If you’re interested in increasing the amount of usable living space in your home, adding a deck or patio can be a fantastic option. These two outdoor features are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually quite different. Both offer plenty of benefits but also require different types of regular maintenance. So, it’s important that you carefully consider which option is right for your own home.

How to Decide Between a Patio & Deck

What Is a Patio?

A patio is a paved outdoor area that can be made with a variety of different materials ranging from concrete to paver bricks. It can also be installed directly adjacent to the house or completely detached. This option is normally less expensive to have installed and requires less regular maintenance than a deck. However, since it’s built directly over the ground, it can be difficult to install if your yard space is uneven.

What Is a Deck?

Decks are usually constructed using wood or a composite material and built directly off of the house and higher off the ground than a patio. In many cases, homeowners also connect the deck to the inside of the house with a sliding door that leads directly to it.

This option can cost a bit more than a patio to install and often requires inspections or permits due to local zoning laws. It also requires annual maintenance, including power washing and sealing or staining. However, you can customize the look of it easily with different colors, and the investment usually improves the overall value of a home.

 

Whether you’re looking for a patio or a deck, the professionals at Patio Designers in Northern California can help. The family-owned and -operated company can help you transform an ordinary backyard into a unique oasis with a new backyard patio, deck, or sunroom installation. They will also work directly with you to create a custom design that fits perfectly into your outdoor space and upholds your individual vision. Call (877) 757-2846 or contact the team online to learn more.