FAQs about Choosing Tiles & Suitability

Yes! NB Display Centre spans an impressive 400m², making it one of the largest stone and tile displays in the South East. It’s designed to showcase our full product range, giving you the chance to see and feel the materials up close. You’re welcome to visit any time, without an appointment. While you’re there, pick up free stone and tile samples and chat with our friendly team for expert advice and guidance.

Yes, we offer trade discounts to a wide range of industry professionals; get in touch to find out more. Whether you’re an interior designer, architect, building contractor, developer, landscape / pool designer or a tiling contractor, we’re here to support your projects.

Our Trade Account package offers access to exclusive pricing, priority service and tailored product support. It’s our way of helping you deliver exceptional results, on time and on budget. Interested in joining? Contact us directly or fill out our online form and we’ll be in touch.

Yes, we offer bespoke stone cutting and profiling services, tailored to your design vision. Weonly  work with trusted artisan stone masons who specialise in bullnosing, profiling and radius cutting to create detailed, high quality finishes. They craft each piece, whether porcelain or natural stone, with care and precision.

We can create bespoke steps and coping stone elements that blend seamlessly into your project. Every custom detail is designed to enhance both form and function, adding lasting value and character to your space. Get in touch to discuss your requirements. Please note: All Bespoke projects require a minimum order quantity, and we reserve the right to determine which projects we undertake.

The colour of grout depends on the finish you want to create. Specifically, a matching shade offers a seamless, uniform look, while a contrasting grout emphasises each tile’s shape and pattern. For guidance in choosing the right option for your space, get in touch with our friendly team.

If your delivery postcode is within a 40-mile radius of RG18 9LY, you can take advantage of our local delivery service. This includes postcodes in Berkshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Surrey, South & West London and beyond!

For customers living outside our local zone, our trusted UK delivery service allows us to reach you wherever you are in the country. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, please get in touch; we’re always happy to help find the best delivery option for you.

Paving slabs are built for outdoor environments, so they resist frost, provide textured slip resistance, and offer greater thickness and durability. Tiles, on the other hand, are made for indoor use, which makes them thinner, smoother and unsuitable for freeze–thaw cycles. Manufacturers design outdoor porcelain paving specifically for external durability, unlike standard ceramic or indoor porcelain tiles.

Indian sandstone slabs are made from natural stone formed over millions of years and quarried from the mineral-rich regions of India. Every piece is unique, brimming with subtle textures and variations that tell a story written by the earth itself. Laid together, they create surfaces full of depth, colour and warmth.

Choosing between natural stone paving and porcelain tiles? Each offers unique benefits. Natural stone brings timeless beauty, organic texture and variation that adds character to any space. It ages gracefully and blends effortlessly with outdoor settings. Whereas porcelain paving is sleek, low maintenance and highly durable. It resists stains, scratches and weather, making it perfect for modern living. With this in mind, think about your style, lifestyle and how you use the space when making the decision on whether to choose natural stone vs porcelain tiles.

Great question. Limestone paving offers a clean, elegant look that suits both modern and classic interiors. For outdoor spaces, limestone paving creates a smooth, uniform finish with a timeless feel. Whereas if you prefer more natural variation, Indian sandstone slabs bring rich tones and textures that add character. Sandstone paving is ideal for creating warm, rustic environments with plenty of visual interest. In short, both materials are durable, beautiful and crafted to enhance everyday living.

The key differences between sandstone and Indian sandstone paving lie in their origin, appearance and characteristics, though both belong to the natural stone family.

• Origin: Quarries in India supply Indian sandstone, while other types of sandstone come from various locations around the world.
• Cost: Large-scale production and widespread availability make Indian sandstone a more cost-effective option.
• Finish: Indian sandstone typically features a riven finish with vibrant, earthy tones, whereas other sandstones may offer smoother textures and more uniform colours.

Porcelain paving gives you a low maintenance solution with outstanding performance and minimal upkeep. Manufacturers fire refined clay at extremely high temperatures to create porcelain slabs, making them exceptionally durable, non-porous, and resistant to stains, algae, moss and frost. You don’t need to seal them, just a quick sweep or rinse keeps them clean. Porcelain keeps its colour over time, even in direct sunlight, and its slip-resistant surface makes it a safe, practical choice for outdoor areas.

Generally, sandstone and limestone are similarly priced, but the cost can vary depending on the quality, origin and finish of the stone. In many cases, sandstone, especially Indian sandstone, tends to be slightly more affordable. Indian sandstone is offered in mixed-size patio packs, and is cost-effective due to large-scale production. Limestone can be a bit more expensive if you’re choosing higher-end options with a smoother finish or rare colours (like Portuguese or British limestone, such as Portland), as it’s considered a more refined stone. However, some basic limestone varieties are priced similarly to mid-range sandstone.

To get the best value for your project, it’s worth speaking with professionals. Contact our expert team for advice and competitive pricing on both sandstone and limestone options.

Yes, sandstone is an excellent choice for patios. It’s one of the most popular natural stones for outdoor paving thanks to its durability, slip-resistant surface and attractive natural texture. Sandstone is ideal for UK weather conditions as it handles rain, frost and temperature changes well, especially when properly sealed. One of sandstone’s biggest advantages is its wide range of natural colours and finishes. The popular shades like Raj, Kandla Grey, Autumn Brown and Mint are easy to match with traditional or contemporary garden designs.

Yes, limestone makes an excellent choice for paving, especially if you’re after a natural stone with a classic, elegant look. Homeowners and landscapers often use it for garden patios, walkways and outdoor living areas thanks to its smooth texture, consistent colour and timeless appeal.rnrnWe offer limestone in popular shades like cream, grey and black, which complement both traditional and modern garden designs. With proper maintenance, limestone paving stays durable and long-lasting, delivering great value for any outdoor space.

Whether sandstone or limestone is better for your project depends on your style preference, maintenance expectations and how the space will be used. Both are beautiful natural stones, but they have some key differences. Sandstone is slightly more textured and naturally slip-resistant, which makes it excellent for outdoor use. It often comes in warm, earthy tones, like Raj Green, Autumn Brown and Kandla Grey, and is ideal for rustic or traditional garden designs.

Sandstone is more porous than limestone, which means it needs more regular sealing. Conversely, Limestone has a smoother, more refined finish with a consistent colour tone, making it a great fit for modern or minimalist spaces. Available in stylish shades like cream, grey and black, it offers a sleek, elegant look. Although it’s porous, Limestone weathers well with basic maintenance.

The best stone for garden paving depends on your specific needs: style, durability, maintenance and budget. However, limestone and sandstone are two of the most popular and highly regarded options. Limestone offers a smooth, refined look that suits contemporary garden designs. It typically comes in subtle, elegant shades like cream, grey, and charcoal. Its consistent texture makes it easy to lay and cut into clean patterns.

Sandstone is another popular choice for garden paving thanks to its natural charm and slip-resistant surface. It comes in a wide variety of colours and textures, making it easy to match different garden styles. Sandstone is also relatively easy to cut and work with, which makes it ideal for patios and paths. If you’re not sure which stone is right for you, feel free to reach out to the expert team at Nigel Belcher Stone Paving – we’re always happy to help.

Manufacturers shape natural clay and kiln fire it at high temperatures to create clay pavers. This process locks in their rich, earthy tones and makes them incredibly hard-wearing. Unlike concrete, clay pavers have colour running right through the brick, so it won’t fade over time.

Advantages: Clay pavers stay colourfast, keeping their beauty even after years of rain, frost, or sunshine. They’re eco-friendly too, as manufacturers make them from natural materials with minimal environmental impact. Their textured finish adds grip, and the high firing temperatures make them resistant to cracking and wear.

Disadvantages: Clay pavers can cost more upfront than concrete alternatives, and installation requires skill to achieve a perfect finish. However, the payoff is a surface that lasts for decades with very little maintenance.

Only use bricks specifically designed for paving. Regular wall bricks lack the strength for outdoor use because they absorb more water and can crack or crumble under pressure. Chelmer Valley clay pavers, however, perform perfectly in outdoor areas like driveways, patios and walkways, handling heavy loads and changing weather with ease.

If you love the look of traditional brickwork, Chelmer Valley combines that classic charm with lasting strength.

There’s no better way to appreciate this stone than to see it up close. Visit NB Display Centre to explore the full collection of Indian sandstone slabs – touch the textures, see the colours and collect free samples to try in your garden. Or, if you prefer, you can order free samples online for delivery to your door and find your perfect match from home.

Visit NB Display Centre to explore our full range of stone and tile products in person. Here, you can see colours, textures and finishes up close, making it easier to choose the right materials for your project. Even better, you can collect free samples to compare at home, ensuring your selection fits perfectly with your design. Additionally, our expert team is always on hand to offer advice, answer questions and guide you every step of the way. So whether you’re planning a patio, driveway or interior floor, we’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions.

NB Display Centre is located at Nigel Belcher Stone Paving, The Stone Yard, Rookery Farm, Long Lane (B4009), Curridge, Berkshire. RG18 9LY.

Porcelain tiles are formed by pressing refined clay or natural stone powders into shape before firing at extremely high temperatures. This process creates a surface that is exceptionally strong, durable and perfectly suited to busy homes. In contrast, limestone tiles are crafted by skilled artisans who cut, shape and finish blocks of natural stone taken directly from the earth. As a result, limestone offers timeless beauty, distinctive character and an inviting warmth that is unique to each tile.

Yes, limestone is a great choice for flooring, especially if you’re looking for a natural stone that offers both elegance and durability. Its smooth, consistent texture and soft, neutral tones, such as cream, beige, grey and charcoal, make it a popular option for both modern and traditional interiors.

Limestone flooring is known for its timeless beauty and ability to add warmth and character to a space. It’s suitable for a variety of rooms, including kitchens, hallways, bathrooms and even open-plan living areas. Because it’s a softer stone, it’s comfortable underfoot and can be cut into various tile sizes for different design styles. However, since limestone is porous, it does need to be properly sealed to protect against stains and moisture. With regular care and maintenance, it can last for decades and age beautifully over time.

Our indoor collection of porcelain tiles features textured finishes that provide a safe, anti-slip grip for almost every room in the home. They work beautifully as hallway or kitchen tiles, and are equally suited to living rooms or bathrooms. However, they are not recommended for wet rooms, pool surrounds or outdoor spaces.

To explore the full range and find the perfect match for your project, browse the collection online and order your free samples!

Porcelain tiles are naturally waterproof, while limestone can be sealed to resist moisture. This makes both excellent choices around the home. get in touch with our expert team to discuss your flooring requirements.

Yes, both limestone and porcelain tiles are heat resistant — including every option in our Flooring Collection. This means they are fully compatible with underfloor heating, making them an excellent choice for kitchens, living rooms and any heated space.

Both porcelain and limestone make excellent kitchen tiles, easily withstanding spills, heat and heavy foot traffic. Over time, limestone floor tiles naturally develop a soft patina, adding richness and unique character with age. Choose your favourite tiles and order free samples online today!

Limestone brings natural warmth and character to living spaces. In comparison, our wide collection of stone-effect porcelain floor tiles in cream, beige and grey tones offers a sleek alternative. These tiles are the perfect choice for creating a modern, stylish interior. Choose your favourite tiles and order free samples online today.

All of our porcelain floor tiles suit bathrooms perfectly, thanks to their waterproof and anti-slip properties. They deliver safety and durability in wet environments while keeping a stylish finish. Plus, every tile works with underfloor heating, combining comfort and practicality throughout your home. Order your free samples online today!

Ultimately, the best tile material is the one that complements your space and lifestyle. For timeless elegance and natural character, limestone is an excellent choice. In contrast, choose porcelain for busy homes, offering outstanding durability and easy maintenance.

Contact our expert team today to discuss choosing tiles and the best solution for your project.

We warmly invite you to visit us at NB Display Centre in the heart of Berkshire to explore our all-new Indoor Floor Tiles Collection. Our experts will be on hand to help you choose the perfect tiles for every room, from hallways to kitchens and living rooms to bathrooms. Alternatively, browse our floor tile collection online, choose your favourite tiles and order free samples to try in your home.