Whether you’re revamping your entire garden or simply looking to add a stylish new patio, choosing the right paving is a big decision. With so many options available, from traditional stone to cutting-edge porcelain, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. At KPT Timber, we’re here to guide you through the essentials so you can make a confident, informed choice for your outdoor space.
The colour of your new patio is quite important to the final look and feel that you wish to achieve. Many people will have an idea of what colour they would like before they even start browsing. Smaller, contemporary spaces will require a very different style to that of a classic and traditional patio area. For example, a modern patio may look great with smooth, monochrome slabs such as porcelain paving, offering a sleek and sophisticated style. A buff-coloured patio with a natural Riven textured surface is a more classic design that will suit a beautiful rural space.
Paving comes in a great choice of shapes these days and will enable you to get the most out of your outdoor space. We stock square and rectangular paving stones in a choice of sizes. This allows for a bit of variation when it comes to laying your patio. You can achieve a different arrangement with various sized stones compared to those all of the same size. Our Patio Packs are perfect for achieving a motif or repeating pattern.
There is a vast range of options when it comes to paving materials. Each type has its own characteristics, style, finish and variation of colours.
Porcelain paving is a modern addition to our range, offering a sleek and contemporary look for your outdoor space. Manufactured using high-quality materials, porcelain slabs are known for their durability, low maintenance, and resistance to weathering. They are non-porous, which means they resist stains and moisture, making them ideal for areas exposed to the elements.
To find out more about Porcelain Paving, take a look at another of our blog posts: Porcelain Paving Explained: The Fantastic Benefits, Tips, and Top Picks.
Natural stone paving is made from all natural resources and because of this the colours and patterns may vary. Natural stone is hard-wearing and strong and will last for many years. They are resistant to all weathers and are usually less likely to crack when handling.
Also known as Indian Sandstone, Riven Paving is a popular choice for many. It is available in a wide range of colours, offers a wonderful surface finish and is widely available. Riven will bring a rustic feel to any outdoor area. Composed from tiny grains, the paving stones are formed and usually held together using silicone based cement. This offers excellent strength and durability.
Limestone offers consistent colouring with naturally occurring veining which offers a sleek and uniform look. Limestone paving stones have a naturally smooth surface and the soft and subtle colours are easy on the eye. Limestone slabs are hard and fairly impermeable and can handle the elements well. Limestone does have a tendency to fade over time when exposed to direct sunshine.
Concrete paving is a practical and budget-friendly option for any outdoor project. It is highly versatile and available in a wide selection of styles, textures and colours. Whether you're creating a simple garden path or a larger patio space, concrete slabs offer durability and a clean, structured look.
Block paving is incredibly versatile and comes with many great benefits. It is available in a wide variety of colours and styles, allowing you to create your own designs without limitations. Block paving is hard-wearing, easy to install and because it is porous, it will prevent water from accumulating on your patio or driveway which is great for drainage. Block paving requires very little upkeep; if a single block becomes damaged it is usually fairly straightforward to replace and it is also a very affordable option.
To complete your paving project and keep it looking its best for years to come, it’s essential to use a good jointing compound.
Jointing compounds fill the spaces between slabs, preventing weed growth and protecting against frost, algae and water ingress. At KPT Timber, we supply a choice of high-quality jointing compounds suitable for both natural stone and porcelain paving including:
No paving stones are completely maintenance-free, but to keep your new patio looking at its best there are some things you may like to consider:
Now that you know all about the different types of paving stones, their properties and the options available to you, we hope that you can make an informed decision. All that’s left to do is make a decision and get that patio project started. You can browse our full Paving range here.
Sources:
https://www.marshalls.co.uk/gardens-and-driveways/garden-paving
https://nustone.co.uk/blog/paving-advice/choose-right-paving/
https://www.bradstone.com/inspiration-and-advice/paving-slab-buying-guide/
