Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Pavers vs. wood deck

I live in South TX. I am novice and I'd like to make a patio (no cover) in my backyard using pavers or wood (deck), but I don't know which one is better in term of budget, times, the level of difficulties among others. Since maybe there are a lot rains this season, is it a good idea to do pavers? If it's ok, can you show me some websites that teach how to do the pavers or the wood deck.
Thank you for your help. I appreciate it.

There is no problem with either pavers or wood decks subjected to moisture. Wood decks have been used for maybe 100's of years and pavers for a few thousand more.

Both are easy and both are DIY projects.

The big question is the personal preference and the physical layout of the area.

The pavers will obviously be laid on ground level. The deck will require 2 to 3 feet minmum from the top of deck to ground level. The deck will need room for joists, beams and air circulation so it does not rot out.

You have more choices if you are willing to move some dirt.

For paver web sites showing ideas, applications and installation Google for Pavestone, Oldcastle and Borgert. Also contact a local landscaper/hardscaper for ideas and instructions. The local dealer usually have equipment available for rent.

Dick

I appreciate it.

Thank you,
Tim

Take a look at what you will have to do down the road - I have no intention of ever putting wood outside again because I do not like the maintenance involved.

Thank you, J.M.C. That is one more reason I will go for pavers. Now I am thinking about buying a large-size concrete pavers (about 1 sq ft not 7-7/8"Lx3-7/8"W) for the patio because I am busy (and lazy) and I want the patio is done as soon as I can. I would like to know that what steps should I take to do with this kind of size of concrete pavers since it is bigger then the more popular concrete pavers.
Thank you,

Just make sure you have a level compact base. compacted gravel or crusher run is fine. Spread sand as a setting bed 1" to 1 1/2" thick and level. Set the block ans sweep sand into the cracks.

If you have a lot of rain or an impermeable soil, you could slope the patio slightly - about as much as a driveway.

The large units are OK for a patio, but are not intended for driveways unless you take special measures.

A weed barrier over the base material is optional.

Dick

Make sure you use masons sand for the sand bed on top of the stone base.

Thank you very much, Dick, for your tips. And I will remember to use masons sand for the sand bed. Thank you, Hellrazor, for reminding.
Tim

I recently installed a combination deck/paver area in the backyard of a client here in (the very rainy) Washington state. You can actually combine both at the same level, using a matieral like LP Weatherbest, since it only requires 3" of breathing room. This allowed us to make some interesting radius turns, as well as gave the area a unique look. Comp decking is in pretty heavy use here in Washington State, and requires practically no maintenance. However, if you are planning on using it at ground level, I suggest you consult with your local building supplies dealer, on which options are best, as not all comp decking only requires 3" to breathe. In fact, some, due to much heavier wood content, require 18 to 24 inches, just like wood.

On a side note, my father and I years ago, installed a redwood patio/deck at our home in California, this patio/deck only sat about 5-6" above the ground, which we had backfilled/covered with about 3" of gravel. The deck to this day, shows zero signs of rot, swell, twist, or otherwise. I guess the moral of the story is, if you take your time, and choose appropriate products, anything is possible. Happy Building.

-deckguy