Why Concrete Pavers Outperform Porcelain Tile

A well-designed outdoor space balances beauty and function, and it all starts with knowing what’s possible. With Unilock, you can access a broad range of styles, colors, shapes, and sizes, giving you the freedom to bring your design ideas to life.

Among the many options available, one material that’s grown in popularity in recent years is porcelain tile. Known for its sleek appearance and seamless indoor-outdoor appeal, it’s easy to see why it’s become a favorite in modern backyard design. But when it comes to performance, is it really the right choice for your space? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between concrete pavers and porcelain tile, weigh the pros and cons, and share why we believe concrete pavers are ultimately the better choice for your outdoor project.

What Are Concrete Pavers?

To understand what makes concrete pavers stand out, let’s explore how they’re made and why they are a suitable option for hardscape projects. Concrete pavers are flat outdoor flooring materials comprised of a mixture of cement, aggregates, water, and color pigments. They’re manufactured in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and textures, specifically designed for outdoor applications like patios, driveways, walkways, and pool decks. This level of versatility ensures that concrete pavers provide a durable, stylish surface that can easily withstand everything life throws at it and still look great.

Pros and Cons of Using Concrete Pavers

Let’s take a closer look at the benefits concrete pavers offer, as well as a few potential drawbacks to consider.

Pros:

Durability: Unilock concrete pavers are engineered to exceed industry standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), delivering the strength to handle everything from everyday foot traffic to the weight of vehicles.

Aesthetic Variety: Choose from a wide range of styles inspired by rustic cobblestones, natural granite, flagstone, and more.

Design Versatility: Mix and match colors, shapes, and laying patterns to create a custom look that’s truly yours.

Slip-Resistant: Many Unilock pavers feature textured finishes that add traction, making them ideal for pool surrounds or sloped pathways.

Cost-Effective: Typically more budget-friendly than porcelain, both in terms of material cost and installation.

Easy to Replace and Cost-Effective: If one paver gets chipped or stained, you can simply replace the individual unit without having to disturb the entire surface.

Eco-Friendly Options: Unilock offers the widest selection of permeable pavers designed to manage stormwater runoff and support surrounding greenery.

Cons:

Weeds Between Joints: Weeds can sprout between pavers over time, but this can be minimized with the application of polymeric sand or a joint stabilizing sealer.

Efflorescence: You may notice a temporary white residue (a natural mineral deposit) after installation. Fortunately, it fades with time or washes away with rain.

Potential for Shifting: Poor base preparation can cause pavers to settle or shift. But with proper installation, including a stable foundation and good edge restraints, this can be easily avoided.

What Is Outdoor Porcelain Tile?

Outdoor porcelain tile is crafted from dense clay that’s fired at very high temperatures, resulting in a hard, non-porous surface. While porcelain tile was originally developed for indoor use, advances in manufacturing have allowed it to make the leap into outdoor applications. Thanks to its crisp lines and modern aesthetic, porcelain has become a popular choice for backyard patios and deck overlays.

Pros and Cons of Using Outdoor Porcelain Tile

Now that we’ve covered what porcelain tile is and how it’s made, let’s take a closer look at the potential benefits and limitations of using it in your outdoor space.

Pros:

Stylish Look: Delivers a clean, modern aesthetic and is available in a variety of sleek, contemporary colors.

Stain-Resistant & Colorfast: It holds up well to spills and resists fading, making it a low-maintenance option.

UV-Resistant: Porcelain tile won’t easily discolor when exposed to direct sunlight.

Non-Porous & Easy to Clean: Its dense, non-porous surface repels moisture and is easy to wipe down, especially in areas exposed to frequent use or weather.

Cons:

Expensive: Porcelain tile tends to come with higher upfront material and installation costs compared to concrete pavers.

Specialized Tools & Installation Requirements: Cutting porcelain requires expert handling and specialized tools, like a diamond blade, to avoid cracking or chipping. But beyond cutting, installation presents other challenges. Unlike concrete pavers, porcelain tile is less forgiving if the base isn’t properly prepared, increasing the risk of shifting or heaving during freeze/thaw cycles. Even the process of joint infill can be more difficult, often requiring extra time and care to ensure a clean finish.

Limited Shape and Texture Options: Most porcelain tiles are available in uniform, square shapes with flat finishes, offering less design flexibility.

Load-Bearing Limitations: Porcelain tile isn’t recommended for driveways or high-traffic areas that demand structural strength.

Slippery When Wet: Certain finishes may become slick when wet, which is something to keep in mind for walkways or pool surrounds.

Why Concrete Pavers Are the Better Choice

While porcelain tile offers style and appeal, concrete pavers truly rise to the occasion when it comes to long-term outdoor performance. They combine strength, beauty, and cost-efficiency in a way that makes it easier than ever to bring your vision to life. For homeowners who want the best of both form and function, concrete pavers offer a level of reliability that porcelain tile simply can’t match.

If you’re still weighing your options, no problem! Take a look through our Dream Gallery to see real-world project inspiration or browse our Design Idea Catalog for a full breakdown of products, expert design tips, and more. Then, when you’re ready to take the next step, fill out our online Find a Contractor form, and we’ll match you with a local contractor who can prepare a free estimate for your project.