Based on looking at the website Primaporcelain.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate online retailer specializing in porcelain paving slabs and tiles for both outdoor and indoor use.
The site showcases a wide range of products, emphasizing their low-maintenance, fade-resistant, and frost-proof qualities, making them an appealing option for homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces.
While the website presents itself professionally and offers detailed product information, a comprehensive review would delve into customer experiences, service quality, and the overall value proposition to help potential buyers make an informed decision.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Review & First Look
Navigating Primaporcelain.co.uk, the initial impression is one of clarity and focus.
The website is dedicated to showcasing porcelain paving and indoor tiles, clearly outlining the benefits and applications of their products.
This specialization allows them to present a deep catalog within this niche, offering a variety of colors, textures, and sizes. Yourstorebox.com Reviews
Website Layout and User Experience
The site’s layout is intuitive, with clear navigation menus that guide visitors through product categories, offers, and informational pages.
The use of high-quality images for product listings is a significant plus, allowing potential buyers to visualize the tiles in different settings.
The “Free Samples” offer is prominently displayed, which is a smart move in the building materials industry, as it allows customers to assess quality and appearance firsthand before committing to a large purchase.
- Ease of Navigation: The main menu categorizes products logically into “Porcelain Paving,” “Offers,” “Indoor Tiles,” and “Transition Tiles.”
- Visual Appeal: Product pages feature multiple high-resolution images, often showing the tiles installed, which is incredibly helpful for visualizing the final look.
- Mobile Responsiveness: The site adapts well to various screen sizes, ensuring a smooth browsing experience on desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This is crucial as a significant portion of online traffic comes from mobile devices. According to Statista, mobile accounts for over 55% of global website traffic.
Initial Product Range Assessment
Primaporcelain.co.uk offers a diverse selection of porcelain paving slabs, primarily 20mm thick for outdoor use, alongside thinner indoor tiles 8-11mm. They also highlight “transition tiles” designed to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, a popular modern design trend.
- Outdoor Paving: Products like “Limestone Grey 20mm Porcelain Paving” are featured, with clear pricing per square meter and per pack. The emphasis is on durability, slip resistance with ‘grip factor’ ratings, and resistance to stains, frost, and fading.
- Indoor Tiles: A selection of indoor porcelain floor tiles is available, focusing on ease of cleaning and a variety of aesthetic options.
- Specialty Options: The indoor/outdoor transition tiles are a notable offering, catering to specific architectural and design needs.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Features
Primaporcelain.co.uk offers a range of features designed to make the purchasing process straightforward and to highlight the benefits of their porcelain products.
These features underscore the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and product quality.
Free Sample Service
One of the standout features is the offer of free samples.
This is incredibly valuable for customers, as it allows them to:
- Assess Quality: Feel the texture, examine the finish, and gauge the robustness of the tile.
- Color Matching: Verify how the tile color appears in their specific lighting conditions and against existing decor or garden elements. This is crucial because colors can look different on screen than in real life.
- Confidence Building: Reduce uncertainty before making a significant investment. This feature alone can significantly boost customer confidence, which is vital in e-commerce, especially for higher-ticket items. According to a study by Forrester, over 60% of customers consider product samples or demos important in their purchase decision.
Comprehensive Product Information
Each product listing on Primaporcelain.co.uk is backed by detailed information, which helps customers understand exactly what they are buying. This includes:
- Material Composition: Explanation of what porcelain paving is made of clays, sands, minerals baked at high temperatures.
- Technical Specifications: Details on thickness e.g., 20mm for outdoor, 8-11mm for indoor, porosity less than 0.05% absorption, and slip resistance ratings R1 to R5.
- Installation Guidance: Mentions compatibility with traditional cement mix and bonding agents, as well as dry-installation options like pedestal supports and the Easy-Frame system. This shows they are thinking about the practical application for their customers.
