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Choosing the right type of paving material for your garden

Published on 12 May 2023

Posted in Advice & Reviews

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal of a home, the choice of paving material plays a significant role. The right type of pavement not only adds aesthetic value but also offers durability and functionality. With a wide range of paving materials available in the market, you can select one that complements your home's style and meets your specific needs.

Here are the different types of paving to consider:

 

Porcelain paving

 

porcelain paving with plant ports containing sapplings, brick stairs and many trees

 

Porcelain paving offers several benefits when used on a patio. Its aesthetic appeal and practical benefits make it a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional architectural styles.

For modern or contemporary houses porcelain’s smooth, consistent surface and range of colors and finishes can enhance the overall design and create a sophisticated look.

Yet for more traditional or classic homes porcelain paving can be designed to resemble natural materials such as slate, granite, or limestone, providing the look and charm of traditional materials without the maintenance challenges associated with them. 

Other benefits of porcelain paving are:

  • Durability - highly resistant to wear and tear, scratches, and stains. Porcelain paving can withstand heavy foot traffic and is less likely to chip or crack compared to other paving materials.
  • Low maintenance - porcelain is highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it easy to clean and maintain. Porcelain does not require sealing like natural stone pavers, reducing the overall maintenance requirements.
  • Colour retention - Porcelain paving retains its colour over time, even with prolonged exposure to sunlight. The pigments used in porcelain tiles are fired at high temperatures, resulting in excellent color fastness. 
  • Slip resistance - Porcelain paving typically has a textured surface that offers excellent slip resistance.
  • Wide range of styles - Porcelain pavers come in a variety of colours, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to choose a style that complements your patio's aesthetics.
  • Frost resistance - Porcelain is highly resistant to frost and freeze-thaw cycles, which can be particularly beneficial in colder climates. This resistance helps prevent cracking and damage to the paving, making it a suitable choice for outdoor spaces that experience freezing temperatures. 

 

Explore the MKM porcelain paving range

 

Natural stone paving

 

Stone paving with small circle table and red netted chairs with metal legs

 

For homeowners desiring a timeless and elegant look, natural stone paving is an excellent option. Materials like sandstone, limestone, granite, and slate offer a unique blend of beauty and durability. Natural stone pavers are available in various textures, colours, and sizes, allowing for a truly customised appearance. They are well-suited for homes with classic, rustic, or Mediterranean designs, enhancing the overall charm and sophistication of the property. 

 

Benefits of natural stone paving:

  • Natural beauty - Unlike manufactured paving materials, natural stone retains its inherent beauty as it is formed by nature over millions of years. The rich, natural colors and textures of stone add depth and character to outdoor spaces, creating a more authentic and organic feel. 
  • Aesthetics: a. It comes in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures, allowing you to create unique and beautiful designs. Whether you prefer a rustic, contemporary, or classic look, natural stone can complement various architectural styles. 
  • Durability - Natural stone is renowned for its exceptional durability and longevity. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, weather fluctuations, and general wear and tear, making it a reliable and long-lasting paving option. 
  • Minimal maintenance - Natural stone is relatively low maintenance compared to other materials. It is resistant to stains, easy to clean, and requires minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping and occasional sealing are usually sufficient to keep it looking pristine for years. 
  • Increased property value - The addition of natural stone paving to your outdoor space can significantly enhance the value of your property. Its timeless beauty, durability, and premium appeal are attractive to potential buyers or tenants, making it a worthwhile investment.

 

Explore the MKM natural stone paving range

 

Concrete paving

 

Yellow concrete paving with plant pots containing shrubs

 

Concrete pavers are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a versatile paving option. These precast blocks are available in various sizes, shapes, and colors, allowing for creative customisation. Concrete pavers offer exceptional durability, low maintenance requirements, and the ability to withstand heavy foot traffic or vehicular loads. They are suitable for homes with modern, contemporary, or traditional architectural styles

 

Other benefits:

  • Strength - Concrete is known for its exceptional strength, making it suitable for areas with heavy loads and frequent vehicle traffic. It can withstand the weight of large vehicles, such as trucks and vans without significant damage.
  • Versatility - Concrete paving offers a wide range of design options, allowing for customisation and flexibility. It can be formed into various shapes, sizes, and patterns, making it suitable for different architectural styles and aesthetic preferences. It can also be coloured or textured to mimic other materials like brick or stone.
  • Safety - Concrete offers excellent traction, which enhances safety by reducing the risk of slips and falls. Its textured surface provides better grip for pedestrians and vehicles, making it suitable for areas where safety is a concern, such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots.
  • Long lasting appearance - Concrete paving maintains its appearance over time, retaining its color and finish with minimal fading or degradation. This quality makes it a desirable choice for areas where aesthetics are important, such as commercial developments, parks, and residential landscapes.

 

View the MKM concrete paving range

 

Choosing the right paving material is essential for enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of your home's outdoor spaces. Porcelain paving, concrete pavers and natural stone all offer unique advantages that cater to different architectural styles and preferences. By selecting the appropriate paving material, you can transform your driveways, walkways, or patios into beautiful and durable areas that complement your home and contribute to a welcoming environment.

 

View all paving 

 

Visit your local MKM branch to view our range of paving options on display. 

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