When it comes to enhancing the outdoor living space of your home, two popular options often come to mind: decks and patios. Installing a deck or a patio not only increases the value of your property but also creates a new living space with endless possibilities. In addition to providing great lounging space, these structures can double as outdoor dining rooms, living areas, outdoor kitchens, and practically anything else you can think of.



Both offer unique advantages and considerations that cater to different preferences and needs. Which is preferable for your home depends on your budget, personal preferences, and the terrain of your yard. Let's explore the differences between a deck and a patio for your outdoor space.

Decks and patios are both outdoor living spaces designed to extend your home's usable area into the outdoors, but they differ in terms of their construction, location, materials, and overall characteristics.



Decks are elevated platforms erected above ground level and are frequently attached to the back of a house. They can vary in height, offering an elevated vantage point with views of the surrounding landscape. They are often built with a frame of beams and posts that support a platform composed of wood, composite decking, or PVC. These may necessitate more intricate construction and the addition of rails and stairs.



Patios are ground-level spaces that might be adjacent to the house or located elsewhere on the land. They are often built at ground level with no elevation and are made of materials such as concrete, pavers, brick, stone, or gravel. Preparing the ground, creating a foundation, and arranging the chosen materials to produce a flat, level surface are all part of the construction process.



Cost: Patio

Patios are typically less expensive than decks. On average, the cost of building a deck is roughly $7,900, while the cost of constructing a patio is around $3,800. Keep in mind that the cost of your project will be determined by the size and characteristics of your outdoor space.





Customizations and Options: Tie

Decks and patios can both be tailored to your specific preferences. There are numerous deck materials, stain colors, and paint options to choose from. Similarly, patio pavers can be selected to match your design aesthetic. In either case, you can arrange your outdoor space with your preferred furniture and accessories.







Appearance: Tie

Both decks and patios can add value to your home. Decks naturally extend your living area and act as a barrier between your home and the outside due to their attachment. Patios, on the other hand, can blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors, seamlessly blending with the surroundings. Your personal preferences will determine whether a patio or deck is a better aesthetic fit for your needs.







Build Time: Patio

Constructing a deck is a multi-day process that involves building footings and a support framework before installing decking boards. This process generally takes longer compared to constructing a patio, which usually requires only a weed barrier and some form of base, along with a second layer of support before the final layer. Concrete slab patios need a simple wooden structure to maintain their shape during pouring. Patios can be completed in a single day, while decks might take a week or more.







Ease of Installation: Patio

While both decks and patios can be installed by DIY homeowners, the process often goes more smoothly when performed by a local patio company or a professional deck builder in your area. Establishing a patio typically doesn't require a permit, but a permit is usually necessary for deck installation.







Durability: Patio

Patios tend to be more durable than decks, with a longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements. Decks are more susceptible to weather damage, fading, and discoloration. Patios can last for decades with minimal damage, even when exposed to the elements.







Maintenance: Patio

Patios require less upkeep than decks. Wood decks need regular sealing and staining to maintain their longevity and appeal. Patios only need routine cleaning and debris removal to remain in good condition.