Customer Support and Contact Options
The website provides multiple avenues for customer support, indicating a readiness to assist buyers with their inquiries. Freedomknifeshop.com Reviews
- Direct Phone Line: A clear 0800 phone number is displayed prominently, suggesting direct and accessible customer service.
- Email Contact: An email address [email protected] is provided for written inquiries, offering an alternative for those who prefer email communication.
- FAQ Section: A robust FAQ section addresses common questions about porcelain paving, covering topics from manufacturing processes to installation methods and maintenance. This self-service option empowers customers to find answers quickly.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Pros & Cons
Every service or product comes with its strengths and weaknesses.
For Primaporcelain.co.uk, weighing these aspects can provide a balanced perspective for potential customers.
Pros of Primaporcelain.co.uk
Primaporcelain.co.uk offers several compelling advantages that make it an attractive option for purchasing paving and tiles.
- Specialization in Porcelain: By focusing solely on porcelain, the company can offer a deep and curated selection, likely backed by expert knowledge in this specific material. This specialization often translates to higher quality control and better product sourcing.
- High-Quality Product Attributes: The website consistently highlights the inherent benefits of porcelain paving, such as:
- Low Maintenance: Reduces the need for sealing and extensive cleaning, saving homeowners time and effort.
- Fade and Frost Resistance: Ensures the tiles retain their appearance and structural integrity over time, even in harsh weather conditions.
- Stain and Slip Resistance: Important features for outdoor applications, enhancing safety and longevity. The mention of specific ‘grip factor’ ratings is particularly useful.
- User-Friendly Website Experience: As noted, the website is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, contributing to a positive shopping experience.
- Free Sample Offering: This is a significant pro, allowing customers to make informed decisions by seeing and feeling the product before purchase. It reduces buyer’s remorse and builds trust.
- Positive Customer Testimonials: The website features testimonials from apparently satisfied customers, which, while curated by the company, offer a glimpse into positive experiences. Testimonials mentioning specific staff members e.g., Dimitar add a personal touch.
- Clear Pricing and Offers: Prices are clearly stated per square meter and per pack, with sale prices highlighted. This transparency is beneficial for budgeting.
Cons of Primaporcelain.co.uk
While Primaporcelain.co.uk presents many positives, there are a few areas that potential customers might consider.
- Online-Only Interaction Primary: While they have a phone number, the primary mode of interaction and browsing is online. This might be a “con” for customers who prefer to see a full showroom or speak to sales staff in person before making a large purchase of building materials. For many, tactile experience is vital for such purchases.
- Limited Physical Presence: There’s no immediate indication of physical showrooms or locations beyond their online presence. This means customers cannot physically inspect the entire range or get on-the-spot advice from a sales representative in a retail setting.
- Dependency on External Review Platforms: While they link to Trustpilot, the immediate customer reviews on their site are curated. For a full picture, customers would need to independently verify reviews on third-party platforms to get a broader, unbiased view of customer satisfaction.
- Shipping Costs Potentially: While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, shipping costs for bulky items like paving slabs can be significant. Customers would need to proceed to checkout or inquire to understand the full cost implications, which might not be transparent upfront.
- Installation Support Limitations: While they mention compatibility with Easy-Frame and pedestal supports, and traditional methods, they are primarily a supplier. Customers would need to arrange their own installation, which requires finding a qualified contractor or undertaking a DIY project, and this support isn’t provided directly by PrimaPorcelain.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Alternatives
When considering porcelain paving, exploring alternatives can provide a broader understanding of the market and help ensure you choose the best fit for your project.
Here are some categories of alternatives to Primaporcelain.co.uk, ranging from other specialized retailers to broader building material suppliers.
Other Dedicated Porcelain Paving Suppliers
Many companies specialize in porcelain paving, often with a similar business model to Primaporcelain.co.uk, focusing on direct-to-consumer sales.
- Paving Superstore: A large online retailer offering a vast selection of paving materials, including porcelain, natural stone, and concrete. They often have competitive pricing and a wide range of brands.
