If you love spending time outdoors and entertaining friends, a deck or patio is the perfect addition to your home. Each is a cost-effective home addition and offer several unique design options. Despite what many people think, they aren’t the same thing. It’s important to understand what makes them different so you choose the right one for your home.

Deck vs. Patio

Patio

A patio is an outdoor space that’s directly on the ground. It’s often made of poured concrete, tile, wood, concrete pavers, or other natural stones. They can also be attached or detached from the home. A square surface placed among landscaping is a common example. They have many feature options, including raised planters, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. They can also be nestled up against retaining walls. Compared with decks, patios are usually the cheaper option since less hardware and geography preparation is required. Patios also offer a great return on investment and are ideal for relaxing on your days off or enjoying time with friends.

Deck

Decks are outdoor structures that are raised off the ground. It can be a few inches or several feet. They're usually connected to the home but can also be detached. They’re typically made of wood or vinyl and require yearly maintenance to prevent rotting and maintain their color. Decks are best if you don’t plan on incorporating landscaping into your overall design and if you want an extension of your home. On average, they provide a sound return on investment depending on how high the costs are. Keep in mind that if you plan on adding features like a fire pit, planters, or an outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to accommodate the weight into your design and fireproof the wood surface.

If you’re ready to add a patio or deck to your home, turn to the professionals at Valley Fence. Based in Kalispell, MT, they’ve served clients throughout the Greater Flathead Valley since 2004. They offer comprehensive custom fence-work alongside deck building and work with everything from iron to wood. Their skilled team will closely assess your design goals and determine the best options to fulfill your visions. Call (406) 755-9799 to speak with their staff. You can learn more about this family-owned and -operated company on its website.