Patio or deck?

First off, what’s the difference?

Patio: Patios are on the ground level, and generally are constructed of concrete, gravel or pavers. Patios will give you more privacy than a balcony or deck, which is built off the ground.

Patios cost less to build than a deck, and so are an inexpensive way to create an outdoor “room”. Adding a patio to your home is one of the best things that can happen to it; it gives you more space for activities as well as adds value to your house.

Deck: Decks are typically built at some height above ground, everywhere from a couple feet to the level of the second floor. If your house is built on a hill, the deck could be as much as 15 or 20 feet above ground. The height means more cost to build, and of course safety features such a railings built to code, possibly stairs designed to allow access from the deck to the backyard.

Decks will require regular maintenance, whether built from wood or man made materials. In our pacific northwest climate, regular pressure washing to clean moss off is important, and then wood decks will need sealing and refinishing to keep their lifespan.

However, wood decks remain very popular, and they are a great addition to a home. They look wonderful and provide an outdoor room just as the patio does. If you would like advice on which would be best for your home, let us know, we have built quite a few of both!