'Natural' Raveena Porcelain For Your Garden

'Natural' Raveena Porcelain Paving features soft mauve and beige tones with a cool, clean finish—perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist style with an elegant edge.

Perfect for outdoor use, 'Natural' Paving is an excellent choice for gardens, pations and borderse. Easy to install and effortlessly stylish, these porcelain tiles bring a modern, sophisticated look to any space.

What is the Difference Between Porcelain and Sandstone?

Porcelain and Sandstone Paving each offer unique advantages, catering to different styles, preferences, and practical requirements.

Porcelain Paving is a man-made product engineered to mimic the appearance of natural stone while delivering superior durability. Produced through a process called vitrification, porcelain slabs are created from refined clays and minerals, including quartz, and fired at temperatures around 1200°C. The result is a dense, non-porous, and waterproof surface with a sleek, “glass-like” finish. Resistant to mold, moss, frost, and staining, porcelain also boasts an R11 slip rating—making it a safe and stylish option for poolside areas and family-friendly spaces.

Sandstone, by contrast, is a natural material quarried primarily in India. Its porous structure allows water to absorb through the stone, which can be beneficial for the environment by aiding drainage and reducing surface runoff—an advantage in flood-prone areas.

While Porcelain Paving is virtually maintenance-free and retains its vibrant color with minimal effort, Sandstone requires periodic sealing to preserve its tones and protect against weathering. Over time, Sandstone naturally fades to softer, aged hues, which many find appealing for a more traditional or rustic look.

Ultimately, Porcelain excels in durability, low maintenance, and modern aesthetics, while Sandstone offers organic charm and eco-conscious benefits, making both valuable choices depending on your design goals.

How to Install 'Natural' Raveena Tiles

Installing porcelain paving outdoors requires precision and planning to ensure a long-lasting, professional finish. Follow these steps for a successful installation:

1. Plan & Design

Measure the Area: Accurately measure the space, accounting for any patterns or borders.

Select Your Pavers: Choose porcelain slabs that meet your aesthetic and practical needs (consider size, color, and thickness).

2. Prepare the Site

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

Excavate: Dig 150–200mm (6–8 inches) deep to accommodate the sub-base, mortar bed, and pavers. Maintain a slight slope (1:60) away from buildings for drainage.

3. Create the Sub-Base

Lay MOT Type 1: Spread 100–150mm (4–6 inches) of MOT Type 1 hardcore.

Compact Thoroughly: Use a plate compactor to create a solid, level foundation.

4. Prepare the Bedding Layer

Mix Mortar: Combine sharp sand and cement in a 4:1 ratio to form a semi-dry mix.

Lay the Mortar: Spread a 30mm (1–1.5 inch) thick layer over the sub-base, maintaining your intended slope.

5. Prime the Pavers

Apply Slurry Primer: Coat the underside of each paver with a slurry primer (e.g., UltraScape Pro-Prime Paving Slurry Primer) to ensure strong bonding with the mortar.

6. Lay the Pavers

Start Laying: Begin from a fixed corner or edge. Press each paver firmly into the mortar.

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

Level: Check with a spirit level and adjust using a rubber mallet.

7. Cutting Pavers

Use a Wet Saw: For clean, precise cuts, use a diamond-blade wet tile saw. Always wear protective gear.

8. Jointing the Paving

Fill the Gaps: After 24 hours, once the mortar has set, use a jointing compound like EASYJoint.

Activate as Needed: Follow manufacturer instructions; some compounds require water to activate.

9. Final Finishing

Clean the Surface: Gently brush away any jointing residue and rinse with clean water.

Allow to Set: Let the area cure for 24–48 hours before applying weight or foot traffic.

10. Optional Sealing

Seal the Joints (Optional): While porcelain doesn’t need sealing, joint protection can enhance stain resistance. Ensure full curing before applying.

Maintenance Tips

Keep It Clean: Sweep regularly and rinse occasionally with a hose or light pressure wash.

Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Use mild, non-abrasive detergents to preserve the surface and jointing integrity.

By following these steps, you'll achieve a high-quality porcelain paving installation that’s both beautiful and built to last.