Porcelain Paving and Slabs Guide

Introduction

Porcelain paving is a modern outdoor flooring solution made from refined clay and minerals that are fired at very high temperatures. The result is a dense, durable, and low-porosity slab that is highly resistant to stains, frost, and fading. It has become increasingly popular in patios, gardens, and terraces due to its performance and contemporary look.

What Is Porcelain Paving

• Manufactured from clay, feldspar, and silica.

• Fired at over 1200°C to create vitrification, making the slabs extremely hard and water-resistant.

• Typically available in 20 mm thickness for external use and 10 mm for indoor applications.

Key Properties

Durability

Porcelain paving is resistant to scratches, heavy foot traffic, and impact, making it suitable for residential and commercial projects.

Low Porosity

The dense structure absorbs less than 0.5% of water, which prevents staining and moss growth.

Slip Resistance

Outdoor porcelain slabs are manufactured with textured surfaces and tested for slip resistance (R11 or higher under DIN 51130 standards).

Frost and Weather Resistance

Porcelain paving withstands freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or damage, making it suitable for the UK climate.

Colour Stability

Unlike some natural stones, porcelain paving does not fade under UV light, retaining its colour for many years.

Common Applications

• Garden patios and terraces

• Pathways and courtyards

• Driveways (when installed with suitable base and thickness)

• Pool surrounds and outdoor dining areas

Installation Considerations

Sub-Base Preparation

• A stable and well-compacted sub-base is required to prevent movement.

• For patios, a minimum of 100 mm MOT Type 1 compacted hardcore is typical.

Fixing Method

• Use a full bed of exterior-grade adhesive or mortar, never spot-bonding.

• Priming slurry is recommended to ensure strong adhesion between porcelain and the mortar bed.

Jointing

• Grout joints of 3–5 mm are standard.

• Use an exterior-grade jointing compound or paving grout.

Cutting

• Due to the hardness of porcelain, a water-cooled diamond blade is required for clean cuts.

Maintenance and Care

• Regular sweeping removes dirt and debris.

• Occasional washing with mild detergent keeps the surface clean.

• Sealing is not required, unlike many natural stones.

Standards and References

• BS EN 14411 — Ceramic tiles: definitions, classification, characteristics.

• DIN 51130 — Testing of slip resistance.

• Various manufacturer testing for frost resistance and flexural strength.

Summary

Porcelain paving offers a practical and stylish solution for outdoor spaces. With high durability, slip resistance, and minimal maintenance, it has become a preferred choice for modern patios and landscapes.