A deck or patio provides the perfect backdrop for relaxing and entertaining while enjoying the outdoor space. In fact, a deck or patio can be an extension of one’s home, adding much needed living space during milder weather.

But which one is right for you? While decks and patios are both used for similar purposes, there are key differences that may make one a better choice than the other.

If you’re looking to spruce up your outdoor space, read on to learn about the

Pros and Cons of each to determine whether a deck or patio is right for you home and budget.

Views versus Privacy

Depending on your homes’ surrounding environment, a deck can often provide a better view due to its elevation. Whether you live near a body of water, near the city, or are surrounded by open space, you’ll be able to enjoy the view from your deck. However, a patio built low to the ground and close to your home offers more privacy than a deck, especially if enclosed with walls or a roof.

Permits and Inspections

A deck often requires a building permit and inspections as it is attached to the home and impacts its exterior appearance and structure. You will also likely need to get inspections throughout the process to ensure the deck is built to current codes and standards. A patio sits directly on the ground and therefore doesn’t affect the structure of the home. As such, it is simpler to build and usually does not require a permit or inspection. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your local building department to make sure.

Cost Considerations

When deciding on a new patio or deck, it’s important consider how the size, materials, and location will impact the cost. A patio is often more cost-effective to build than a deck because the materials tend to be more affordable, construction is less labor-intensive, and a patio requires less maintenance.

Location

A deck is better suited for uneven terrain than a patio. A patio is built directly on the ground and may require some prep work if you wish to build on hilly or uneven land. When deciding between a deck or patio, assess the space where you want to build and measure the grade of the land to determine if it’s flat or not.

Weight Restrictions

A well-constructed deck should have a solid foundation to support the weight of guests and any furniture, which is another reason why it’s so important to get the right permits and inspections throughout the building process. Because a patio sits directly on the ground, this is not an issue. Determine what you want to put on your deck and how many people you’d like it to accommodate to make sure everything fits within the weight requirements.

Maintenance and Lifespan

While beautiful, a natural wood deck will require a lot of maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than a patio. It will need to be restained or repainted, sealed, and power-washed every two years to maintain the integrity of the wood. A more durable option that requires little maintenance is a deck built with wood composite material. A patio is easy to maintain and can withstand more wear and tear than a wood deck. Ultimately, the material you choose for your deck or patio will impact its longevity and the time and money you’ll have to spend on maintenance.

Ready to make the most out of your outdoor space living space? Deck, porch, sun room, or patio, P.C, Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling can make your dream space a reality. Contact us today for a free on-site consultation, needs analysis, along with a new project proposal and estimate.