Decking vs paving cost is a common consideration for outdoor remodelers. Buyers usually pay a total price that reflects material type, labor, site prep, and region. This article lays out practical price ranges in USD, with per-square-foot figures where relevant, so readers can compare decking and paving costs side by side and plan a budget.
- Low, average, and high ranges reflect common material grades, labor rates, and access conditions.
- Assumptions include standard residential backyards, normal slope, and typical mid-range materials.
- Prices exclude permits unless stated; some regions may add taxes or delivery charges.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decking installed (per sq ft) | $12 | $26 | $55 | Pressure-treated wood to composite |
| Paving installed (per sq ft) | $8 | $14 | $40 | Concrete, brick, or prova-style pavers |
| Substructure and prep (per sq ft) | $3 | $6 | $12 | Grading, joists, base material |
| Demolition/ disposal (per sq ft) | $0.50 | $2 | $6 | Old deck or slab removal |
| Permits and inspections (flat) | $0 | $200 | $1,000 | Depends on jurisdiction |
| Maintenance annual (per year) | $0 | $50 | $200 | Sealant, cleaning, minor repairs |
Decking vs Paving Cost: Typical Total Price Ranges
Decking total price for a 200 sq ft project typically ranges from $4,800 to $11,000 installed, with mid-range wood or composite costing about $26-$40 per sq ft including labor. Assumptions: standard residential grade materials, mid-range fasteners, basic railing options, and soil-ready sites.
Paving total price for a 200 sq ft area commonly falls between $3,200 and $8,000 installed, translating to roughly $8-$40 per sq ft depending on material (concrete vs. natural stone or brick). Assumptions: durable concrete or concrete pavers, basic edge restraints, and level subgrade.
Material Costs: Wood, Composite, Concrete, And Pavers
Material choice is the biggest price driver. Decking materials span pressure-treated wood, cedar or redwood, and composite or PVC options. Typical installed ranges are wood $12-$28 per sq ft and composite $25-$55 per sq ft. For paving, concrete slabs cost about $8-$12 per sq ft, while architectural pavers or brick can run $14-$40 per sq ft.
Assumptions: standard board sizes, typical fasteners, and a flat, reliably drained surface.
Labor And Installation Time By System Type
Labor rates commonly fall in the $50-$90 per hour range for general carpentry and hardscape trades. Estimated install times for a 200 sq ft deck might be 15-25 hours including framing, decking, railing, and staining. A 200 sq ft paving project could take 12-22 hours depending on surface prep, edgework, and setting cures.
Assumptions: mid-level crew, standard access, and typical-weather windows.
Site Prep, Substructure, And Drainage Price Drivers
Site prep heavily affects the quote. Decks require substructure framing, joists, and sometimes support posts, which adds $3-$6 per sq ft for substructure and prep. Paving needs base material, compaction, and edge restraints, contributing roughly $2-$8 per sq ft beyond the surface material. Drainage considerations can add a further $300-$1,000 if French drains or grading are needed.
Assumptions: moderate slope, good access, and no extensive tree root issues.
Regional Cost Variations Across The U.S.
Costs vary by region due to labor markets and material availability. The Northeast and West Coast often show higher installed prices, while the Midwest and Southeast tend to be lower. Decks in high-cost metro areas may push overall per-sq-ft pricing above $40 for composite. Paving in urban regions can climb beyond $25-$30 per sq ft for premium pavers.
Assumptions: typical urban-to-suburban markets, standard access.
Size, Shape, And Project Scope Change The Quote
Project scope shifts can swing price notably. Increasing from 150 to 350 sq ft typically reduces per-square-foot cost due to economies of scale, but total project cost increases. An irregular deck footprint or stairs adds labor time, sometimes raising per-square-foot costs by 5-15%. Complex patterns in paving, like herringbone layouts or curved edges, commonly raise material waste and labor by 10-20%.
Assumptions: mid-range design, standard stairs or edging, and common geometric shapes.
Long-Term Maintenance And Replacement Cost Considerations
Decking maintenance costs recur annually or every few years. Wood decks may require sealing and staining every 1-3 years, averaging $0.50-$1.50 per sq ft per year in maintenance or replacement. Composite decks typically cost less maintenance over time but may incur occasional cleaning or refinishing at $0.20-$0.50 per sq ft per year. Paving may need sporadic cleaning and re-sanding for pavers, with maintenance costs around $0.10-$0.50 per sq ft annually.
Assumptions: typical weather exposure and standard cleaning products.
Ways To Cut Decking Or Paving Costs Without Compromising Quality
Control scope by selecting fewer features or simpler rails for decks, and choose standard-grade materials over premium options. Consider partial installation or staged projects to spread costs. For paving, evaluate concrete slabs first, then add decorative pavers later if budget allows. Scheduling during off-peak seasons can reduce labor rates by 10-20%.
Assumptions: no emergency timelines, normal contractor availability, and steady material supply.
