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When it comes to enhancing the beauty of outdoor spaces, paving plays a crucial role. Two popular options that have gained significant attention in recent years are natural stone paving and porcelain paving. Whilst both can offer beauty, modernity, tradition and durability, understanding their unique characteristics can help you make an informed decision. In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between natural stone and porcelain paving, enabling you to choose the perfect solution for your outdoor project.
Look and Feel
Natural stone paving exudes timeless beauty with its unique textures, colours, and patterns. Because of its very nature, each piece of natural stone is inherently distinctive, showcasing the remarkable wonders of nature itself. From the classic elegance of granite to the rustic charm of sandstone or a sophisticated limestone, the variety of these pavers add a warmth and natural texture that is eye-catching.
Porcelain paving, on the other hand, offers a contemporary feel that appeals to modern design sensibilities. It is available in a wide range of colours, finishes, and sizes as it is manufactured, rather than relying on nature. Porcelain paving can replicate the look of natural stone, wood, or concrete, offering versatility for various design preferences, but unlike natural materials, porcelain pavers will be uniform, giving a more sleek look to an outside space.
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Apulia Quartzite Porcelain versus Brazilian Slate Natural Stone
Durability and Maintenance
Natural stone paving is known for being robust. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, extreme weather conditions, and still keep a great appearance. However, certain types of natural stone, like marble or limestone, may require periodic sealing to enhance their longevity and protect against stains as they are porous being natural. To keep natural stone paving looking good, it required ongoing maintenance as well, keeping it clean, brushing off any dirt and occasionally washing lightly in soapy water with a soft sponge. In addition, there are good specialist cleaners that work really well.
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Before and after cleaning natural stone patio
In contrast, porcelain paving is highly durable and resistant to scratches, algae, frost, fading, and stains. It’s stronger than natural stone, due it it’s high-density. It‘s non-porous surface prevents water absorption, making it an ideal choice for areas exposed to moisture such as pool or pond surroundings. Porcelain requires minimal maintenance, as it is easy to clean and generally doesn't require sealing.
Installation
Installing either porcelain and natural stone paving can be done by a DIYer, depending on the level of DIY skill and confidence, of course, or by professionals. There are obvious rules for laying all types of paving of course, like preparing the sub-base for drainage and having a flat base surface, but in addition, natural stone and porcelain have their own unique steps that need to be taken for a good and professional looking result.
Installing natural stone paving can be a labour-intensive process due to the weight each paver and the pattern you are laying the stones. Given that each paver is unique, you may wish to ‘set out’ your pavers as a dry run to ensure you can keep cutting to a minimum and colour blend your pavers to ensure your hard work results in a great looking patio. Most natural stone patios have a top and a bottom, with the top being the side with the most surface area.
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Installing natural stone versus porcelain paving
Porcelain paving generally follows the same installation steps as natural paving, however, there are a few differences. One such difference is that porcelain paving slabs need to be primed before laying and this is because porcelain is non-porous and therefore doesn’t stick to the mortar base as other pavers do. In addition, porcelain paving stones require more cement than other pavers to build a strong bond between the base and the paving stone.
Versatility
Natural stone suitable for a wide array of outdoor applications such as patios, pathways, driveways, garden borders, or even vertical features like retaining walls or cladding. Some creative thinking has also seen natural stone used as features including seating, edging for ponds and eye-catching bases for garden features.
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Likewise, porcelain paving is just as versatile, with its ability to be turned into walling, cladding and coping. In addition, some porcelain can blend indoor and outdoor spaces for an open feel. The identical depths and uniform look of a porcelain slab provides a more even surface and make it an excellent choice for creating a consistent look and feel across your space. Porcelain can also be used for raised decks, rooftops, or balconies, expanding its usage beyond traditional paving applications.
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So, which is best?
Both natural stone paving and porcelain paving offer distinct advantages, catering to different design preferences and project requirements. Natural stone showcases the timeless beauty of nature, while porcelain exudes modern sophistication. Consider factors such as aesthetics, durability, maintenance, installation requirements, maintenance and versatility to make an informed decision. Ultimately, it’s your choice - whether you choose the rustic charm of natural stone or the sleek elegance of porcelain, both options can transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis that reflects your personal style and enhances your overall living experience.
Come to our indoor paving showroom in Crawley and choose the paving that suits your style and garden. Call 01293 270103 or email us to find out more.
