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Decking or patio?
Updated September 2026
Decking
- Good for sloping or uneven gardens
- Softwood needs treating regularly; composite needs little maintenance
- Can get slippery in shade and wet weather
Patio
- Very long-lasting
- Low maintenance, especially porcelain
- Best on level ground; slopes need steps or retaining walls
Which to choose
For a level garden and long-term value, a patio usually wins. For a sloping garden or a raised seating area, decking is often simpler and cheaper. Many gardens use both.
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