Slope Of The Yard On Which You Wish To Place The Deck Or Patio
A patio is usually placed directly on the ground, which is why it is preferable to choose a level space. A patio is often not the ideal option for uneven ground since the cost to create a foundation can double or even triple the cost of the addition. If you have uneven ground in your yard, a deck would be the cheaper option since the cost of installation is almost always never affected by the slope of the yard.
Weatherproofing Your Deck Or Patio
Another factor to consider when deciding between a deck or patio is weatherproofing. Any outdoor structure needs to be weather-resistance for it to last. Decks and patios would require some sort of waterproofing, sealing, and coating in order for its surface to be protected from the weather.
Weatherproofing with decks is less of a hassle because since theyre composed of more expensive materials, they might just need recurring cleaning. However, wood decks might require sealing and waterproofing every couple of years and sealing alone is expensive.
On the other hand, materials that make up patios do not need as much treatment for weatherproofing, except cleaning and coating. However, if the material gets too wet constantly, it may crack and need resurfacing. Overall, its easier to protect patios from weather than it is decks.
Deck Vs Patio: Which Is The Best Option
A great outdoor room begins with a great floor, a functional and decorative surface that serves as the hub of all your outdoor activities. For your outdoor floor, you generally have two options: a patio or a deck. Patios are typically made of poured-in-place concrete, precast concrete pavers, stone, or brick while decks are primarily made of weather-resistant wood or a composite material.
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Reasons to choose a patio:
You want something affordable, low-maintenance and long-lasting
You need it to support heavy items like a fireplace or built-in BBQ
You dont want to hassle with getting permits
While both types of surfaces can be used for similar purposes, there are key differences in how they are built, overall cost, functionality, and design versatility. To decide which option best suits your budget, lifestyle, and landscape, be sure to consider the following factors.
Alternativef: Alternatives To Patios
While concrete patios or paver patios are attractive, they can be expensive. Updating old patios with dyes or stains is the most cost-effective way to liven up an old concrete patio , but if you are looking to add a new patio or replace an old one, you may want to find low-cost alternatives to a concrete patio .
Is It Cheaper To Build A Deck Or Patio
Want to enhance your outdoor space, but dont know how? A great way to start is by understanding the difference between a deck and a patio. Its also important to learn about factors relevant to each such as costs, differences, returns, advantages and disadvantages, or both. Then, deciding which is best for your home!
Wooden Decks Vs Concrete Patios
There are several similarities in the maintenance process of wooden decks and concrete patios. Both need to be properly maintained to maximize the longevity of the surface material against the damage caused by rain, ice, heat, and cold.
Also, both wooden decks and concrete patios must be power washed and scrubbed, sanded, or ground until smooth before they can be resealed. If properly maintained, both surface types can last upwards of 30 years. However, the sealant application is far simpler for concrete when compared with wooden decks.
Concrete patios pose a distinct maintenance advantage in that a 5-gallon can of sealant covers 1,000 square feet, costs around $100-150, and is only needed once every 2-3 years. Wooden decks should be resealed and re-stained annually, which means they must be power washed and sanded every year as well.
estimates that most homeowners spend $500-1000 on sealing or waterproofing a deck. 4 gallons of sealant are needed to cover 1,000 square feet at an average cost of $150, and an anti-mold and mildew deck cleaner must be applied before the sealant.
Additionally, owners of wooden decks must also check for rot and mold, replace damaged wood, and check for and replace loosened nails and screws.
Overall, concrete is both easier and cheaper to maintain.
Faqs: Design Considerations For Your Deck Or Patio
There are several factors to take into consideration when designing your outdoor space, but the primary question you should answer before making any decisions might be the simplest: How do you plan to use your deck or patio?
And then you can build from there. For instance, do you need a roof that covers it partially or completely, do you need to account for stairs or railings or leveling the ground underneath for stability and safety purposes? Are you thinking of adding a grill or outdoor kitchen area? Will the patio or deck be connected to the house or another structure or be free-standing? These questions will lead you to build the perfect outdoor space.
What Is A Wood Deck And What Types Are There
On the other hand, decks are generally considered as being raised platforms that can be made out of many different materials. PVC, composite, and other materials can be used, but of course today were here to talk about good old wooden decks.
Generally speaking, wooden decks sit fairly high above the ground, are attached to the house, and can be accessed with a set of stairs or via the house.
There are two main types of wooden decks to consider:
- Elevated: As the name implies, elevated wood decks are elevated off the ground and usually quite significantly, sometimes even up to the second or third floor of the home. Elevated or raised decks of this kind are great for lots that have slopes or for uneven ground. They are ideal for raised homes and for hilly areas.
