Deck vs. Patio

As you know from my last post, we recently replaced our deck with a patio, that got me thinking about what is better-- deck or patio. Here's a run down of the pros and cons of each:

Price: Overall, patios are usually less expensive. Patios range from $10-$25/sqf depending on material and features while decks are usually $25-$50/sqf. Decks also have the added requirement of permits. Most counties require permits for decks which are additional costs and additional time.
WINNER: Patio

Material: Decks are generally made with pressure treated wood or a composite material like TREX. TREX comes with a 20-25 year warranty while pressure treated wood has no warranty but will generally last approx. 15-20 years. Patios that are built with pavers usually carry a lifetime warranty. In general paver patios require little maintenance and if installed correctly, will not need to be replaced. Concrete patios generally do not have a warranty and will usually crack within the first five years because concrete is stiff and does not move with the variations of the earth.
WINNER: Patio (paver)


Versatility: Patios require a level surface to be installed so grading or retaining walls may be necessary if your yard is on a slope. Decks accommodate slopes and are suitable for high elevations. However, decks may not hold up in areas that experience extreme weather.
WINNER: Deck


Style: This is up to you. Both patio pavers and composite come in a variety of colors and styles to match your design aesthetic. You can also use stamped concrete for patios or stain pressure treated wood decks. Both come with a variety of features that can be added on such as built in lighting, fire pits, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, etc.
WINNER: Tie

So patio or deck? If you are just looking to add an outdoor area to your backyard, I recommend a patio. It lasts longer, has a better warranty and requires less maintenance. However, if you need an elevated outdoor space, a deck is really your only option. Both decks and patios have their appropriate uses, its up to you to take the pros and cons into consideration and choose what works best for your home and family.