Why Porcelain Paving Is Taking Over Gardens in 2025

Modern, durable, and easy to live with – here's why it’s everywhere

If you’ve noticed more gardens around North London and Hertfordshire looking clean, crisp and low-maintenance, chances are they’ve been paved with porcelain slabs.

This once ‘premium only’ product has become the new normal for patios, paths, and outdoor living spaces — offering the look of stone with the performance of tile. If you’re planning to upgrade your garden this year, here’s why porcelain paving should be top of the list — and how to do it right.

What Is Porcelain Paving?

Porcelain paving is made from a mix of refined clay and minerals, fired at extremely high temperatures. The result? A vitrified, ultra-dense slab that:

• Won’t absorb water

• Doesn’t stain easily

• Resists moss and algae

• Keeps its colour year after year

Unlike traditional natural stone (like sandstone), porcelain paving is non-porous, low-maintenance, and built for modern outdoor use — with a textured, slip-resistant surface that’s rated for year-round conditions.

Why It’s So Popular in 2025

1. It’s Properly Low Maintenance

No sealing, no scrubbing, no constant pressure washing. Porcelain paving is virtually maintenance-free — a quick sweep and rinse is usually all it takes to keep it looking fresh.

2. It Looks Sharp for Years

Porcelain doesn’t fade in the sun or discolour in the rain. It’s UV-resistant and frost-proof, so it holds up against all UK weather. Great for long-term value and a consistent, clean look.

3. It Suits Modern Garden Design

More and more people are building garden rooms, sleeper beds, slatted fences and composite decks. Porcelain slots in with that look — whether you go grey and minimal or warm and natural.

4. It’s a Smart Investment

Porcelain might cost more upfront than some sandstone or concrete slabs, but you’ll save on maintenance, sealers, and replacement costs down the line. A solid choice if you’re thinking long-term.

Where You Can Use It

Porcelain paving isn’t just for patios. It’s perfect for:

• Main garden seating areas

• Paths and walkways

• Front garden paving or drive borders

• Around garden rooms or pergolas

• Split-level decks or terrace transitions

• Under BBQs or outdoor kitchens

Want a contrast? Pair it with timber sleepers, edging stones, or gravel strips to break up the design and add texture.

What We Stock

At Wood Green Timber, we now stock:

• 16mm Porcelain Tiles – cost-effective, great for most garden projects

• 20mm Porcelain Tiles – premium thickness for patios, heavier traffic and pro builds

• Multiple colours and finishes – clean greys, textured stone effects, light neutrals

• Matching products – jointing compound, primer slurry, and trims available

Also available:

• Indian Sandstone Slabs – for a more natural, traditional look with colour variation

Need help choosing? Bring a photo or rough sketch — we’ll match the look you’re after.

What You’ll Need to Lay It Properly

For a solid, long-lasting porcelain patio:

Base Build-Up

• MOT Type 1 sub-base (100–150mm compacted)

• Bedding layer – full wet mortar bed or external tile adhesive (for 16mm tiles)

• Primer slurry – helps bond the tile to the mortar/adhesive

• Jointing compound – for neat, weed-resistant joints

Tools

• Spirit level

• Rubber mallet

• Notched trowel

• Tile spacers

• Wet cutter or angle grinder with diamond blade

• Cement mixer or mixing tray

Laying Tips

• Always prime the back of each tile with slurry to stop lifting or cracking

• Use spacers to keep gaps even — porcelain is machine-cut, so joints can be tighter than stone

• Cut edges cleanly with a proper porcelain-rated blade

• Plan your layout before mixing any mortar — dry-lay a few rows to check the flow and fall

• Leave a slight slope (1:60) to shed rainwater away from buildings

Read next:

How to Lay Porcelain Paving – Step by Step Guide

Want to See It First?

Drop into Wood Green or Potters Bar to view samples, compare finishes, and chat about the right materials for your project. Whether you’re doing it yourself or working with a landscaper, we’ll help you get the job done right.

Wood Green Timber — proper paving, expert help, fast delivery.