Buying paving should be straightforward — but small mistakes at the start can cause big problems later.
At Paving Central, these are the most common issues we see, and how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Ordering the Exact Square Metre
This is the most common mistake.
Paving projects always involve:
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Cuts
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Waste
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Transport handling
Ordering exact coverage leaves no margin for error.
👉 Always allow at least 10% extra, and more for smaller or complex areas.
Mistake 2: Not Allowing for Breakages in Transit
Paving slabs are heavy and transported on pallets.
Even with care, breakages can occur, especially with:
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Natural stone
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Split packs
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Smaller orders
This is why we recommend 10% as the minimum allowance.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Joint Widths
Coverage calculations are based on realistic joint spacing.
If you plan:
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Tighter joints
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Bespoke layouts
You’ll need additional paving to compensate.
Mistake 4: Assuming You Can “Top Up Later”
Many customers assume they can reorder later if needed.
In reality:
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Batches may change
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Natural stone colour varies
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Matching porcelain batches isn’t guaranteed
Once stock is gone, exact matches may not be available.
Mistake 5: Choosing the Wrong Material for the Job
Porcelain and natural stone both perform well — but they suit different needs.
Common mismatches include:
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Expecting natural stone to be uniform
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Underestimating porcelain installation requirements
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Choosing based on appearance alone
Understanding the material before buying avoids disappointment later.
Mistake 6: Not Asking for Advice
Many issues could be avoided with a quick check before ordering.
At Paving Central, we’re happy to:
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Check quantities
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Advise on allowances
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Help choose the right product
There’s no pressure — just honest guidance.
Final Thoughts
Most paving problems don’t happen during installation — they happen before the order is placed.
A little planning goes a long way.
If you’re unsure, ask first. It’s always easier to get it right upfront.