Big & Bold: A Homeowner’s Guide to Large-Format Patio Slabs 

Large-format patio slabs, often made of concrete or composite/porcelain panels, come in sizes much larger than a typical brick or porcelain paver. This paver option delivers a clean, contemporary grid with fewer joints to sweep and a visually calmer surface. If you’re considering them for a backyard refresh, here’s what to know about materials, weight, ordering, transport, installation, jointing, and best-use cases from our materials experts. 

What They’re Made Of 

High-end slabs are typically: 

• Architectural concrete (thicker, excellent dimensional stability, natural stone look options). 

• Porcelain/composite panels (thinner, dense, stain- and fade-resistant, colour-consistent). 

Both aim to balance strength, slip resistance, UV stability, and low maintenance. Porcelain excels for stain/colour control; concrete offers tactile realism and edge durability. 

Weight & Handling of Large Patio Stones 

Large paving slabs are heavy. As a rule of thumb: 

• A 600 × 900 × 50 mm concrete unit can weigh ~60–70 kg (two-person lift or use suction lifters). 

• A 20 mm porcelain slab of the same face size is roughly ~20–25 kg (still awkward; use carry bars/suction cups). 

Therefore, you can’t just pick these up and load your truck with them in an afternoon. Generally, we recommend sourcing professional transporters, but if not, we offer the following advice (assuming you have the required credentials): 

Handling tips: stage pallets near the work zone, use dollies or a skid steer with forks, lift from the center of gravity with rated suction lifters, and avoid levering edges on hard surfaces. Store flat on a level base; keep porcelain edges protected. 

Ordering & Transporting Large Format Slabs 

Order 5–10% overage (more for complex cuts) and a few spare units for future repairs. Confirm dye lots/batch numbers for visual consistency, and check site access: path width, gate clearances, and turning radii for equipment. Keep pallets dry and covered; don’t stack slabs on corners. 

Installation: Faster layout, Fewer joints 

Big slabs spread weight over a larger area, so they can sit on a well-built base that’s a bit thinner than for small pavers—about 150 mm (6 in) of compacted gravel is common. The basics: 

• Dig deep enough for the base, a thin sand layer, and the slab thickness. 

• Slope the patio gently away from the house (about 2%) so water doesn’t pool. 

• Lay a separator fabric (sold at landscape stores) over the soil to keep gravel from sinking. 

• Add gravel in thin layers and tamp each layer firmly. 

• Finish with about 20–30 mm (¾–1 in) of levelled bedding sand. 

If your site is sloped, has poor drainage, or sits close to a door threshold, a professional can save headaches and future settling. 

Now, lay a starter row along a straight line so the pattern stays square. Place slabs with small, even gaps (spacers help), and check each one so it doesn’t rock.  

Joints & Edge Restraint 

Most residential installs are gravity set by the slab’s mass and may include edge restraint (aluminum/steel edging or concrete curb) that locks the field. Fill joints per product guidance: 

• Concrete slabs: high-quality joint sand or polymeric sand approved for large units. 

• Porcelain/composites: manufacturer-specified jointing grout or fine sand (some polymerics can stain—always test first). 

Seal concrete only if recommended; porcelain typically doesn’t need sealing. 

Where Large Slabs Shine 

• Low-threshold patios at back doors. 

• Entertaining zones beneath sofas and dining sets (stable legs, fewer trip-points). 

• Clean, modern walkways and courtyards. 

• Rooftop terraces 

Pros and Cons of Large-Format Patio Slabs 

Pros 

• Clean, modern look with fewer joints to sweep 

• Steadier furniture; great under sectionals and dining sets 

• Faster layout thanks to larger pieces 

• Works well for low-threshold patios and straight walkways 

• Porcelain resists stains/fading; concrete gives a natural look 

Cons 

• Heavy to move; often needs two people or lifting tools (professionals recommended) 

• Demands a well-built base or slabs can rock 

• Repairs involve lifting a single heavy unit, keep spares 

• Not ideal on steep slopes, over roots, or for driveways 

• Joint products must match the material (test first) 

Ready to go big and bold with large-format slabs?  

Hamilton Builders’ Supply can help you choose the right product, calculate quantities, and arrange safe delivery, plus point you to trusted installers if you’d like help. Visit your nearest HBS yard or contact us online to get a clear, no-pressure quote and start your patio plan today.