When it comes to transforming a garden, patio or driveway, few materials work as hard as porcelain paving. Prized for its durability, low maintenance and striking good looks, outdoor porcelain paving has become one of the most popular choices for UK gardens, because it offers an equally stunning look as natural stone, without the upkeep.
Browse our full range of porcelain paving to find your perfect match, or read on to see exactly why it's the smart choice outdoors.
What is porcelain paving?
Porcelain paving is made from clay, minerals and elements like quartz, compressed and fired at extremely high temperatures (a process called vitrification). This creates an incredibly dense, hard-wearing tile with very low water absorption, perfect for the UK's unpredictable weather.
It isn't the same as ceramic tiling either, as porcelain is fired for longer at higher temperatures, making it stronger and more frost-resistant. See our guide on porcelain vs ceramic paving for the full breakdown on this.
The Benefits of Outdoor Porcelain Paving
Simple to Clean and Maintain
Because porcelain is non-porous, dirt and debris sit on the surface rather than soaking in, so most cleaning is just a sweep with a soft brush and an occasional wash with warm, soapy water.
For tougher stains, a pressure washer works well too, but check our guide on whether cleaning affects the tile colour before you start.
Extremely Durable and Weather-Resistant
Thanks to vitrification, porcelain paving is scratch, dent and stain-resistant, and don't absorb water. This means it won't crack, fade or absorb oil the way concrete or natural stone can.
Most of our slabs also carry an R11 anti-slip rating for safe, all-weather use. Find out more in our guide to how durable porcelain paving slabs really are.
A Fantastic Design Feature
Porcelain paving is available in a huge range of colours and finishes, from classic stone-look greys to warm sandstone tones. Our Kandla Grey porcelain slabs remain one of our most popular choices for their versatile, contemporary look.
For more inspiration, see our guide on colours that complement porcelain paving or our porcelain paving design ideas for the summer.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run
Porcelain costs more upfront than budget concrete, but with no sealing, repointing or replacing slabs down the line, it works out more cost-effective over time. It's typically priced per square metre too, which makes budgeting simple. Check out our guide on purchasing porcelain paving by the m² to learn more.
Popular Porcelain Paving Styles for Outdoor Spaces
A few of our most popular options:
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Kandla Grey 600x900 - a timeless, versatile grey.
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Rasa Grey 600x900 - a smooth, contemporary grey with subtle texture.
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Valore Anthracite Plank 150x900 - a dark plank format for a modern look.
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Rasa Beige 600x900 - a warm neutral that pairs well with planting.
Browse our light grey porcelain tiles and beige porcelain tiles collections, or shop the full porcelain paving range.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is porcelain good for outdoor paving?
Yes, thanks to its low water absorption, frost resistance and anti-slip rating make it ideal for patios, driveways and pool surrounds in the UK climate.
What are the disadvantages of porcelain paving?
It costs more upfront than concrete and needs a solid, properly prepared base rather than just sand (see our laying guide for details).
Can you jet wash porcelain paving?
Yes, using a lower pressure setting and a fan nozzle to avoid damaging the grout lines. Our guide on cleaning porcelain paving has full guidance.
What do you put under porcelain paving slabs?
A full mortar bed over a compacted concrete or hardcore sub-base. Full details in our laying guide.
How much does porcelain paving cost per m²?
Costs vary by style, but our tiles are priced per tile for easy budgeting. Use our guide on purchasing porcelain paving by the m² to work out your total.
