Should You Build a Deck or a Patio?

Do you want to add some extra outdoor living space to your home but aren’t sure if you should build a deck or patio? Both decks and patios have their own unique features, so it can be tough to decide which one is the best option for your needs. 

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons, materials and types of both decks and patios to help you make the right decision for your home.

What is a Deck?

A deck is a structure built on or around a house that can be used for outdoor activities such as relaxing, entertaining, and dining. Decks can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, composite, and tile. They can be attached to the house or free-standing. 

One important factor to consider when building a deck is the climate in your area. If you live in an area with high winds, you will want to make sure the deck is securely attached to the house.

Type of Decks

Decking is a beautiful addition to a home and there are many generally two types of decks which are:

• Elevated
• Ground-level

Elevated

Elevated decks are decks that are elevated above the ground. This allows people to enjoy a better view of the surroundings while they are playing or working. They are also a great way to keep your deck looking clean and tidy. Elevated decks can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic.

Ground-level

A ground-level deck is a type of deck that is built on the ground. This type of deck is perfect for people who want to enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about stairs or a ladder. The decks are usually made out of composite materials, which means they are strong and durable. They can also be designed to look beautiful, making them a popular choice for homeowners.

Types Of Used Materials For Decks

When it comes to decks, there are many different types of materials that can be used. Some popular options include:

• Hardwood
• Composite
• Engineered wood
• PVC

Hardwood

When it comes to deck materials, hardwood is the best choice. Hardwoods are durable and long-lasting, able to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic. In addition, hardwoods are often less expensive than composite materials. And because they’re natural, hardwoods offer a warm and inviting look that complements any home style.

Composite

Composite decks are a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance deck. They are made of a blend of plastic and fibreglass that makes them both strong and lightweight. Composite decks can also be painted or stained to match your home’s exterior colour. They are also weather resistant, so you won’t have to worry about them deteriorating over time.

Engineered Wood

Photo from Ceramiche Marca Corona

Engineered woods are becoming a popular choice for decks. These products are produced by bonding together wood strands, veneers, lumber or other forms of wood fibre to create a composite material. The resulting product is strong and stable, making it ideal for outdoor use. Engineered woods are also resistant to rot and insect damage, and they can be manufactured in a variety of colours and textures. Best of all, these are often more affordable than traditional hardwoods.

PVC

PVC is an affordable, durable, and easy deck material to work with. PVC is also a closed-cell polymer, which means that it doesn’t suffer from moisture problems like wood does. PVC decks can be painted or stained to match your home’s colour palette.

What is a Patio?

A patio is a paved outdoor area that adjoins a house, and is generally used for recreation and dining. A patio can be built with various materials, including concrete, stone, pavers, or brick. Patios are typically made up of a concrete slab with a stone or paver surface. 

In some cases, patios are also covered with a roof or other type of shelter. Patios can be decorated with furniture, planters, and other outdoor accessories. They are often used for entertaining guests or relaxing outdoors. Whether you’re looking to add a spot for outdoor dining or create a private oasis, a patio can provide the perfect solution.

Types of Patios

There are many types of patios, and each has its own unique features. Some patio types include:

• Gravel
• Concrete
• Paver Blocks
• Clay Bricks
• Flagstone
• Tile
• Sand
• Cut Stone

Gravel

A gravel patio is made up of small, round jelly stones that are put together in a pattern. The stones can be any colour or shape, and they can be attached using mortar or just stuck into the ground. Gravel is a natural material that can be used for patios and walkways.

Concrete

A concrete patio is a versatile outdoor space that can be used as a relaxing spot to enjoy the outdoors, or it can be used as a focal point in your home. Concrete patios are easy to care for and require very little maintenance. Concrete patios are very durable, which means they can last for years without needing any maintenance. Plus, they’re easy to clean.

Paver Blocks

A Paver Blocks is a large, flat patio that is made from pavers. The pavers are arranged in a grid pattern and the patio is usually covered in a concrete or a stone coating.  A paver blocks patio can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, stone, and brick. 

Clay Bricks

A Clay Bricks Patio is a great way to add a bit of character if you’re looking for an outdoor space that is both comfortable and weather resistant. Clay Bricks are made from compressed clay and can be customised to match your home’s colour and design. They are also easy to maintain and are resistant to mildew, moss, and other insects.

Flagstone

A flagstone patio adds character and warmth to your home. Flagstone is a type of stone that is made up of small, round pieces of stone. It is very similar to granite but is a bit softer. Plus, it has a natural look that will offer vitality to your home decor.

