Universal Paving

How Long Does a Patio Last? Lifespan by Material

A sandstone patio lasts 20-50 years. Porcelain lasts 30-50 years. Concrete lasts 10-15 years before it starts crumbling. But the material is only half the story — how long your patio actually lasts...

Paving Mortar Mix: The Right Ratio for Every Material

The wrong mortar mix is the invisible reason good paving fails. Too much cement cracks. Too little crumbles. This guide gives you the exact ratios for bedding, pointing, and priming — with the comm...

Can You Lay Paving on Soil or Grass? The Honest Answer

Stepping stones on grass work fine. A full patio on bare soil doesn't — it sinks, shifts, and cracks within months. This guide explains what works, what fails, and why the sub-base is the one step ...

Porcelain Paving Slabs: Complete UK Buying Guide 2026 (Prices, Sizes, Best Brands)

Porcelain paving slabs for UK patios cost £19-23/m² for quality outdoor-grade materials (20mm thick, R11 slip-rated). Most popular size: 900x600mm at £19.09/m² (Kandla Grey, Anthracite Black, Count...

Can You Lay Porcelain on Sand? Installation Methods Explained (UK Guide)

Can you lay porcelain paving on sand? Physically yes—it'll sit there looking fine for six months. Then slabs start rocking, joints crack, corners lift. Within 12-18 months you're ripping it up and ...