Patios and Decks

Patio vs Deck: How to Decide What Fits Your Yard Best

May 3, 2023

Patio or deck? How do you choose between these two outdoor living spaces? Once summertime hits, having a relaxing area to hang out on those warm, breezy nights after a long day of work is something we all look forward to. But not all outdoor spaces are created equal. While a patio and a deck have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, the right choice depends on your preferences, your budget, and your home’s aesthetic. 

In this article, we’ll explore the differences between a patio vs a deck to help you choose the best option. From materials to maintenance and cost considerations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision about which outdoor living area will make the perfect fit for your home.

home outdoor deck

Patio vs Deck: Definitions

The patio vs deck difference

The main difference between a patio and a deck is that a deck is defined as a raised platform that’s typically attached to the house, while a patio is defined as a ground-level outdoor space that’s not attached to the house. But sometimes a patio can be elevated as well–this just depends on the homeowner’s preference.

Raised patio vs deck: Are they the same thing?

To put it simply–no, an elevated patio and a deck are not the same thing. An elevated patio is a raised platform made of concrete or other paving materials, while a deck is typically made of wood or composite materials and supported by a system of posts and beams. Although both an elevated patio and a deck can provide an outdoor living space with a view, they have different designs, materials, and construction methods.

A low deck vs patio

Just as an elevated patio isn’t the same thing as a deck, a ground-level deck also isn’t the same thing as a patio. This, again, comes down to the different materials and construction techniques used for each outdoor space. 

Let’s dig a little deeper into a patio versus a deck by exploring the main features of each one.

Patio vs Deck: Materials

Cedar wood deck vs paver patio? Composite deck vs brick patio? Or, perhaps a redwood deck vs a limestone patio? There are so many choices when it comes to picking the material for your outdoor sanctuary. 

Patio

Patios can be constructed with a wide range of materials depending on the desired style, budget, and location. Some popular materials include concrete, pavers, natural stone, and brick. 

Concrete patios are durable and versatile, making them a popular choice for homeowners. Pavers, which are made of concrete, brick, or natural stone, are another popular choice due to their affordability and ease of installation. Natural stones such as flagstone, slate, and limestone can be used to create a rustic and natural look. Brick patios are also popular and are often chosen for their classic, traditional look.

Why aren’t outdoor wood patios common?

Patios are ground-level structures that are often installed directly onto a compacted base of gravel, sand, or concrete. Due to the potential for moisture and water to accumulate on a ground-level surface, wood isn’t typically used for patios. This is because wood can rot and decay more quickly when in contact with soil.

Deck

Decks are typically made with wood because they are elevated structures that require a strong and stable foundation, which can be easily achieved with wood framing and support posts. Wood can also be used to create the deck boards themselves, which are fastened to the frame to create the deck surface. Popular materials to build decks include pressure-treated lumber, cedar, redwood, and tropical hardwoods.

Patio vs Deck: Questions to consider

When you’re choosing between a patio versus a deck, you need to address a few questions to help you make the best choice.

How will you use the space?

When deciding between a deck or a patio, it’s important to consider how you’ll be using the space. If you want to relax and enjoy the view, a raised deck is a good choice. On the other hand, if you want a strong surface for a busy area or to show off a fire pit or water feature, a patio is a good choice.

Relaxing on a deck

If you’re looking for a place to recline and take in the view, an elevated deck might be the perfect spot to lounge. Likewise, if you have children, a deck may be a better choice as it provides a secure area for kids to play while being supervised. The railings surrounding the deck also offer an extra layer of protection, preventing young children from accidentally falling off. In addition, the wooden surface of a deck is typically softer than stone or concrete, making it less likely for children to get hurt if they fall or trip. This can reduce the risk of cuts, bruises, or other injuries, which is especially important for families with young children who may be more prone to accidents.

Hanging out on a patio

Patios provide a durable surface for a high-traffic area or showpieces like a cozy fire pit or lush patio water feature. If you’re looking for a space to entertain or to create an outdoor living room, a patio might be the better option. If you plan to incorporate a fire pit as the centerpiece of your outdoor area, it’s recommended to opt for a patio. This is because certain types of stone used for patios are resistant to the heat generated by the fire pit, providing a safe and durable surface.

home outdoor patio

How much maintenance are you willing to do?

When deciding between a deck and a patio, it’s important to consider maintenance, as it can impact the long-term cost of your choice. A wood deck requires annual power washing to prevent mildew and mold growth and should be stained and sealed every two years to enhance durability. 

Patios, on the other hand, are known for being low-maintenance and require only occasional cleaning to remove stains and debris. This is largely due to their durable materials and ground-level installation.

What’s your budget?

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to budgeting for your outdoor living area. You may find yourself overwhelmed with questions, like what’s the cost of a concrete patio vs a wood deck? Or how much will it cost to install a ground-level deck vs a patio?

So let’s get down to brass tax and talk about the typical costs of these two outdoor living spaces.

Is a patio or deck cheaper?

Generally, patios are less expensive to install than decks. A basic concrete patio can cost as little as a few dollars per square foot, while a wood deck can cost upwards of $30 per square foot. But the cost of a patio can increase significantly if you opt for high-end materials or add-ons like built-in seating or a fire pit. 

Decks can also vary greatly in price depending on the materials used. A simple wood deck will cost less than a composite deck made of high-end materials. While a deck may have a higher initial cost, it may require less maintenance over time, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Are you living in your forever home?

If you’re going to live in your home for a while, you should care about how long your outdoor floor will last. A concrete patio can last for 30 years or more, which is longer than most natural wood decks. Thus, if you’re trying to decide between a concrete patio vs a wood deck, a patio may be the better choice in this case. 

If you’re not going to live in your home for the long haul…

If you’re planning to sell your house, you need to think about how much money you’ll get back if you build a deck or patio. Usually, you’ll get more money back from a deck than a patio. For example, if you spend $10,000 on a deck, you might get back $7,500 when you sell your house. But if you spend $3,500 on a patio, you might only get back $1,500. That said, a patio can still be a unique selling point and the centerpiece of an outdoor space.

Patio vs Deck: At the end of the day

By considering your budget, maintenance preferences, and personal style, you can choose the option that best fits your needs. Whether you opt for the classic look of wood or the durability of composite materials, a deck or patio can provide a beautiful and functional space for you to enjoy for years to come. So go ahead and take the plunge – and create the outdoor living space of your dreams!