Decking vs Paving: Which Is Better for Your Albury Backyard?
Are you upgrading your outdoor space in Albury? If so, you’ve likely wondered: should I choose decking or paving?
Both options have their place. Albury's climate can be tricky. This makes the decision even more important than it appears. We're talking summer days that push past 40°C and winter nights that drop below zero. Your backyard surface must withstand a 40-degree temperature swing. It shouldn’t crack, warp, or fall apart.
When choosing between decking and paving for your Albury home, focus on what really matters.
Climate matters more than you think
Albury cops it from both ends of the thermometer. Summer highs average 31°C but often go over 40°C. July nights, however, average only 2.7°C and frost is common. Add in UV exposure that reaches "Extreme" levels in summer. This creates conditions that damage unsuitable materials.
Your choice must handle expansion and contraction without damage. It should resist UV degradation, too. Also, it needs to cope with freeze-thaw cycles during winter.
Your soil plays a role too. Albury's Red-Brown Earths and Sodosols react a lot. They swell when wet and shrink when dry. Ground movement impacts deck footings and paver bases. Proper preparation is key, no matter which way you choose.
The cost difference is real
Let's talk money, because this is often where the decision starts.
Paving costs substantially less for equivalent area. Budget paving runs roughly 60-70% cheaper than budget decking per square metre.
Here's how the numbers stack up:
For decking, treated pine comes in at $200-350 per square metre installed. Merbau sits around $300-350, while Australian hardwoods like Spotted Gum range from $320-450. Composite decking varies widely from $250-600 depending on brand and quality.
For paving, concrete pavers cost $45-100 per square metre installed. Clay pavers cost between $70 and $95. Sandstone prices range from $55 to $100. Premium options like bluestone or granite are priced from $80 to $150.
If budget is your primary constraint, paving wins on upfront costs.
Maintenance tells a different story
Upfront cost is only part of the picture. What you spend over the next 20 years matters just as much.
Treated pine decks end up being the most expensive option when you factor in maintenance over two decades. The cost for a 30 square metre area is $4,300 to $6,200. This includes cleaning, sealing, oiling, and minor repairs. Treated pine needs painting or staining right after installation. You should recoat it every 2-3 years.
Hardwood decks are cheaper to maintain, costing $1,700-2,600 over 20 years for the same area. In contrast, composite decking has the lowest lifetime maintenance costs, at only $200-400.
On the paving side, clay pavers are the maintenance champions at $300-600 over 20 years. Concrete pavers sit around $700-1,300.
If you dislike weekend maintenance, choose composite decking or clay pavers. They’re your best options.
What about summer heat underfoot?
This is important when Albury hits the 40°C days, especially near pools and places where kids run barefoot.
Light-colored travertine and limestone stay cool. They only reach 40-45°C when the air temperature is 35°C. That's still warm but manageable.
Oiled hardwood, light composites, and light concrete pavers heat up to 50 to 55°C. Not ideal for bare feet, but tolerable.
Dark composites, dark pavers, and dark bluestone are the ones to avoid. They can hit 60-75°C in the same conditions. That's hot enough to burn.
For a pool surround or entertainment area where people walk barefoot, pick travertine, limestone, or light-colored materials.
When decking makes more sense
Decking excels in specific situations.
If your block is sloped or you need elevation, decking is the practical choice. Paving a slope means expensive excavation work.
Decking is great for extending your indoor living space at floor level. It creates a smooth flow from inside to outside.
For bushfire-prone properties, you'll need BAL-rated materials. Merbau works well in BAL-29 areas. But for BAL-FZ (Flame Zone) areas, aluminium decking is the only choice.
If you like a warm feel and a natural wood look, decking is better than any paver.
When paving makes more sense
Paving is best for flat, ground-level areas. It helps keep costs low.
It's also the obvious choice for driveways or anywhere vehicles will go. Decking can't handle that kind of load.
For large areas on a budget, paving gives you significantly more coverage for your money. If you want something low-maintenance, clay pavers are a great choice. They last 50 to 100+ years, so you can forget about them for decades.
Why not both?
Consider this: the best outdoor projects usually mix different materials.
Imagine a raised timber or composite deck at the back of the house. It's perfect for lounging and entertaining. From there, you step down to a paved area. This space can serve as pathways, a firepit, or pool surrounds. You enjoy the best of both worlds. Plus, you create visual interest with functional zones.
Before you start: Council rules
Quick heads up on approvals. Many deck projects can proceed without council approval if they meet certain criteria. Detached decks with a finished floor up to 600mm above ground often qualify as exempt development.
You’ll need a development application if your deck goes over height limits. If your property has a heritage item, is in a heritage conservation area, or is in a bushfire zone, you’ll need one as well.
For paving, the main concern is drainage. Don't block natural flow paths. Also, don't direct stormwater onto nearby properties.
Contact Albury City Council at (02) 6023 8111 if you're unsure.
The bottom line
There's no single right answer here. It comes down to your block, your budget, how much maintenance you're willing to do, and how you want to use the space.
If budget is tight and you want low maintenance, paving (especially clay pavers) is hard to beat.
If you want that warm timber feel without the upkeep hassle, composite decking has come a long way.
If you have a sloped block or want to expand your indoor space, decking is likely the best choice, no matter the cost.
Plan your project for autumn or winter. Contractors are more available then, and prices are usually better. Book quality contractors 3-6 months ahead for peak season work.
Choose the right materials for Albury's climate. This way, your backyard upgrade will thrive in both hot summers and cold winters.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is decking or paving cheaper in Albury?
Generally, paving is cheaper upfront. Decking costs more per square metre, especially if you choose hardwood or composite materials.
2. Which option is better for Albury’s extreme climate?
It depends on the materials you choose. Composite decking and clay pavers handle temperature swings and UV exposure well.
3. What’s easier to maintain: decking or paving?
Paving wins for low maintenance, especially clay pavers. Composite decking is also low-fuss. Timber decking needs regular oiling or sealing.
4. Will the surface get too hot in summer?
Some materials do. Light-coloured pavers like travertine stay cooler. Dark decking or paving can become hot enough to burn bare feet.
5. What if my backyard is sloped?
Decking is ideal for sloped blocks. It avoids costly excavation and provides level entertaining space more easily than paving.
6. Can I mix both decking and paving in my backyard?
Absolutely. Many homeowners combine decking for elevated zones and paving for ground-level areas like paths, pool surrounds or firepits.
7. Do I need council approval for decking or paving?
Maybe. Decks over 600mm high or in certain zones may require a permit. For paving, drainage and stormwater flow are the main concerns.
8. What’s the best choice near a pool or play area?
Choose surfaces that stay cool and won’t burn feet. Light stone pavers like limestone or travertine are ideal.
9. How long do decking and paving last?
Paving, especially clay or stone, can last 50–100 years with minimal upkeep. Decking lasts 10–30 years depending on material and maintenance.
10. When’s the best time to build?
Autumn and winter are ideal for outdoor projects. Contractors are more available and pricing is often better than during peak seasons.
