If you’d like to spend more time outdoors this summer and want to boost your home’s curb appeal, adding a deck or patio makes sense. But what option is right for your home?
Many people use the terms patio and deck interchangeably, but there are differences between them. The primary differentiator is elevation. Decks are usually built at least a little bit above your property, while patios rest directly on the ground.
This means that the first factor when choosing a deck or patio is your building lot. The lay of the land can be a determining factor that dictates whether a patio is possible or you’ll need to have a deck built to meet your needs. Sloping, narrow lots are common in our region, which explains why you may see more decks than patios in your neighborhood.
There are two other factors to consider when choosing between a patio and a deck. The first factor is maintenance. Decks can be built out of many materials – as Massachusetts deck contractors, we work primarily with composite decking as well as wood – while patios are generally concrete, stone or brick. Composite decking needs virtually no maintenance – you’ll want to spray it with a hose when it gets grungy – while patios generally require more care to stay looking great.
Finally, cost is a consideration. The materials used in constructing a patio don’t have to be expensive – unless you choose an upscale stone or flagstone patio – but there’s a lot of labor involved. Decks are generally more affordable, and can be installed by an experienced local deck contractor very quickly. That’s an important consideration if you want your family to be able to start enjoying outdoor living right away – and it’s always nice to have a little extra money in the budget to have fun with!