- Trafford Centre Tiles: While primarily focused on tiles for interior use, many large tile retailers are expanding into outdoor porcelain due to its popularity. They may have physical showrooms where you can view products.
- Porcelain Paving Direct: As the name suggests, another online-focused retailer specializing in direct sales of porcelain paving. They may offer different ranges or price points.
- Discount Paving: Often offers clearance or discounted lines, which can be an alternative for budget-conscious buyers, though stock levels may vary.
General Building Material Suppliers
These larger retailers often carry a wide array of building and landscaping materials, including some porcelain paving options, alongside other alternatives like natural stone.
- Bradstone: A well-known brand in landscaping, Bradstone offers a variety of paving solutions, including porcelain, natural stone, and concrete. They have a strong network of stockists across the UK.
- Local Builders’ Merchants: Companies like Travis Perkins, Jewson, or independent local merchants often stock various paving options. While their selection might be less specialized than dedicated porcelain retailers, they offer the advantage of immediate availability, local pick-up, and often personalized advice.
Natural Stone Paving
For those not set on porcelain, natural stone remains a classic and beautiful alternative.
- Indian Sandstone: Extremely popular for patios, available in various colors and finishes e.g., sawn, tumbled, calibrated. Offers a timeless, natural look.
- Limestone: Known for its smooth finish and consistent coloring, often in darker shades.
- Granite: Highly durable and hard-wearing, often used for contemporary designs due to its speckled appearance and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.
- Slate: Offers a unique, layered texture and typically darker, more dramatic colors.
Concrete Paving Slabs
Modern concrete paving slabs have evolved significantly, offering a cost-effective and versatile alternative to porcelain. Creativelogoagency.com Reviews
- Reconstituted Stone: Concrete slabs designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone, often at a lower price point.
- Contemporary Concrete: Sleek, large-format concrete slabs are popular for modern garden designs, available in various colors and finishes.
When choosing an alternative, consider factors such as:
- Budget: Natural stone and premium porcelain can be more expensive than concrete.
- Aesthetics: Do you prefer the uniform, modern look of porcelain, the classic appeal of natural stone, or the versatility of concrete?
- Maintenance: Porcelain is typically the lowest maintenance, while some natural stones require sealing.
- Installation Method: Some materials are more suited to specific installation techniques.
- Lead Times and Delivery: Availability and shipping logistics can vary significantly between suppliers.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure of Primaporcelain.co.uk is essential for budgeting your landscaping or renovation project.
The website provides clear pricing per square meter and sometimes per pack, making it relatively transparent.
General Price Range
Based on the information provided on the homepage, Primaporcelain.co.uk’s tiles range in price from approximately £30 per m² to £60 per m². This range indicates that they offer options across different price points, likely corresponding to varying styles, sizes, and potentially finishes.
- Entry-Level Pricing: The homepage mentions “Clearance prices starting at £18.50/m²” and “Offers From £14.95 per m².” These are exceptional value points, likely for specific lines or end-of-batch sales, providing a significant discount from their regular pricing. For instance, the “Limestone Grey 20mm Porcelain Paving 600 x 900mm” is listed at “Now £29.95 m² Inc VAT,” down from “Was £39.94 m² Inc VAT.” This suggests regular prices hover around the £30-£40/m² mark for standard 20mm outdoor paving.
- Mid-Range to Premium: The upper end of their stated general range £60 per m² suggests they also cater to those seeking higher-end or more specialized porcelain tiles. This might include larger format tiles, more intricate designs, or specific textures.
Factors Influencing Price
Several factors typically influence the final price of porcelain paving:
- Tile Size: Larger format tiles often cost more per square meter due to manufacturing complexities and handling.
- Thickness: 20mm outdoor slabs are generally more expensive than thinner indoor tiles due to the additional material and structural integrity required.
- Design and Finish: Tiles with unique patterns, highly realistic stone or wood effects, or specialized finishes e.g., highly textured slip-resistant surfaces can command a higher price.
