Research is your friend when it comes to finding out whether a deck or a patio is the right fit. There are no trials, so once you built it you bought it. There are pros and cons to each, so pay close attention to the small details.
Deck
A fence and deck contractor are used to getting asked a thousand questions about a project. Asking questions is fine, but a homeowner should have a base idea of what they want.
A deck isn’t the same as a patio and isn’t considered a complete replacement. Before prioritizing a deck project, here are a few key things you should memorize.
Pros
- Say goodbye to project troubles from uneven terrain. Decks can be placed on any type of land, even when it is not level
- For a spectacular backyard view, nothing beats a deck
- A deck is a perfect combatant against humid weather
- It’s easier to customize a deck compared to a patio. Small and large changes are not a big deal at all
- When it comes to a return on investment, a deck ranks higher than a patio
Cons
- Decks require a fair bit of maintenance in harsh climates
- The lifespan of a deck decreases significantly when it is not cared for
- There is a higher upfront cost to build a deck
A deck is a prime entertainment space for your home. Hosting guests will no longer feel cramped since a deck is like a natural extension of your home. It’s not a major renovation, and more than worth the upfront cost of the materials.
Read Also:
Patio
A patio is a paved space on the ground that can be attached or unattached from the home. Homeowners should make sure that there is enough space to comfortably place a patio. You can still be flexible with the placement, but the best way to optimize a patio setup is to prioritize extra space.
Pros
- It doesn’t cost a lot to build a patio. That makes it perfect for time-sensitive projects
- Maintenance is low, and you can always seal it off to further protect the materials. It’s a lot more durable than a deck
- For homes with a low fence, a patio offers optimal privacy since it is at ground level
- You usually don’t need a permit to build a patio. This is another win in the column for homeowners that want to keep the project on schedule
- Despite some visual breakdowns, a patio will remain durable in all types of weather
Cons
- Uneven terrain is the biggest enemy of a patio. Expect to see cracks if the patio is placed in an area where the soil isn’t properly prepared
- Leveling your foundation is expensive. The upfront savings of a patio can sometimes be wiped out with a foundation upgrade
- Keeping the patio clean requires a decent power washer
A Solid Choice
Always remain patient with the build, and keep a close eye on project costs. Both will improve the property value, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. If you have the money, then a patio and deck combination is the ultimate upgrade.
