It goes without saying that all paving materials will have pros and cons, but with porcelain fast becoming the material of choice for patios we wanted to see how it compares to another popular material: natural stone. The most common types of natural stone used for paving are sandstone, granite, slate and limestone – all of which have a beautiful natural look. Most natural stone paving has a rustic finish that can look out of place when used in modern homes and gardens. Porcelain is available in an endless range of colours and styles, making it the perfect choice for almost any taste.
Features of Porcelain
- Man-made material.
- Available in a wide range of styles including traditional and contemporary.
- Has a slightly textured slip resistant surface.
- Resistant to moss, mould and algae growth.
- Will not fade or change colour.
- Usually calibrated and rectified for even thickness and sizing.
- Frost proof so will not be damaged by harsh winter weather.
- Very low maintenance, does not require sealing.
- Easy to clean and stain resistant.
- Can be installed using a range of methods including adhesive, wet bed, and pedestals.
Features of Natural Stone
- Natural material.
- Has a much more rustic look that suits traditional designs.
- Naturally textured but can become slippery.
- Prone to moss, mould and algae growth, particularly in winter.
- Fades in the sun and can change colour over time.
- Often uncalibrated with rustic, unrectified edges.
- Not all natural stone is frost-resistant, which can lead to surface "blows" due to frost damage.
- Requires regular sealing with specialist products.
- Porous materials stain easily and can be difficult to keep clean.
- Laid onto a wet bed of sand and cement.
Want to know more about porcelain paving? Check out the full range of colours, styles and sizes available at The London Tile Co online or visit one of our showrooms.