Natural Paving Store · Help Centre

Paving product FAQs: natural stone, porcelain and finishes

Understand common paving terms, natural stone variation, porcelain care, sealing and installation. Always check the specification and installation guidance for the exact product you plan to use.

Product guidance: paving materials, finishes and installation requirements vary between products. The product page and its technical data sheet give the details for that item; contact us before laying if anything is unclear.

What does calibrated paving mean?

Calibrated paving has been processed to give a more consistent thickness and an easier laying surface. It can still have a permitted thickness range, so check the product specification for its actual dimensions and tolerance rather than assuming every calibrated slab is identical. See our paving terminology guide.

What is the difference between a sawn and hand-dressed edge?

A sawn edge is machine-cut and tends to look straighter and more uniform. A hand-dressed or chiselled edge is worked by hand and usually has a more irregular, traditional appearance. The exact edge depends on the product; check its photographs and description before ordering.

Is natural colour and texture variation normal?

Yes. Natural stone is quarried material, so colour, veining, texture and small natural features can vary from slab to slab and between batches. Dry-lay and mix slabs from different packs to spread the variation. Variation alone does not mean a product is faulty, but genuine defects remain covered by your statutory rights. If concerned, photograph the paving and contact us before installation. See Waste and Damages.

Can I choose the exact colour of each slab?

We cannot guarantee an exact shade or a perfectly even colour mix across natural stone paving. Samples and product images are useful guides, but lighting, moisture, quarry variation and production batches affect appearance. For porcelain, check batch details and order the full project quantity together where possible. Dry-lay before fixing the slabs in place.

Why can Raj Green sandstone look grey or dusty?

A pale or grey cast can sometimes be surface dust left from cutting and calibration, and dry paving can look different from the same stone when wet. Try wiping or wetting a small area with clean water to see how the colour changes. If the appearance still concerns you, send us clear photos and your order number before installation so we can advise.

Do I need to seal porcelain paving?

Outdoor porcelain has very low water absorption and its surface does not usually need a natural-stone sealer. Use only products specifically confirmed as suitable for your paving and follow the product and jointing instructions; an unsuitable treatment may leave residue or change the appearance. Check the exact product guidance if unsure.

Should I seal natural stone paving?

That depends on the stone, finish, location and the result you want. A compatible sealer may help make some surfaces easier to clean and reduce absorption of certain stains, but it does not make stone stain-proof or maintenance-free. Apply only when the paving is ready and dry as directed, test an inconspicuous area first, and follow the sealer maker’s instructions. Browse paving care and sealing products.

Where can I find a paving laying guide?

Our paving installation guide explains preparation, drainage, full mortar beds, primers and jointing. It is general guidance for a suitable pedestrian patio; site conditions and the product’s technical data sheet take priority. Use a qualified installer where appropriate.

Can any paving slab be used for a driveway?

No. Do not assume that a patio paving slab is suitable for vehicle traffic. Check the product specification and installation requirements for the intended use, and get advice from a qualified installer about the ground, sub-base and construction needed for a driveway.

What should I do if I think my paving is faulty?

Inspect the order before laying it. Natural characteristics such as colour movement or veining are not automatically defects, but this does not mean natural stone can never be faulty. If you notice a concern, keep the affected slabs unlaid where possible, take clear photographs and contact us promptly. We ask you to aim to report delivery damage or shortages within 72 hours; this request does not limit your statutory rights.

Need help choosing or caring for paving?

Compare the available products and read the product-specific specification before ordering. If you have a question about a particular slab, send us its name and we’ll help you find the right guidance.

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