Decks vs Patios
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People often use the words ‘deck’ and ‘patio’ interchangeably by mistake. Here’s what makes them different, as well as what to consider when planning your outdoor living space.
About decks
Regardless of their height from the ground, decks are suspended structures supported by posts or pillars. Most often, decks are framed with wood and covered with decking material, usually wood, composite, vinyl, or even porcelain tiles.
ABOUT PATIOS
As they are generally low to the ground, patios always have a solid foundation. Most often, patios are built with poured concrete or paving stone, although some feature gravel, porcelain tiles and/or natural stone.
COST COMPARISON
When comparing the cost of constructing a deck or patio, decks usually come at a higher initial cost than patio, since building a deck is often more complex. A deck is suspended, which makes construction more time-consuming. Also, decks higher than 2 ft. or 0.6 m above the ground require building permits, as would a raised patio
Material costs for either patios or decks vary considerably. The cost difference depends on the material you choose for your yard. When considering their life-spans, though, patios are generally more economical than decks, thanks to their durable building materials and construction techniques.
MAINTENANCE COMPARISON
Patios are often easier to maintain because it features longer-lasting components and construction than decks do. Chances are, a patio is made some type of concrete product, either poured-in-place or as a paving stone. These materials are super durable and last many years without rotting. Unlike wood, these materials don’t need painting or staining treatments to ensure a long life.
As we most often build a patio into its surrounding landscape, weeds may be an issue you don’t experience with decks. However, maintaining a surface near or at ground-level the ground versus one high off the ground may be a deciding factor for some.
DECK DESIGN VS. PATIO DESIGN
When it comes to aesthetics and functionality in your landscape, both decks and patios have positives and negatives associated with them depending on the landscapes they’re in. Patios have their limitations when it comes to the grade you’re placing them on. Generally speaking, they require a level ground whereas decks can be suspended over virtually any topography. However, when combined with retaining walls, patio use can be expanded immensely to include various levels and placement on slopes but at a much higher cost.
Obviously, a patio will not work to create a living space off of a second storey or above a walkout basement. Your only option for that would be a deck. And, decks will be your best choice for creating a raised platform to take advantage of any surrounding views you may have from your yard. But, in most new neighbourhoods, perching your outdoor living space in the air above fences and immature planting material is akin to being on a stage for all of your neighbours to see! The nice thing about a patio, especially in many new yards, is that they can be nestled near the ground, out of the sight of nosey neighbours and protected from the wind at the same time.
In terms of design, patios can be much more interesting than most decks since the materials used to construct them often have the ability to easily make curves and interesting shapes, allowing them to fit seamlessly into virtually any landscape. Decks, on the other hand, are most often constructed from rigid materials that are less pliable limiting their design possibilities.
Since decks are often more than 2’ above the ground, their location within a landscape may also be limited by municipal bylaws. For example, in Lethbridge, decks must be at least 4’ away from side property lines and accessory buildings, and 16.5’ away from rear property lines. The placement of patios within 2’ of the ground will not be limited by these rules.
Another thing to consider regarding the aesthetics and functionality of a deck, especially one that is within 3-4’ of the ground, is how the space beneath is treated. Typically, when a deck is off the ground but not high enough to walk under, the space becomes an eyesore, constantly collecting blown-in dirt and garbage. These spaces can also become a spot for local wildlife and cats to frequent or even live. Unless, of course, some type of skirting is placed around the perimeter, adding another cost to an already expensive project.
Decks and patios can often be used together in landscape designs since they both have their strengths. But, if you’re looking to add an outdoor living space in your yard that will be durable and easy to maintain, will provide you with privacy and shelter from our Southern Alberta winds, and will look great for years to come, ditch the deck and put in a patio!
