Getting ready to give your outdoor living space a makeover? Homeowners often wonder what the differences are between a deck versus patio. This important question can make a big difference in how your renovations or home construction turn out. It can also affect your budget. Let’s take a look at some of the main differences between backyard decks and patios.
The Similarities
Both decks and patios provide an open-air outdoor living space. This space can be used for relaxing with family, time alone, or entertaining visitors. Either can expand the space where your family can spread out for peace and quiet as well.
Both decks and patios add value to your home as well as enjoyment. Both decks and patios are fairly easy to clean and maintain with yearly pressure washing.
Decks
A deck is a structure used for outdoor living and entertainment that is often raised up off of the ground at a considerable height. There will be a considerable amount of space under the deck that can be used for storage or other purposes.
A deck will often require a building permit. This is often because they are raised off the ground, so safety concerns must be considered and evaluated.
Decks are generally built out of wood because this is an easy material to work with at a height. A deck can provide a view of the property. The amount of view is dependent on the height of the deck.
Patios
Patios are not raised but are built to be flush with the ground. A patio often does not require a building permit, because there are not any safety considerations.
The appeal of a patio is that it is often much more simple to construct. It can be created near the home or removed from the home.
The patio also offers more privacy than the deck. Patios can easily have a roof constructed and attached to the home. Note that a roof for a patio would need a building permit. If there is a fence surrounding your yard and patio, you can achieve a good deal of privacy.
You can use a variety of materials to construct a patio, as well. Wood, concrete, and stones can be used.
Patios are often less expensive than a deck. You will not need to hire a professional contractor or pay for permits. Patios are also less expensive because they are simpler to construct.
Which Is Best?
Deciding which is best for your home will depend heavily upon the design of your home, your budget, and your intentions for the outdoor area.
If you wish to add a deck or patio to an area where the ground slopes drastically, a deck may be your only option. A fairly flat surface is needed for patio construction.
If you want to finish your project very quickly without involving permits or contractors, you can complete a simple patio DIY project over a few weekends.