Decking vs. patios: create your perfect outdoor space

decking vs patios

Your garden can be an extension of your home, with an al fresco dining spot or chill-out area a great way to blend your indoor and outdoor lifestyles. There are a huge variety of ways you can do this, too. One of the most popular choices is to use either timber decking or patio tiles to create a multi-functional area that blends your interior and exterior seamlessly. But which material is the right choice for your garden? To help you decide, we’ve weighed up the pros and cons.

Decking pros

Timber decking (or composite decking) is usually the more affordable option of the two. Of course, how much you pay depends on the species of timber you choose and your desired design, but you can definitely get decent decking installed on a budget.

Decking also has a more contemporary feel and can be raised, unlike a patio, creating levels to your garden that add to the overall aesthetic. Depending on your design, it’s quick to install and can last for a fair few years (between 10-20 years) with regular maintenance.

Decking cons

The only downside to timber decking is that it does require maintenance if you want the wood to stick around. Without cleaning and protecting, your timber is likely to rot and the colour will fade – although some do love the silvery-grey of older timber.  For a lower maintenance option, look into composite decking.

It’s also good to note that decking can be slippery, though there are grip slips you can add to give your timber some friction.

Patio pros

What about a patio? The more traditional option, patios are durable so tend to last longer than decking. They also don’t need much maintenance to look good, which is a plus for hassle-free gardens.

If you’re picky with design choice, too, you’ll love the range of choice for patios. You can look through a huge range of colours, shapes, sizes, and materials, making it a pretty versatile option.

Patio cons

Patio tiles are more pricey than timber decking. If you want a nice-looking stone, like limestone or granite, be prepared to splash a fair bit of cash! They also require a sturdy, level base to lay your stones on and are trickier to install yourself. For a smart patio, you’ll need an experienced layer.

Decking vs. patio: the final say

When it comes to decking vs. patio, it all depends on your priorities. Both are fantastic choices for creating a relaxing chill-out spot in your garden, whether for your morning coffee or an evening dinner with your family, so you can’t go wrong.

If you’re on a budget, though, timber decking is bound to be the better choice and offers more versatility in terms of height. Patio is your low-maintenance best bet and if it matches your aesthetic (and budget) then go for it.

Sold on decking? So are we. At Savoy Timber, we stock a wide range of decking materials all of which are crafted to the highest standards, ensuring longer life and a better finish. If you’d like to learn more about our products or you need help choosing the best option for your space, our team will be more than happy to lend a hand. Call us today on 0333 272 7985 and let’s get chatting!