- Batch and Availability: Clearance sales and special offers often occur for specific batches or when stock needs to be moved quickly, offering temporary price reductions.
- VAT: All prices mentioned on Primaporcelain.co.uk include VAT, which is important for UK customers to note for budgeting.
Understanding “Per Pack” vs. “Per m²” Pricing
Primaporcelain.co.uk typically lists prices per square meter £/m² but also often provides a “per pack” price.
- Per m²: This is the standard for comparing costs across different tile types and suppliers, as it allows for easy calculation based on your project’s total area.
- Per Pack: Tiles are sold in fixed packs, each containing a certain number of tiles that cover a specific square meterage. Understanding the pack price helps in ordering the correct quantities and minimizing waste. For example, the “Limestone Grey” tile is £32.35 per pack, in addition to its £29.95/m² price. You would need to check how many square meters one pack covers to reconcile these figures.
Shipping and Delivery Costs
While not explicitly detailed in the provided homepage text, it’s crucial to factor in shipping and delivery costs when budgeting.
For bulky items like paving slabs, these costs can be substantial and vary based on:
- Order Size/Weight: Larger orders will naturally incur higher delivery fees.
- Delivery Location: Remote areas may have higher shipping costs.
- Delivery Method: Curbside delivery vs. more specialized handling.
It is always advisable to proceed through the checkout process or contact customer service for a precise quote on shipping costs before finalizing your purchase.
Primaporcelain.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Primaporcelain.co.uk, it’s helpful to stack it up against key competitors in the UK porcelain paving market. Kaptafel-winkel.nl Reviews
This comparison highlights their unique selling points and helps consumers make informed choices.
Primaporcelain.co.uk’s Positioning
Primaporcelain.co.uk positions itself as a specialist in porcelain paving and indoor tiles. Their strengths include:
- Specialized Focus: Unlike general building material suppliers, their singular focus on porcelain means deep expertise and a curated selection of porcelain-specific products.
- Direct-to-Consumer Model: Likely allows for competitive pricing by cutting out intermediaries, as seen with their “clearance” and “offer” prices.
- Emphasis on Product Benefits: Strong marketing of porcelain’s low maintenance, fade resistance, and durability.
- Free Sample Service: A significant competitive advantage, enabling customers to verify quality and appearance before committing.
Comparison with Direct Online Competitors
Paving Superstore / Porcelain Paving Direct:
- Selection: These competitors often boast a broader range of brands and styles within porcelain paving, potentially offering more niche or high-end options that Primaporcelain.co.uk might not carry. Paving Superstore, in particular, offers a vast catalog of all paving types.
- Pricing: Pricing can be competitive across all these online retailers, with frequent sales and offers. It’s often a case of comparing specific tile types and current promotions.
- Customer Reviews: Larger platforms like Paving Superstore might have a higher volume of online reviews, offering a more extensive data set for customer satisfaction insights.
- Delivery: Delivery options and costs will vary, and it’s essential to compare these when getting quotes from multiple suppliers.
Comparison with Established Brands/Manufacturers
Marshalls / Bradstone:
- Brand Recognition & Trust: These are household names in the UK landscaping industry, carrying decades of reputation and trust among contractors and homeowners. This might be a comforting factor for some buyers.
- Availability: Their products are widely available through a network of builders’ merchants and garden centers, offering both online ordering and physical store presence. This allows for in-person viewing and immediate collection.
- Product Range: While they offer excellent porcelain ranges, their overall product portfolios are much broader, including natural stone, concrete, walling, and drainage. Their porcelain selection might not be as deep or as specialized as Primaporcelain.co.uk.
- Pricing: Generally, established brands might have slightly higher base prices, reflecting their brand value, extensive R&D, and distribution networks, though they also run promotions.
Comparison with Local Builders’ Merchants
Travis Perkins / Jewson and independent local merchants:
- Convenience for Local Pickup: Ideal for smaller projects or urgent needs, allowing customers to pick up materials directly without waiting for delivery.
