Are you thinking of renovating your garden walk, patio, or driveway? Are you sick of seeing the same old, worn-out flagstones that seem to be getting worse? So, listen up! Perhaps porcelain paving is the solution you have been looking for.
You may be asking yourself, “Porcelain? Isn’t that the material used to make beautiful teacups?” Not nearly! Outdoor Porcelain Paving is a completely different story. It’s an incredibly durable and adaptable material that is gaining popularity among UK homes.
Let’s take a closer look before you go out and replace your garden with porcelain slabs.
What is porcelain paving?
It is precisely what it sounds like, porcelain tiles made especially for outdoor use. Crafted from premium clays and baked at intense heat, these slabs have amazing density and durability.
At first, Italy dominated the market in terms of both design and quality of porcelain paving. These days, well-made, high-quality products can also be found in China and India, where efforts have been made to improve the standard of manufacturing through European influence and direction. This has made it possible to introduce high-quality products at competitive prices.
Why choose porcelain paving?
● Durability like no other
Porcelain pavers are extremely resilient to harsh weather. These tiles can take it all—heavy furniture, energetic puppy paws, and even the occasional spilled barbecue skewer. Furthermore, they will not fade or chip, so your patio will continue to look great for many years to come.
● Weatherproof material
Porcelain, in contrast to certain other pavement materials, is resilient to the erratic UK weather. Because of its perfect resistance to frost, it will not crack from harsh winter temperatures. It is also non-porous, so rain will not be absorbed and make it slippery. Porcelain paving slabs are ideal for those unpredictable summer downpours too!
● Low maintenance
The best aspect is that maintaining porcelain paving is quite simple. It does not need sealing, unlike natural stone, and because of its flat surface, dirt and grime can’t attach themselves to it. Usually, all it takes to keep your porcelain patio spotless is a quick sweep or mop with soapy water.
● Provides stylish look
Porcelain paving offers more visual appeal than merely functionality. There is a vast array of colours, textures, and finishes available for these tiles. You can choose a clean, contemporary finish, a traditional stone appearance, or even porcelain with a wood effect to provide some warmth. You can design a patio that flawlessly matches your house and landscape, thanks to the countless options available to you.
● Sustainable choice
Porcelain paving is a fantastic option for homeowners who care about the environment. It will not require frequent replacements due to its extreme durability, which will reduce waste. Furthermore, the energy efficiency of the production process is also notable.
Things to consider when using porcelain paving outdoors
Although porcelain paving seems amazing (which it is!), there are a few things to consider before turning your yard into a porcelain wonderland:
- Price: Porcelain can be somewhat more expensive than certain conventional pavement materials. However, over time, it could prove to be a more affordable choice when you take into account its long lifespan and less maintenance requirements.
- Do It Yourself or Hire Someone? Porcelain paving needs some expertise and accuracy to lay. Go ahead if you are an experienced DIYer! For most people, however, the best approach to guarantee a perfect and long-lasting finish is to hire a professional installer like AC Paving.
- Surface Issues: For porcelain to work at its best, a firm, strong basis is necessary. Therefore, before installing, make sure your current base is in good condition.
How to find the perfect porcelain paving?
With so many options available, choosing the suitable outdoor porcelain tiles for your project can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you navigate the selection process:
● Consider the space
Think about how you’ll be using your outdoor area. High-traffic zones like driveways might benefit from a thicker, textured tile for extra grip. For patios, you might prioritise aesthetics and opt for a smoother, stylish finish.
● Size matters
Large format tiles can create a more seamless, contemporary look, while smaller tiles can add a touch of character and work well with intricate patterns.
● Experiment
Don’t be afraid to experiment with colour and texture. Porcelain comes in an impressive array of options, from natural stone mimics to bold, contemporary colours.
How is porcelain paving different from other pavings?
In essence, the following are the primary differences between porcelain slabs and other types of garden paving:
- It is a man-made material made using natural components
- It has a very low water content
- It is made using digital printing technology
Nearly all of the water in porcelain is removed during the manufacturing process. There are several advantages to porcelain tiles because of its solidity and absence of water. It is a manufactured product that is enhanced using digital printing technology.
How to keep your porcelain looking its best?
Remember, even low-maintenance materials like porcelain paving slabs require a little TLC from time to time.
- Regular sweeping: Quickly sweep the area with a soft brush to remove any dust, leaves, or debris that can build.
- Seasonal cleaning: You can use a mop and a light soap solution for a more thorough cleaning. Steer clear of abrasive cleansers and strong chemicals, as they might cause surface damage.
- Don’t use salt: It is better to stay away from applying salt on your porcelain paving during those icy months since it can create a white residue. Instead, use a grit made especially for porcelain.
So, is porcelain paving right for you?
Now is the best time to upgrade your patio because it is the spring season! Make your patio ready for summer chills with AC Paving’s porcelain paving slabs UK. It ticks all the boxes for longevity, style, and ease of care.
