Experiences with cross joint pattern installation in patio tiles

Hello everyone, we had to tear down our old terrace and are currently rebuilding it. Due to the negative experiences with the old construction method of the terrace, we decided against a concrete foundation and want to lay it on gravel. We have already found nice 80x40cm slabs. Our preferred laying pattern would be with staggered joints. Our craftsman said that the possibility of the slabs slipping and settling would be higher with this variant. I don't understand that. Why is that? What are your experiences with staggered joints? Would you recommend it and also lay your hypothetical next terrace like this? Regards, xola

I don't understand that. Why is that so?

This is less of a technical problem and more of an optical one. With large tiles featuring a cross joint, the slightest inaccuracies become immediately visible and are quickly perceived as disturbing. It is hardly possible to lay them perfectly on a gravel bed, and complaints from picky customers are inevitable – even if it’s after 2 years when a few ants have settled there. As a craftsman, I would not only not recommend it but refuse to do it.

We had that here just recently.

Terrace slabs on gravel only with adjustable pedestal supports. There will always be movement. The gravel bed must not be more than 2 cm high, otherwise there will be even more movement, etc.

We have a cross joint on our panels. No problems!