Porcelain paving is famous for being "low maintenance," but low maintenance does not mean "no maintenance." While porcelain is incredibly tough and resistant to stains and scratches, it can still be damaged or degraded if treated incorrectly. To keep your patio looking brand new for decades, there are several common mistakes, chemicals, and habits you must avoid.
1. Avoid Using Acid-Based Cleaners
Many traditional patio cleaners designed for natural stone contain high concentrations of acid (such as hydrochloric acid). While these are great for removing mortar stains from sandstone, they can be disastrous for porcelain.
- Surface Damage: Harsh acids can etch the surface of the tile or damage the printed high-definition design.
- Grout Erosion: Acidic cleaners are particularly aggressive toward grout. Frequent use will cause your grout lines to crumble, crack, and eventually wash away, leading to loose slabs and weed growth.
- What to use instead: Always use pH-neutral cleaners or specialist porcelain "after-care" solutions. For daily dirt, warm soapy water is usually all you need.
2. Avoid Metal Shovels and Sharp Tools
Porcelain is scratch-resistant, but it is not scratch-proof. The surface is essentially a very hard ceramic glaze that can be marred by heavy, sharp metal objects.
- Snow Removal: During winter, avoid using metal snow shovels. The sharp edge of the shovel can leave "metal marks" (grey streaks) or even chip the edges of the tiles. Use a plastic shovel or a stiff broom instead.
- Furniture: Avoid dragging heavy wrought-iron furniture or fire pits across the slabs. Always lift furniture or use rubber "feet" protectors to prevent surface scratches.
3. Avoid "Unmodified" Sand and Cement Grout
One of the biggest mistakes made during installation is using a basic sand and cement mix to fill the joints. Porcelain requires a bit more flexibility and strength.
- Cracking Joints: Because porcelain does not absorb water, standard mortar doesn't bond well to the edges of the tile. As the ground expands and contracts with the weather, standard grout will quickly crack and pop out.
- What to use instead: Use a high-quality, polymer-modified porcelain grout or a brush-in jointing compound specifically rated for porcelain. These are designed to be flexible and water-resistant.
4. Avoid Pressure Washing at High Power
You can pressure wash porcelain, but you must be careful with the settings. Porcelain is so easy to clean that a high-power industrial blast is rarely necessary and can actually do more harm than good.
- Grout Damage: A high-pressure jet held too close to the joints can easily blast the grout right out of the gaps.
- The "Fan" Tip: If you use a pressure washer, use a fan-shaped nozzle rather than a direct "pencil" jet, and keep the wand at least 30cm away from the surface.
5. Avoid Oil and Grease Build-up (BBQs)
While porcelain is stain-resistant, it is not a "self-cleaning" surface. If you have a BBQ area, you should be careful with fats and oils.
- Surface Film: If grease from a BBQ or oil from a lawnmower sits on the surface for a long time, it can create a stubborn film that traps dust and dirt. While it won't permanently stain the tile like it would with sandstone, it can be difficult to remove once "baked" on by the sun.
- Prevention: Use a BBQ mat to catch any drips, and if a spill does occur, wipe it up immediately with a degreasing soap.
6. Avoid Skipping the Slurry Primer
If you are installing the tiles yourself, the number one thing to avoid is laying the tiles directly onto the mortar bed without a primer.
- Bond Failure: Because porcelain is non-porous, it will not stick to mortar. Without a "SBR" or "Slurry Primer" applied to the back of the slab, the tiles will simply sit on top of the bed rather than bonding to it. Within one season, the tiles will begin to shift and wobble.
Summary: Protecting Your Investment
Porcelain is designed to last a lifetime, and by avoiding harsh acids, sharp metal tools, and poor installation practices, it will remain the centerpiece of your garden with very little effort. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners, use the correct jointing materials, and your patio will stay looking as good as the day it was laid.
