What is the Difference Between Porcelain and Sandstone?

While both Sandstone and Porcelain are popular paving options, they offer very different qualities and benefits.

Porcelain Paving is a manufactured product, designed to replicate the look of natural stone with a more consistent and precise finish. These slabs are rectified, meaning each one has perfectly crisp, uniform edges achieved through grinding and polishing, ensuring a flawless, identical finish across your project. Being man-made, porcelain is non-permeable, waterproof, and resistant to mould, moss, and frost. With a certified R11 skid value, it is safe for use in areas around pools and other wet environments. Porcelain also requires very little maintenance—it does not need sealing, and its colour and surface will remain durable and consistent over time.

Sandstone, by contrast, is a natural stone quarried in India. Its inherent porosity allows water to pass through, making it an environmentally friendly choice that can aid natural drainage and help reduce surface flooding. Being a natural material, it does not require energy-intensive manufacturing, making it a lower-emission option. However, Sandstone is more susceptible to weathering and colour changes over time. Regular sealing is recommended to protect against fading, though natural exposure will still gradually soften its tones, giving it a classic, weathered character.

In summary, Porcelain offers low-maintenance durability and precise consistency, while Sandstone provides natural beauty, eco-friendly benefits, and a timeless, evolving aesthetic.

Looking After Your Porcelain Paving

Porcelain paving is virtually maintenance-free. We recommend simply hosing or jet-washing it twice a year to remove dirt and debris. Although the paving is stain-resistant, it’s best to wipe up any spillages promptly to keep it looking its best.

How to Install Manhattan Beige Tiles

Creating a durable, attractive porcelain paved area requires careful planning and attention to detail. Follow these steps for a professional, long-lasting finish:

1. Plan and Design

Measure the Area: Accurately measure your space, including any patterns, borders, or special features.

Select Your Pavers: Choose porcelain pavers that suit your aesthetic and practical needs, considering colour, size, thickness, and finish.

2. Prepare the Site

Mark the Layout: Use stakes and string to outline your design, keeping lines straight and corners precise.

Excavate the Ground: Dig down 150–200mm (6–8 inches) to accommodate the sub-base, bedding layer, and pavers, ensuring a slight slope away from structures for drainage.

3. Create a Stable Sub-Base

Lay the Sub-Base: Spread 100–150mm (4–6 inches) of MOT Type 1 crushed stone or hardcore evenly.

Compact the Sub-Base: Use a plate compactor to create a firm, level foundation that minimizes future movement.

4. Prepare the Bedding Layer

Mix Mortar: Prepare a semi-dry mortar with a 4:1 ratio of sharp sand to cement.

Apply Mortar: Spread the mix evenly over the compacted sub-base to a depth of about 30mm (1–1.5 inches), maintaining the slope for proper drainage.

5. Prime the Porcelain Pavers

Apply Slurry Primer: Coat the back of each paver with a primer such as UltraScape Premprime to ensure strong adhesion to the mortar bed.

6. Lay the Porcelain Pavers

Position the Pavers: Start from one corner, pressing each paver firmly into place.

Use Spacers: Maintain 3–5mm gaps for jointing material.

Level Each Paver: Check alignment with a spirit level and adjust gently using a rubber mallet.

7. Cutting Pavers (if required)

Cut Precisely: Use a wet tile saw with a diamond blade for clean edges. Always wear protective goggles and gloves.

8. Jointing the Paving

Fill the Joints: Once the mortar has set (usually 24 hours), fill gaps with a jointing compound like EASYJoint according to manufacturer instructions.

Activate the Compound: Add water if required to fully secure the joints.

9. Final Finishing

Clean the Surface: Use a soft brush and water to remove excess jointing compound.

Allow to Set: Let the paving cure for 24–48 hours before foot traffic or placing heavy furniture.

10. Optional: Sealing

Although porcelain is non-porous, sealing the joints can add extra protection against stains. Ensure the jointing compound is fully cured before applying sealant.

11. Maintenance Tips

Routine Cleaning: Sweep regularly and rinse occasionally with a hose or pressure washer.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild detergents only to preserve the pavers and joints.

By following these steps, your porcelain paving will remain stunning, durable, and low-maintenance for years to come.