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How expensive is porcelain paving vs. other paving products?
Are you thinking about sprucing up your garden or driveway, and wondering about the costs? You're not alone! With so many paving options available, it can be tricky to decide which one is the best for your budget and needs. By the end of this blog, you'll have a better understanding of the cost of porcelain paving in comparison to other paving products out there.
But before we begin, we just want to say that there is a broad spectrum of paving products out there to choose from, so whilst we are unable to give exact prices for all the different types, we will be able to give you a general idea of where natural stone, porcelain and concrete products fall on the costing scale.
What is porcelain paving?
Porcelain paving is a type of slab made from highly refined clay fired at high temperatures. This process makes the slabs incredibly durable, which we talk about further in our how durable is porcelain paving blog. It also comes in a variety of styles and finishes, whilst being more resistant to scratches, and less porous than natural stone.
As a result, porcelain is known for its longevity and low maintenance, and its superpower is that it can maintain its appearance over time, which is why an investment in this material should save you money in the long term.
Is porcelain paving expensive?
At first glance, porcelain paving might seem like a pricey option, but it's actually become more affordable over the years. And while the initial cost of porcelain paving might make you hesitant, it’s important to consider the long-term savings that come with porcelain over other paving products.- Low maintenance costs: Porcelain paving requires little to no maintenance. Unlike natural stone, it doesn't need to be sealed regularly and is easy to clean.
- Durability: Porcelain paving is incredibly durable and can last up to 50 years. This means you won't have to worry about frequent replacements, saving you money over time.
- Weather resistance: It’s resistant to frost, UV rays, and heavy rains, which means it maintains its appearance and functionality over time.
- Aesthetic appeal: Porcelain tiles come in a variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to achieve a high-end look without costing the earth. What makes porcelain stand out from concrete and natural stone, is its ability to maintain this high-end look throughout the years.
|
Porcelain |
Concrete |
Indian sandstone* (Natural stone) |
|
|
Initial cost** |
Moderate |
Low |
High |
|
Maintenance cost |
Low |
Moderate |
High |
|
Maintained beauty*** |
Really good |
Poor |
Average |
*Some natural stone is a lot cheaper than Indian Sandstone, but Indian sandstone is an example of a high quality natural stone.
**This is a general idea of costing. Some materials, like concrete, will have premium ranges that will cost as much as natural stone
***The Maintained beauty of the porcelain over time will be impacted by external factors such as how much the owner keeps up with the required maintenance of their paving.
**This is a general idea of costing. Some materials, like concrete, will have premium ranges that will cost as much as natural stone
***The Maintained beauty of the porcelain over time will be impacted by external factors such as how much the owner keeps up with the required maintenance of their paving.
Comparing paving costs
Let’s break down the costs of porcelain paving compared to two other common paving categories, concrete and natural stone.Concrete paving
Concrete is generally known for its affordability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious projects. However, its durability can vary. Concrete can crack and stain over time, requiring repairs and cleaning. Therefore, concrete will need replacing or repairing sooner than porcelain, adding to the long-term cost.Natural stone paving
Natural stone paving is generally more expensive than concrete and porcelain. For natural stone such as Indian Sandstone, the initial cost can be high, but then you also need to factor in the long-term maintenance costs that come with it. Natural stone requires regular sealing and cleaning to maintain its appearance and prevent stains. So whilst it can last many years, the cost and effort to keep it looking good quickly adds up.
Why choose porcelain paving?
Porcelain paving can mimic the luxurious appearance of natural stone, without all the expensive high maintenance that comes with it. It maintains its good looks over time, making porcelain the most affordable option in the long run.
Despite its initial higher cost compared to concrete, it requires no extra money for maintenance or sealing, making it a big win for budget-conscious homeowners. Plus, with its potential to last up to 50 years, the long-term savings are significant.
Select porcelain paving backs this up with a 10-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind. Plus, we offer budget-friendly options if cost is a concern.
You can read more about the pros and cons of porcelain, but if you feel like you’re ready to dive in, here is a glance at our cost-saving ranges of Porcelain tiles:
|
Product |
Image |
Aesthetic it mimics |
Range |
 |
Stone-effect |
Budget Friendly |
|
 |
Natural Sandstone Stone-effect |
Budget Friendly |
|
 |
Natural Sandstone |
Budget Friendly |
|
 |
Concrete Finish |
Budget Friendly |
|
 |
Stone-effect |
Luxury Italian |
|
 |
Stone-effect |
Luxury Italian |
|
 |
Slate |
Luxury Italian |
In conclusion, always consider the long game!
Choosing the right paving material involves considering both the initial cost and the long-term expenses. While concrete and natural stone have their merits, porcelain paving emerges as a cost-effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing option. By investing in porcelain paving, you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor space with minimal maintenance and long-term savings.
If you’re ready to explore the world of porcelain paving or have any questions, feel free to reach out to us for a chat. We’re here to help you create your little slice of paradise!
Or if you would like to read more about alternative paving options, we have written a blog which will help you determine which paving material is right for you.