Paving vs Decking: Which Is Right For You?
Designing an outdoor space can be an exciting project, but it can be challenging to decide between paving and decking. Both options have their differences and benefits. Choosing the right one will depend on many factors, such as the environmental factors of the location, lifestyle, maintenance level, budget, and more.
As a leading paving and landscaping company, S&D Paving understands the benefits that both paving and decking can provide. We offer a range of services to renovate outdoor spaces across Surrey, including hardscaping design and installation. Using this experience, we are helping you make a crucial decision ahead of your next landscaping project.
In this guide, we will walk you through the pros and cons of paving vs decking to help you make an informed decision on which is the right option for your home, garden and lifestyle.
1. Cost
Cost is one of the most important factors to consider ahead of any landscaping project. How much you can afford will determine the scale of your project, the kind of work that can be done and what materials are most suitable.
When comparing paving vs decking, paving is generally less expensive to supply and install, and therefore may be the ideal option for your outdoor space. It is important to note that the total cost of paving and patio installations is dependent on the size, materials used, and labour cost. To learn more about these costs and others associated with landscape renovations, see our post How Much Does It Cost To Landscape A Small Garden?
The materials used for decking, including wood and composite, can come at a higher price than paving. Decks also require regular maintenance to increase their lifespan and ensure a consistent high appearance throughout the year, which can also contribute to the long-term costs.
2. Lifestyle
A large determining factor between paving vs decking is your lifestyle, as this will dictate how you will use your outdoor space and therefore which is the better option.
For example, if you love to have barbecues and want to create a landscape that is suitable for cooking, hosting and entertaining, then a patio may be more suitable. A patio is the best foundation for an outdoor entertainment space, as we explore in our post Transform Your Garden Into An Entertainment Hub, because it provides a flat surface which is safer for cooking, serving, and hosting. Grilling on a deck may increase the risk of fire.
Alternatively, if you live in an area with a scenic view, then decking may be a better option because it can provide a sense of elevation, allowing you to take advantage of your beautiful surroundings and create a garden that blends seamlessly with nature.
If you are considering installing a patio to enhance your landscape and lifestyle, see our post How to Create the Perfect Patio.
3. Maintenance
Both paving and decking require regular maintenance. However, the level of maintenance required differs between the two, and this can be a useful way to determine which is best for you between paving vs decking.
Patios require little maintenance other than occasional cleaning since they do not have many elements that can wear down. The majority of maintenance will be required ahead of autumn and winter, to ensure your garden withstands the cold seasons. To learn more about this process, see our post Top Tips To Winter-Proof Your Patio.
In most cases, paving is recommended for low-maintenance gardens because it provides a year-round, durable surface that can reduce lawn and planting areas, which require the most care. We explore these ideas in our post Tips & Tricks To Design A Low Maintenance Garden
Conversely, decks require more upkeep, particularly if you choose wood as your decking material. Wood decking will need to be cleaned, resealed and stained to keep it looking new for longer, and is an ongoing commitment for homeowners.
4. Environmental Factors
Environmental factors like the weather, sun exposure, and the terrain of your location can help you determine whether paving vs decking is best.
For example, if your garden is south-facing and gets a lot of sunlight, you may want to opt for a patio rather than a deck. A concrete patio will not absorb heat like a wood deck surface, which can become too hot to walk on. Concrete, block paving, and resin paving will also not fade under sunlight, which is an issue for untreated wood or decking that is not properly maintained.
Likewise, if you live in a location with a lot of rain, like most Surrey homeowners, then a deck may not be suitable since the excess water can lead to rot and mould. Unless you are willing to keep up the constant maintenance of wood decking, and the additional costs associated with this, paving vs decking is an easy decision in this regard.
This is one of the reasons why working with a local paving installer is so important, as they understand the unique conditions of the region and how to ensure your garden withstands the test of time. To learn more about local installers, see our post Why Choose A Local Paving Installer?
5. Aesthetics
Finally, the main deciding factor between paving vs decking comes down to personal taste and aesthetic preferences. After all, you will be spending the most time in your garden, so you want to ensure it is a space you’ll enjoy.
If you have a preference for a natural look and like to have your outdoor space blend with nature, decking may give you the best options. Wood decking comes in different shades that provide a relatively natural look that fits in with outdoor landscaping. On the other hand, patios give the opportunity to experiment with patterns and textures using pavers, stamped concrete or stained concrete, or flagstones.
Patios also provide a more formal or casual look, depending on the design you choose. For example, porcelain patios are an extremely popular option for modern homes and landscapes due to the sleek appearance they provide. See our post Why Porcelain Patios Are the Perfect Choice for Modern Gardens to learn more.
Working with a professional paving company, like S&D Paving, can give you access to a range of patio materials, design and layout customisations, ensuring your new outdoor space is perfectly aligned with your home and lifestyle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, deciding between paving vs decking involves weighing the differences in factors like cost, lifestyle, maintenance, environmental factors, and aesthetic preferences.
Paving is a popular choice for all kinds of outdoor spaces, as it provides a solid surface that can withstand heavy foot traffic and weather conditions. It is also low maintenance and can last for many years with proper installation and care, and is customisable, as patios come in a variety of materials such as concrete, stone, brick, or even wood-effect porcelain.
On the other hand, decking offers a more relaxed and natural feel, perfect for creating a cosy and inviting outdoor living area. It is also versatile, allowing for different designs and patterns to be created with the use of different types of wood or composite materials. It is essential to choose the option that meets your needs while keeping your budget and maintenance preferences in mind.
Before starting your project, talk to professional landscaping companies, like S&D Paving & Landscaping, as we can help you make the right choice.
About Us
S&D Paving & Landscaping has been an industry leader for over 15 years, making sure that each job is completed to the highest standards of workmanship.
With a unique combination of experience and knowledge, our highly qualified teams have worked with a vast range of clients on all kinds of construction projects across Surrey. As such, we have well-earned our reputation as a reliable and dependable contractor whose commitment to quality is second to none.
Contact Us
To find out more about our driveway surfacing options or to discuss a new project, please get in touch today.
FAQs
Which is better for low maintenance, paving vs decking?
Paving generally requires less ongoing maintenance than decking, as it doesn’t need regular sealing or protection from weather. However, modern decking materials can also be low-maintenance if you choose composite or treated wood.
Can I combine paving and decking in one garden?
Yes. Many homeowners combine both to create distinct zones, like a paved area for dining and a decking section for lounging or entertaining. This adds visual interest and functionality to your outdoor space.
Which option is more durable in wet weather?
Paving is typically more durable and long-lasting in wet climates, as it’s less prone to warping or rotting. Decking can be resilient if properly installed and maintained, especially composite decking designed for damp conditions.
