By Garry Brownlie : GIB Tiling
After years of installing outdoor tiles across Perth’s diverse suburbs, from coastal properties battling salt air to inland homes facing extreme temperature fluctuations, I’ve gained valuable insights about what truly works in our unique climate.
Today, as one of Perth’s most experienced tilers I’ll share my practical experience about choosing and installing weather-resistant outdoor tiles that can handle Perth’s challenging conditions.
Understanding Perth’s Climate Challenges
Our local weather creates specific demands on outdoor tiling that you won’t find in many other Australian cities:
Coastal Considerations
- Beachside Challenges
- Salt air exposure
- Wind-driven sand
- Intense UV radiation
- Temperature fluctuations
Inland Factors
- Suburban Conditions
- Extreme heat
- Winter frost risk
- Dramatic temperature changes
- Heavy rain events
Real Project Experience
One of our clients, Andy Wong, shared: ”
Garry is the man. I found him online due to the amazing online review and rating and he lived up to it. He promised to work on it and delivered.
Further detail for those who are interested:
I am an interstate investor and I have never been to my property before. It’s not hard to imagine that I do not know about my property as well as my agent. It’s been really hard to organise a tiler to attend my property due to availability, 3 way phone calls between the agent , myself and the tiler. I called Garry up and spoke with him , he worked with my agent to carry out the work. There were hick ups in the process , such as access time and date. I have seen other tiler just started ghosting and not answering calls, or flat out just say it’s not something that they do. Garry and his team got the skill to get the job done , on top of that reply and address your concern in a professional manner. Recommend. Thanks Garry”
What Andy didn’t mention was how we specifically selected materials and techniques to ensure his outdoor tiles would withstand Perth’s very hot days!
Material Selection Essentials
Choosing the right tile for outdoor spaces is crucial:
Porcelain Options
- Key Benefits
- Low water absorption
- Frost resistant
- UV stable
- High durability
Natural Stone
- Important Factors
- Heat resistance
- Slip resistance
- Natural aesthetics
- Maintenance needs
Critical Characteristics
The most important features for Perth outdoor tiles:
Weather Resistance
- Essential Properties
- Water absorption <0.5%
- Frost resistant rating
- UV stability
- Heat tolerance
Safety Features
- Necessary Elements
- Slip resistance rating
- Surface texture
- Edge finishing
- Thermal properties
Installation Considerations
As highlighted by another client, Robin Trotter: “His laser focus and eye for detail was exactly what we needed.” This attention to detail is particularly crucial for outdoor installations where we consider:
Substrate Preparation
- Foundation Work
- Proper drainage
- Fall calculations
- Waterproofing
- Surface leveling
Installation Methods
- Technical Aspects
- Expansion joints
- Adhesive selection
- Grout specifications
- Sealing requirements
Special Considerations for Perth Areas
Different areas of Perth require different approaches:
Coastal Installations
- Beachside Requirements
- Salt-resistant materials
- Enhanced sealing
- Stronger adhesives
- Additional drainage
Inland Solutions
- Suburban Needs
- Heat-resistant materials
- Movement accommodation
- UV protection
- Frost resistance
Seasonal Impact on Installation
Perth’s seasons affect both installation and performance:
Summer Installation
- Heat Management
- Early morning work
- Material temperature control
- Modified adhesives
- Extended curing times
Winter Considerations
- Cold Weather Tactics
- Moisture management
- Temperature monitoring
- Curing protection
- Drainage emphasis
Long-Term Performance
Robin Trotter notes in her review: ” Wow, what an amazing job, amazing company, and absolute god send. High end, quality work. Would highly recommend to anyone and everyone no matter how big or complex the job.
We’re building a new home and our builder messed up the tiling… We halted works and engaged GIB Tiling for it instead. Garry came in … and what a job! Garry and his team turned a really stressful time into one of the highlights of our build.
What a job. What a team. I wish every trade and customer facing person was like him. Genuine guy, genuine care, genuine quality. And amazingly responsive!!!!! Time was a huge issue and he coordinated his team to sublime effect without affecting quality in the slightest. I really can’t talk highly enough of GIB Tiling.
I could tell the quality and care behind the service immediately when Garry came in to see what was needed. He hadn’t even laid a tile yet and I was already feeling at ease and I could instantly see his eye for detail as he liaised with my site supervisor, picking up things I hadn’t even noticed. His laser focus and eye for detail (and friendly nature) was exactly what we needed. His swift work and genuinely caring nature was a real bonus in a stressful time.
