updating old decks or replace with paver patio

Updating Old Decks vs. Installing Paver Patios

Bydoublea

If your outdoor living space is starting to show its age, you may be wondering whether to invest in updating your existing deck or replace it entirely with a paver patio. Both options can enhance your backyard, but the right choice depends on your budget, long-term goals, and how you use your outdoor space.

At Double A Ohio, we work with homeowners in Marengo and surrounding Central Ohio communities to design outdoor spaces that are functional, attractive, and built to last. This guide will help you weigh the pros and cons of each option so you can make an informed decision.

When Updating an Old Deck Makes Sense

A well-built deck can provide many years of enjoyment, offering a comfortable space for grilling, relaxing, or entertaining guests. However, like any outdoor structure, decks face wear and tear from constant exposure to sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes. Over time, boards can warp, railings can loosen, and finishes can fade. In some cases, tearing out the entire structure isn’t necessary—updating your current deck can be the most practical and cost-effective choice.

Benefits of Updating Your Deck

Updating an existing deck instead of replacing it entirely can bring several advantages:

    • Lower initial cost compared to a full rebuild or paver patio installation, making it an attractive choice for homeowners working with a tighter budget.
    • Keeps your existing layout and footprint, which can be important if your deck’s size and shape already work well for your space.
    • Opportunity to refinish with modern materials such as composite decking that resists fading, staining, and moisture damage, giving the deck a fresh look without the need for full demolition.
    • Potential for smart upgrades like built-in seating, integrated lighting, or new railings, improving both functionality and aesthetics without a total redesign.

Ideal Situations for a Deck Update

While every property is unique, here are some common scenarios where a deck update makes sense:

    • The deck’s frame and substructure are still solid—surface boards, railings, or stairs are worn, but the foundation remains safe and stable.
    • You have a raised deck that provides access to a second-story entrance or walkout basement, making a ground-level patio impractical.
    • You prefer the look and feel of natural wood or composite decking over the appearance of stone or pavers.
    • You’re not ready for a major hardscape investment, but still want to refresh your outdoor space to improve curb appeal and comfort.

Considerations Before Updating

It’s important to remember that even with upgrades, decks—especially those made from wood—require ongoing maintenance. This often includes:

    • Regular staining or sealing to protect against moisture damage and UV fading.
    • Replacing worn boards, railings, or hardware as needed.
    • Annual inspections to ensure the structure remains safe and code-compliant.

If your deck’s structural components are deteriorating, or if you want a lower-maintenance, longer-lasting outdoor surface, it may be worth comparing the long-term costs of deck maintenance with investing in a custom paver patio from Double A Ohio.

Why Many Homeowners Switch to Paver Patios

While traditional decks are elevated and built from wood or composite materials, paver patios are ground-level structures crafted from durable materials such as concrete pavers, brick, or natural stone. Over the past decade, they’ve become one of the most requested upgrades we install for Central Ohio homeowners—especially those seeking a permanent, low-maintenance outdoor space that looks great year-round.

The appeal comes down to three main factors: durability, design flexibility, and ease of care. Unlike wood decks that need frequent sealing and repairs, a professionally installed paver patio by Double A Ohio can provide decades of beauty and function with very little upkeep.

Benefits of Installing a Paver Patio

    • Exceptional durability – With proper installation and a stable base, paver patios can last for decades without sagging, warping, or cracking like traditional poured concrete or wooden structures.
    • Low maintenance – No staining, painting, or annual sealing is required. An optional sealing service can be applied for added stain resistance and color preservation.
    • Unlimited design flexibility – Choose from a wide variety of paver colors, textures, shapes, and patterns to perfectly complement your home’s architecture and personal style.
    • Seamless integration with other hardscaping features – Paver patios connect beautifully with retaining walls, walkways, outdoor kitchens, and firepits, allowing us to design a fully functional and visually cohesive backyard.
    • Weather and pest resistance – Pavers are immune to rot, insect damage, and the freeze-thaw cycles that can wreak havoc on wood decks.

Ideal Situations for a Paver Patio

A custom paver patio may be the right choice if:

    • You want a long-term outdoor solution with minimal maintenance requirements.
    • You prefer a ground-level entertaining area that feels connected to your lawn and landscaping.
    • You’d like to incorporate additional landscaping features such as built-in seating walls, landscape lighting, or a custom firepit to create a complete outdoor living space.
    • Your existing deck is beyond repair or would require costly structural work to bring up to code.

Why Work with Double A Ohio for Your Patio Installation

At Double A Ohio, we don’t just lay pavers—we design and build spaces that are meant to be lived in and enjoyed for decades. Our team handles every step of the process, from site preparation and drainage grading to installing paver patios, walkways, and complementary features that make your backyard both beautiful and functional. We use only premium materials from trusted suppliers, ensuring your investment stands up to Ohio’s changing seasons.

Cost and Longevity Comparison

While the upfront cost of a paver patio can be higher than simply resurfacing a deck, it’s important to consider long-term expenses. Decks typically require ongoing maintenance and may need replacement after 15–25 years. A professionally installed paver patio from Double A Ohio can last decades with minimal upkeep, making it a strong investment over time.

Example:
A homeowner in Sunbury had a 20-year-old wood deck that required annual maintenance and was becoming unsafe due to rot. We replaced it with a custom paver patio featuring a built-in firepit, seating wall, and walkway to their garden. The new space is safer, more functional, and will require far less upkeep in the years to come.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

If your current deck is still structurally sound and you prefer its elevated design, updating it with new boards and modern features may be the right call. If you want a low-maintenance, long-term outdoor space that integrates seamlessly with other landscaping and hardscaping features, a paver patio may be the better choice.

At Double A Ohio, we offer both deck removal and complete paver patio installation services, giving you honest guidance based on your property, budget, and lifestyle.

Proudly Serving Central Ohio

Double A Ohio proudly serves homeowners in:

Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space with Double A Ohio

Ready to create an outdoor space you’ll enjoy for decades?
Whether you choose to update your existing deck or replace it with a custom paver patio, Double A Ohio can help you design and build the perfect solution. Our team combines craftsmanship with high-quality materials to deliver results that are both beautiful and built to last.

Call us today or request a free estimate online to start planning your backyard transformation in Marengo or anywhere in Central Ohio. Let us help you bring your vision to life.

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