Deck or pave around pool: which is cheaper? Paving tends to be more affordable than decking around a pool. Compared to a raised wooden or composite pool deck, paving materials such as natural stone or concrete are more cost-effective.
The surroundings of your pool are as important as the pool itself. No matter how beautiful your custom pool is, if the landscaping doesn’t feel inviting, it won’t add any value. Besides creating an aesthetically pleasing environment, surroundings are also important from a safety point of view.
Now, you’ve two options for the area around the pool—decking or paving. Choosing between the two can be confusing because each has its pros and cons. But if you’re seriously looking for a budget-friendly yet quality option, then go for paving.
Moving forward in this blog, we’ll explore both decking and paving around the pool, comparing their cost factors, pros and cons.
Let’s begin:
Paving involves creating hard and sturdy yet smooth surfaces using concrete, natural stones, tiles, or asphalt. You’ve got endless impressive options, from simple designs like poured concrete and colorful tiles to decorating stamped patterns.
You can also choose from a large variety of stones like travertine, limestone, or quartzite. What’s more, brick pavers are another option for a naturally durable, weather-resistant, and impressively timeless pavement around your swimming pool.
Paving, made of the right and best-quality material, withstands weather conditions, regular foot traffic, and water splashes for years with minimal maintenance.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheaper upfront | Concrete and stone absorb and retain heat, making the pavement hot to walk on sunny summer days |
| Highly durable and long-lasting | May crack over time if the area has shifting soil |
| Water resistant | Can be more complex to install than a deck |
| Non-slippary | Hard surfaces can be tough on joints and bare feet |
| Easy to maintain | |
| A wide range of design and color options |
Decks have always been a popular choice because of their resort-style charm. Made from wood, aluminium, or composite materials, decks are raised platforms around pools, thanks to a supportive frame that gives the desired elevation.
Some of the most common material options for decking pool areas are lumber, redwood, tropical hardwoods, or composite materials made from wood fibers and recycled plastics. Each material decides the texture, style, and required maintenance of the pool’s surroundings.
Decks feel cooler even during hot days. Because of their natural appearance, they easily blend with patios and lawns. The only downside is that it requires more maintenance efforts like staining and sealing to protect against UV exposure, moisture, and other conditions.
Deck Pros:
Deck Cons:
When it comes to costs, paving is cheaper than a deck. Let’s check out the cost breakdown for each:
Paving materials range between $6 and $20 per square foot. On the other hand, natural wood decking costs between $15 to $30 per square foot, while composite decking is pricier—up to $35 or $40 per square foot.
Paving installation is usually straightforward and quicker, costing about $5 to $10 per square foot for labor. Deck installation is more labor-intensive because it requires building a frame and sometimes securing permits. Labor for decks can cost $10 to $25 per square foot or more, depending on complexity.
Paving needs occasional cleaning and sealing but very little else. Decks, especially wooden ones, require regular sealing, staining, or repairs, which can add hundreds of dollars every few years.
Overall, for a basic pool area, paving can cost 30–50% less upfront than decking, making it the budget-friendly choice for many homeowners.
Other factors that impact the total price of paving or decking around a swimming pool include site preparation, permits, pool shape, and layout. For example, construction and site preparation are the most expensive part of installing a pool. Preparing an uneven, sloppy, or rocky area costs more than excavating a plain and stable area. Similarly, a simple square or rectangular pool tends to be cheaper to deck or pave than custom shapes like freeform and L-shaped pools that require more effort in cutting, shaping, and preparing.
Planning carefully can help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Paving is a cost-effective, durable, low-maintenance material that is ideal for a sleek, contemporary appearance. If your backyard is flat and you want a surface that will last for decades with no maintenance, pavers are a great option.
If your pool area is sloping or uneven, or if you enjoy a natural, resort-style atmosphere, go for decking. If you want a warm surface for walking on, a comfortable place to socialize, or a smooth transition between your pool and a raised patio or front door, decks are perfect.
