The essential guide to cleaners and sealers for porcelain pavers

The popularity of porcelain paving slabs for outdoor spaces is undeniable. Porcelain is loved as a paving material for its durability, aesthetic appeal and sheer range of available colours and textures. Often marketed as a low-maintenance paving solution, porcelain is nearly impervious to the elements and easy to care for.

However, the notion that porcelain paving slabs are zero-maintenance is incorrect. Like any outdoor flooring material, porcelain requires regular cleaning and, in some cases, sealing, to maintain its pristine appearance.

Debunking the zero-maintenance myth

While it's true that porcelain is resistant to moisture, stains and wear, it is not completely maintenance-free.This is especially the case for lighter-coloured materials and pavers located in areas that are exposed to nature, such as north-facing gardens with high vegetation. This type of setting will expose porcelain to a variety of organic materials, dirt, and debris that can mark its surface. If not removed quickly, these materials can create stains that become stubborn and ingrained.

Lighter porcelain pavers, whilst looking stunning, will show stains more prominently than their darker alternatives because their bright surface makes any discolouration immediately apparent. Leaves, petals and even garden furniture can leave marks that are hard to remove without the proper cleaning agents.

One of the simplest pieces of advice we would give is to regularly sweep your patio to remove any leaves or debris, so that they can’t break down and stain the paving. Just following this step will make a big difference in keeping your porcelain patio clean. Find out more in our article on how to clean outdoor porcelain tiles.

The need for specialised cleaners

For general maintenance, washing correctly with a light jet wash will usually be enough, but certain stains will require specialist cleaners. Paving cleaners are formulated to tackle tough stains without damaging the pavers’ surface. Using a cleaner designed for porcelain can be crucial in maintaining its appearance in shady garden areas where moisture can lead to moss and algae build-up. Discover more about the right paving cleaner to use.

As well as cleaners that are effective for removing organic stains, there are also specialist cleaners available to tackle oil and rust. If you have a specific stain on your patio and you need advice, don’t hesitate to contact a member of our sales team.

When to seal porcelain pavers

Sealing porcelain paving is not usually necessary. Porcelain's inherent properties include a low porosity that makes sealing redundant in most cases. However, in high-traffic areas, such as driveways or around barbecue areas, applying a sealer can provide additional protection against stubborn staining, from things like oil and grease, and make routine cleaning easier.

Read Do Porcelain Tiles Need Sealing? to help you decide whether you need to seal your paving.

It's essential to use a sealant that is specifically formulated for porcelain to ensure it bonds properly without leaving a residue or altering the colour of the pavers. A specialist porcelain sealer is able to penetrate the surface, repel stains and enhance resistance to traffic and weather impacts.

Choosing the right products

When selecting cleaners and sealers, it is crucial to opt for products designed for use with porcelain to ensure they are fit for the intended purpose. London Stone offers a range of cleaners and sealants tailored for porcelain surfaces, to ensure that your investment remains protected and continues to look its best for years to come.