- Ground-level: The other type of deck for you to consider is the ground-level deck, which although the name suggests it, is not actually completely level with the ground. Yes, these decks are very low to the ground, but they still do have a very slightly raised structure that keeps them off the ground. Ground-level decks dont require as much maintenance as raised decks, and they also dont have to be attached to the house in order to be totally stable.
Different Types Of Patio Surface Options
9. Patio Pavers. 1. Gravel. Gravel may not be the first thing that you would think of when the idea of a patio is brought up. Many people assume that patios need to have a uniform and solid surface. This doesnât have to be the case as you can actually make a really nice patio area out of the gravel.
Stone Patio Or Wooden Deck: Which Is Better For Your Home
Spending more time outside is never a bad idea. One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoor is relaxing on a patio or a deck. But which is better for your home a stone patio or a wooden deck? The answer is not as simple as it seems and involves careful consideration before investing in what is likely to be the focal point of your outdoor entertaining, play, and relaxation space.
Some people base their decision solely on their personal preference for the look of wood or the feel of stone. Personal preference, however, is only one of several factors to consider. Other factors include the intended function of the new space and what type of structure will work best with the style of your home. The setting of your property is a factor and whether you want to maximize your privacy or a great view. And the very important issues of maintenance and cost are always a factor in decision-making.
PLAN YOUR PATIO OR DECK SPACE
Next, you should consider the style of your home. Some home styles and finishes work better with stone patios and others with wooden decks. Think about whether your proposed structure will interfere with windows in your home, and also consider the interior floor finishes of the adjoining room in the home, since you may want to carry over a color, theme, or tile pattern.
CONSIDER THE SURROUNDINGS OF THE PATIO OR DECK
COST IS ALWAYS AN ISSUE
Both Decks And Patios Are Valuable Home Additions
Regardless of adding resale value to your home, any deck or poured patio is a surefire way to get more enjoyment out of your yard. Everyone loves to relax by the pool or barbeque on a comfortable deck or patio. Once your backyard home addition is complete, read up on how to decorate your outdoor space on a budget by clicking here.
Paver Stone Patios Versus Composite Decks
Pavers give you plenty of options for creating just the look you want to go with your homes design and your personal style. Most have a contemporary feel, but some look good with traditional styles.
Pros of Patio Paver Stones: Here are the reasons most often given for choosing pavers
- Many styles, colors and sizes from which to choose
- Pavers are very hard, so they rarely break
- Little ongoing maintenance or cleaning is required
- They wont fade or become discolored with age
- Patio pavers are easy to install, and since labor costs more than the stones, you can save a lot of money by doing the job yourself
Cons of Patio Paver Stones: Keep these potential drawbacks in mind as you plan your project
- Installation is labor-intensive, so if you hire a professional, your costs will be greater than the cost of composite deck installation
- The stones will spread apart from one another in some locations, so you might need to install an edge made of concrete or pressure-treated lumber around the patio
Patio Paver Material Cost: $3 to $5.50 per square foot.Patio Paver Installation Cost: $4 to $11 per square foot depending on the complexity of the job and the experience of the installer, and prices can be even higher when extensive site excavation is required.
Get Started On Your Project
Learn how to DIY your own paved courtyard with Better Homes and Gardenslandscape expert, Jason Hodges below – OR see our extensive range of paving options to suit all budgets and styles .
If you have any questions about your project, get in touch with our team on or check out our social media pages for more masonry inspiration.
Unlimited Style Color And Design Options
One of the lesser known benefits of a concrete patio is the unlimited design options. Unlike wood or composite material, concrete can be stamped with a wide array of patterns . The stamping options can be combined with staining of any color to further customize the appearance.
Concrete is a very versatile material and can be poured to fit any design and any shape. This gives you the option to have curved edges, built in steps, multiple tiers and anything else your heart desires.
What Is The Cheapest Way To Build A Deck
The price of your deck is dependent on several factors, including, but not limited to the following:
- Structure type
- Cost of materials
- Cost of labor
The cheapest way to build a deck is to go with a floating ground-level structure style. This requires fewer materials and labor to build. These decks are generally just a few inches off the ground, sitting on deck blocks instead of footings. This kind of deck works with patio doors that open right out onto ground level or just a bit higher. The image below shows an example of a ground-level deck structure.
The size of your deck will affect the price as well. A smaller square foot area will require fewer materials and be overall more affordable than a larger, more prominent deck. As for the cost of materials, if looking for the most affordable option, you will want to go with cheaper wood.
Pressure-treated lumber is a great, cheaper option when building a new deck. Though pressure-treated lumber is created to withstand the elements making it great at holding up over time, it is typically made of lower quality woods and can be unsightly to some homeowners. Cedar is the next most affordable option, which looks beautiful and works well for building deck floors.
