What's the Difference Between Paving Slabs and Paver Slabs?

By Stone Footing Ltd

When planning a new patio, driveway, or garden path, the choice of materials can be overwhelming, especially when terms like paving slabs and paver slabs are thrown around. Are they the same thing? Is one better than the other? At Stone Footing Ltd, we’re here to help you make sense of it all, so you can choose the best solution for your outdoor space.

Understanding the Basics

Let’s start with the most important point for our UK customers:

✅ In the UK, "paving slabs" is the standard and widely used term.
❌ "Paver slabs" is a less common term, more typical in the US or international markets.

That said, the materials referred to by these names can vary slightly depending on their shape, intended use, and installation method.

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What Are Paving Slabs?

Paving slabs are large, flat pieces of stone or concrete designed to cover outdoor surfaces. They’re perfect for patios, garden paths, and terraces.

Key Features:

• Usually square or rectangular (e.g., 600x600mm or 900x600mm)

• Available in natural stone (like sandstone, granite, limestone) or concrete

• Laid individually over a mortar or sand base

• Designed for visual appeal with fewer joints and a clean finish

Best for:
Patios, footpaths, seating areas, and decorative garden spaces.

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What About Paver Slabs?

The term "paver slabs" is more commonly used in North America and generally refers to smaller, modular paving units, often made from concrete or clay. In the UK, we typically refer to these block pavers as simply pavers.

Key Features:

• Smaller in size, often brick-shaped

• Can be interlocked for added strength

• Designed to handle heavier loads

• Ideal for creating patterns like herringbone or basketweave

Best for:
Driveways, high-traffic paths, and areas requiring greater durability.

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Side-by-Side Comparison