A patio is a place you want to enjoy for years to come. That’s why choosing the right material is important. Natural stone remains one of the most popular choices for patios thanks to its durability, natural look, and timeless character.
But not every type of stone has the same properties. Below is an overview of the most commonly used materials for patios and their key characteristics.
Belgian blue stone, also known as Petit Granit, has been one of the most popular natural stones for patios for generations. This limestone, quarried in Belgium, is known for its strength and authentic look.
Key features:
Thanks to the various finishes available—such as sanded, honed, or bush-hammered—blue stone can be used in both traditional and modern projects.
➡ Be sure to check out our patio tiles made of Belgian blue stone.
In addition to blue stone, limestone such as Vinalmont Often used for patios. This stone has a lighter, warm shade of gray and creates a calm and elegant look.
Benefits of limestone:
Thanks to its natural character, limestone fits perfectly into gardens featuring contemporary architecture.
➡ Be sure to check out our patio tiles in Vinalmont
Granite is one of the hardest types of natural stone and is also used for patios.
Properties of granite:
For patios, granite is often finished with a flamed surface, which provides a non-slip texture.
Granite generally has a more uniform appearance than limestones such as blue stone.
In addition to natural stone, ceramic patio tiles are also popular today. These tiles are manufactured industrially and can mimic various materials, such as natural stone, concrete, or wood.
Advantages of ceramic tiles:
Ceramic tiles usually have a more uniform appearance. Natural stone, on the other hand, remains a all-natural product, with each tile being unique in color and texture.
A common question when building a patio is: “How much does that actually cost?” It is important to distinguish between the price of the materials and the cost of professional installation.
Although the price of the material depends on various factors, the table below provides an initial indication of the approximate prices.
| Materials | Estimated price €/m² | Price Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramic patio tiles | €40 – €80 |
|
| Vietnamese blue stone | €60 – €90 |
|
| Granite | €60 – €110 |
|
| Belgian blue stone | €75 – €150 |
|
| Vinalmont Limestone | €100 – €160 |
|
*Estimated material prices for 60×60 cm patio tiles that are approximately 2 cm thick. The final price may vary depending on the finish, thickness, size, and installation method.
The cost of professional installation also depends on various factors, such as the subfloor and the installation method. On average, you can expect to pay about €65 to €100 per square meter.
In addition to the choice of material, other factors also play an important role.
The finish determines both the appearance and the comfort of a patio.
Common finishes include:
For outdoor use, it is important that the finish sufficient slip resistance offers.
The thickness of the patio tiles depends on the installation method.
General Guidelines:
Proper installation is essential for a durable patio. Keep the following in mind:
This prevents sagging and other long-term problems.
Whether you choose natural stone or ceramic tiles, the most important thing is that the material matches the style of your home and how you use your patio.
One of the main advantages of natural stone is its authenticity and natural charm, whereas ceramic tiles are valued primarily for their ease of maintenance and a uniform appearance.
With the right choice and proper installation, you can create a patio that stays beautiful for years.
Are you trying to decide between different materials or finishes?
Our team would be happy to help you choose the right stone for your project.
➡ Discover Here are our solutions made of Belgian blue stone from our own quarries