Keeping your outdoor space up to date is no easy task, but it’s perhaps the most important “room” of the house to consider updating. Why?
Because of that little thing called curb appeal. When you go to sell your home, your front yard, porch and entryway are among the first things people see beyond the for-sale sign. Your outdoor property is constantly on stage, so you want to show off its best side.
But aside from dressing up your home from the outside in, revamping your outdoor space also pays off in your satisfaction. Think about it – social barbecues on the deck, reading on your screened-in patio while the sun sets, getting your hands dirty in the garden…when done right, your yard can be your relaxation haven.
And it all starts with the right flooring.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got the lowdown on the 2022 outdoor flooring trends that are on the rise, the pros and cons to each, and whether or not they’re here to stay.
This guide will help you learn what’s current and discover which trends match your style.
Where to Update Outdoor Flooring
First, let’s talk about what you may need to update outdoors. Patios and decks might be the first things you think of, and why not? They’re relaxing and beautiful and perfect for entertaining.
But what about the grass you’re tired of keeping up with? Yep, there’s a trendy solution for that too!
When updating your outdoor space, it’s important to see the whole picture. Here’s where you may want to consider updating your outdoor flooring:
Patio: Your patio is an extension of your indoors and can be a great place to unwind and enjoy a cool night.Landscape: Back yard, front yard, garden areas – homeowners today are all about beautiful landscapes that require minimal maintenance. Deck: Whether you look forward to family cookouts or time to yourself with a good book, you want appealing deck flooring to set the look.Poolside: Flooring is part of the aesthetic when it comes to a nice pool. Don’t slack on this finishing touch!Porch: Your front porch is the first impression of your home. What do you want guests to feel upon arriving?Rooftop: Rooftop deck flooring can transform your average rubber rooftop into a place that’s great for hangouts and entertainment.Related Content > Outdoor Flooring Options for Style and Comfort
2022 Trending Outdoor Flooring Types
Looking for the best flooring for the outdoors? Once you decide which area to update, the next step is choosing the right outdoor flooring option.
It used to be that natural wood decks, real grass, and concrete patios were the only options for our backyards, but technological innovations have made it possible to have more beautiful flooring options that require less upkeep – and let’s be honest, isn’t that the dream with the outdoors? You want to be outside relaxing on your floor, not worrying about it.
In 2022, you’ll see a good mix of modern design and eco-friendly, low-maintenance flooring. Let’s get to it.
Porcelain Tile
Is there anything more gorgeous than wood-look or stone-look tile? Porcelain exterior tile is even more durable than natural stone, depending on the PEI rating, so you can get the best of both worlds.
Outdoor tile helps achieve a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors, with many collections offering indoor options as well as outdoor. People are using them for a variety of uses from poolside and walkways to driveways and patios. Rustic and elegant, exterior tile floors create an upscale aesthetic compared to standard gravel or concrete.
Along with that classy aesthetic, people love that porcelain is less maintenance than natural wood floors. It’s more durable, fade-resistant, and easy to clean. Not to mention, you’re getting all the beauty of natural wood and stone without the expense. Made from kiln-fired clay, these tiles are an eco-friendly alternative.
Related Content > 9 Patio Ideas: Create the Ultimate Outdoor Space
Will the porcelain tile trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Absolutely. The wood- and stone-look tiles are here to stay, and people are always looking for ways to make upkeep less of a chore. Enter the alternatives.
Porcelain tiles are just so perfect for outdoor use with their weather-resistant properties, and it doesn’t hurt that they’re gorgeous and more affordable than actual stone.
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Composite Decking
Composite decking is a man-made decking material made of equal parts recycled wood fibers and recycled plastic. Durable and made to last, the best composite decking products simulate the beautiful appearance of natural wood without the maintenance and upkeep. Homeowners like the idea of spending more time relaxing on their deck rather than logging hours building, staining, or re-sanding it.
The use for composite tiles and boards goes beyond the traditional deck, though. Composite material is an inexpensive way to freshen up your patio or balcony as well. They take little time to install and give you years of quality use and appeal.
That’s right, composite deck flooring is like the luxury vinyl of the porch flooring market. Maybe some out-of-date folks are still turning their nose up at it, but others are embracing composite decking as the outdoor flooring of the future. Remember, the aesthetic beauty that comes with a low maintenance plan is the big 2022 outdoor flooring trend, and that’s exactly what you get with composite decking.