Cheap And Easy Alternatives To Decking
·Concrete paving slabs are cheap and they can be laid on a thin sand base which hugely reduces the cost of installation. Concrete or shaped paving laid on a sand base can be a good alternative to decking for more reasons that just cost too. Check out our useful article comparing the pros and cons of decking vs paving. 3.
Cheap Alternative Patio Deck Materials
Useful Links cheap alternative patio deck materials. Product advantages: Waterproof, moisture-proof, insect proof, termite proof; colorful, plastic; high environmental protection, recyclable; simple installation, convenient construction; no cracking, no expansion; good energy saving and sound absorption effect.
Cement Patios: The Pros And Cons
The origin of cement dates back over 2,000 years ago when the Greeks and Romans mixed volcano ash with lime and water to form a hard mass. But modern concrete really became popular in 1913 when Ready Mix was created and began mixing concrete at a central location and delivering it to job sites. Colored concrete was invented in 1915 and continues to grow in popularity. Decorative concrete was developed in the 1950s and has seen an enormous growth in popularity, changing what used to be plain and basic patios into something decorative and beautiful.
One of the biggest pros of a concrete patio is the cost. The initial cost of a cement patio is usually far less than a wooden deck. However, wooden decks typically get a higher return of the investment at about 75 percent. You will garner a return of investment with a cement patio, but usually only about 30 to 60 percent.
Another advantage cement patios have over decks is in stylistic versatility. Traditional decks are pretty straightforward, they are all shaped about the same way, and the stain and sealant colors are quite common. When you choose a cement patio, you have literally thousands of options when selecting the style and finish. Stamping patterns and other finishing techniques are used to emulate tile, stone, and brick as well as geometric designs. You can also stain cement patios in solid colors or even blended patterns.
Durability And Overall Lifespan
The simple fact of the matter is that concrete is a lot more durable than wood, and this is true in terms of water resistance, fire resistance, and impact resistance.
On average, you can expect to get well over 30 years of life out of a concrete patio, whereas a wooden deck is going to last for 10 to 20 years.
Cost Of Building A Deck
If you want to build a deck instead of a patio, one of the cheapest options you could choose is a wooden decking. But how much does it cost to build one in the UK? It depends on many factors. For instance, youll have to consider the dimensions of the deck. Naturally, the larger the deck, the more expensive it will be. You will also need to decide what materials to use. Wood decking materials vary in quality, and each has its very own advantages and disadvantages. Softwood deck boards average at £5 per metre, whereas hardwoods cost around £10 per metre.
Aside from woods, you can also use non-wood alternatives. Materials like PVC and composites are often available in wood-like designs. However, the latter is more natural-looking than the former. PVC and composite deckings boards are of the same price range, around £5 to £12 per metre.
Besides the boards, you will also have to account for the foundation, subframe, railings, and other decking accessories. Similarly to the decking boards, the price will vary depending on the material you will be using.
Overall, a wood deck will cost you anywhere between £1000 to £2000 for a 15 to 20 square metre deck. The price can go up if you decide to add accessories such as railings, decking lights, and pergolas. On the other hand, non-wood alternative decks can cost £1500 and up for the same area size.
Maintenance Costs Of Your Deck And Patio
Another factor to consider when choosing between decks or patios is the cost for maintenance, cleaning, and repairs. Decks built of certain materials only need the occasional spraying or refinishing. Although, repairing a deck costs about $1,500 each time. Patio are usually built of materials that require less maintenance over the lifespan of the patio. The problem with low-maintenance is that some people ignore long-term problems with the structure, which in the long-run its expensive to fix. That is why patios are the easiest structure to manage.
Wood Deck Or Hardscaped Patio: Whats The Difference
A deck, typically made of wood or composite product, is a raised structure, most often attached to your house. Wooden decks can be a few inches or several feet above grade and require a supporting structure underneath. This structure is most often also made of wood but can be made with poured concrete pillars for extra strength.
Concrete Patios And Wood Decks: The Basics
Before we get into talking about the main differences between concrete patios and wooden decks, lets first take a closer look at what both of them are.
One thing that is interesting to note is that these two things are very different, and yet many people often confuse them with one another. What we want to do right now is to clear up any confusion that you might have.
Deck Vs Patio Average Cost Calculator
Compare Costs of Decks vs Patios Summary: Average Cost of a Deck vs a Patio The average cost of a 16′ x 20′ deck is between $6,720 and $22,720 depending on materials and labor costs. A DIY 16′ x 12′ patio made from concrete pavers has an average cost of $700, with a poured concrete patio of the same size costing between $2,000 and $4,000 for labor and materials.