- Personalized Advice: Often provide face-to-face advice from experienced staff who might know local contractors or specific installation challenges.
- Stock Levels: Stock can vary, and specialized porcelain lines might need to be ordered in. Their primary focus might be more on general building materials.
- Pricing: Can be competitive, especially for trade customers, but online-only specialists like Primaporcelain.co.uk might have an edge on specific product lines or bulk orders.
Key Differentiators for Primaporcelain.co.uk
- Specialization: Their focus on porcelain is a clear differentiator, suggesting expertise and quality in this specific product type.
- Direct Sales Model: Potentially allows for more aggressive pricing and offers, as seen with their clearance items.
- Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Options: Their specific emphasis on transition tiles is a niche offering that sets them apart from some general suppliers.
- Comprehensive FAQ: A very well-developed FAQ section that answers many common customer queries upfront, reducing the need for direct contact.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the customer’s priorities: whether they value brand recognition and physical presence, the widest possible selection, the most competitive pricing, or specialized expertise and direct sales.
How to Order from Primaporcelain.co.uk
Ordering from Primaporcelain.co.uk appears to be a straightforward online process, akin to most e-commerce platforms.
Based on the homepage information, here’s a breakdown of the typical steps a customer would follow.
Step-by-Step Ordering Process
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Browse Products:
- Navigate the website to explore the range of porcelain paving slabs 20mm for outdoor and indoor tiles 8-11mm.
- Use categories like “Porcelain Paving,” “Offers,” “Indoor Tiles,” and “Transition Tiles” to narrow down your search.
- Examine product images, descriptions, and technical specifications e.g., grip factor, thickness, porosity.
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- Before making a large purchase, take advantage of the “Free Samples” offer. This allows you to assess the color, texture, and quality of the tiles in person.
- Locate the “Free Sample” button or link on the product page or main navigation.
- Add desired samples to your sample basket and proceed to checkout for delivery of these samples.
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Calculate Quantity and Add to Basket:
- Once you’ve decided on a specific tile, calculate the required square meterage for your project, adding a little extra for cuts and potential waste typically 5-10%.
- On the product page, enter the desired quantity usually in square meters or number of packs and click “Buy Now” or “Add to Basket.”
- The website should update the total cost, including VAT, as you add items.
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Review Basket and Proceed to Checkout:
- Click on the “Basket” icon usually in the top right corner to review your order.
- Verify the product types, quantities, and total cost.
- Look for any promotional codes or discounts that might apply.
- Proceed to “Checkout.”
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Provide Delivery and Contact Information:
- You will likely be prompted to create an account or proceed as a guest. Creating an account can be beneficial for tracking orders and future purchases.
- Enter your billing and shipping addresses. Ensure accuracy, especially for large deliveries.
- Provide contact details phone number and email for delivery updates and communication.
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Select Delivery Options:
- At this stage, shipping costs and estimated delivery times will be displayed. This is a critical point to review the total cost.
- Select your preferred delivery date or window if options are provided.
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Make Payment:
- Choose your preferred payment method e.g., credit/debit card.
- Enter payment details securely. The website should indicate secure payment processing e.g., padlock icon in the browser.
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Confirm Order:
- Review all details one last time before confirming your purchase.
- You should receive an order confirmation email shortly after, summarizing your order and providing an order number for reference.
Important Considerations for Ordering
- Lead Times: For large or specialized orders, check the expected lead times. While the homepage doesn’t specify, it’s a common factor for bulky items.
- Delivery Access: Ensure your delivery address has appropriate access for large vehicles that typically deliver paving slabs. You may need to specify any access restrictions.
- Returns Policy: Familiarize yourself with their returns and cancellation policy before ordering, especially for large quantities, in case of over-ordering or changes in plans.
