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Deck Vs Porch Vs Patio

Composite Deck Vs Pavers

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The cost of composite deck vs pavers will depend on the quality of the material. You can find high quality composites anywhere between $5 and $13 per square foot. A simple brick paver patio will cost around $5 per square foot, while stamped concrete with ornate designs will cost closer to $12 per square foot.

The lifetime costs of a composite deck vs paver patio are roughly the same. Apart from intermittently hosing them down or replacing the occasional broken paver, both require minimal maintenance.

Is It Better To Have A Porch Or Patio

Theres no one-size-fits-all answer to the porch vs. patio debate. It depends entirely on your homes style, your neighborhood, your budget, the amount of space you have, the local climate, and the location of your porch or patio in relation to the sun.

A porch wont make sense with all home architectural styles, says Andra DelMonico, lead interior designer for Trendey. It also doesnt make sense to have one if it wont get used. Many suburban homes dont have a porch because no one wants to sit by their front door and stare at their neighbor across the street. If you have space in the backyard, then a patio makes sense. However, you need to live in a climate where the weather is nice for you to get enough use out of it.


Though these outdoor spaces are similar, theyre different enough that you may want to consider both. You may find that you use one at night and the other during the day, for instance, or one for romantic dinners and the other for hosting birthday parties, and vice versa.

If I could put a front porch or veranda and a backyard patio on every clients home, I definitely would, says Kristin Bartone of Bartone Interiors. Porches and patios have different functions, making them both an essential element in making your home a comfortable, year-round gathering space for family and friends.

Porch Vs Deck: Which One Is Best

By Alexandra FrostJanuary 11, 2022

Adding a porch or deck might be a great upgrade idea. Find out how they differ and how much each costs to determine which is best for you.

In this article:

Just because people use porch and deck interchangeably doesnât mean they are actually the same thing. Adding a porch or deck can be a smart way to increase the livable space on your property. But not all porches and decks are alike, which begs the question: porch vs. deck: whats the difference? Hereâs how to tell and determine which is best for your home.


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What Is The Difference Between A Deck Patio Porch Covered Roof And Sunroom

  • Patio Cover
  • What Is the Difference Between a Deck, Patio, Porch, Covered Roof, and Sunroom?
  • When it comes to home improvements and additions, it helps to know the difference between some of the different options before you start hiring contractors to begin working on your property. You may want to add things that will increase the value of your property while giving you more space to do some of your favorite things, such as grilling, sunbathing, or simply relaxing outdoors.

    Whether you want a deck, patio, porch, or something else added to your home, it helps to know the difference between these options before you officially pay to have anything done. So, what is the difference?

    A deck is a wood framed platform that is commonly attached directly to your home. A patio is usually a cement slab in the backyard right up against the house. A porch is most commonly a covered deck with screens for walls. A Covered Roof is a shade covering for a deck or concrete patio and is commonly made from the same roofing materials as the house. And lastly, a sunroom is similar to a porch except made from as much glass as possible.

    Child And Pet Security

    Deck Versus Patio  3 Ways to Choose Between Them!

    Both porches and decks lead directly to the outdoors. Because porches are generally on the front of the house, attached to the main entryway, they may be less safe for children and pets, as they could lead straight to the street. are often located in the back of the house, where there is more likely to be a fence or section further from the road. Gates are relatively easy to install on a deck at the top of the steps to make it more difficult for a child or pet to get out. A porch gate may be more cumbersome, particularly if this is the main entry to the home.


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    Do Patios Increase Home Value

    Adding a patio can be a fairly affordable home renovation project. That said, youll likely still need to hire a professional, which can add extra costs.

    The National Association of Realtors estimates that installing an 18-by-16-foot concrete paver patio will run you around $7,200, while the estimated return on investment is $5,000. In other words, youll recoup around 69 percent of the cost when you sell your home.

    For comparison, adding a new wooden deck is more expensive on the front end about $10,000, according to the association but also nets a higher 80 percent cost recovery.

    Still, a patio can really help enhance your quality of life while youre still living in the home, and having some outdoor space whether a porch, a patio, a deck, a veranda, or something else entirely will make your home more appealing to prospective buyers.


    Homeowners value their homes outdoor living space as much as the interior, says Ryan Dalzell, a San Diego-based real estate agent.

    Add On The Accessories

    As this porch from Ursula Carmona of Homemade by Carmona proves, you don’t need to limit your design style to the confines of your walls. With throw pillows, planters, and a cool striped rug, the blogger turned this outdoor area to an extension of her home decor.

