design-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Design
The basics of deck design
![Planning](/media/qdenqrqv/all-articles_planning-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
![Porches and Patios](/media/sg5bst1z/all-articles_porches-and-patios-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
![Ledger](/media/0htjl4uu/all-articles_ledger-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
![Care](/media/qdpnwkry/all-articles_care-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
![Materials](/media/zqfflkeo/all-articles_materials-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
How to Install and Fasten Deck Fascia
Installing deck fascia can be easy if you have the proper tools, fasteners, and practical information that you’ll find right here.
Building an Outdoor Space with James DeSantis
Composite decking can not be placed directly on concrete. But a substructure can solve for this. Explore this deck project with James DeSantis
Hidden Deck Fastening: 3 Ways to Fasten Your Composite Deck Boards
Hidden deck fasteners are the ideal option for DIY builders looking to hide their hardware, without sacrificing the stability of their deck. From nearly invisible deck plugs to color-matched deck screws, knowing how to choose and install these hidden fasteners is an easy way to level-up your deck project.
Closed Stair Risers
Learn about the benefits of installing riser boards on your deck stairs.
Planning to Land Stairs on a Future Patio
Learn how to determine the location of your stair landing and how to install a concrete slab using forms. Follow these step-by-step DIY instructions.
Explore Articles by Topic
![Footings](/media/3vsas025/all-articles_footings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
![Framing](/media/5wrarsgy/all-articles_framing-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
![Decking](/media/meljt4np/all-articles_decking-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
![Stairs](/media/2sopl0br/all-articles_stairs-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
![Railings](/media/hpwbuyzr/all-articles_railings-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
![Features](/media/tvcahlmk/all-articles_features-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
![Design](/media/3bvpzvtz/all-articles_design-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Design
The basics of deck design
![Planning](/media/qdenqrqv/all-articles_planning-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
![Porches and Patios](/media/sg5bst1z/all-articles_porches-and-patios-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
![Ledger](/media/0htjl4uu/all-articles_ledger-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
![Care](/media/qdpnwkry/all-articles_care-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
![Materials](/media/zqfflkeo/all-articles_materials-2x.png?format=webpg&quality=80)
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights