Designing an outdoor space to become your oasis is more than falling in love with something you see on HGTV. The structure must be functional and safe, as well as aesthetically pleasing.
Since safety begins at the foundation, this raises the question of whether a concrete patio or a wooden deck is best. Part of this depends on your preferences and what you plan on using the area for. Patios are typically made of concrete, either poured in place or constructed from pavers, brick, or stone. Decks are formed from composite material or wood.
Both options are effective, provided the material is weather-resistant and suitable for your climate. But is one truly better than the other? Let’s give concrete patios and wood decks a comparison here.
The Pros of Concrete Patios
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly outdoor space that can hold a lot of weight (think: fireplaces, furniture, and grills), a patio may be the way to go. As long as you don’t need anything too fancy or complex, concrete pavers or poured-in concrete are cost-effective. However, the extras add to the expense, so when you’re comparing decks to patios, don’t forget to include additional fees for decorative patterns, colors, and accessories like stairs.
Concrete is also a long-lasting material, making it a popular choice among many homeowners. How long your patio lasts depends on multiple factors, as explained in this article by FMP Construction.
Concrete patio slabs are also a favorite for adding on a structure to an existing home because they generally don’t require permits. (Check your area for details and regulations.)
The Benefits of a Wood Deck
Some people think patios aren’t as attractive as wood decks. This may be true if your preferences are geared toward a natural look or if your backyard is full of greenery and trees.
Wood decks are also beneficial on yards with sloped hills or where the ground is uneven. It can be challenging to pour concrete or use pre-made pavers on these types of surfaces, but adjusting wood to account for the elevation changes is often easier.
Many areas require a permit to create a wood deck. However, you can apply the expense to the property’s resale value. Depending on factors like the area and type, you may be able to recoup up to 50% of the cost of a deck. Still, adding a patio can increase resale value by up to 100%.
So why do so many people choose a wood deck over a patio? Ultimately, the choice comes down to logistics.
How to Choose Between Concrete Patios and Wood Decks
If you’re tossing up the two types of outdoor spaces, and one doesn’t stand out over the other, how do you decide which is best? Consider these factors, and the results could help you make that informed decision.
First, think about the property itself. Flat areas are ideal for creating concrete patios or decks for swimming pools, where surface smoothness matters (although a knowledgeable concrete company can adapt to elevation using retaining walls).
Since decks are, by definition, raised structures, hilly landscapes don’t impact their effectiveness. For uneven and sloping terrain, a deck is a better option. You can adjust the supporting pillars to account for the elevation changes.
Choosing between the two also depends on your budget. You don’t want to cut corners because it could impact the integrity of the structure, so material and labor prices matter. Shop around and get quotes from multiple companies for a completed deck and a patio on your property, and use that information to help you make a choice.
If you’re going to have heavy furniture on the structure, that plays a role in your decision. Permits for decks typically include weight limitations. However, this is generally not an issue for patios on flat foundations.
Finally, how much maintenance do you want to perform on the new addition once it’s completed? Wood decks take a lot of upkeep to ensure they stay in good shape, both visibly and structurally. Between restaining, resealing, and repairs, you have regular annual (or more frequent) care required. Concrete patios just need to be cleaned and, if you use pavers, maintenance to keep the joints filled.
Conclusion
Concrete patio or wood deck? The choice starts with personal preference but involves so much more. When you’re deciding how to build your outside structure, remember that integrity and longevity may trump aesthetics.
Consider the property’s slope, the regulations and permits in your area, the cost, and the maintenance necessary to keep the finished work looking new. Throw in the potential for an increase in your home’s resale value if that matters to you. From there, you can design the patio or deck of your dreams, choosing from various materials, patterns, and colors that match your vision and budget.