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    Does A Porch Or Deck Increase Home Value

    If youre looking at possible ways to increase the value of your home, either a porch or a deck might be worth the cost to add. According to the National Association of Realtors,

    2018 Remodeling Impact Report for outdoor features, adding a deck can cost around $10,000, but the estimated cost recovered is around $8,000, leading to 80% value. Patios may cost around $7,200 and recover around $5,000, resulting in 69% of value recovered.


    When it comes to appeal for buyers, decks are 5th and porches are 6th out of 10. For projects that likely added value to a home for resale, a new patio was 4th and a new wood deck was 5th in the top 10.

    Even better, a new wood deck and a new patio all received Joy Scores of 9.7 or higher . Higher Joy Scores indicated greater joy from the project and the happiness and satisfaction homeowners felt when seeing their completed project.

    How To Choose Between Porch Vs Patio

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    To choose between a porch vs patio, you must first decide what you want. This begins before you know the difference. Decide how much shade you need, how close to the house the structure needs to be, and so on.

    List all of the things that you want in a structure and number them from most important to least. Then, find out which of the stuructes checks off the most boxes on your must-have list.

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    How Do Decks And Patios Work

    Interested in the idea of building a patio or deck for your home? When deciding on the type and size of deck you want, there are many things to consider besides the right type of material and budget:

    • How do you plan to use your deck or patio? If youre planning to have a large table and lots of chairs for entertaining, as well as a barbecue area, make sure you leave enough room for people to pass behind the chairs, without falling off the deck or squeezing against the railing. You may want to consider building a bench along the railing for additional seating. Or putting a wide cap on the top of the railing, where guests can set their drinks.

    • How much weight will it need to support? If you do plan on having lots of guests, or if you want to install something heavy, like a hot tub, youll need to consider beefing up your support structure.

    Verandas and porches on the front of the home also act as a social gathering place, as well as a great place to do some people watching.

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    What Is A Veranda Balcony Vs Porch Vs Patio Vs Deck Vs Veranda Explained

    Verandas are both extremely beautiful and useful additions to homes, they add space and make your home more inviting. To be able to really appreciate the value a veranda adds to your home, though, its important to understand what exactly a veranda is.

    This is a bit vague because theres many different types of outdoor spaces and theyre all quite similar with just a couple features that distinguish each from the other. In this article, Ill define for you what a veranda is and then well go through a couple different types of outdoor spaces so you can see how theyre different.


    This veranda has columns and a railing on the front but an open side.

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    Porch Vs Deck Vs Patio

    You may not need a porch or deck but rather a patio. This is a paved outdoor space serving as an area to sit, grill, relax and more that is attached to your house and can be constructed out of a variety of materials, including concrete or pavers. Patios are similar to decks because they are typically out in the open air rather than covered, though a patio can be covered in a number of ways to provide some shade as well.

    One significant difference is the height: A deck is often a raised space that might provide a view of the backyard whereas a patio is typically low to the ground, adjoined to the building and the grass. If you arenât sure of the difference, you can check to see if thereâs wood framing on the platform, indicating a deck rather than a patio.

    All three come in a variety of shapes, sizes and functions and can utilize a variety of materials and finishes to accommodate many budgets.

    Different Types Of Decks

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    According to Architectural Land Design, the floating or unattached deck is growing in popularity. They provide all of the same benefits but are separate from the home. This setup simply breaks the rule that a deck has to be attached and can help people enjoy activities such as a fire pit or dining area further into the yard.

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    What Exactly Is The Difference Between A Deck And A Porch

    Having a platform in your yard gives you the basics to create an outdoor room. Your two basic choices are a deck or a porch. Both can be considered outdoor living spaces.

    So what is the difference between a deck and a porch?

    Let us start with the simple answer the first distinction between the two is the location:

    • A porch is generally positioned in the front of your home and it is usually a sheltered area where your guests can stand before coming into your home.
    • A deck can be positioned in the back of your home or on the side of the home, and it usually used as a living area or more commonly a recreational area.

    This distinction isnt set in stone, however. front decks are becoming more common, and back porches are often found in older homes. Youll also find wraparound porches that encircle two or more sides of the house.

    Installing An Outdoor Kitchen On A Porch Patio Or Deck

    The requirements foroutdoor kitchen installation differ depending on where it is being installed. You always want a level surface before installing an outdoor kitchen, and you will want to consider placement of hot cooking appliances relative to your home. Outdoor kitchens require maintenance as well, regardless of the material and location. Powder coated stainless steel outdoor cabinetry requires limited maintenance, especially on partially covered porches where the kitchen will not be directly exposed to the weather.

