Whether you're building a new home or updating the house you already own, you can use concrete floor tiles to make your outdoor space more livable. From walkways to patios, concrete tiles will enhance either your front yard, backyard or both.

Although concrete tiles are best known for their industrial-looking grey color, they actually come in a wide array of hues, so you can completely customize the aesthetics of your outdoor space. You can buy them in almost any solid color, including blue, green, red, or even in a brick design for a rustic appeal. You can even find concrete tiles that resemble real hardwood if that's a look you desire.

After you've chosen the color of the tiles, it's time to pick a shape. Go with the classic square or rectangular tiles, or go with mismatched tiles that have an eclectic, puzzle piece design. Concrete tiles are available with smooth surfaces for a sleek, modern touch, or you can find them etched with elegant designs, such as fleur-de-lis or floral patterns. 

Not only are outdoor concrete floor tiles attractive and highly durable, but they're also easy to clean and maintain. Here are some tips for keeping them in top condition:

1. Daily Upkeep

On a daily basis, sweep patio tiles with a broom to remove any food spills or other debris. Not only will doing this ensure that the tiles look their best, but it'll also help keep pests, such as ants, roaches and rodents, away. This is especially important if you live in a warm climate where the unwelcome guests are more likely.  

Mop up any large liquid spills, such as from beverages. If there is a possibility of stains, such as from coffee or red wine, dip a sponge in a mixture of warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner, and scrub at the area until it's gone. If the concrete tiles didn't come sealed, consider treating them with a sealant to prevent unsightly stains. 

If the tiles are stained, avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, to clean the tiles as they can damage the surface. It will also be bad for the environment if you wash them off into the groundwater supply.

2. Deep-Cleaning 

A few times a year, such as during spring and fall cleaning, you may need to treat the tiles to a deep clean. Over time, mold, mildew or algae may form on the tiles due to humidity and rain.

As an all-natural option, thoroughly clean the concrete with a pressure washer, which can loosen and remove stubborn stains. For extra cleaning action, you can spray the tiles with a 50/50 solution of water and distilled white vinegar prior to pressure-washing them. The vinegar may help kill and loosen the mold, mildew or algae so that you can then easily rinse them away.