How to Lay Porcelain Slabs

For landscapers and contractors who are used to laying natural stone paving, making the move to porcelain paving for projects may seem daunting.

But using porcelain slabs is easier than you think.

Here we reveal how to lay porcelain slabs like an expert…

Laying porcelain slabs – what you need to know

We’ve compiled below simple responses to 7 of the most popular questions our team of porcelain paving specialists face from landscapers, contractors, gardeners and homeowners.

Are porcelain paving tiles too delicate?

Unlike ceramic paving, porcelain paving is incredibly strong and hard wearing, so you shouldn’t have the same concerns when laying it.

How do you prepare your site to lay porcelain slabs compared to standard stone slabs?

This stage of the build is just as it would be if you were using natural stone slabs. Dig out, check your levels and ensure drainage is in place.

Do I need to lay a sub base for porcelain slabs?

Absolutely. Just as with natural stone, it’s important to get a good base to lay your porcelain slabs on.

Do you need to prime the porcelain pavers?

Yes. We recommend that you prime both natural stone and porcelain pavers before laying. To achieve this some landscapers use an sbr and cement mix to primer. However we recommend a formulated porcelain primer to ensure the best results. Our primer can be left to dry and then the slabs laid the next day.

Is it easy to level porcelain slabs?

The great thing about porcelain paving is that each slab is the same size and shape, so getting the paved area level is far easier, and because all the tiles are uniform, it’s easier to get great results.

How do you cut porcelain outdoor paving to size?

When it comes to cutting porcelain, choosing the right equipment is half the battle to avoid chips. Our top choice of tool for the job would be a wet cutting bridge saw.

If you don’t have access to one, then use an electric  grinder. You’ll need to use plenty of water to avoid dust and a Porcelain Blade for cutting – because porcelain is much harder than natural stone.

How to fill gaps between porcelain slabs?

Simple. We recommend exterior tiles grout for a perfect finish. 

Bonus Top Tip while laying porcelain slabs:

Avoid getting any mortar or cement on the upper side of the porcelain pavers – and wipe off straight away if you do. Once it dries it will be harder to get off.

Still can’t decide if porcelain slabs are right for you? Check out our post on Porcelain or Natural Stone to help you decide.

CHOOSE CALEDONIAN STONE FOR YOUR NEXT LANDSCAPING PROJECT

Hopefully we have shown you how easy it is to use porcelain slabs in your next landscaping project.

If you have any concerns, why don’t you run them past the experts at Caledonian Stone? We would love to hear from you to discuss your next project.

Fill out the contact form below to discuss your requirements and request samples and we will respond swiftly. Next-day delivery is available.