Decking vs. Paving: What Fits Your Garden?

If you're looking to create a stylish, usable outdoor space in your Melbourne home, you're probably deciding between timber decking and paving. Both options have their own pros and cons when it comes to cost, appearance, maintenance, and climate suitability. Let’s break it down.

1. Look and Feel

Decking gives a warm, natural finish and slightly elevated feel — perfect for entertainment areas and split-level yards. It blends beautifully with gardens and timber features.

Paving, whether in stone, concrete, or pavers, offers a modern, clean look that’s low-profile and solid underfoot. Great for driveways, courtyards, and fire pits.

Timber vs. Composite Decking

Once you’ve decided to install decking, you’ll face a key choice: natural timber or composite (synthetic) decking boards. Both can look beautiful — but they behave very differently over time.

⬆ Natural Timber Deck

⬆ Composite (Synthetic) Deck

• Timber: Natural, warm, and beautiful — but needs regular oiling and care.
• Composite: Engineered from recycled wood and plastic, often looks like real timber, and needs minimal maintenance.

Today’s market is full of synthetic options that vary widely in quality. Many cheap Chinese products are promoted as “premium” — but don’t hold up under Melbourne’s sun and rain.

Recommendation: Always ask for a sample. Take it home, examine it in natural light, and compare at your own pace — without a sales rep pushing you to decide on the spot.

2. Installation Cost

• 💰 Decking: Material costs can be higher (especially hardwood), but labour is faster.
• 💰 Paving: Lower material cost, but more labour time for base prep, leveling, and laying.

3. Maintenance

Decking requires regular oiling or sealing, especially in sun-exposed areas. Without maintenance, it will fade and crack.

Paving may shift slightly over time, but requires little attention beyond occasional cleaning and re-sanding.

4. Melbourne Weather Suitability

Paving handles Melbourne’s rain and temperature swings better long-term. Decking can warp if not built and protected correctly.

So... Which Should You Choose?

If you love barefoot comfort and timber styling — go for decking. If you want something low-maintenance and long-term stable — paving is your best friend.