When planning an outdoor living space, one of the first decisions is whether to build a timber deck or a paved surface. Both have devoted fans, and both can look spectacular. The right choice depends on your site, lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.
When Timber Decking Wins
Sloping Sites
Decking excels on slopes where it can span across the fall, creating level space without extensive earthworks. A deck that would cost $15,000 might require $50,000 of retaining walls and paving to achieve the same result.
Connection to House Floor Level
When your house floor is elevated above the garden, a deck at matching level creates seamless indoor-outdoor flow. Paving would require steps or ramping.
Over Tree Root Zones
Decks can be built over tree root zones without damaging roots or requiring tree removal. Paving requires excavation that can harm trees.
Around Existing Features
Decking can wrap around trees, rocks and other features, incorporating them into the design rather than working around them.
Softer Feel
Timber feels warm and comfortable underfoot, particularly in bare feet. It has natural give that’s easier on joints.
When Paving Wins
At Ground Level
When your entertaining area is at garden level with no elevation change, paving is often more practical and cost-effective than building a raised deck.
For BBQ and Fire Pit Areas
Paving is non-combustible and easier to clean after cooking. Hot coals and grease are manageable on stone or concrete.
Where Water Drains Away
Paved areas can be graded to shed water efficiently. Decks can trap moisture underneath in flat situations.
For Longevity with Low Maintenance
Quality paving lasts essentially forever with minimal maintenance. Even the best timber decks need regular care and eventual replacement.
In Wet, Shaded Locations
Paving handles damp, shaded positions better than timber, which can become slippery and prone to decay in these conditions.
Cost Comparison
Timber Decking
- Budget (treated pine): $250-$400 per sqm
- Mid-range (hardwood like merbau): $400-$600 per sqm
- Premium (spotted gum, ironbark): $600-$900 per sqm
- Composite decking: $400-$700 per sqm
Paving
- Concrete pavers: $80-$150 per sqm installed
- Sandstone: $120-$200 per sqm installed
- Bluestone: $150-$280 per sqm installed
- Porcelain: $120-$220 per sqm installed
Note: Decking costs include structure. Paving requires prepared base (add $40-$80 per sqm on unprepared ground).
Maintenance Requirements
Timber Decking
- Annually: Clean and possibly re-oil or stain
- Every 2-3 years: More thorough maintenance, check fixings
- Every 10-20 years: Major boards may need replacement
- Lifespan: 20-40 years depending on species and maintenance
Paving
- Occasionally: Pressure wash if needed
- As required: Re-sand joints, remove weeds
- Rarely: Replace damaged pavers
- Lifespan: 50+ years, often permanent
Aesthetic Considerations
Timber Creates
- Warmth and natural beauty
- Resort or coastal ambiance
- Connection to interior timber floors
- Architectural interest at different levels
- Softer, more relaxed feel
Paving Creates
- Permanence and solidity
- Clean, contemporary appearance
- Variety of colours and textures
- Connection to paths and driveways
- Low-maintenance elegance
Combination Approach
Often the best solution combines both materials:
- Deck for the main entertaining area at house level
- Paving for BBQ and fire pit zones
- Paved paths connecting different areas
- Deck around pools for comfort
This gives you the benefits of both materials where each works best.
Species Selection for Decking
If you choose timber, species selection matters enormously:
Hardwoods
- Spotted Gum: Beautiful grain, very durable, Australian
- Ironbark: Extremely hard, resists termites, Australian
- Merbau: Good durability, stable, imported (sustainability concerns)
- Blackbutt: Good all-rounder, Australian
Softwoods
- Treated Pine: Budget option, needs more maintenance
- Not recommended: Untreated softwoods outdoors
Composite Decking
- Pros: Low maintenance, no oiling, consistent colour
- Cons: Gets very hot in sun, less natural feel, can look plastic
- Best brands: Modwood, Trex, NewTechWood
Questions to Guide Your Decision
- What’s the level relationship between house and garden?
- Is the site sloped or level?
- Are there trees whose roots must be protected?
- How much maintenance are you willing to do?
- What’s your budget for initial construction and ongoing care?
- What aesthetic matches your house and lifestyle?
- Will you have BBQ or fire features?
- Is the area sunny or shaded?
Making the Decision
Choose Decking If:
- House is elevated above garden
- Site slopes significantly
- Mature trees must be protected
- You love the warmth of timber
- Indoor-outdoor level flow is priority
- Budget allows for quality timber and maintenance
Choose Paving If:
- Entertaining area is at ground level
- Site is relatively flat
- Low maintenance is priority
- BBQ cooking is central to use
- Budget favours upfront investment over ongoing costs
- Contemporary or Mediterranean style preferred
Professional Design Helps
The best outdoor entertaining areas often aren’t obviously either decking or paving – they’re thoughtfully designed spaces that use the right material in the right place. Professional design ensures you get the optimal solution for your specific situation.
Contact us to discuss the best approach for your Melbourne outdoor entertaining area.
