When you’re ready to make home improvements, adding outdoor living space is a great way to enhance your daily life and property value. As you consult with a general contractor on construction needs, you’ll have to determine whether a deck or patio is best for you and your budget. Read below for a rundown on how these additions are different.

A Guide to Understanding Patios & Decks

Construction

When it comes to construction, both patios and decks can be built attached or detached to a property. The primary difference between these outdoor areas is that patios are ground level, whereas decks can be built higher to take advantage of views. It’s common to see decks extended from roofing systems or the second floor of a building with safety rails and staircases. Patios do not require building permits and can provide added privacy at ground level. Decks may require permits and can have weight restrictions when they’re built above ground, but are ideal when landscapes feature uneven terrain. 

Building Materials

Most decks are built out of wood, composite wood, or vinyl. Patios can be created using a variety of materials, including patio pavers, brick, stone, tile, gravel, or concrete, making them budget-friendly. Generally, patios are set on a concrete slab or a pebble base. Depending on your home’s architectural style and your design aesthetic, you can incorporate various materials to create a dining or lounge area that fits seamlessly into your yard. 

Maintenance

With a range of materials to choose from, homeowners looking for easy maintenance may lean toward a patio. Pavers, concrete, brick, and stone are durable and will maintain their strength and visual appeal by simply wiping or hosing it down with water every now and then. Decks are made of wood, which requires additional maintenance and weather sealing to prevent pests, mildew growth, or rot. As a general rule of thumb, decks should be power washed, sealed, and restained every couple of years. 

Whether you’re interested in adding a patio or deck to your property, you can depend on Steiger Construction Company to bring your home improvement project to fruition on time and on budget. As a family-owned and -operated business serving La Crosse County, WI, this team of general contractors takes pride in offering quality craftsmanship and friendly service that enhances the existing beauty and appeal of any structure. For a free quote, call their office today at (608) 788-4233, or visit their website to view some of their projects.