Garry immediately understood what was needed and made swift work of fixing the tiling issues and finishing the job…. The care and quality in the work was crystal clear when we walked in and looked in awe…
Garry is assured, professional and friendly and his rates are very competitive. I really can’t rate him or the quality of his work more highly. His team of guys are no different.They themselves are all clearly very experienced and equally as professional (shout out to Dave! What a legend). Garry clearly sets high standards for himself and his team. Sad that pride in your work seems so surprising these days. But wow, what a job.
Garry coordinated a tricky schedule in good time with amazing effect. If other trades had the same pride in their work building would actually be fun.
Friendly, responsive and professional. Such great rates too. Garry, thank you. I’ll recommend you for sure, to everyone.”
This quality extends to longevity through:
Durability Factors
- Performance Elements
- Material strength
- Installation quality
- Maintenance regime
- Environmental protection
Protection Methods
- Preservation Techniques
- Proper sealing
- Regular cleaning
- Preventive maintenance
- Damage monitoring
Common Problem Areas
Understanding typical issues helps prevent them:
High-Risk Zones
- Problem Spots
- Pool surrounds
- BBQ areas
- Entry points
- Shaded sections
Prevention Strategies
- Protective Measures
- Additional sealing
- Enhanced drainage
- Regular inspection
- Prompt repairs
Design Considerations
Aesthetic choices must balance with practicality:
Pattern Selection
- Design Factors
- Water drainage
- Sun exposure
- Traffic patterns
- Visual appeal
Color Choices
- Important Aspects
- Heat absorption
- Fading resistance
- Stain visibility
- Maintenance needs
Maintenance Requirements
Ensuring long-term performance:
Regular Care
- Routine Tasks
- Regular cleaning
- Seal checking
- Grout inspection
- Surface examination
Professional Maintenance
- Periodic Needs
- Deep cleaning
- Sealer reapplication
- Repairs
- Assessment
Cost Considerations
Understanding the investment:
Initial Costs
- Installation Expenses
- Material quality
- Preparation work
- Installation complexity
- Sealing requirements
Long-term Value
- Future Considerations
- Maintenance costs
- Durability benefits
- Replacement needs
- Property value
Special Applications
Different outdoor spaces need different approaches:
Pool Areas
- Specific Requirements
- Chemical resistance
- Slip rating
- Edge treatment
- Drainage systems
Entertainment Areas
- Important Features
- Stain resistance
- Impact strength
- Easy cleaning
- Comfort underfoot
Weather Protection Strategies
Maximizing longevity in Perth’s climate:
UV Protection
- Sun Defense
- UV-resistant materials
- Color stability
- Surface treatment
- Shade considerations
Water Management
- Moisture Control
- Proper drainage
- Waterproofing
- Joint protection
- Surface runoff
Professional Tips
Based on extensive experience:
Installation Advice
- Best Practices
- Proper preparation
- Quality materials
- Technical expertise
- Regular maintenance
Material Selection
- Key Choices
- Climate suitability
- Usage requirements
- Maintenance needs
- Budget considerations
Future Trends
Staying ahead of developments:
New Technologies
- Innovations
- Advanced materials
- Smart coatings
- Better adhesives
- Improved sealers
Industry Changes
- Market Developments
- Sustainable options
- Enhanced durability
- Better aesthetics
- Easier maintenance
Final Thoughts
Successful outdoor tiling in Perth requires careful consideration of our summer and winter conditions. The right combination of materials, installation methods, and maintenance practices can create beautiful, durable outdoor spaces that withstand our specific weather.
One last comment from a recent customer;
Garry & the team are so professional, respectful, friendly & just a pleasure to work with. Joe, our tiler did a incredible, professional. Job on regrouting our bathroom floor. It looks fantastic & like new!! I highly recommend Garry & the team at GIB Tiling” Gregory Williams
Remember that initial investment in quality materials and professional installation often leads to better long-term value. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues will help ensure your outdoor tiling continues to perform well and look beautiful for years to come.
Weather-resistant outdoor tiling is more than just choosing the right tiles – it’s about creating a complete system that works together to protect against Perth’s challenging climate while providing a beautiful, functional space for your home.
Always work with experienced professionals who understand local conditions and can provide appropriate solutions for your specific situation. The success of your outdoor tiling project depends on making informed choices based on proven experience in Perth’s unique environment.
