Why Choose Porcelain Paving for Your Outdoor Space?
Porcelain paving provides a clean, contemporary look with minimal upkeep. Its non-porous surface resists mould, algae and everyday grime – just a quick sweep or rinse is all it takes.
Durable and non-slip, using porcelain tiles outdoor couldn’t be a better fit for the British climate – they won’t crack in the frost, fade in the sun, or stain after a downpour.
Available in a wide range of colours, sizes and finishes, porcelain pavers make it easy to design a patio or garden space that’s both stylish and built to last.
Where Porcelain Outdoor Tiles are Best Used
Porcelain paving is the smart choice for a multitude of outdoor spaces. Thanks to its durability, low water absorption and slip resistance, it’s perfect for areas that need to look great while standing up to the elements.
One of the most popular uses for porcelain slabs is on patios and outdoor living areas. Their uniform appearance and clean lines create a contemporary finish that works beautifully in both modern and traditional garden designs. Easy to keep clean and resistant to staining, porcelain patio tiles offer a practical surface for outdoor dining, lounging, and entertaining all year round.
Porcelain is also well-suited for garden paths and walkways, giving an elegant, uniform look that complements lawns, borders and planting areas. Porcelain paving slabs have high resistance to wear and weather, meaning they’ll maintain their finish even in high-traffic areas.
Another great use is around swimming pools and water features. With slip-resistant surfaces and minimal water absorption, external porcelain tiles provide safety without compromising on style, making them well-suited to wet areas.
Looking to upgrade a balcony or terrace? Our stylish porcelain outdoor tiles are light, strong and built to stand up beautifully to the elements. And while driveways traditionally rely on stone like granite,some heavy-duty porcelain pavers are now suitable for these areas too, offering a modern, cohesive look across your property.
Wherever they’re used, porcelain garden tiles offer the freedom to create outdoor spaces that reflect your style, without compromising on practicality.
For more information, read our Ultimate Guide to Porcelain Paving
Porcelain paving designs, colours and finishes to suit every taste
From sleek, modern finishes to realistic stone and wood effects, Westminster Stone outdoor porcelain tiles come in a huge variety of colours, textures and sizes. Whether you’re creating a contemporary space, enhancing a traditional garden, or aiming for something timeless, porcelain pavers offer the flexibility to bring your vision to life.
Our collection spans a carefully curated palette – from creamy whites and sand tones to elegant grey porcelain slabs and deep charcoal shades that add drama and depth to any outdoor setting. If you're paving a space that gets a lot of direct sunlight, it's worth noting that, like all paving materials, darker colours can absorb more heat and may feel warmer underfoot in summer. White porcelain paving or lighter shades, such as soft greys or pale neutrals, tend to stay cooler and are often a smart choice for sun-drenched areas.
Love the look of timber? Wood effect porcelain paving combines the beauty of natural wood while being effortless to maintain. It’s an ideal choice for traditional spaces, modern patios or anything in between. Check out the soft grey tones of Wychwood Birch, the subtle, classic look of Ashdown Oak, or channel a coastal feel with the rustic texture of Mill Bay Driftwood or the inviting warmth of Mill Bay Walnut.If you’re looking for a classic finish, explore our stone-effect porcelain paving, which captures the charm of natural materials minus the upkeep. From the understated elegance of Blenheim Stone external porcelain tiles – inspired by the stone floors, courtyards and winding pathways of historical British palaces – to the soft, sun-washed tones of our Ashbourne Beige porcelain slabs, there's a style to suit every setting.
When deciding between smooth and textured surfaces, consider both aesthetics and functionality. Textured porcelain tiles often offer enhanced slip resistance, making them a practical choice for areas prone to moisture, such as pool surrounds or shaded garden paths. Ultimately, the choice depends on the desired visual effect and the specific requirements of the outdoor space.
At Westminster Stone, our porcelain paving is available in a choice of edge finishes to help you achieve the perfect look. Sawn edges offer a clean finish with straight lines and sharp angles – ideal for modern garden designs and precise laying patterns. Antique edges are slightly softened to create a more traditional or time-worn appearance, adding charm and character to classic settings or heritage-style gardens. And rectified edges, which are machine-cut for exact uniformity, allow for a seamless, high-end finish. Whether you're aiming for crisp precision or a more relaxed, traditional feel, choosing the right edge detail can make all the difference to the overall effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is porcelain paving?
Porcelain paving consists of tiles made from refined clay and natural materials, fired at high temperatures to create a dense, hard-wearing surface. This process results in outdoor porcelain tiles that are highly resistant to moisture, stains, and wear and tear.
While modern porcelain tiles are often associated with contemporary design, the material has a rich history. Porcelain originated in China, with records of its use dating back to the 15th century, most famously in the construction of the Porcelain Tower of Nanjing. Today’s outdoor porcelain slabs carry that same heritage of craftsmanship, now combined with advanced manufacturing techniques for strength and consistency.
Is porcelain paving slippery?
External porcelain tiles can sometimes be slippery if they have a smooth, polished finish – but rest assured that each Westminster Stone porcelain slab is designed with an R11 slip rating as standard, which indicates moderate to high slip resistance.
This makes our non-slip outdoor porcelain paving a safe and reliable option for outdoor areas, even in wet conditions, providing peace of mind for families, older adults, or anyone concerned about safety underfoot. So whether you're installing porcelain patio tiles or creating a garden pathway, you can count on both style and stability.
Are porcelain pavers durable?
Absolutely! Porcelain outdoor tiles are known for their durability. They are resistant to scratches, stains and frost, making them suitable for high-traffic areas and various weather conditions. This strength means porcelain slabs can easily handle the demands of the British climate – from heavy rain to freezing temperatures – without cracking or fading. When properly installed, they’ll last for decades with minimal maintenance, offering long-term value and performance for your garden or patio.
Is porcelain paving expensive?
Outdoor porcelain tiles can have a higher initial cost compared to some other materials. However, porcelain paving is a cost-effective choice over time, thanks to its durability and low maintenance requirements. Porcelain paving slabs retain their colour and finish for years, reducing the need for repairs, replacements or resealing. Common issues with porcelain paving are rare, especially when it's installed correctly, meaning fewer costs and less hassle down the line.
How to clean porcelain paving?
One of the big benefits of using porcelain tiles outside is how easy they are to look after. However, a little regular care helps keep them looking their best for years to come. Regular sweeping helps remove debris and prevent dirt from building up on the surface. When needed, use a mild, pH-neutral detergent mixed with warm water to gently wash the tiles. After cleaning, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.
Because porcelain patio tiles are non-porous, they resist staining better than many other materials, but it’s still best to clean up spills promptly and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, which could dull the surface over time.
See Westminster Stone’s guide on How to Clean Porcelain Paving
How to lay porcelain paving?
Laying porcelain slabs outdoor is straightforward with the right prep and tools. Start with a level, well-compacted base, then use a full mortar bed for strength. A primer helps each tile bond securely, and tiles can be easily adjusted with a rubber mallet for a neat, level finish. Cutting is simple with a wet saw, and jointing is done with an easy-to-use external grout.
After fitting porcelain paving, there’s no need to seal it – but you can use a surface protector if you’d like a little extra reassurance. With a little care, you’ll achieve a sleek, long-lasting finish that’s well worth the effort.
For detailed instructions and additional resources, refer to Westminster Stone's Planning, Installation & Maintenance Guide.
