THE PRO’S AND CONS OF PORCELAIN SLABS

ADVANTAGES OF USING PORCELAIN SLABS

DURABILITY

During manufacturing, superheating turns clay and minerals into a glass-like material which becomes extremely dense when cooled. This is the vitrification process and is what makes porcelain paving slabs so durable, even in heavy traffic areas such as paths, driveways and patios. Once laid, they will last years without any extensive wear and should not need to be replaced for a long time.

LOW MAINTENANCE

Unlike stone slabs and timber decking, vitrified porcelain paving doesn’t need to be sealed thanks to its dense composition. Because the material is so hard-wearing, it can be cleaned down with pressure washers without risk of damage.

Specialist porcelain cleaners are available to make cleaning quick and easy.

VERSATILE DESIGN

In addition to being physically durable, vitrified porcelain paving can be made in a wide range of different colours, textures and designs to suit any style or project. The versatile printing process means you can get a huge range of patterns including porcelain paving with a natural stone finish and porcelain paving with a wood grain finish.

FROST AND WATER RESISTANCE

A common problem with other paving types is water absorption which can cause damage over time, particularly during colder months when expanding frost can create cracks. Porcelain paving slabs are non-porous which drastically reduces water absorption, making them last much longer.

SLIP-RESISTANCE

When it comes to patios, driveways and paths, it’s important to have a sturdy surface that is safe to walk on all year round. It’s a common misconception that porcelain can be slippery. However, porcelain paving tiles can be finished with a wide range of different textures to create anti-slip surfaces that are ideal for areas that get a lot of foot traffic. All of the Vitripiazza range meets the required BS EN 14411 standard.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING PORCELAIN PAVING

CUTTING AND INSTALLATION

One of the biggest benefits of porcelain paving is that the tiles are so hard and durable however, this can make them quite difficult to cut - you’ll need to use a diamond-edged blade to cut through which can be slightly more expensive.

ARTIFICIAL TEXTURE

Some homeowners and landscapers will have a personal preference for natural stone paving for its texture. As a manufactured material, porcelain paving doesn’t have a naturally occurring texture. However, the ultra-realistic printing process allows you to replicate these textures while still getting the benefits of porcelain.

COST

The cost of porcelain paving can sometimes be a more expensive option compared to some other paving materials - this could be a disadvantage if you’re working to a tight budget. However, considering the durability and longer lifespan of porcelain paving, it can save more money in the long run.