Edging, Planks and Steps

Edging, Planks & Steps

Stylish Cladding & Finishing Ideas for Your Outdoor Space

Looking to elevate your outdoor patio walls? The right cladding adds texture, style, and character. Here are some top options to consider:

1. Natural Stone Cladding – Choose limestone, slate, or stacked stone for a rustic yet refined feel.

2. Brick Cladding – Timeless and traditional; go for reclaimed bricks for vintage charm or modern bricks for a sleek finish.

3. Wood Cladding – Use weather-resistant timber like cedar or teak, or low-maintenance composite wood.

4. Corten Steel – Offers a striking industrial look that develops a beautiful patina over time.

5. Decorative Tiles/Mosaics – Brighten up your wall with vibrant patterns and colours.

6. Concrete Panels – Sleek and contemporary; choose plain or textured styles.

7. Vertical Gardens – Create a living, eco-friendly feature with lush, green planting.

8. Metal Panels – Durable steel or aluminium panels provide a modern edge.

9. Composite Cladding – Eco-friendly, stylish, and low-maintenance.

10. Rendered/Stucco Finish – Smooth, paintable surfaces in any colour you like.

11. Faux Stone or Brick Panels – Lightweight and budget-friendly with realistic textures.

When selecting cladding materials, consider durability, maintenance needs, weather resistance, and how it fits your outdoor design. Samples or a professional consultation can help you visualise the result.

Installing Brick Slips — A Step-by-Step Guide

Brick slips give you a brick wall look without full-sized bricks. Here's how to install them:

Tools & Materials

• Brick slips

• Tile or brick-slip adhesive

• Notched trowel

• Spacers, spirit level, measuring tape

• Tile cutter or angle grinder (diamond blade)

• Joint finishing tool, sponge, bucket

Installation Steps:

1. Prep the wall: Ensure it’s clean, dry, and smooth. Repair and allow to dry if needed.

2. Plan your layout: Use spirit levels and a chalk line for precision.

3. Apply adhesive: Use a notched trowel on the slip’s back.

4. Attach the slip: Press it firmly, using spacers for even gaps.

5. Check alignment: Keep each slip level as you work across.

6. Cut slips to size: Use a tile cutter or grinder for edges and corners.

7. Clean joints: Remove excess adhesive, and use a finishing tool if desired.

8. Settle: Let the adhesive cure (usually 24+ hours).

9. (Optional) Grout: Use brick slip mortar for a perfected traditional brick look.

Always follow the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions. For best results, consider professional help if you’re unsure.

Plank Edging Options for a Porcelain Patio

Add definition and style with one of these edging options:

• Porcelain Plank Edging – Matches your patio tiles for a seamless finish.

• Wooden Sleepers – Natural, rustic charm with weather-resistant timber.

• Composite Planks – Wood-look, low maintenance, and durable.

• Brick or Stone Edging – Complements porcelain with a traditional twist.

• Precast Concrete Planks – Sleek, modern and available in various finishes.

• Metal Edging – Industrial-style steel or aluminium for clean lines.

• Curved Edging – Flexible plastic or rubber options for flowing designs.

• Mosaic/Decorative Edging – Colourful tiles for artistic accents.

Choose depending on your patio’s layout, design scheme, and maintenance preference. We recommend viewing samples to find the best match.

How to Bull-nose a Porcelain Paving Step

Creating a stylish, rounded edge for a porcelain step involves careful profiling:

You'll need:

• Wet tile saw (diamond blade) or bull-nose profiling machine

• Safety gear: gloves, goggles, ear protection

• Sandpaper or diamond hand pads

Steps:

1. Measure and mark the curve.

2. Set your saw or machine to the required depth.

3. Make an initial cut as a guide.

4. Profile the edge gradually—multiple passes for a smooth curve.

5. Hand-finish using sandpaper or pads for a polished feel.

6. Clean and inspect, then refine any rough spots as needed.

If you’re uncomfortable with power tools, consider hiring a professional for safe and precise results.

Choosing the Right Size for Plank Edging

The ideal edging size depends on:

• Patio dimensions

• Desired aesthetic (bold border vs. subtle accent)

• Practical needs like seating or edging height

Standard widths range from 50 mm (low-profile) to 150 mm (more defined border). Measure your space and visualise the proportions before deciding.

Need more help?
Our experts at Discount Porcelain Superstore are ready to advise on cladding, edging, or any finishing detail.

Email sales@discountporcelain.co.uk

Let us help you create your perfect outdoor space!