Porcelain Patio and Block Paving Path in Brentwood, Essex

In short: we have just completed a new porcelain patio and block paving path in the Brentwood area of Essex. The patio was laid in Bradstone Mode Profiled porcelain slabs and the path in Bradstone StoneMaster block paving — two different surfaces chosen to suit two different jobs in the same garden.

A porcelain patio and a block paving path, just completed by BPM Landscapes in the Brentwood area. Here is what we used, and why pairing the two materials works so well.

The Project at a Glance

The Patio: Bradstone Mode Profiled Porcelain

The patio was laid in Bradstone Mode Profiled, a porcelain paving with a fine riven texture and mica crystals that give the surface a subtle sparkle in the light. It has a sleek, contemporary look, but the textured finish is practical too: Bradstone gives it an R11 anti-slip rating, which makes it well suited to outdoor use.

Like all good outdoor porcelain, it absorbs less than 1% water, so it holds its colour, resists staining and is scratch resistant. Day to day it needs very little looking after — an occasional wash with basic cleaning products is enough.

The Path: Bradstone StoneMaster Block Paving

For the path we used Bradstone StoneMaster block paving. StoneMaster is made in the UK using specialist aggregates, and its surface is finished to expose those natural aggregates, giving a lightly textured, natural stone appearance. It also carries a surface treatment that reduces the amount of dirt and oil that sticks to it, which makes it easier to keep clean.

It is a hard-wearing block designed for areas that see a lot of foot traffic — exactly what you want from a path that is used every day.

Why Combine Porcelain and Block Paving?

Different parts of a garden do different jobs. A patio is somewhere to sit, eat and relax, so large, smooth porcelain slabs with few joints give a clean, comfortable surface. A path takes regular footfall and often has to follow the shape of the garden, and smaller block paving units handle that well.

Using two materials also helps define the space: the change in texture and format naturally separates the seating area from the route through the garden, while keeping to one manufacturer’s ranges means the two sit comfortably together.

Thinking About a New Patio or Path?

Can you mix porcelain paving and block paving in the same garden?

Yes, and it is a popular choice. Porcelain is typically used for the patio and block paving for paths, edges or driveways. The key is choosing colours and textures that complement each other, which we help with at the survey stage.

Is porcelain paving slippery when wet?

Outdoor porcelain is made with a textured, slip-resistant surface. Bradstone Mode Profiled, used on this project, has an R11 anti-slip rating and is designed for outdoor use.

Is block paving a good choice for a garden path?

Yes. Block paving is hard-wearing, copes well with regular foot traffic, and its smaller units suit narrower runs and changes of direction. If a section ever needs attention, individual blocks can be lifted and relaid.

How do you keep a porcelain patio clean?

Porcelain absorbs very little water, so dirt and algae have a hard time taking hold. A sweep and an occasional wash with a basic cleaning product is usually all it needs.

Planning a new patio or path in Brentwood, Shenfield, Ingatestone or Chelmsford? See more of our patio installations and the patio slabs we recommend, or read about our recent porcelain patio in Ramsden Heath. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote. We are a Bradstone Approved Installer.

Before and After