A few years ago, the answer to this question would have been a clear "no." Porcelain was once considered a high-end luxury material with a price tag to match, while Indian Sandstone was the go-to budget-friendly option for UK gardens. However, the market has shifted dramatically.
Today, porcelain paving is almost the same price as natural sandstone. In many cases, when you factor in the long-term maintenance costs, porcelain can actually work out to be the more economical choice.
1. The Closing Price Gap
The cost of natural stone has risen due to increased quarrying and shipping costs, while the mass production of porcelain has become more efficient. You can now find high-quality outdoor porcelain slabs for £20 – £25 per square metre, which is exactly the same price bracket as popular natural stones like Kandla Grey or Autumn Brown Sandstone.
2. Comparing Installation Costs
While the slabs themselves cost roughly the same, there are slight differences in the installation process that can affect your total budget:
- Sandstone Installation: Sandstone varies in thickness (it is not "calibrated" as perfectly as porcelain). This means the installer spends more time adjusting the mortar bed for each individual stone.
- Porcelain Installation: Porcelain is perfectly uniform (usually 20mm thick), which allows for faster laying. However, it requires a slurry primer to be applied to the back of each slab. Because both materials require a similar sub-base and labour time, most contractors in the UK now quote nearly identical labour rates for both materials.
3. Long-Term Value: Why Porcelain Often Wins
When asking which is "cheaper," it is important to look beyond the initial purchase. Porcelain offers several financial advantages over the years that sandstone cannot match:
- No Sealing Required: To keep sandstone looking good and to prevent green algae, it should be sealed every 2–3 years. This costs money for the sealant and time for the application. Porcelain is vitrified and never needs to be sealed.
- Easier Cleaning: Porcelain is non-porous, so stains from red wine, oil, or fallen leaves don't soak into the stone. You can usually clean a porcelain patio with just a bucket of soapy water, whereas sandstone often requires expensive specialist stone cleaners or professional jet washing.
- Durability: Sandstone is a softer stone that can occasionally "delaminate" (peel in layers) or fade in the sun over a decade. Porcelain is frost-proof and fade-resistant, meaning it stays looking "new" for much longer without needing replacement.
4. At a Glance: Price Comparison Table
Estimates based on a standard 30m² patio project:
| Feature | Porcelain Paving | Indian Sandstone |
|---|---|---|
| Slab Price (per m²) | £22 – £25 | £20 – £25 |
| Initial Installation | Moderate (Needs Primer) | Moderate (Needs Calibration) |
| Ongoing Maintenance | Near Zero | Periodic Sealing Needed |
| Total 5-Year Cost | Lower | Higher |
Conclusion: Which is Best for Your Budget?
Because the upfront costs are now so similar, the choice between porcelain and sandstone usually comes down to style rather than savings. If you want a modern, ultra-clean look with almost no maintenance, porcelain is the winner. If you prefer the rustic, traditional variations of natural stone and don't mind a bit of seasonal cleaning, sandstone remains a beautiful option.
