How To Install Deck Tiles on a Wood Deck: 8 Things You Should Know

When it’s time to upgrade your deck, using deck tiles is an attractive option. There are various deck tile varieties to choose from, each with its own benefits. 

You can install deck tiles on a wood deck by snapping them together like puzzle pieces or joining them with tile connectors. Most deck tiles are made of wood or plastic composite materials. Deck tiles are tough enough to withstand outdoor conditions but gentle on bare feet.

If your wood deck has lost its appeal, you may consider covering it with tiles. Tiling can improve the look of your deck and shield it from further damage. This article explores deck tile types, installation, and maintenance.

How Do I Install Deck Tiles on a Wooden Deck? 

Below are the steps to follow for installing tiles on a wooden deck: 

• Step 1. Inspect the deck’s condition. Wood structures can weaken over time due to fungal and termite attacks. Check the structural integrity of your wood deck before installing tiles on it. Tiles should be installed on a solid, flat surface, and you may need to repair or replace the structure to make it suitable for tiling. 
• Step 2. Remove any furniture or objects on the deck. You need a clear surface for the installation.
• Step 3. Gather the required tools. These include a measuring tape, cutting devices (i.e., a utility knife, jigsaw, circular saw, or hand saw), cardboard for cutting templates, a pencil, and safety gear, such as gloves and knee guards.
• Step 4. Measure the surface you want to cover with the tiles. This helps you estimate the number of tiles you’d need for the project. You should order at least 10% more tiles than your measurement shows you need for the project. The extra tiles would make it easy for you to replace damaged pieces or make future repairs.
• Step 5. Cut the tiles by building cut templates. Use cardboard pieces to mark out areas that require cutting, and cut the cardboard along the marked lines. Use a cardboard template to guide your cut on the actual tile.
• Step 6. Install the tiles at one corner deck and work your way across the surface. Snap-on or interlocking deck tiles may have metal components. Remove them from the cutline to allow you to make a clean cut. Most deck tiles are interlocking, where you slide the snapping edges, and the tiles lock into place. If your tiles require fastening, the package should include tile connectors to facilitate joining the pieces.
• Step 7. Keep the tiles clean. Raised wood deck tiles are usually ventilated, allowing airflow and providing drainage for rain. They’re typically easy to maintain. You can keep your deck tiles clean by giving them a daily sweep with a soft broom. Consider vacuuming and hosing the tiles from time to time to remove stubborn dirt and dust.

How Do You Install Composite Deck Tiles? 

You can install composite deck tiles by snapping the pieces together or attaching them with connectors, depending on the guidelines provided. If you sourced the tiles from different manufacturers or plan to include leftover tiles from a past project, ensure the tiles’ locking systems are compatible.

Composite deck tiles are made from a combination of natural and synthetic materials, such as wood and plastic chips. Composite decking products can be made of recycled materials, making them eco-friendly.

Wood-plastic composite tiles are strong and weather-resistant, making them an excellent choice for an outdoor environment. They’re also resistant to insect and mold degradation.

Composite tiles may be more expensive upfront, but they last longer and require less maintenance than wood tiles.

● Pros of Composite Deck Tiles

• Low maintenance: Composite tiles have very few maintenance requirements. 
• Long lifespan: Composite tiles generally have a longer lifespan than natural wood tiles, which typically take decades before they require replacement.
• Multiple color options: These tiles are available in multiple color options, allowing you wider flexibility to customize the look of your deck.

● Cons of Composite Deck Tiles

• More expensive: Composite tiles generally cost more than wood upfront. As a result, they may not be suitable if you’re on a budget. 
• Environmental impact: Although composite tiles made from recycled materials may be eco-friendly because they reuse waste, plastic is generally non-biodegradable. Unless the composite tiles use recycled materials, they may have an adverse environmental impact.

How Do You Install Wood Deck Tiles?

You can install wood deck tiles by clicking the pieces together or fastening them in place with connectors. Wood tiles require attention because they’re susceptible to insect attacks or rot if exposed to excessive moisture for a long time. Resealing wood tiles regularly can extend their lifespan.

How Do You Install IPE Deck Tiles? 

You can install IPE deck tiles by snapping them to lock the pieces in place or tying them with connectors. This depends on the manufacturer’s recommended installation method. Tiles with snap-lock systems can be quicker to lay down. 

Wood tiles are a popular choice for deck tiling, and you might consider IPE lumber tiles if you’re looking for a high-end finish for your deck.

IPE deck tiles are a type of hardwood tiles and are made from Tabebuia tree lumber. They’re known for their high structural strength and beauty, and are ideal if you want a luxurious deck appearance.

These popular tiles come in various design options, allowing you the flexibility to be creative with your deck tiling style.

● Pros of IPE Wood Deck Tiles

• Longer lifespan: IPE deck tiles have a longer lifespan than standard wood tiles.
• Low maintenance: IPE deck tiles have very few maintenance requirements compared to conventional wood tiles.
• Remain comfortable in summer: IPE tiles don’t get too hot in the sun, making them comfortable for you and your family in the hot summer months.

● Cons of IPE Deck Tiles

• High price tag: IPE lumber tiles are considered a premium wood product. These tiles cost more than standard wood tiles to purchase.
• Tough to cut into shape: IPE tiles are heavy-duty wood tiles, and you may need heavy-duty cutting devices to get the tiles into the shape you want.

Conclusion

Wood deck tiles are easy to install if you cut the pieces correctly and follow the right procedure to lay them in place. IPE tiles provide a luxurious look, but composite tiles are longer-lasting and easier to customize.