Quality composite decking generally offers a strong ROI, according toRealtor.com, and when it comes time to resell, new buyers will be visualizing beautiful summer nights and cookouts.
Will the composite decking trend last in 2022 and beyond?
You betcha. Composite decking is just hitting its stride and once people see how easy it is to maintain, it will only continue to spread.
The big thing that holds people back now is the up-front price, but over a lifetime, composite deck flooring is far more inexpensive than maintaining a natural wood deck. It’s a larger investment upfront, but it will save you money and time in the long run.
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rtificial Grass
That’s right, fake grass is taking over the home landscape. Why?
It’s the easiest way to maintain a beautiful lawn year-round. Your grass is always green! And you don’t have to mow or water it.
Now with a realistic look and feel, artificial grass has become a sought-after alternative to real grass. You won’t spend more time maintaining it than you do admiring it. Plus, it doesn’t attract bugs the same way traditional grass does. Kids and dogs love running around in it too!
People are using artificial grass for low-maintenance landscaping, backyard putting greens, and now there are even artificial grass deck tiles to spruce up your patio or balcony if you don’t have a yard! The versatility of turf lends itself to several ideas for an outdoor getaway.
Will the artificial grass trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Yes, I believe as manufacturers continue to make improvements with the look and feel of turf, it will only become more sought after. Its low-maintenance beauty routine is just too good to pass up. Remember, everything with outdoor flooring is about saving time on labor and spending more time relaxing. That’s what you get with fake grass!
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Outdoor Carpet
All the coziness of a carpet, outdoors! But how does outdoor carpet even work?
All outdoor carpet comes loaded with durable features to make sure it can handle everything Mother Nature has to offer. It’s water-resistant and UV-stable, so come rain or shine, you will have a beautiful, long-lasting carpet. Isn’t that awesome?
One of the best parts of outdoor carpet is that you have options since it comes in different forms. Whether you want to cover your whole yard or a small portion of your deck, we have it covered.
You can choose from outdoor rugs, outdoor carpet tiles, outdoor carpet rolls, and more.
Will the outdoor carpet trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Outdoor carpet is durable and more beautiful than ever. If you want to install outdoor carpet tile or even just an outdoor rug, you can be sure the look will last.
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Drainage Tiles
Drainage tiles are vented interlocking tiles that allow water to freely flow through the floor to a drain. These tiles are made of plastic which is great in areas where copious amounts of water will be present.
Plastic is resistant to mold and mildew and can also be made fade resistant. When it comes to style, these tiles offer lots of color customization. Many different styles and colors interlock so you can mix and match for your own style.
Will the drainage tiles trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Yes! These outdoor floor tiles are functional as well as stylish. They definitely aren’t a fad, so you can be sure to see this trend last for years.
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Rubber Pavers
Rubber pavers can mimic the look of stone, brick, and concrete while giving you the resiliency, comfort, and ease of rubber. More economical than brick and available in lots of cool colors and looks, rubber pavers are versatile and safe. They’ll ease your mind if you have kiddos playing outdoors and will feel comfortable for the adults in your outdoor get-togethers.
And in 2022, life is all about comfort, ease, and less worry.
In the quest to make life easier, people love that rubber is practically effortless to keep clean and withstands water and harsh weather climates. Rubber is rare in that it gets more slip-resistant when it gets wet. It’s great for rainy climates, near a pool, or anywhere with lots of water.
Will the rubber paver trend last in 2022 and beyond?
I think the trend will still be popular but probably won’t be as sought after as other fancier types of flooring. Manufacturers will continue to produce better designs in rubber pavers and as it continues to mimic those elegant brick or cobblestone looks, people will be keener to the idea of this low-maintenance floor.
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Stained Concrete
Many homeowners are drawn to using concrete outdoors because, well, have you ever heard the expression’ hard as concrete’? You’d have to put some effort into destroying concrete, which means it will probably last you forever.
Concrete-stamped patios are especially common in regions with dry heat and are popular in the Midwest because they can endure the temperature changes and humidity. People love that this floor is easy to clean and maintain, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can pour concrete into just about any pattern or color or even form stone-like shapes.