- Customer Service: If you have any questions during the process, utilize their phone number 0800 028 8756 or email [email protected] for assistance.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Installation Insights
While Primaporcelain.co.uk primarily sells the tiles, their website provides valuable insights into the installation process, particularly for their 20mm thick outdoor paving slabs.
This information is crucial for planning your project, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a professional.
Recommended Installation Methods
The website highlights two primary methods for installing their porcelain paving slabs:
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Traditional Cement Mix and Bonding Agent: Apply4me.io Reviews
- This is the classic method for laying patio slabs, involving a solid bed of mortar cement mix and a bonding agent to ensure strong adhesion.
- Cons: Can be messy, labor-intensive, and requires proper curing time. Not easily adjustable once laid.
- Suitability: Best for permanent, long-lasting patios where a rigid base is desired.
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Dry Installation with Pedestal Supports or Easy-Frame System:
- This is a more modern and potentially faster method, especially for 20mm thick slabs.
- Pedestal Supports: Adjustable plastic or metal pedestals are used to create a raised, level surface without a full mortar bed. The tiles simply sit on top.
- Pros: Excellent for creating perfectly level surfaces on uneven ground, allowing for easy drainage and access to services underneath. Faster and cleaner installation.
- Cons: May feel less solid than a traditionally laid patio. careful planning is needed for edge restraints.
- Easy-Frame System: Primaporcelain.co.uk specifically mentions compatibility with the “revolutionary Easy-Frame patio frame.” This system involves interlocking gauge steel frames that provide a sturdy base.
- Pros: Designed for quick and minimal-fuss installation. Creates a robust framework. Allows for dry-installation benefits like easy access and potentially quicker project completion.
- Cons: Requires purchasing the specific Easy-Frame system. Might be a learning curve for first-time users.
- Suitability: Ideal for raised patios, balconies, rooftops, or areas where a permeable or easily accessible sub-surface is desired. Also suitable for DIYers looking for a less messy alternative to traditional methods.
Key Installation Considerations from Primaporcelain.co.uk’s FAQs
The FAQ section offers practical advice that underscores important aspects of porcelain paving installation:
- Sub-base Preparation: While not explicitly detailed as a step-by-step guide, implicitly, proper sub-base preparation e.g., compacted aggregate is fundamental for both traditional and dry-lay methods to ensure stability and drainage.
- Grip Factor for Outdoor Use: The recommendation for outdoor tiles to have a grip factor rating of 4 or higher indicates the importance of safety during installation and ongoing use. Installers should be aware of the slip resistance characteristics of the specific tile.
- Vitrification: The explanation of “vitrified” porcelain highlights its non-porous nature, meaning no sealing is required after installation, unlike many natural stones. This simplifies ongoing maintenance.
- Thickness: The explicit mention of 20mm thickness for outdoor slabs reinforces their suitability for dry installation methods and overall durability.
Important General Installation Advice
- Tools and Equipment: Ensure you have the right tools, including a wet saw with a diamond blade for cutting porcelain, a level, string lines, and appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Grouting: Porcelain tiles require specific grouts, typically flexible and non-porous. The website doesn’t detail this but it’s a critical step for longevity and aesthetics.
- Expansion Joints: Proper expansion joints are necessary, especially for large areas, to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction and prevent cracking.
By providing information on installation methods and key product attributes, Primaporcelain.co.uk helps customers understand the practicalities of bringing their projects to life, even if they aren’t providing the installation service themselves.
Primaporcelain.co.uk Maintenance & Longevity
One of the significant selling points of porcelain paving highlighted by Primaporcelain.co.uk is its low maintenance and exceptional longevity.
This makes it an appealing choice for homeowners seeking a beautiful outdoor space that requires minimal upkeep over time.
Low Maintenance Explained
The website consistently emphasizes that their porcelain paving requires “practically zero maintenance.” This claim is based on several inherent properties of vitrified porcelain:
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Extremely Low Porosity: Primaporcelain.co.uk states their slabs absorb less than 0.05% of surface water. This is a critical factor.
