Types of paving materials

Each material offers a unique blend of performance and style:

• Natural Stone (like sandstone or limestone) offers timeless character and natural variation. It’s a popular choice for traditional aesthetics and can be used on patios and driveways.
• Concrete is versatile and available in a wide range of colours and textures. It’s ideal for both patios and driveways, especially where budget and ease of installation are key.
• Porcelain is sleek, modern, and highly durable. It’s non-porous, meaning it resists stains and algae, making it perfect for low-maintenance patios and driveways.

Yes, but it depends on the product specification:

• Concrete and natural stone ranges often include options suitable for both.
• Porcelain should only be used on driveways if it’s reinforced (e.g. SYMPHONY® Plus), while standard porcelain is suitable for just patios and standard foot traffic in a garden.

For driveways, strength and durability are essential:

• Natural Stone can be used, but only if the stone is dense and laid correctly to handle vehicle loads.
• Concrete block paving is a reliable and affordable option, especially in thicker formats or reinforced blocks.
• Porcelain should only be used if it’s been engineered for driveways (like SYMPHONY® Plus), which combines a low-maintenance porcelain surface with a concrete backing for added strength.

It's worth noting that materials do require some upkeep. You wouldn't buy a new carpet and expect it to vacuum itself...That said, all our materials are relatively low maintenance, so if you're not phased by looking after your new space, it's better to be guided by price or appearance.

If you're driven by maintenance, this is a guide for what might work for you:

• Porcelain is considered the easiest to maintain as its non-porous surface resists staining, algae, and moss, and doesn’t require sealing.
• Concrete is relatively low maintenance but may need occasional sealing to prevent fading or staining.
• Natural Stone requires more care, especially lighter-coloured sandstone, which can be more porous and prone to weathering.

For all maintenance tips, by material, please see our maintenance guide.

We advise following the 80/20 rule for a patio or driveway project. Typically, 80% of the cost is allocated to installation, and 20% to the product.

• Concrete is generally the most budget-friendly, still offering a wide range of long-lasting styles, colours and laying pattern options to suit your style and property.
• Natural Stone varies. Some options, like Limestone Aluri or Towngate Sawn Sandstone, are affordable while still meeting quality and responsibly sourced.
• Porcelain tends to be more premium, but its longevity and low maintenance can make it cost-effective over time.

For peace of mind, if you choose to have your project installed by a Marshalls Accredited member, you have the option to benefit from a 10-year product guarantee. See our Terms and Conditions for more details.

Manufacturing has come a long way in recent decades, with numerous products available that mimic the appearance of natural materials, if that is your preferred style. 

• Natural Stone wins here, offering unique textures and colour variations that evolve over time.
• Concrete can mimic stone setts or brick, but has a more uniform appearance.
• Porcelain offers a clean, contemporary look and can replicate wood, stone, or marble finishes with precision.

Take a look at our design tools to try different materials in your area and see what works for you.