How To Choose The Right Paving Material For Your Patio

If this is the first time you have designed a patio, then the sheer multitude of different stone types, texture, colour and sizing available can seem quite complicated and perhaps a little daunting. So below we've given you a quick guide to the different types of paving available and what to look out for so you don't make costly mistakes.

When designing a patio for your home, consider the style and period of your property. For example, if you want a more contemporary feel use larger sized flagstones and tiles with a honed, polished or smoother texture.  Whilst for period homes or where an aged appearance is preferred, antique or tumbled flagstones add instant maturity and homeliness.    

For smaller or darker gardens, choose light coloured grey or buff paving stones which will make the area appear bigger and create a brighter garden aspect. 

Natural Stone

Natural stone is a very durable material and the natural markings within each piece make it very unique and beautiful. The type of stone you chose may depend on the colour, texture, and pattern that will best complement the style of your house and garden. Some of the most common types include: 

• Granite 
• Limestone 
• Sandstone 
• Slate 

When choosing consider the texture, porosity and maintenance. Sandstone has a very natural texture with lots of variety so no two stones are the same and it weathers beautifully over time, but it can be slippery when wet.  In contrast, Limestone is naturally non-slip and has a more uniform texture which can be easier with patio furniture.  All natural stone will require some annual maintenance and it will darken over time, but it does weather beautifully and lasts a very long time.  Look at the properties of each type of stone when making your selection. 

Concrete Paving

Concrete paving will provide a hard wearing, low-maintenance surface which is a more affordable alternative to natural stone. There is no need to compromise on style, as replica flagstones and tiles are available in a range of textures, sizes and colours. Concrete is a great choice for other outside areas such as driveways and paths because it is naturally non-slip and frost resistant.

Available in a range of finishes including antique and tumbled to add instant maturity to any landscape.

Concrete flagstones can also be laid internally so are perfect for those that want to create a seamless transition from interior to exterior. 

Porcelain Paving

These tiles are a great alternative to natural stone, made from a mixture of sand, clay, and minerals. Highly resistant to mould, mildew, and stains, the tiles are very low maintenance. They withstand the climate well, be it frost, sun, or rain, and do not scratch. Porcelain tiles are available in a stunning range of colours with stone and wood effect textures.

Porcelain is completely uniform within each tile and from tile to tile so is ideal for those that prefer a more streamlined contemporary appearance. 

Porcelain tiles are also perfect for interior flooring as they are naturally non-slip and very low maintenance so ideal for kitchens or for use with bi-fold or sliding doors. 

If you are looking for patio slabs, browse our full range or get in touch to see how we can help.