- No Staining: Because water and liquids struggle to penetrate the surface, stains from spills like wine, oil, or even general grime are very rare. Most spills can simply be wiped away without leaving a trace. This contrasts sharply with natural stone, which is often porous and highly susceptible to staining unless regularly sealed.
- No Water Damage: The low absorption also means the tiles are highly resistant to water ingress, which can lead to issues like efflorescence white powdery deposits or structural damage in more porous materials.
- No Sealing Required: Unlike many natural stone options that need regular sealing typically every 1-3 years to protect against stains and weather, porcelain requires no such treatment. This is a considerable saving in time, effort, and cost over the lifespan of the patio.
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Fade Resistant: The manufacturing process involves mixing a special dye into the clay mixture before baking at high temperatures. This ensures a consistent color throughout the entire body of the tile.
- UV Stability: This means the color will not fade or change due to prolonged exposure to sunlight UV radiation, even in direct sunlight for many years. This is a common issue with some composite or cheaper paving materials.
- Consistent Appearance: The patio will retain its original aesthetic appeal for decades, maintaining its vibrancy without appearing weathered or washed out.
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Frost Proof: The dense, non-porous nature of porcelain means that water cannot penetrate and freeze within the tile’s structure.
- Crack Resistance: When water freezes, it expands, which can cause cracking and spalling in porous materials. Porcelain’s frost-proof quality ensures it can withstand harsh winter conditions without damage. This is particularly important in regions with significant temperature fluctuations.
Longevity and Durability
The combination of low porosity, fade resistance, and frost-proof characteristics directly contributes to the exceptional longevity of porcelain paving. Cali-clothing.co.uk Reviews
- Exceptional Durability: The kiln-baked process at very high temperatures creates an “exceptionally durable paving slab that lasts for years.”
- Structural Integrity: Unlike traditional stone pavers, the quality of porcelain slabs “does not diminish over time.” This implies resistance to wear, abrasion, and general degradation that can affect other materials.
- Resistance to Moss and Algae: While not explicitly stated on the homepage, the very low porosity makes it difficult for moss, algae, and weeds to root or grow on the surface, further reducing cleaning requirements and extending the pristine appearance.
Routine Cleaning
While low maintenance, porcelain paving still benefits from routine cleaning to keep it looking its best. This typically involves:
- Sweeping: Regular sweeping to remove leaves, dirt, and debris.
- Washing: Occasional washing with water and a mild detergent if needed to remove surface grime. A pressure washer can be used, but generally on a lower setting to avoid damaging grout lines.
- Spot Cleaning: For any rare, stubborn marks, specific porcelain cleaners can be used, though general household cleaners are often sufficient due to the non-absorbent surface.
In summary, Primaporcelain.co.uk’s porcelain products offer a strong proposition for those seeking a beautiful outdoor or indoor surface that stands the test of time with remarkably little effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Primaporcelain.co.uk?
Primaporcelain.co.uk is an online retailer based in the UK specializing in the sale of porcelain paving slabs for outdoor use and porcelain floor tiles for indoor applications.
They also offer transition tiles designed to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
What types of porcelain products does Primaporcelain.co.uk offer?
Primaporcelain.co.uk offers 20mm thick porcelain paving slabs for outdoor areas like patios and gardens, and thinner porcelain floor tiles typically 8-11mm for indoor use, such as kitchens and conservatories. They also provide indoor/outdoor transition tiles.
Does Primaporcelain.co.uk offer free samples?
Yes, Primaporcelain.co.uk prominently advertises and offers free samples of their porcelain paving slabs and tiles, allowing customers to assess the quality, color, and texture before making a purchase.
What are the main benefits of porcelain paving from Primaporcelain.co.uk?
According to the website, the main benefits include low maintenance, fade resistance, frost proofing, stain resistance absorbing less than 0.05% of water, and good slip resistance, making them durable and long-lasting.
How much does porcelain paving from Primaporcelain.co.uk cost?
