Everything You Need to Know About Outdoor Porcelain Pavers

Thinking about upgrading your outdoor space but want something more durable than concrete and less fussy than stone? You’re not alone. More and more Aussies are switching to outdoor porcelain pavers and for good reason.

They’re tough enough for driveways, stylish enough for patios, and low-maintenance enough for busy lives. No sealing. No fading. No dramas.

Whether you’re tiling around the pool or paving a full backyard, this guide covers everything you need to know before you buy.

What Are Porcelain Pavers?

Outdoor porcelain pavers are a glazed porcelain paver made from dense clay that’s fired at an extremely high temperature. This creates a hard, durable surface that’s low in water absorption and built to last in all kinds of Australian weather conditions.

They’re called 2cm or 20mm porcelain pavers because of their thickness. That extra depth gives them the strength to be laid directly on gravel, sand, or pedestal systems, just like traditional stone or concrete pavers.

Unlike natural stone, outdoor porcelain pavers don’t need sealing and won’t fade, warp, or crack over time. Most options have a textured surface with a P4 or higher slip rating, making them ideal for pool zones, patios, balconies and other external areas.

With natural stone pavers becoming increasingly expensive and harder to source, especially from overseas, more landscapers and designers are switching to porcelain for both reliability and value.

Porcelain Pavers vs Other Paving Materials

If you’re deciding between porcelain, concrete, brick or natural stone, it helps to know how each performs outdoors. While all three have their place, porcelain offers practical advantages that suit modern Australian homes and projects.

1. Porcelain vs Concrete

Concrete is heavy, porous, and more likely to crack or stain over time. It often needs sealing and regular maintenance to keep it looking good, especially in exposed outdoor areas.

Porcelain is lighter, denser, and doesn’t absorb water. It resists stains, doesn’t need sealing, and keeps it’s finish for years. The pavers are also easier to work with, as they come in consistent sizes and are simpler to handle on-site.

2. Porcelain vs Natural Stone

Natural stone like travertine, limestone, or granite brings a classic look but needs sealing to protect from moisture and stains. It can fade in direct sun and may have natural fractures that affect strength over time.

Porcelain pavers deliver the same visual appeal with far less upkeep. They won’t fade, absorb pool chemicals, or crack under pressure. Their uniform appearance also makes them easier to lay across large areas with a clean, consistent finish.

3. Porcelain vs Brick

Brick pavers offer a traditional style but can shift, fade, and wear down with time. They’re also limited in colour and texture, which can restrict design flexibility.

Porcelain provides a wider range of looks, while offering better durability and resistance to wear. It stays stable, needs less maintenance, and gives outdoor areas a more refined finish.

4. Porcelain vs Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are commonly used indoors, but they’re not always suited to outdoor conditions. They tend to be more porous, less dense, and more prone to chipping, especially in areas exposed to moisture, heat or heavy foot traffic.

Porcelain, on the other hand, is specifically engineered for durability. It’s fired at higher temperatures, making it harder, stronger and better suited for outdoor areas. It handles heat, rain, frost, and foot traffic without losing its look or structure.

Want more details? Check out our guide on the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Benefits of 20mm Porcelain Pavers

20mm porcelain pavers are built to handle Australian outdoor conditions with ease. They offer strength, style, and lasting value for everything from patios and walkways to rooftops and driveways.

Each benefit makes them a reliable choice for residential and commercial projects.

1. Low Cost

Porcelain pavers are at least 30% cheaper than 40mm natural stone alternatives. The lower material cost, combined with minimal upkeep, makes them a cost-effective option for any outdoor space. You get the look of stone without the price tag or maintenance.

2. Durability and Strength

These pavers are built to handle weight and wear. Each one has a breaking strength of around 10,200 N, roughly one tonne. Most natural stone pavers can’t match that, especially those with natural fractures or veining that can weaken over time. These pavers hold up under pressure, even in high-traffic areas.