Tile

A tile patio can add beauty and functionality to your home. It can be used as an outdoor kitchen, a porch, or a balcony. A tile patio is made up of individual tiles that are glued together. This makes it extremely durable and easy to maintain. There are many different types of tiles that can be used for a tile patio. Some of the most popular tiles are porcelain, slate, cedar, and natural stone.

Sand

Sand is an additional popular alternative for loose patio materials which is about as affordable as gravel. If you want to construct a patio as simply as possible, sand will be a viable alternative. Using sand as a patio surface material is not going to appeal to everyone. 

Cut Stone

If you are looking for a stunning patio, then consider installing a cut stone patio. This type of patio is made up of carefully cut stones that have been arranged in a geometric or natural pattern. The look of a cut stone patio is both elegant and timeless, and it can be customised to fit your needs.

Pros & Cons Comparison Between A Deck & A Patio

A deck and a patio are both great options for adding extra space to your home. They both have their own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider which one is best for you.

Pros & Cons of A Deck

Pros:-

• Better Resale Value: The return on investment for installing a hardwood deck is often greater than that of any other kind of interior home improvement project.
• It Has A Nice View: A superior perspective, which may contribute to a rise in the value of your property, is provided by a deck since it is constructed off the ground.
• Modifiable With Relative Ease: You are free to paint or stain a hardwood deck in any colour or tone that strikes your fancy. It is also possible to tint it so that it blends in with the external decor of your home.
• Heat Resistant: Wooden decks naturally absorb and hold less heat, so they are a good choice for homeowners who live in warmer climates and whose homes receive a lot of sunshine.

Cons:-

• Requires Regular Maintenance: Decks, regardless of the material they are made of, must be power cleaned, stained, and sealed at least once every two years.
• A Shorter Expected Life Span: Wood is more vulnerable to the effects of weather and may decay over time if it is not properly maintained. It can also fade and become discoloured if it is not handled.
• Expensive: Decks are often more costly than patios or porches per square foot for high-end decking material. However, the price might vary depending on the material.
• Restrictions Based On Weight: When planning the layout of your deck, be sure to take weight into consideration, particularly if you want to install a jacuzzi or an outdoor kitchen.

Pros & Cons of a Patio

Pros:-

• Inexpensive Option: The construction costs of a deck are often substantially more than those of a patio that is built flat to the ground. Additionally, concrete is often the material with the lowest overall cost.
• Simple Maintenance: Patios don’t need frequent upkeep. It is up to you whether or not you want to seal your patio, although it is not required since stone and paver patios are very long-lasting.
• Greater Privacy: Patios are lower to the ground and offer more design and planting options, which allows for more seclusion. Patios are also more cost effective.
• Longer Life Span: A patio of good quality may survive for more than 25 years and sustain its worth without requiring much maintenance.

Cons:-

• Not Suitable For Uneven Surfaces: Patios are most successful when built on level ground, but the expense of laying a foundation that is level is extremely expensive.
• Can Be Easily Broken: If the soil that is under the concrete wasn’t adequately prepared, there’s a greater chance that the patio would break. In places with very high temperatures, there is also a greater likelihood of cracking.
• It Can Be Slippery: In locations with colder climates, the danger of falling from a patio is increased since ice may readily build on its surface.
• Can Be Easily Discoloured By Stains: The surface of a patio is susceptible to staining from dirt, mildew, and other naturally occurring stains such as leaves due to the fact that it is exposed to the elements.
• Detailed Construction: In places with a lot of ground movement and places where reinforcement is required, patios may need more elaborate construction and may take longer to build. This is especially the case when installing a patio.

Which Is Better?

There are many factors to consider when deciding which type of patio to build- such as the cost and ROI.

Costs: When deciding whether to build a deck or patio, the first thing to consider is the cost. Patio construction typically costs less than deck construction, but decks can offer a more luxurious atmosphere. 

Return on Investment (ROI): Return on investment is greater for a hardwood deck than for a patio. 75 percent of the cost of a new deck may be recovered, compared to 55 percent for a backyard patio. A patio needs a totally flat surface for construction, but a deck offers more flexibility.

Deck & Patio – Pics

Conclusion

In conclusion, patios are a great option for those who want to spend time outdoors but don’t want the upkeep that decks require. Decks are perfect for those who love spending time in nature and want to be able to cook in their outdoor space. No matter which you choose, make sure to consider your needs and budget when making your decision. And also the pointers discussed above. Thank you for reading!

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