    The main considerations for installing an outdoor kitchen on a patio are the material and layout of the patio. You will need to determine the most functional outdoor kitchen layout and how much space you will need for other amenities. You will also want to be sure that the backyard patio is level and solid so that it will support the weight of the kitchen without sinking or becoming uneven. Although all outdoor kitchens require regular cleaning, you will need to consider additional maintenance if the patio area is not covered by a gazebo or canopy.

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    Type Of Flooring Required

    are usually built of a frame made of pressure-treated lumber or wood. The decking material used to cover the surface or flooring of the deck, as well as any , privacy walls, benches, or ledges, however, can be made of several different things. Pressure-treated lumber can be used to build the entire deck, but composite decking is the second most popular material, which is made of a blend of woods and plastics. In addition, decking and modified wood decking are popular options. Considerations for choosing a decking material include not only cost but also maintenance and how they feel in the sun. Composite decking has a tendency to become hot, making it inappropriate for bare feet. Composites may also become slippery when wet, making them difficult to use in wet climates.

    Porches are also built using a frame of pressure-treated wood and may be constructed of the same decking materials. The biggest difference between the two is that porch flooring is usually more finished-looking. Because the porch is covered, it doesnt have the same issues with composites becoming super-heated. It may also need less maintenance overall because it will get less exposure to the elements. , modified wood, and pressure-treated wood can all be used to create a porch ceiling that will complement the home as well as the porch. The flooring of the porch may be a better quality of lumber, composite, , or even an indoor flooring material like stone or hardwood.

    What Is The Difference Between A Balcony And A Terrace

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    A balcony is a small platform attached to an upper floor on a house or building. Its typically accessed through a single room. On the other hand, a terrace is an open space, but its not necessarily attached to the house. Typically, you can access a terrace from multiple rooms or locations.

    What is the difference between a patio and a deck?

    Patios are flat surfaces on the ground and commonly consist of concrete, stone or pavers. They are open on all sides and dont generally require a railing since theyre not elevated. Decks are generally elevated and built from wood or composite material.

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    Defining Decks And Patios

    A deck is an open outdoor porch or platform without a roof that extends from a house. On the other hand, a patio is a paved area situated directly on the ground, which can either be attached or detached from a house. Patios are generally less expensive than decks, but the ROI on a new deck addition runs greater than one on a patio. However, both additions can offer a great experience depending on what youre looking for.

    Now that you know the difference between a deck and patio, use the charts below to help you decide which one is right for you.

    What Can You Do To Maintain Your Deck

    Your deck can give you years of outdoor pleasure with just a little help from you. Decks are exposed to the elements all year long, so if your deck is made of wood, a little TLC will keep it looking great. Because a deck is flat, it takes more of a beating than a wooden wall would. Water pools on the deck and takes a while to dry. As well, the sun will beat down on the flat surface and can cause a lot of damage. Just walking on the deck causes it to wear, not to mention the moisture issues if you have a number of plants on your deck.

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    Porch Or Deck: Which One Is Best

    When you are trying to decide between a porch and deck, consider the weather in your area first and foremost.

    If you find yourself in a rainier climate, porches might be your best bet as you will have an enclosed space to protect your furniture from rain and sun exposure, for example, Walker said. Decks are great in cooler climates, as they provide a great space for entertaining and lounging outdoors.

    In addition, consider whether you plan on spending more time in the front or back of your house. Finally, keep in mind that either a deck or a porch is a great way to increase the value of your home and add usable space in the long run.

    Difference Between Porch Patio Deck Balcony & Veranda

    Deck vs Patio

    Want to know the difference between a porch, patio, deck, balcony & veranda? Over the years, outdoor living spaces have started gaining immense popularity in terms of functionality and aesthetics. People have started giving extreme importance to their outdoor spaces. Be it in summer or winter, these spaces have become a spot for recreation or a relaxation haven for friends and family.

    These outdoor structures, although being part of the house, usually are attached or detached to main structure, covered or uncovered, in form of a porch, patio, balcony, veranda and deck. Most of us would think they are all the same and indistinguishable. Yes it is true but only till a certain extent. Let us take a look at the precise differences between these terms to broaden your design knowledge so next time when we see a patio, we call it a patio and not a veranda.

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