3. Weather & Stain Resistance

Porcelain is non-porous, so it resists moisture, heat and stains. It won’t fade in the sun, crack in cold weather or absorb spills like natural stone can. Whether it’s pool water, salt spray or wet shoes, these tiles stay looking fresh with minimal upkeep.

4. Low Maintenance

There’s no need for sealing or special treatments. A sweep and rinse is usually enough to keep the surface clean. It won’t grow mould or attract dirt, which means less work over the years.

Want sparkling tiles? Check out our ultimate guide on cleaning tiles effectively.

5. Non-slip Surfaces

Most 20mm outdoor porcelain pavers come with a textured finish and a P4 slip rating or higher. This makes them a safer choice in areas that get wet, like pool surrounds, patios or outdoor walkways. You get a grip and peace of mind without compromising on looks.

6. Easy Installation

Porcelain pavers are consistent in size and thickness, which makes them easier to work with. They can be laid on gravel, sand, grass or pedestal systems depending on your project. It is a flexible option that suits both DIY and professional pavers installations.

7. Environmentally Friendly

Porcelain pavers are made from natural raw materials, and many are produced using recycled content. The manufacturing process is energy-efficient compared to quarrying and cutting natural stone. Because they last so long and need little upkeep, they help reduce waste and make a great low-impact option for eco-friendly outdoor spaces.

8. Modern Look and Design Versatility

You’ll find styles that mimic natural stones like Travertine, Marble, Limestone, Timber and Granite and in a variety of amazing colours. They suit everything from relaxed garden paths to sharp, contemporary spaces. So you get the natural look without the price tag or the maintenance.

Disadvantages of Porcelain Pavers

Porcelain pavers offer a lot of benefits, but like any material, they’re not perfect for every situation. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Harder to Cut

Porcelain is incredibly dense, which makes it tougher to cut than natural stone or concrete. You’ll need specialised tiling tools like a wet saw with a diamond blade, and some experience helps.

2. More Expensive Than Concrete

While cheaper than natural stone, porcelain pavers usually cost more than plain concrete or brick. For large areas, this can impact your overall budget, especially once you add installation costs.

3. Can Feel Cold and Hard Underfoot

Unlike natural stone, porcelain doesn’t retain heat well, so it can feel cold in winter. It also has a very hard surface, so it’s not as forgiving underfoot as timber or composite decking.

4. Limited Thickness Options

Most outdoor porcelain pavers come in a 20mm thickness. That’s perfect for patios, pools and walkways, but not ideal if you’re matching to thicker stone in older areas.

5. Needs Proper Installation

Porcelain pavers are only as good as their base. Poor installation can lead to cracking or movement over time, especially on uneven ground or driveways without a solid slab.

6. Limited Repair Options

If a paver cracks or chips (which is rare, but possible), it usually needs to be replaced rather than repaired. This can be tricky if the style or batch has been discontinued, so it’s a good idea to keep a few spares from your original order.

Popular Applications of Outdoor Porcelain Pavers

Tough, slip-resistant, and easy to clean, 20mm porcelain pavers are made for outdoor life. From family backyards to high-traffic commercial zones, they offer a reliable and good-looking finish that stands up to Australia’s climate.

1. Residential Spaces

Perfect for patios, pool surrounds, and alfresco areas, porcelain pavers handle water, sun, and daily use without wearing out. Their slip resistance and low maintenance make them a practical choice for family homes and outdoor entertaining zones.

2. Commercial Applications

Ideal for courtyards, footpaths, and rooftop terraces, porcelain pavers bring durability and a polished finish to public or high-traffic areas. The consistent sizing and clean edges make them easy to install across large surfaces with a professional result.

3. Driveways

When laid on a reinforced concrete slab, porcelain pavers are strong enough to support vehicles. Each tile has a breaking strength of around one tonne, making it a durable and low-maintenance alternative to standard driveway materials.

