It is important to think thoroughly when it comes to choosing your paving. In this article, we will compare two good choices when looking for great quality and durability, porcelain and sandstone, as well as the types of them. As with all materials, they each have their own benefits and disadvantages depending on your preferences so read on to help you make your choice.

Both porcelain and sandstone come in a variety of colours, sizes and textures. Using different techniques and treatments on the materials create unique designs at each stage.

Textured or unpolished porcelain is the most natural-looking type of porcelain. This type of porcelain is non slippery, moisture proof but more likely to grab dirt.

Porcelain can be polished, creating a beautiful smooth shiny surface. Polished porcelain is strong, water, heat and frost resistant, making it a great option for outdoor paving. It is easily cleaned and stain resistant so the look of it remains for years with little to no maintenance.

Polished tiles can be glazed, it basically just means painted. There are four types of glazing: gloss, matte, lappato and textured which all create a different look. Glazing polished porcelain increases durability a lot and protects the tiles from staining and bacteria.

Sandstone’s natural look is unique to its own, so you’re likely to have a design like no one else. Sandstone is easy to work with and can be tumbled and cut to create smooth sandstone tiles. Cutting sandstone does not create the same glossy look as polished porcelain but can be finished for your preference. This stone naturally darkens with age as it is not waterproof, however it is less likely to stain or fade if sealed properly.

To sum up, if you are going for low maintenance and a long-lasting option, glazed polished porcelain paving is the best choice for you. If you are focused on the design and keeping a natural look, go for sandstone or smooth sandstone paving. These great materials also need great work to be done to them, contact us for the best quality labour and materials.