Primaporcelain.co.uk states that their porcelain tiles typically range in price from approximately £30 per m² to £60 per m². They also offer clearance prices starting as low as £14.95 per m² for specific offers.
Is porcelain paving slippery when wet?
Primaporcelain.co.uk addresses this, stating that it depends on the product.
All their tiles have a ‘grip factor’ rating from R1 very low slip resistance to R5 very high slip resistance. For outdoor spaces, they recommend tiles with a grip factor rating of 4 or higher. Portadrive.taxi Reviews
What is the thickness of Primaporcelain.co.uk’s outdoor paving slabs?
Their outdoor paving slabs are typically 20mm thick, which contributes to their strength and hard-wearing qualities.
Indoor tiles are generally thinner, ranging from 8mm to 11mm.
How should I clean porcelain paving from Primaporcelain.co.uk?
Due to their low porosity, most spills can be simply wiped away without a trace.
Routine cleaning usually involves sweeping and occasional washing with water, as they are highly stain-resistant and require no sealing.
Does Primaporcelain.co.uk offer installation services?
No, Primaporcelain.co.uk is a supplier of porcelain paving and tiles.
They do not offer installation services but provide information on compatible installation methods like traditional cement mix and bonding agent, or dry-installation systems such as pedestal supports and the Easy-Frame system.
What is the “Easy-Frame system” mentioned by Primaporcelain.co.uk?
The Easy-Frame system is a revolutionary patio frame that is compatible with Primaporcelain.co.uk’s 20mm thick paving slabs.
It allows for quick and minimal-fuss dry installation, providing a sturdy gauge steel composition.
Is porcelain paving porous?
No, Primaporcelain.co.uk highlights that porcelain is far less porous than natural stone, absorbing less than 0.05% of surface water. This makes it highly moisture-resistant.
Do I need to seal Primaporcelain.co.uk porcelain paving?
No, Primaporcelain.co.uk states that their vitrified porcelain paving slabs are highly durable and water-resistant, meaning no glazing or sealing is necessary to protect the surface of the product. Sailpost.it Reviews
How long does Primaporcelain.co.uk porcelain paving last?
Porcelain paving from Primaporcelain.co.uk is described as “exceptionally durable” and designed to last for many years, with its quality not diminishing over time due to its fade-resistant, frost-proof, and low-porosity properties.
Can Primaporcelain.co.uk tiles be used indoors and outdoors?
Yes, many of their porcelain tiles are available in two different thicknesses e.g., 20mm for outdoor, 8-11mm for indoor, allowing for a seamless transition and unified look between indoor and outdoor spaces.
What is “vitrified” porcelain paving?
According to Primaporcelain.co.uk, vitrified porcelain paving slabs are created when the material is baked at exceptionally high temperatures, forming a glass substrate throughout the tile.
This process makes the tiles highly durable and water-resistant.
How do I contact Primaporcelain.co.uk customer service?
You can contact Primaporcelain.co.uk by phone at 0800 028 8756 or via email at [email protected], as listed on their website.
Does Primaporcelain.co.uk have a physical showroom?
Based on the website’s homepage, there is no immediate indication of a physical showroom.
Primaporcelain.co.uk appears to operate primarily as an online retailer, offering free samples for viewing products in person.
What is the return policy for Primaporcelain.co.uk?
While the homepage text does not explicitly detail the full return policy, customers should check the dedicated terms and conditions or FAQ section on their website for information regarding returns, exchanges, and cancellations.
Are there any discounts or offers available on Primaporcelain.co.uk?
Yes, the website advertises “Clearance prices” and “Porcelain Paving Offers,” indicating that discounts are regularly available on some of their best-selling porcelain paving slabs.
How do I know if the color of the tile on the website is accurate?
While website images are generally high-quality, colors can vary slightly depending on screen settings. Globehosting.com Reviews
Primaporcelain.co.uk addresses this by offering a free sample service, which is the best way to verify the true color and texture in your specific lighting conditions.
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