4. Balconies and Verandas

Lightweight and non-porous, porcelain pavers are ideal for suspended slabs or compact spaces. They work well with pedestal systems, allowing drainage and easy access underneath without adding weight or compromising the finish.

How to Lay Porcelain Pavers

One of the best things about 20mm porcelain pavers is how flexible they are when it comes to installation. Whether you’re building a new outdoor area or upgrading an old one, there’s a method to suit your space, budget, and skill level.

1. Dry-Lay Over Gravel, Grass, or Sand

This method is simple, quick, and great for areas that don’t need a fully fixed finish. You just prepare a level base using compacted sand, gravel or even grass, then place the pavers directly on top. No glue, no grout, just a solid base and good alignment. It’s a great option for stepping paths through a garden or zones where you might want to shift things around later.

Perfect for: garden paths, relaxed seating zones, and low-traffic walkways.

2. Traditional Mortar or Adhesive on Slab

If you’re after a permanent finish, this is the way to go. The pavers are fixed onto a concrete slab using tile adhesive or a mortar mix. It gives a flush, clean look that works beautifully in patios, alfresco areas, and pool surrounds. Just make sure the slab is level, has proper drainage, and expansion joints are included. It’s best left to a pro if you’re not familiar with tiling.

Perfect for: high-traffic areas like patios, driveways and pool areas.

3. Self-Levelling Pedestal Systems

For balconies, rooftops or raised outdoor areas, pedestal systems are a clever solution. They lift the pavers off the surface, allowing water to drain underneath and keeping everything neat and level, even if the ground isn’t. The pedestals can be adjusted for height and slope, which means you don’t need to pour new concrete or do major prep work. They’re also removable, making them ideal for renters or future renovations.

Pedestals can be as low as 10mm or raised over 500mm, depending on what you need.

Perfect for: balconies, rooftop terraces, verandas, or anywhere with tricky levels or existing waterproofing.

How to Cut Porcelain Pavers (Without Breaking Them)

If you’re taking on a DIY paving project, the easiest approach is to plan your layout so that no cuts are needed. This keeps the job simple and saves time. But if cutting can’t be avoided, the right tools and a steady hand will help you get it done properly.

1. Start with Safety

Before anything else, gear up. You’ll need safety glasses, gloves, sturdy boots and a quality dust mask. Porcelain dust can be fine and sharp, so it’s important to protect your eyes, skin and lungs.

2. Choose the Right Tools

Porcelain is a dense material, so a standard blade won’t do the trick. Use a continuous rim diamond blade or a J-slot blade on a wet saw. The water keeps dust down and prevents the blade from overheating, giving you a smoother cut.

If you’re working on small cuts or corners, an angle grinder with a porcelain-rated blade can also be used. Just take your time and work in short passes to avoid overheating. A helpful tip is to keep the grinder running after each cut to let the air cool the blade faster.

3. Cutting Tips

- Always mark your cut line with a pencil or wax pencil.
- Let the blade do the work, don’t force it through the tile.
- Make light scoring cuts at each end of the tile before the full cut to help prevent chipping.
- Set up your workstation on a stable surface, like a timber pallet with a rubber mat on top, to reduce vibration and improve accuracy.

How Much do Porcelain Pavers Cost?

Porcelain pavers in Australia usually range from $40 to $95 per square metre, depending on the finish, quality, and design. Whether you’re after a simple stone look or a high-end designer style, there’s an option to suit different budgets.

Typical Price Ranges

- Entry-level styles: $40–$60/m²
  Basic finishes that offer great value for patios or walkways.

- Mid-range options: $60–$80/m²
  More design choices like travertine or concrete-look with better slip resistance.

- Premium finishes: $80–$95+/m²
  High-end styles with refined textures, natural stone effects, and R11 slip ratings.

In addition to tile costs, you’ll need to factor in installation, which can range from $25 to $70 per square metre, depending on the method (dry lay, pedestal, or mortar) and site conditions.

What Affects the Price?