The latest trend, however, is dressing up that natural concrete flooring with staining and stamping. Using acid, you can create dramatic effects on your patio concrete floor that look similar to marbling.
But a naturally stained look is also popular right now. It’s easier to maintain than smooth concrete flooring with all the traffic that goes around outdoors.
Staining concrete allows you to get a higher depth of color that you can’t get with other flooring types. You’ll also get a texture that continues to look better and better over time. How many floors can you say that about?
Will the stained concrete trend last in 2022 and beyond?
I think the ability to get creative with staining concrete will keep this trend alive going forward. Concrete flooring is always there, and there will be plenty of people who just want to dress up what they already have. The looks and patterns will likely continue to change, but I think stained concrete is here to stay.
Brick
Brick is the trend that continues to thrive, I think because of its timeless charm. It has that traditional feel, where it feels like it’s been there forever.
That elegant, classic architecture can take you out of the modern world. Brick might make you feel like you’re in a different country or even in a different time, which is a unique characteristic among the 2022 outdoor flooring trends.
Brick can give you a lot of different options for colors and patterns for your porch flooring, and it creates a unique look that sets you apart from the rest. Perfect for a cozy patio or around an outdoor fireplace, brick is a gorgeous outdoor flooring option.
What adds to brick’s trendiness is that it’s an environmentally conscious outdoor flooring option. Brick is made from (almost) all-natural materials and is often recycled during building demolition to make reclaimed/recycled brick.
And, of course, there is virtually no maintenance needed with brick. Hello, favorite outdoor floor of 2022!
Will the brick trend last in 2022 and beyond?
I don’t think brick will ever go away, but as we continue to get more modern and experimental in design, I think it will be a less popular option in years to come. There will still be those people who love the charm of a brick patio and the classic look, but they won’t be the majority.
Plus, brick flooring is a commitment, which people aren’t really about when it comes to home design. With our changing ideas, we like to have the option of remodeling whenever we want. Brick is among the most difficult flooring to take up and replace.
2022 Outdoor Flooring Looks
The big thing in outdoor flooring is keeping it simple while making a statement. People want the look of nature and the outdoors while also creating a seamless transition from the comfortable indoors.
We’re seeing a lot of the floors found inside the home transferring to the outdoor areas, as more people build outdoor kitchens, barbecue areas, and so on. Here’s what’s helping homeowners achieve that indoor/outdoor look.
Flagstone Outdoor Flooring
How do you call this look a trend if it’s timeless and classic? Well, I suppose it’s safe to say flagstone is always a trend for the outdoors, but it’s especially hot right now because it’s perfect for that indoor/outdoor transition.
This elegant look works well for sunrooms, patios, or porches. You can go with the real stuff or find a vinyl option with the look of flagstone and still get that unique design.
Will the flagstone-look outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Of course! This is one of the rare looks that never seems to go out of style, making it an excellent choice if you’re concerned about selling your home in the future.
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Wood-Look Outdoor Flooring
Solid hardwood flooring is expensive, demanding, and not ideal for areas where there will be a lot of moisture, like around your pool or deck. Or under a raining sky, for that matter. While people might risk it for indoor flooring, the outdoor setting sees too much water to make natural hardwood flooring a viable option.
When we talk about gorgeous wood-look outdoor flooring, we’re talking about eco-friendly composite decking that looks like the real thing. We’re also talking about wood-look ceramic and porcelain tile. These gems are all perfect for the environment of the outdoors.
With these new, durable, and waterproof wood looks, you can achieve any trending wood style in your patio, walkway, or deck, worry-free.
Will the wood-look outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
1,000 times, yes! Wood-look flooring is a trend across the entire home that isn’t going away anytime soon.
This trend will only increase, both outdoors and indoors, over the next decade and beyond.
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Decorative Outdoor Flooring
These days, people are using flooring to express their personalities. They want to get creative and have something unique in their outdoor space. And nothing says personality like decorative outdoor flooring.
This could come in the form of unique patterns or colors, but it’s most common with an outdoor rug. With a rug, all you have to do is pick a color or pattern you like, and then just lay it out to add some unique flair to your patio, porch, or balcony.
Be on the lookout for bold geometrics, boho prints, checkerboard, and even animal prints!
Will the decorative look last in 2022 and beyond?
