Deck or Patio? What’s The Right Choice For Your Outdoor Space?

Ready to spruce up your outdoor space? When it comes to making changes to your yard – there are plenty of decisions to make when designing and building the outdoor space that perfectly caters to your needs. Deciding between a deck or patio is one of the biggest.

While both decks and patios offer designated spaces built for entertainment, each feature offers different benefits to consider regarding factors such as your terrain, budget,  lifestyle, and more.

We’re here to help you decide if a deck or patio is better suited for your yard! Let’s first start with defining each outdoor feature.

What is a Deck? An outdoor structure built from boards, is capable of supporting weight, and is supported by structural elements such as beams, posts, and joints. Can be built low or high from the ground and is typically attached to the home.

What is a Patio?: A paved area directly on the ground that can be either attached or detached from the home. Patios can be made of stone, concrete, pavers, and more.

Next, let’s compare the differences between the major contributing factors.

Deck or Patio Factors

Terrain

Deck: Decks can accommodate uneven surfaces in your yard. No matter what terrain your outdoor space offers, a deck can be built to provide more access and use of your property.

Patio: A patio is ideal for a yard with flat and mostly level ground.

Cost

Deck: Decks require more materials than patios, making them a more expensive investment. However, decks typically have a higher ROI than patios.

Patio: Since patios require far fewer materials to build, they often cost less. However, their ROI is often lower than a deck.

Lifestyle

Deck: Since decks can be built high, they can provide views not obtainable from ground level. This can provide scenic spots to enjoy while entertaining. However, when building high there is a chance of losing some privacy.

Patio: Since patios are built low, they are excellent for providing plenty of privacy – but will typically offer less of a view.

Maintenance

Deck: Decks require significantly more upkeep than patios. Decks require power washing, repainting, and sealing every couple of years.

Patio: Patios are highly durable and require practically zero maintenance.

Lifespan

Deck: Depending on the materials used, a deck’s lifespan will vary. A wood deck will last 10 – 20 years, while a composite deck will last 25+ years.

Patio: Patios have a longer lifespan with less maintenance, upwards of 30+ years.

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The bottom line is each property and homeowner is completely unique! What may work for your next-door neighbor may not be a good fit for your outdoor space. Your personal outdoor taste and needs can be met with the help of a professional landscaping team.

Our team of landscaping professionals has been designing and installing landscapes and hardscapes since 2005 around Lousiville, Kentucky. Our Four Seasons Landscape Management team is ready to help you build the landscape of your dreams! Schedule your free landscaping consultation and get an online complimentary quote today!