Natural Stone Pavers Vs Porcelain Pavers – Which Are Best For Outdoors?
Nov 12, 2024
When planning an outdoor renovation, choosing the right pavers can significantly impact the look, durability, and maintenance of your space. At World of Stones USA, many people ask us if natural stone pavers or porcelain pavers are better for outdoor applications. This article will help you through the differences to help you make the correct decision.
1. Natural Stone Pavers and Porcelain Pavers : Introduction
Both natural stone pavers and porcelain pavers are popular options for outdoor landscaping projects like patios, walkways, and driveways. Each type shows its own unique standard qualities to the table.
Let’s take a deeper look at what they are and how they differ in terms of creation, design, colors, sizes, installation, and materials.
2. Creation and Design: Natural Stone vs. Porcelain
- Natural Stone Pavers: These pavers are filled directly from nature, collected from stones like granite, sandstone, limestone, and slate. The stone is cut and shaped into pavers, offering a one-of-a-kind look thanks to its natural touch or finish, color variations, and patterns. There are no two natural stone pavers that are exactly the same, adding to their charm.
- Porcelain Pavers: Made from a combination of clay, sand, and other natural materials, porcelain pavers are fired at high temperatures to make a dense and durable material. They can be designed to copy the appearance of different-different materials, including natural stone, wood, and concrete, providing a versatile range of design options while maintaining a uniform look.
3. Colors and Elegant : Natural Stone Pavers Vs Porcelain Pavers
- Natural Stone Pavers: These pavers offer a classic organic beauty with rich color variations and unique patterns that cannot be repeated. Stones like sandstone provide warm, earthy tones, while granite offers a more refined look with cooler shades.
- Porcelain Pavers: While they can imitate the look of natural stone pavers, porcelain pavers provide a more relevant appearance. They come in a wide array of colors and styles, making them suitable for modern, minimalist designs. The equability in color and texture gives them a sleek, latest feel.
4. Size and Shape Options
- Natural Stone Pavers: Available in multiple sizes and shapes, natural stone can be cut into formless shapes for a peasant appearance or regular sizes for a more structured layout. The range of options allows for creative installations, like cobblestone walkways or patterned patios.
- Porcelain Pavers: Generally available in standard sizes, porcelain pavers offer fewer irregular shapes but come in larger dimensions, which can create a seamless look for smashing outdoor areas. Their precision-cut edges allow for tighter joints and smoother finishes.
5. Installation Differences
- Natural Stone Pavers: Installation is generally more forgiving, as natural stone can be laid on a compacted sand or gravel base. However, depending on the type of stone, sealing may be required to prevent staining and moisture damage.
- Porcelain Pavers: These pavers need a stable, flat surface for proper installation, often requiring a mortar bed or pedestal system. Due to their non-porous nature, they do not require sealing, making them easier to maintain over time.
6. Material Composition and Durability
- Natural Stone Pavers: The durability of natural stone depends on the type used. Granite and sandstone are specially durable and can withstand high-traffic spaces.. However, some stones may be more inclined to crumble over time.
- Porcelain Pavers: Produced to be highly durable and non-porous, porcelain pavers are resistant to water absorption, stains, and scratches. They perform well in freeze-thaw conditions, making them a great choice for regions with harsh weather.
7. Which Should You Choose for Your Outdoor Space?
When choosing between natural stone pavers and porcelain pavers, review the following points:
- Aesthetic Preferences: If you prefer a natural, rustic look, go with natural stone. For a modern, uniform style, porcelain is the way to go.
- Maintenance Requirements: Natural stone may need occasional sealing, while porcelain requires minimal upkeep.
- Budget: Natural stone can be more expensive, depending on the type of stone, while porcelain offers a range of budget-friendly options.
Conclusion
Both natural stone and porcelain pavers offer specific advantages for outdoor spaces. At World of Stones USA, we provide a wide selection of high-quality pavers to suit your design preferences and project needs. Whether you’re looking for the organic beauty of natural stone or the modern versatility of porcelain, our experts can help you choose the perfect option.
FAQs
1. Can porcelain pavers be used around a pool?
Yes, porcelain pavers are ideal for pool areas due to their slip resistance and low water absorption.
2. Do natural stone pavers fade over time?
Some natural stones may fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight, but sealing can help preserve their original color.
3. Are porcelain pavers suitable for driveways?
Yes, porcelain pavers can be used for driveways if they are thick enough and installed on a stable base.
4. How do I clean natural stone pavers?
Use a mild detergent and water to clean natural stone. Avoid tough chemicals that could harm the surface.
