When deciding to add an outdoor area to your home, it can be difficult to make the right choice.
There are a lot of different options available to you and not all of them will be ideal. Depending on your home and how you plan to use it, one may be better than the others.
Two of the most popular outdoor additions are raised patios and decks.
If you are trying to decide between the two, it can help to know the pros and cons of both. Both of them have their own sets of benefits and drawbacks.
In this article, we have laid out all the pros and cons of a raised patio vs a deck. By understanding what each one has to offer, you can make the right choice.
Either one of these options will be an excellent addition. However, depending on your goals, one will be better for you and your family’s enjoyment.
There are a number of things to consider when deciding between a raised patio and a deck. The pros and cons of these include:
- Cost of each
- Customization options
- Durability and longevity
- Maintenance costs
Difference Between a Raised Patio and a Deck
While raised patios and decks offer similar things, they are not the same. They both have wildly different construction processes and different looks.
A raised patio is usually built from slab concrete and will act as its own foundation. There are a lot of different options when it comes to colors and textures.
Raised patios also have a solid construction with no gaps in between slats or breaks in the surface. This is because they are usually molded using plywood forms.
A deck, on the other hand, is generally made of wood or composite materials. They have their own footings and are usually dug into the ground.
You also have options when it comes to colors for a deck. However, they are going to be more limited to the natural wood colors or similar tones.
The option that is right for you will depend on your needs and what you want to do. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help.
Cost
The cost of a raised patio vs a deck is very different and will determine the choice you make.
In general, a raised patio is going to be cheaper than a deck. This is due to the fact that it requires less work to build.
A patio will cost you anywhere between $1,850 and $5,161. There are many factors that will determine where your patio falls in this range.
Conversely, a deck will cost between $4,380 and $10,080. This is an even wider range because there are so many options available to you when it comes to features.
If you are looking to get an outdoor space and not spend a lot of money, a patio is your best bet. However, a deck has more options and can be more tailored to your needs and wants.
Customization
When designing your outdoor feature, you will most likely want to customize it to your desires. If this is your intention, a raised patio may be your best bet.
Because a patio is made of stone or concrete, you have more options. When it comes to colors and textures, there are so many more things you can do.
When building a deck, you are limited to the materials that are available. This is usually going to be wood or other composite materials.
If you want unique shapes or sizes, a patio is going to be easier for you to get done.
A patio will also not be limited in the amount of weight you can put on it. That means you can add things like hot tubs or other features that a deck won’t be able to handle.
Durability
When it comes to durability, you simply can not do better than a raised patio.
While a wood deck can be very beautiful, it also requires a lot of care. It also will not last nearly as long.
Most wood decks need to be completely replaced every 15 to 25 years. A stone patio will last for years and years and most likely will not need to be replaced.
If you plan on living in your home for a long period of time, a patio will be your best bet.
Because of its construction type and materials, you can count on a patio lasting for a lot longer. It will also not be susceptible to the weather and can hold up under harsher conditions.
Maintenance
You will need to do some maintenance on your outdoor feature no matter what it is.
However, a deck is going to require a lot more maintenance to keep it looking nice. A raised patio is easier to keep up and will not need nearly as much cleaning or repair.
Because a deck is made of wood, you will need to make occasional repairs. You will also need to keep it clean, which can be a complicated process.
A stone patio will only need to be hosed off every now and then to keep it clean. There will be very little to do in the way of upkeep.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest type of patio to build?
Stamped concrete is the cheapest type of patio to build. The process is very simple and will not take long.
All it requires is a few plywood forms and some poured concrete.
Is a deck a good investment?
A deck is a very good investment if that is something you are interested in. A deck will automatically raise the value of your home.
A patio will also raise the value of your home but not as much as a wood or composite deck.
What is a closed-in patio called?
A closed-in patio is usually referred to as a porch. It is also sometimes called a sun porch.
However, the principles are the same and it will add the same value.
Conclusion
If you are thinking about adding an outdoor area to your home, you have a lot of options. Understanding what is available to you is essential.
By knowing what each one offers and what to consider, you can make the right choice for your home.
