Are you stuck choosing between a new deck or patio? This big decision will impact your family for years to come.
You're probably daydreaming about a perfect spot to relax, host friends, and make great memories outdoors. But do you want that special space elevated on a deck or down on a patio?
There's a lot to consider here. Let me walk you through the key differences, so you can make the best decision for your home.
Decks Mean Height, Patios Connect You to the Ground
The main difference comes down to one thing: height.
See, a deck gets built up above the ground. You're elevated looking out over your yard.
A patio lays down at ground level. You feel connected to the earth when you're chilling on one.
And with decks, you need railings so folks don't accidentally walk off the edge! But patios have no steep drop-offs to worry about.
Decks also get attached to upper floors of a house. Patios are built right on the ground floor.
There are other contrasts too. But I think you get the point—decks lift you up while patios keep you grounded.
Decks for a Unique Vantage Point, Patios for Connection
Picture yourself chilling on a brand new wooden deck.
Up there above it all, you'll get awesome views looking out over your property. Everything seems bigger and more spectacular from that height!
Down on a patio, it's more about feeling immersed in nature—the sun on your face, feet on the ground. A calm, earthy vibe.
Decks bake in the hot sun though. Patios stay cooler when the shade hits them.
But patios can feel closed in by walls and fencing. Up on a deck you've got open sky in every direction!
Construction and Costs Make a Big Difference
Building a deck takes more work than a patio. That means it’ll likely cost more too.
A deck takes a bunch of lumber, hardware, railings and labor to install it all elevated up. It adds up!
A patio's materials like stone, concrete or pavers just sit right on the bare ground. Way simpler construction.
So generally, patios cost less. Decks involve more work and materials to get off the ground. Make sense?
But patios still require excavating, grading, gravel, drainage...details that ensure water doesn't puddle. Super important!
Get estimates from a few deck and patio pros in your area. Ask them about ways to save, like DIY demolition of your old space. Every dollar matters with projects like these!
Plan for Your Local Weather Patterns
The climate where you live matters when choosing between decks vs patios.
On rainy days, the open slats on decks allow water to drain right through. You stay dry above the drainage.
But on patios you gotta be careful about proper grading and slope. Otherwise rainfall can pool up in low spots. Not ideal for bare feet!
In rainy regions, covered patios rock. Or you can do underdeck systems to divert all that water before it hits the patio.
Decks bake in sunny weather. But patios stay cooler in the shade, and you can add structures overhead for more coverage.
Snowy winters? Patios need lots of maintenance with shoveling, de-icing and salt. Decks just need their stairs cleared occasionally.
Reflect on How You'll Use the Space
For parties and gatherings, patios make mingling easy with no stairs or railings in the way. Decks are better for taking in nice views unobstructed.
If you might add a pergola or gazebo someday, a patio on the ground level is way simpler for building on.
Gardening more your thing? Patios put you right down among the flowers and plants.
For families with kids running around? Patios are safest, with no elevated platforms. Decks can be fun for hide-and-seek though!
See what I mean? How you plan to use the space should definitely guide which option you pick.
Expect Some Yearly Upkeep
One last thing - don't overlook normal maintenance that decks and patios need!
Decks require sealing, staining, a good sweeping, hardware checks...basically some TLC for the wood every year.
With patios it's pressure washing, checking the stones or bricks, re-sanding joints, patching cracks in concrete...standard upkeep to keep things looking good.
Decks just need stairs shoveled in winter. But patios take more work keeping the surface clear of snow and ice buildup. Plan accordingly!
Final Thoughts
Well, now you know a lot about the deck vs patio debate!
Think about how you’ll use the space and what’s important to you. Talk to contractors to understand your options.
The investment is 100% worth it to extend your home’s living area outside. Just imagine those summer cookouts and fun hangouts for years to come!