Without a doubt! Especially since decorative looks are more common with rugs, nothing is permanent, so it’s easy to swap out styles.
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2022 Outdoor Flooring by Region
Both the east coast and west coast have their design vibes going on, but you don’t have to be a local to get the look. Your outdoor style may identify with either region no matter where you live. Here’s what’s trending in outdoor flooring on the east coast and west coast.
East Coast Outdoor Flooring Looks
The east coast outdoor style has always had a more traditional look and feel with a touch of country chic. But now the east coast is seeing an even bigger shift toward simpler yet spectacular looks for the outdoors, according toOcean Home Magazine
Decking is popular on the east coast, and the 2022 outdoor flooring trend is to go with a minimalist deck. Composite decking is rising as part of the minimalist trend because it is easy to maintain and lasts longer than traditional wood decks. Plus, it’s easy to find a composite decking design with simple clean lines for that minimalistic look.
Natural stone and cement pavers for patios, walkways, pool areas, and outdoor kitchens also help achieve that minimalistic look. Porcelain tile is another favorite for pool areas on the east coast.
While people are going for less, they’re still making room outdoors in 2022 for their favorite hobbies. Plenty of gardening beds and putting greens are popping up along east coast backyards.
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West Coast Outdoor Flooring Looks
Homes on the west coast have different needs and desires for outdoor flooring, largely due to the climate. With frequent droughts, it’s a challenge for west coast homeowners to maintain a lush, green lawn year-round. More and more homeowners are installing artificial grass to keep their outdoors looking beautiful despite climate conditions.
The nicer temperatures throughout the year also have people wanting to spend as much time outside as possible. Homeowners on the west coast are all about making their outdoor space as livable as the indoors, so you’ll see more outdoor kitchens, larger patios, and outdoor entertaining spaces
West coast homes tend to give off more of a laid-back, casual energy with a hint of rustic charm. Backyards along the west coast also make more of a statement with bold colors and patterns. Whitewashed wood-look floors are also trendy among those enclosed sunrooms and outdoor kitchens because they give homes that beachy, relaxed feel.
The whitewashed look is starting to spread to other regions as the farmhouse-style trend is rising in homes across the country. These floors typically show the appearance of wear with the darker colors peeking out from underneath. The look fits right in with the 2022 aged and worn trends happening across all styles of flooring.
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2022 Outdoor Color Trends
For your outdoor space, earth tones are the most popular colors. Ranging from the tans and sandstones to the grays and charcoals, these colors are classic for outdoor flooring because they blend well with most landscapes and exterior home colors.
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, but you don’t necessarily want the two to meld together. Consider pulling from your home’s accent colors – the shutters, roof color, or trim – when deciding on your outdoor flooring colors. Complementing furniture and decor is also important.
While colors for outdoor flooring are custom and can differ from home to home, there are still plenty of popular color options trending across backyards everywhere.
Multi-Color Outdoor Flooring
One way to avoid monotony across the exterior of your home to your outdoor space is to combine two colors of pavers, planks, or tiles or choose multi-colored pavers. Not only do multi-colored pavers look cool, but they also hide stains well. Who wouldn’t love that?
Will the multi-color outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
I’d say this is a safe trend to get behind because while multi-color sounds bold and unique, it’s actually what the manufacturers are getting behind. Even subtle looks like gray and tan aren’t just plain solid colors. There are usually multiple color blends being thrown in to create a new, natural aesthetic.
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Light Gray Outdoor Flooring
Does this color ever get old? Absolutely not. Gray flooring works just about everywhere. And now that people are going for a more minimalist look, gray outdoor flooring is thriving.
The light shade specifically helps make an area feel larger because gray or light-color flooring will reflect light. Dark-colored flooring can make spaces feel and look small because it absorbs light.
Gray flooring, particularly in the gray wood look, has grown exponentially over the last decade. Gray has quickly become the most popular trend for home decor in general. Gray cabinets, gray doors, you name it.
In addition to looking chic and trendy, gray floors set the tone of a cool, contemporary space. Gray floors give you a neutral backdrop for popping patio furniture or vibrant garden plants. Everything goes with your sleek gray flooring.
Will the light gray outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Without a doubt. Get on the gray flooring bandwagon – it’s not going anywhere!
