We have a variety from 20mm-thick porcelain tiles that are suitable for exterior use, commonly known as porcelain paver slabs. How do you determine whether porcelain paving slabs are the right choice for you? We’ve discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the use of 20mm porcelain tiles for your landscaping or other projects by presenting both sides of the argument to help you decide for yourself.
Advantages of Porcelain Paving
Long-lasting long-lasting Porcelain is tough and durable, which means it can last for a long time and usually is the same color as the day it was first installed. Being non-porous, our floor tiles made of porcelain are stain-resistant naturally and will retain their appearance and appeal even with the most basic of maintenance.
The tiles are tough – during the manufacturing process, our ceramic slabs for outdoor use are baked at very high temperatures, transforming them into a glass-like material. After cooling they are so solid and so durable that they are able to be cut with diamonds! This process is known as ‘vitrification and our vitrified pavers are among the toughest tiles you can find!
Range – Thanks to advancements in the technology of printing porcelain it is now possible to print porcelain paving that appears similar to the stone that was the inspiration for it. This is fantastic news for those who want the look of a stone, cement or wood effect outside.
Frostproof – Because porcelain has a very low porosity, the tiles aren’t affected by temperature changes that can cause harm to natural materials. They aren’t able to expand or expand, and they don’t change shape or bend like real wood.
Engineered – The majority of porcelain paving is calibrated and rectified. This means that the sizing will be consistent throughout the whole batch. The edges will be razor-sharp and square, ideal to create modern small grout lines. This is particularly the case if you select the range that has machine rectified straight edges!
Low maintenance – Decking and stone requires regular seals, and occasionally specific cleaning products. Porcelain paving doesn’t require sealant and is easily cleaned using the basic brush and mop and a pressure wash. If you want tiles that don’t need consider or keep in mind it, we recommend porcelain.
The material is resistant to fade – Porcelain is not affected by the sun’s rays, therefore the color does not change or fade as time passes. Furthermore, the slabs also resist staining, as we’ve mentioned earlier. You don’t want to go out and feel overwhelmed by the outdoor space particularly when you’ve opted for marble tile or stone-effect. Porcelain makes sure this doesn’t happen.
The tiles are slip-resistant. Since porcelain paving is a man-made product the surface is textured. This is possible to add an anti-slip surface. All our outdoor tiles come with at least R11 slip resistance. The porcelain’s non-porous structure ensures it is resistant to mould and moss growth, another issue that can make outdoor flooring slippery.
Contemporary – Porcelain offers an edgier and clean appearance to the traditional stone slabs and concrete. With the advancements in printing technology and 3D-textured surfaces, it’s difficult to distinguish effects from real thing. For instance you’ll be unable to distinguish the stone effect or wood ceramic tiles from natural counterparts!
The cons of Porcelain Paving
Cost Price Porcelain paver is typically more expensive than cheaper concrete slabs or stones at the point of purchase however, it is priced competitively with most expensive concrete slabs and stone. The high maintenance and durable characteristics of porcelain paving make the lifetime cost of porcelain quite affordable.
Installation – Finding the best installer can be difficult. Although porcelain paving is typically offered in conjunction with other types of paving but it’s still more of a tile rather than a slab of paving and thus must be set up in a specific method, which makes it difficult to find someone to install the tiles properly. If they are installed incorrectly, it can result in damages and costly repairs.
Natural – Although there are a variety of ultra-realistic porcelain paving options available however, there are some who prefer the natural appearance and prefer real stone and genuine wood floors. While the advantages of porcelain tiles are greater than the cost but it’s not a natural material and is a man-made product.
Cutting – Since porcelain is a hard material, it can be more difficult for cutting than stone that is natural, typically needing diamond-encrusted blades and machines for cutting through massive and thick porcelain tiles.
Costs for fixing – Installation costs for paving with porcelain tend to be a bit higher than concrete or stone slabs because the tiles have to be laid correctly and properly. We carry a wide selection of pedestals for paving support available to assist with this. To save on installation costs, ensure that the paved area in a way that minimizes cuts whenever it is possible.
Although we’ve tried our best to be neutral and give ample information on both positive and negatives however, we must confess that we had difficult to weigh both. The advantages of using porcelain outdoor flooring far outweigh the drawbacks.
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