ᐅ How to Install Porcelain Paving Slabs for Terraces?

Hello!

After discarding the idea of pedestals due to many negative opinions, the question now is about the best installation method. We are working with 2cm (0.8 inch) porcelain tiles in a 60x60cm (24x24 inch) format. The subbase is currently 40cm (16 inch) compacted 0-32mm (0-1.25 inch) aggregate.

But if you ask 10 people, you get 10 different opinions.

We were offered:

1. Installation in a screeded concrete bed, grouted with a flexible joint sealant. Advantage: no weed growth, easy maintenance. According to a landscaper’s experience, there is a risk the tiles might shift or loosen in frost conditions.

2. On a gravel bed: the cheapest option, but likely to have long-term problems with ants and weed growth. Cannot be cleaned by mopping.

3. Gravel bed with flexible joint sealant: as above but without the disadvantages. According to another landscaper, this is not common practice. The joint would not hold.

4. Bonded to a concrete slab: the most expensive option, very difficult to modify or renew later. Hardly feasible now, since the subbase is already too high and the terrace roof is already installed.

What are your experiences?

Best regards,
Daniel

Hello everyone,

I would like to bring this question up again, as we are currently dealing with the same issue.

Or @daniels87: Have you already installed your porcelain stoneware tiles? If so, how?

Best regards!

We have now installed the slabs in a single-grade concrete mix, with permeable joints.

Thanks for the feedback @daniels87.
Are you satisfied with the installation result, and may I ask how much you paid per square meter for the porcelain stoneware?

Regards
Kailies

The panels cost €28 per square meter (60cm x 60cm / 24 inches x 24 inches).

Ah cool, it looks really great. The roofed area/conservatory also looks very nice. Where do the materials come from?