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Red Outdoor Flooring
While cooler colors are more popular inside the home this year, outside, warm reds and red-browns are making a splash. The warmth and boldness add a cozy touch to your outdoor oasis.
The red look is especially popular with outdoor rubber pavers, while red-browns are more common with composite decking.
Will the red outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
The challenge with this is that cool and warm tones are always going in and out of style. If you want a color that’s going to stay stylish for years to come, it’s best to stick with a neutral like gray.
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2022 Outdoor Flooring Layout and Pattern Trends
The patterns and layouts that are trending in outdoor flooring right now are those that create a minimalistic look. Cleaner, linear designs are what you’ll find in this year’s trends.
Checkerboard Pattern Outdoor Flooring
In hopes for that clean look, square patterns are making a big splash in outdoor flooring right now. You don’t see as many flowing stone patterns as you used to. They’re all being replaced by more straightforward, vintage checkerboard patterns.
While the checkerboard pattern isn’t exactly revolutionary, you’ll see some variety and spontaneity. People are getting creative with different materials and colors to make the look pop.
Will the checkerboard pattern outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
For a while at least. Whether people do decide to get bolder with outdoor flooring in years to come, the checkerboard look is always timeless.
Quarter Turn Pattern Outdoor Flooring
If you’re using outdoor carpet tiles or composite decking tiles, you might want to use the quarter turn pattern. In this modern and subtle style, you install the tiles in the usual grid, but you turn each new tile 90 degrees compared to the previous tile.
This creates a subdued pattern that’s still interesting to look at. It’s not just the same old boring grid as usual.
Will the quarter-turn pattern outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
I believe so! This pattern is versatile and not so bold that it’s going to become dated. If you install your outdoor flooring with a quarter turn, it should be stylish for years to come.
2022 Outdoor Flooring Texture Trends
Texture for outdoor flooring will depend on many things, from the aesthetic of your backyard to the style of your home. Different textures give you different looks altogether, allowing you to get creative with your patio, walkway, or poolside flooring. The main idea is to complement other elements in your landscape, keeping a cohesive design.
Textured paving blocks and handmade bricks are big for gardens and landscaping. Their irregularities and imperfections in texture add a more natural look, which of course is a big trend on the rise.
As far as your screened-in patio or porch, you can find a variety of wood- or stone-look flooring textures that can add elegance or warmth to these comfortable settings.
While texture is more of a custom thing, there are still some trends we’re seeing. Let’s take a look.
Vented Outdoor Flooring
If you have a pool or another high-moisture area in your yard, you know how important it is to have proper drainage. Vented tiles are the perfect flooring around pools and on patios due to their superior drainage. It allows for any liquid to pass through the flooring surface, creating a super slip-resistant area. No more puddles sitting around!
While a vented surface is popular for its practicality, there’s also some style that comes into play. Vented drainage tiles often feature eye-catching geometric patterns as well.
Will the vented outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
Yes! The vented texture is both practical and stylish, ensuring that it’s going to be around for years and years to come.
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Non-Slip Outdoor Flooring
Not all textures are for the intention of the design. One popular choice in outdoor flooring is to add just a bit of texture to help avoid slipping and safety hazards.
I know, I know, it’s less fun to talk about safety. But it’s really important, particularly with outdoor flooring. With pools, hot tubs, and of course rain, it’s no surprise that your outdoor flooring is going to get wet.
And you know what else happens outdoors? Kids run. They play. They jump. They likely fall. With non-slip flooring, you can worry a little less.
Non-slip outdoor flooring is great for the safety and resale of your home, and this extra precaution isn’t likely to change with the trends.
Will the non-slip outdoor flooring trend last in 2022 and beyond?
It will always be necessary. Not super exciting, but it’s not changing anytime soon.
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Conclusion
Did we miss anything? Leave it in the comments – we’d love to hear your thoughts!
As you can see, there’s a lot going on in the outdoor flooring industry right now. There are plenty of different, unique options trending that will likely stick around for years to come, which means your possibilities are endless.
If you want outdoor comfort without all the upkeep, we recommend going with the alternatives to natural wood and grass to get that natural look for less work. Additionally, stone and porcelain pavers can help you get those beautiful, classic aesthetics and make your outdoor space feel as comfortable as the inside of your home.