When it comes to picking the ideal paving tile for your Irish home, the choices can feel endless. With so many materials—limestone, granite, sandstone, and porcelain—each with distinct looks and properties, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Should you choose a classic limestone slab or go with a modern porcelain tile? And will that sleek finish suit your traditional home?
At Harding Stoneyard, we understand these questions all too well. We’ve guided thousands of customers through the process of selecting the right paving for their patios, driveways, and gardens, helping each to find a balance between style, durability, and budget.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide, reflecting the same process we follow with customers who visit our display area in Gowran, Co. Kilkenny. We hope you’ll find it useful as you start planning your paving project, whether you’re envisioning a cozy, rustic look or a sleek, modern aesthetic. And once you have a sense of what might work, we encourage you to come by and see the options in person—or request samples to be sure of your decision.
Key Considerations for Choosing Paving Tiles
Choosing the right paving isn’t just about finding a style you love. It’s also about knowing where and how the tiles will be used, how much maintenance they’ll need, and of course, your budget. Below are some of the key points we discuss with customers, along with questions you might consider before making a decision
1. Location
Where will the paving be installed? Understanding the setting helps determine the most suitable type of tile. If the area is surrounded by trees or frequently damp, for instance, a non-porous tile like porcelain is ideal to prevent moisture absorption and staining.
If your paving will be right outside your door, porcelain tiles can also help blend indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless flow between the two.
2. Area Size and Shape
How large is the area, and what’s its shape? The area’s size and layout can guide your tile choice. Smaller tiles are often best for compact spaces, while larger areas allow for bigger tiles, adding fewer joints and a clean, open look.
The shape of the area also matters. For intricate layouts with curves or pathways, a rectangular tile (like a 600×300 mm) can reduce cutting and keep the pattern cohesive.
3. Style
What look are you going for? Whether you’re leaning toward a polished modern look, a rustic aesthetic, or something timeless and elegant, there’s a tile to suit your vision.
- For modern styles: Porcelain tiles come in a variety of shades and shapes, perfect for sharp, clean lines.
- For traditional looks: Natural stone paving like sandstone, limestone or granite with its natural texture pairs beautifully with weathered or country-style homes.
- For timeless elegance: Kilkenny Limestone Paving is a classic choice, offering longevity and a refined look.
If you’re blending with other stone features like an old granite wall, consider silver granite paving tiles to complement the existing architecture.
4. Usage
How will the space be used? Is it a pedestrian area, or will it need to handle vehicles? Most paving products come in a standard 20mm thickness, suitable for foot traffic but not heavy loads. If vehicles will use the area, thicker cobblestones may be necessary, as their smaller size distributes weight more effectively, reducing stress on individual tiles.
Safety is another consideration, especially if kids or elderly family members will use the area. Porcelain tiles, for example, offer a smooth yet high-grip surface that is slip-resistant, even when wet. Natural stones like sandstone, while beautiful, may have subtle grooves and textures that could pose a tripping hazard for some.
5. Budget
What’s your budget? Paving prices can range widely—from around €18 to €80 per square meter—so it’s helpful to know what you’re aiming to spend. Don’t forget to account for additional costs like mortar, any prepping materials, and professional installation if needed.
6. Installation
Are you hiring a professional, or do you plan to install it yourself? We recommend professional installation for the best result, but we understand that many people may choose a DIY approach. If so, you might find that natural stones like sandstone and limestone, which are softer and easier to cut, are more forgiving for beginners.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paving tiles is a big decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. While we hope this guide has been helpful, there are many more details we can help with based on your unique space and preferences. We invite you to visit our display area in Gowran, Co. Kilkenny to see the options in person and discuss your ideas with our team. Or, if it’s easier, feel free to browse our huge range of paving products on our website to get started.
Whether you have a vision in mind or need some extra guidance, we’re here to help you find the perfect paving solution to transform your outdoor space.