Deck Vs Patio: The Differences And Similarities
Both a deck and a patio give you more space to enjoy the outdoors, but constructing a deck can be more involved than a patio project, explains Adam Graham, construction and interior design editor for Fixr.
A deck is usually elevated for easier access from higher floors, whereas a patio tends to be at ground level in keeping with the rest of the yard, Graham says. Decks therefore often have the requirement of stairs, railings and skirting, which patios do not.
There are a variety of materials you can use to build a deck or patio. Here are some of the most common options for a deck, according to Graham:
- Softwood such as pine is a common material for pressure-treated decks. The wood is soaked in a preservative and put under pressure to prevent rot. This causes the wood to take on a greenish hue, which can be painted. The planks can be laid in a variety of patterns.
- Steel is a less common deck material because it conducts heat and can be uncomfortable in hot weather or direct sun. It requires a professional installer and can be difficult to work with.
- Composite decking is a wood alternative that often uses some degree of recycled materials. It is designed to withstand the elements and is available in a variety of colors and finishes. Like natural wood, it can be installed in a variety of patterns.
These are some of the most common patio materials:
Factors That Contribute To Construction Costs
When trying to decide which is cheaper between a wood deck and a concrete patio, there are a number of variables to consider first. By examining each of these financial factors individually, you can then compare the total costs to your estimated budget and make a more informed decision.
Always be patient and do not rush into your decision. Take the time to consult with experts who can survey the property and offer professional feedback.
Its also important to note that a building permit may be required in some regions and jurisdictions before you are legally allowed to begin constructing a deck or patio. Furthermore, you might also be subject to a safety inspection upon installing your deck or patio to ensure that it is up to code. Be aware of the rules in your area and follow legal protocols to avoid trouble.
Which Of The Two Should You Build
If you want something simple to build and maintain, something cheap, and something that is close to the ground, then a concrete patio is the way to go.
If you want something that is raised up, is ideal for uneven ground, looks fantastic, and you have some extra money to spend, then a wooden deck is a good choice.
Think A Deck Is Right For You Start Planning Your Dream Trex Deck
Patios are a good choice for some kinds of homes, and decks are a better choice for others. If you think a deck is the right choice for your home, the next step is to start exploring your options.
It can be difficult to think about and balance all of the different variables that go into design without a little guidance. Thats why it can be helpful to use a planning tool like our to seek out inspiration for the look and feel of a deck youll love, as well as planning the logistics to build that deck. A little planning can go a long way toward building the deck of your dreams.
What Garden Style Are You Trying To Create
Do you like simple, clean lines or lots of interesting details and textures? If you want lots of detail and interesting features then paving will be a better choice for you. Its much easier to create interesting patterns and different textures with paving than it is with decking.
If you like clean lines and minimal detail, then decking is great for this. Minimal detail can, of course, be achieved with one size of paving but because the individual paving slabs are much shorter than deck boards, paving will always look slightly fussier than decking.
So Should I Buy A Decking Or A Patio
Pros of Decking
- Has a higher return on investment on average
- Quicker to install for simpler designs
- Can be built on uneven surfaces
- Can customise with unusual colours Easy to customise
- Can have a better view
- Comfortable under the foot in heat
Cons of Decking
- Can have a shorter lifespan
- Weight restrictions especially if youre considering a hot tub.
Pros of Patio
- Needs less equipment to build
- Minimal maintenance
- Provide more privacy as they are lower to the ground
- Generally, have a longer lifespan
- Doesnt usually require planning permission
Cons of Patio
- Has limited colours when on a budget
- More risk of cracking especially in extreme temperatures
- Slipping risk in colder temperatures
- Susceptible to staining from food and drink
We looked at some basic steps needed to install both decking and patios. There are other ways to install decking and patios however we just wanted to give you an idea of what kind of labour and tools might be needed. They both have their pros and cons. In general, decking is more likely to need a professional whereas, with a patio, most DIYers can do it. Not forgetting a deck can be put up on any slope or uneven surface but a patio needs an even flat surface. Time wise a simple deck can take as little as a few days whereas it takes a few days just for paving slabs to dry. It all comes down to you and your preferences on time, cost and type of landscape you are working with.
Building A Wood Deck Vs Building A Hardscaped Patio
If youre looking to expand your outdoor living space this summer, youve no doubt been asked if youre planning to build a deck or a patio. Both offer a beautiful way to enjoy your property, giving you space to eat, relax and entertain. Although on the surface patios and decks seem similar, there are, in fact, some key differences that could make one better suited to your property than the other.
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