- Design and finish: Textured or patterned tiles are often pricier than plain ones.
- Quantity: Bulk orders usually attract discounts.
- Installation: More complex jobs (like driveways or rooftops) can increase labour costs.

Need pricing info? Check our full porcelain tiles price breakdown here.

How to Maintain Porcelain Pavers Long-Term

Porcelain pavers are built for low effort and long life. But a little care goes a long way in keeping them looking their best year after year.

Keep your porcelain pavers looking their best with these simple maintenance tips:

- Sweep regularly to clear away leaves, dirt, and debris.
- Hose down occasionally using warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner.
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners, which can damage grout or finishes.
- Check grout lines (if used) in high-traffic areas for signs of wear or staining.
- Inspect pedestal systems now and then to ensure stability, especially on balconies or rooftops.
- Replace any damaged pavers with spares from your original batch for a perfect match.
- Use mats or pads under heavy furniture or BBQs to avoid unnecessary surface stress.

Why Professionals Trust TFO for Porcelain Pavers

Need top-quality porcelain pavers without blowing the budget? You’re in the right place.

At TFO, we bring in tiles directly from over 150 global manufacturers. That means you skip the middleman and save big. We’re talking up to 70% less than traditional tile shops. No delays. No inflated prices. Just great value in outdoor pavers that you’ll love for years to come.

With over 700,000m² in stock at our Smithfield NSW warehouse, you can pick up on the spot or get fast delivery Australia-wide. Whether you’re building from scratch or upgrading your backyard, we’ve got what you need, ready to go.

Not sure where to start? Our friendly team offers free design advice, take-home samples, and tips tailored to your space, style and budget.

Shop online or visit our Smithfield showroom to see the difference for yourself!

Outdoor Porcelain Pavers FAQs

Are porcelain pavers better than concrete pavers?

Yes. Porcelain pavers are denser, more durable, stain-resistant, and don’t require sealing like concrete. They also hold their colour and finish for much longer.

Do porcelain pavers need a concrete base?

Not always. They can be dry-laid on sand, gravel, or grass, or installed on pedestal systems. But for driveways or heavy loads, a concrete base is recommended.

How long do porcelain pavers last?

Porcelain pavers can last 25–50 years or more with proper installation and maintenance. Their non-porous surface makes them highly resistant to wear, weather and fading.

For detailed care instructions, visit our porcelain panel cleaning and maintenance guide.

Is porcelain paving slippery when wet?

Not if you choose the right finish. Outdoor-grade porcelain pavers typically have a textured surface with a P4 or P5 slip rating, making them safe even in wet areas.

Want a safer surface? Check out our guide on non-slip floor tiles to pair perfectly with your porcelain pavers.

Do porcelain pavers get hot in the sun?

They can warm up, but usually less than dark-coloured stone or concrete. Choosing lighter colours and shaded areas helps keep surfaces cooler underfoot.

Do outdoor porcelain tiles go green?

No. Porcelain is non-porous and doesn’t absorb moisture, so it resists moss, mould, and algae much better than porous materials like stone or concrete.

Can you jet wash porcelain paving?

Yes. You can safely use a pressure washer on porcelain pavers, but avoid high pressure near grout lines to prevent damage.

Can you lay 20mm porcelain on a driveway?

Yes, but only over a reinforced concrete slab. This ensures the pavers can support the weight of vehicles without cracking.

Are porcelain pavers stronger than regular outdoor tiles?

Yes. Porcelain pavers are fired at higher temperatures, making them harder and more resistant to cracking, stains, and moisture than most standard outdoor tiles.

How do I know which porcelain paver is right for me?

The best way is to visit a showroom or order a sample you can touch and feel in your own space. That way, you can see how the finish looks in natural light and make sure it suits your style.

Do outdoor porcelain pavers feel rough or smooth to the touch?

Most outdoor porcelain pavers have a lightly textured finish for grip, but still feel smooth enough to walk on barefoot. They strike a nice balance between comfort and safety, especially around pools and patios.