Porcelain or natural stone: which patio is right for you?

Porcelain

Porcelain paving is made from fine clay fired at very high temperatures, which makes it dense and hard with very low water absorption. In practice that means it resists staining, does not encourage moss and algae in the way porous stone can, and keeps its colour.

• Pros: consistent colour and size, very low maintenance, easy to keep clean, crisp modern look, wide range including stone- and wood-effect finishes.
• Cons: harder to cut and lay (it needs diamond blades and a bonding primer), so labour costs are usually higher; edges and steps need careful detailing; some finishes are more slippery when wet — choose an outdoor-rated, textured slab.

Our Westfield anthracite porcelain patio and the ivory cream patios in Chilcompton and Midsomer Norton are good examples of how sharp it can look.

Sandstone

Indian sandstones such as Kandla grey, Raj green and fossil mint are the most popular natural stones in UK gardens. Each slab is slightly different, which gives a natural, characterful finish.

• Pros: natural variation and texture, good grip, usually lower cost than porcelain, suits traditional and rural properties, looks great when wet.
• Cons: more porous, so it can pick up algae and stains in shady spots; colours mellow over time; benefits from occasional cleaning and can be sealed.

Limestone

Limestone is smoother and more uniform than sandstone. Black limestone gives a dramatic contemporary look, while yellow limestone glows in the evening sun — as on our Chilcompton yellow limestone patio, laid with Cotswold stone walling.

• Pros: elegant smooth finish, strong colours, natural stone character.
• Cons: darker limestones can fade if not sealed; smoother finishes are less grippy than riven sandstone.

Slate and reclaimed stone

Slate paving gives a crisp, dark finish that pairs well with artificial grass and modern planting. Reclaimed Yorkstone is the premium choice for period properties — heavy, incredibly durable and full of history, as on our Rode driveway.

Jointing and drainage matter as much as the slab

Whatever you choose, the base, falls and jointing decide how well the patio lasts. We lay patios on a properly prepared base, plan the falls so water runs away from the house, install slot drains or channels where a level threshold is needed, and use the right joint for the job — from two-part resin jointing compounds to traditional sand and cement.

Our advice

If you want low maintenance and a modern look, porcelain is hard to beat. If you prefer a natural, softer finish or are working to a tighter budget, sandstone is a great choice. We will bring samples when we visit so you can see them against your house.

Written by the JSW Landscaping & Surfacing team · Updated October 2026