Tacoma Deck Pavers vs. Composite Decking – Real Local Cost Breakdown
Decking isn’t just about wood or composite decks. Porcelain pavers are also a part of the decking options available for homeowners around the US, especially in places like Tacoma, where the year has four seasons and porcelain pavers are preferred over other materials for outdoor decks, patios, rooftops, walkways, and pool areas.
According to local deck builders like Decks Restore, two of the most popular decking options in this area are deck pavers and composite decking, but they both offer different advantages and costs. This is why we decided to write this article, to understand the differences between these two options and how they compare in local pricing, installation, and maintenance.
What is Composite Wood?
You may have encountered the term “composite” when looking into deck building. So what exactly is composite wood?
A composite is an artificial material created from an engineered combination of different components. A composite is defined as the combination of wood fibers and other non-biological elements, such as plastic, as well as wood blends from various other composite additives. Each blend of a composite material comes with different benefits, such as added resistance to the elements, enhanced durability and many other attributes.
There is a wide variety of composite wood products, some of which come with different functions such as cost-effective deck building and minimal upkeep as well as internal house finishing. Below is more information which outlines the different types of wood composites and the projects which each is most suited to.
What Are Deck Pavers?
Pool deck pavers used in the landscaping of outdoor swimming pool areas can be beneficial to homeowners and pool users. Stone, brick, and concrete are the three main materials used to make these pool pavers. These materials are ideal for pool paving because they can withstand the effects of chlorinated or saltwater pools.
One feature that pool pavers provide is safety. Pool deck pavers are used to achieve the desired texture and color effect of the pool area. These pavers also have high resistance to wear and tear and offer a durable non-slip surface. Safety is important since children naturally tend to play and run around on wet and slippery surfaces.
Some of the positive attributes of these pavers include durability, affordability, easy installation, strength, non-slip surface, variety, and ease of repair. These are the reasons why people choose to use pool deck pavers in pool landscaping. They can create an impressive effect by enhancing the authenticity and appearance of the pool surrounds. They also help create a natural atmosphere where everyone can enjoy.
Pool pavers are affordable and serve as a good alternative to natural stone pool pavers. One can save significantly, especially if a mortar-less installation method is used. These pavers are also durable. However, it is important to choose the right paver for a saltwater pool. Consulting the manufacturer for advice is recommended.
Local Cost Insights
Composite Decking
According to collected data from 768 Tacoma-area composite decking projects, the average installed cost ranges between $9 to $10 per sq. ft., with total project costs typically landing between $1,758 and $2,016 for a ~215 sq. ft. deck.
Broken down, synthetic decking materials cost around $6–$9.50 per sq. ft., depending on material type—polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC.
Deck Pavers
From basic paver installation on a surface, one can expect a total of 10-15 dollars for every square foot. However, more intricate and premium designs of paver work can range from 20-30 dollars for every square foot of work. Edging, grading, and custom layouts, as a part of the building, can add a lot more, increasing the estimated budget of the project.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Composite Decking | Deck Pavers |
| Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) | ~$9–$10 | ~$10–$30 (basic to premium) |
| Project Cost (215 sq. ft.) | ~$1,758–$2,016 total | ~$2,150–$6,450 (varies with design) |
| Material Type Examples | Polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC ($6–$9.50/sq. ft.) | Concrete, brick, natural stone (base varies) |
| Design & Complexity Impact | Minimal effect | High—complicated patterns add $5–$10/sq. ft. |
| Maintenance | Very low—occasional wash | Moderate—requires sealing, weeding |
| Typical Lifespan | 25–30 years (warranted) | 25–50+ years, with easy replacements |
Pane-by-Pane Insights
- Upfront Costs
- Composite Decking: A reasonable cost for Tacoma would be approximately $9–$10/sq. ft.
- Deck Pavers: For pavers the cost would start at $10–$15/sq. ft. for basic installations and going up to $20–$30 for high-end designs.
- Project Size Matters
Based on the local data, a 215 sq. ft. composite deck generally costs $1,758–$2,016 to install.
For pavers of similar size, rough estimates are between $2,150 (at lower rates) and $6,450 or more, depending on design and extras.
- Design & Complexity
Composite decks are undemanding (easier) to install. Paver projects, however, can soar in price with curves, patterns, or paver materials costing an additional $5-$10 per square foot in labor alone.
- Maintenance & Longevity
- Composite Decking: Low-maintenance, easy to clean, backed by 25–30-year warranties.
- Pavers: Last decades, easy to repair (swap out individual units), but require periodic sealing and upkeep.
Final Thoughts
In the city of Tacoma, local residents often choose composite decking or deck pavers when adding outdoor living spaces as improvement projects to their homes. Each material has its own unique balance of advantages along with the maintenance costs of upkeep in the future.
Investing in composite decking comes with its own set of advantages as well. The initial costs of installing the deck would set back an individual with approximately $9-$10 per square foot as the average. The deck would need very little maintenance and has an average warranty of 25-30 years which is ideal. The simplicity of the decking would help with the overall cost too.
Deck pavers are more complex and, as a result, cost more. The average installed cost ranges from $10-$15 per square foot to $20-$30. The increase in costs is driven by the complex design which is beneficial in the long run which increases labor costs. These pavers need more maintenance than others, as they need to be sealed, weeded, and cleaned. The lifespan of 25-50+ years is ideal, and the individual pavers can be removed and repaired easily.
In the end, the decision between composite decking and deck pavers in Tacoma hinges on the homeowner’s preferences. If lowest cost and lowest upkeep is the main consideration, then composite decking is the better alternative. If the homeowner prefers to make an elaborate design and pays more for the deck pavers, and in return the deck pavers provide more longevity and ease of repair, then the deck pavers would be the appropriate selection.