Types of Paving: Which is Best for Your Garden

Introducing paving stones into your garden can transform your outdoor space. Paving stones offer a simple way to partition space, so you can create a stunning seating area.

Whether you plan to host an al fresco feast, or just sit back in a sunlounger, use paving to give your designs a firm foundation.

Things have come a long way since the days of grey garden paths. Now you’ll find all kinds of paving slabs in all kinds of materials and styles. This is fantastic for finding a look that matches your home. But having so many types of paving blocks to choose from is a little bewildering.

So, let’s take a look at the types of paving, and what you can expect from them.

Types of Paving Style and Materials

There are two main types of paving styles you’ll find in gardens across the country: slabs and blocks.

Slabs are large, flat stones designed to cover big areas. Sometimes each slab will be the same size and shape, but sizes and shapes can be mixed for more unique patterns. On the other hand, paving blocks are a much smaller style of stone. When laid down, blocks have the same appearance as bricks.

This brings us onto materials. The diversity of materials gives you a lot of choice, each with their own advantages and disadvantages:

• Firstly, there’s natural stone. Natural stone is a sturdy material that’s unlikely to crack. Its natural appearance and varied patterns will suit all kinds of gardens.
  
  
• Next, there’s concrete. Concrete slabs replicate the look and feel of stone. Cast in moulds, concrete is a great option if you’re on a budget, but doesn’t quite capture the natural charm of other options.
  
  
• For natural strength, you can’t beat granite. If you’re paving an area with heavy footfall, its natural resilience will stand firm. Granite’s grey colours have a sophisticated, clean look.
  
  
• Limestone brings a natural look to your paving, with the benefit of lots of colour choice. The smooth surface looks clean, and absorbs little water.
  
  
• The sleek but riven look of slate makes it one of the most stunning, modern paving materials. Combine this with its natural strength and clean, diamond-sawn cuts, and you have a top paving choice.
  
  
• Next, there’s sandstone. Though not as tough as other stones, sandstone’s rustic style and natural veining make it the material of choice for country-cottage spaces. It’s light colour is great for a focal spot.
  
  
• Finally, there’s porcelain. This modern paving material is cooked at high temperatures for unbeatable strength and durability. Porcelain can replicate the look of wood or stone, making it great for patios.

Unbeatable Paving from Quality Outdoor Rooms

If you’re looking for garden services in London, work with Quality Outdoor Rooms. With all types of paving slabs on offer, we can help get your next project going with quality advice. Contact us today to create the perfect patio for your garden.