Wilmac Flooring

7 Flooring Choices that Work with Open Doors and Outdoor Living

As warmer days roll in, homes naturally start to open up. Patio doors stay wide, meals are eaten outside and the line between indoors and outdoors starts to blur. If your flooring can’t keep up, it shows. Muddy footprints, moisture damage and worn-out patches all become more common.

That’s why choosing the right flooring matters. It needs to look good, handle the mess and hold up under pressure. At Wilmac, we’ve put together this blog that looks at seven Chester flooring choices that work well with open doors and outdoor living.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are one of the best options for areas that lead outside. They’re tough, easy to clean and stand up well to water, heat and heavy use. Whether you’re stepping in from the garden or rinsing off a spill, they hold their own.

They’re also available in styles that mimic natural stone or wood, which helps create flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Some collections are designed for both, which means you can get the same look on your patio as in your kitchen or hallway.

LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles)

Luxury vinyl tiles are ideal for rooms that open up to gardens or patios. They’re water-resistant and easy to keep clean, even with muddy boots and wet pets.

LVT is softer and warmer underfoot than tiles, which makes it a more comfortable choice for family homes. Whilst it’s not designed for use outdoors, it complements outdoor materials well. This helps tie everything together visually, especially in open-plan spaces.

Composite Decking (with matching internal flooring)

For homes with decking, it’s worth matching indoor and outdoor surfaces. Composite decking pairs well with wood-style flooring indoors, creating a smooth visual flow when doors are open.

Composite boards are resistant to rain, sun and daily wear. Unlike timber, they won’t warp or splinter over time. This makes them a practical choice for busy households that value a neat, modern look.

Natural Stone

Options like limestone, slate or travertine bring plenty of character. They work well in kitchens, hallways and outdoor areas where strength and style matter.

When carried through both spaces, they offer a consistent and elegant finish. They do require sealing, but with proper care, they’ll stand up to heavy use for years.

Treated Hardwood

Treated hardwood brings warmth and character to any space. It’s a popular option for kitchens or living rooms that lead onto patios, especially with sliding or bi-fold doors.

With the right finish and regular care, it can handle the demands of changing weather and heavy footfall. It’s also a great choice for sunrooms or covered outdoor areas, where it adds a timeless, natural touch.

Concrete or Micro cement

For a modern, stripped-back look, concrete or micro cement works well in both indoor and outdoor settings. It’s often used in homes with large open doors leading to patios.

Indoors, it pairs nicely with underfloor heating. When treated for outdoor use, it offers good grip underfoot and suits a cleaner, more minimal design.

Outdoor Carpet or Rubber Flooring

Whilst not the first choice for main living areas, these materials are ideal in garden rooms, utility spaces, or anywhere that sees messy footfall.

They’re soft underfoot, easy to clean and don’t mind the odd muddy shoe or pawprint. They’re especially useful in spaces where comfort and practicality come before looks.

Choosing the right flooring for homes that open up to the outdoors can make a big difference in both comfort and upkeep. From water-resistant options to hardwearing surfaces that hold their own against muddy shoes and garden debris, each choice offers its own benefits. 

If you’re unsure where to start, Wilmac Flooring is here to help. Visit our Chester showroom or get in touch for advice on finding flooring that works beautifully across indoor and outdoor spaces.