Paving and Decking Combined

Yew Tree Landscapes
Jul 28
6 min read

Updated: Sep 4

The Outdoor Design Duo That Works Wonders

Creating an outdoor space that actually works for your lifestyle requires careful planning. There are so many materials available on the market that sometimes, you might feel a bit lost. You’ve probably considered various paving and decking options as standalone choices. But have you ever thought that combining the two can offer something more practical and visually interesting?

It’s a growing approach that gives you flexibility in how you use your garden, while also helping the space feel more thought-through.

In this article, we’ll look at why using paving and decking together makes sense for many homes. From simple layout ideas to choosing the right materials, this guide will walk you through the key things to think about before getting started. Let’s get into it.

1. Why Use Paving and Decking Together?

Most gardens don’t do everything well with just one type of surface. Paving is sturdy and low-fuss, great for chairs and tables. Decking adds a bit of warmth and works nicely around slopes, trees or awkward corners. Used together, they give your garden more flexibility and a bit more character, too.

Different Areas for Different Purposes

One of the biggest benefits is being able to split the garden into useful areas. You could use:

Paving for a BBQ zone, hot tub, pool or outdoor dining area
Decking for a relaxed seating spot, kids' play area or reading corner

Instead of a garden that does one thing, you get a garden that works for a few different uses, and doesn’t feel all over the place.

Visually, the mix of natural wood (or composite) and stone or porcelain paving gives a bit of contrast without clashing. It’s not about being fancy. It just feels more considered. Even small gardens can benefit from that change in texture, just having a decked section next to a paved one makes the space feel more defined.

2. Picking the Right Materials when Combining Decking and Paving.

Getting the materials right from the start makes the build smoother and the maintenance simpler later on.

What Works for Paving?

Choosing the right type of paver comes down to how you use your garden, how much maintenance you’re up for, and the kind of finish you prefer underfoot.

Porcelain Pavers
These are low-porous, non-slip, and easy to clean. They don’t fade much in sunlight and handle cold weather well. Great for patios or areas where you’ll have furniture.
Indian Sandstone
A popular natural option. It has a bit of variation in tone, which adds texture without being too bold. It may need sealing every couple of years to keep it looking fresh and prevent algae growth.
Granite Pavers
Very hard-wearing and good for driveways, paths, or high-traffic areas. They have a modern, neat look and won’t wear down easily.
Limestone
Softer underfoot and slightly smoother in texture than sandstone. It looks clean when dry, but it can go darker when wet.
Concrete Pavers
Reliable and cost-effective. Available in a wide range of finishes, from smooth to textured. They can also be made to mimic the appearance of stone or tile, providing flexibility in design.

These options suit different types of layouts, some better for footpaths, others ideal for sitting or eating areas.

What Works for Decking?

Composite Decking
Made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, looks like timber but doesn’t rot or fade as quickly.
Softwood Decking
Cheaper up front, but needs more regular upkeep (staining, sealing).
Hardwood decking
Strong and long-lasting, but more expensive and heavier to install.

Our top tip: if you’re looking for something that lasts and requires minimal care, composite decking and porcelain paving are hard to beat.

3. Ideas for Mixing Paving and Decking in One Garden.

There are loads of ways to make the two surfaces work together. Here are a few ideas that suit different types of gardens and budgets:

Raised Decking Beside a Ground-Level Patio

A simple design that suits sloped gardens or those with steps. Put decking on the higher section and paving below. It provides a natural separation between lounging and dining areas.

Paved Border Around a Deck

This one works well in small gardens. You can use the paving to frame a central deck, making the whole thing feel grounded. It’s neat, tidy, and looks built-in.

Decking Pathway Through a Paved Area

If you want something a bit different, you can run a decked path through a paved patio or lawn. It creates a gentle divide and works well if you’re trying to keep a natural feel without looking too ‘landscaped’.

Covered Deck Area, Open Paved Section

Build a pergola or simple canopy over the deck for a bit of shelter and privacy, then leave the paved bit open for sunbathing, pot plants or a fire pit.

These setups don’t need loads of space, and they don’t all need a big budget either.

4. Factors to Consider Before You Start.

Combining decking and paving isn’t just about aesthetics.

It needs to work in the long run. Here are a few practical things to sort out before you start:

4.1. Drainage.

Rain’s a given in the UK, so your layout should allow water to drain properly. Decking usually drains through the gaps, but paving needs a slight slope to direct water away from your home. Don’t ignore this bit, standing water can damage both surfaces and attract moss or mould.

4.2. Maintenance Expectations.

If you’re not keen on yearly sanding and staining, steer clear of softwood decking. Composite decking and porcelain paving both clean up easily and stay looking decent for years. Natural timber and stone look great, but need more regular care.

4.3. Levels and Access.

Make sure the height difference between the paved and decked areas isn’t a trip hazard. If one’s raised, you may need a step or handrail. If you’ve got kids or older relatives visiting, plan for easy access.

5. Decking and Paving Ongoing Care Tips.

You don’t need to be out there scrubbing every weekend, but a bit of regular upkeep keeps things tidy and safe. Sweep regularly to stop leaves from building up and causing mould or slipping hazards. Clean decking yearly, especially if it’s timber, by using a gentle cleaner and brush.

Jet wash paving occasionally, but don’t go full blast on joints or soft stone. Regularly look for loose boards or cracked slabs and fix them before they get worse.

If you’ve gone for composite and porcelain, maintenance is mostly just keeping things clean.

6. Paving and Decking Combined. Summary.

Paving and decking don’t need to compete. When used together, they provide you with a greater degree of freedom in your garden design, both visually and practically. You can break up the space, guide movement, and create zones that suit how you actually spend time outdoors.

By choosing the right materials and planning with purpose, you’ll end up with a garden that looks good, feels solid underfoot, and doesn’t need endless upkeep. This great combo works well if you entertain outdoors and want separate eating and relaxing areas, have a sloped garden or uneven ground, prefer a bit of contrast in materials and texture or want a tidy, easy-to-use space that’s still a bit different.

If you’re after a one-size-fits-all garden, it might not be worth the extra effort. But if you want a space that feels like it’s actually part of your home, this duo is worth considering.

Are you Ready to Transform Your Patio?

If you're thinking about combining paving and decking in your garden, we’d love to help you make it happen. At Yew Tree Landscapes, we design and build outdoor spaces that are both practical and built to last.

Get in touch with us today to chat about your ideas or book a site visit.

FAQs

Do I need to hire a professional for laying decking and paving?

If you’re confident with tools and groundwork, it’s a doable DIY project. However, for anything more technical, such as drainage and levels, it’s safer (and quicker) to hire someone.

Is paving cheaper than decking?

Basic timber decking is usually cheaper than paving up front, but it needs more care. Composite decking and porcelain paving cost more initially but last longer with less maintenance.