Porcelain Pavers Winter Durability

As the holidays approach, we are moving into the colder months in North America. For many locations, this means cold temps, ice, and snow – all of which can wreak havoc on outdoor decks and patios. Using materials that don’t handle the cold well can be a costly mistake. Porcelain pavers excel in harsh and cold climates.  

Concrete, a common material used in patio construction is highly susceptible to the freeze thaw effect. Water makes its way into the cracks and porous surface of concrete, freezes, and then expands as it thaws. This often happens repeatedly over the winter and can cause extensive damage. With less than 0.5% moisture absorption, porcelain pavers nonporous surface prevents them from absorbing water and being affected by the freeze thaw effect. The porcelain pavers frost resistance elevates it above the competition and makes them one of the best materials to be used in winter climates.

Porcelain pavers require very little winter maintenance. With a traditional wood deck, there is a fair amount of maintenance required to adequately prepare for winter. A wood deck usually needs power washed, then a stain and seal treatment to get it ready for the harsh conditions of winter. With porcelain pavers there is no need for an annual sealing, and unlike a wood deck, there is no worry about warping or rotting. A simple occasional sweep or washing with water and soap or a mild detergent is all that is required to keep your pavers looking like new.