As your Top Rated Local® deck builders in northern Colorado, JJ Fencing and Decks wants you to get the backyard feature that fits within your budget, meets your needs, and adds value to your home. In this post, we’ll be sharing the differences between a deck and a patio, the pros and cons of each, and what we recommend. Whether you’ve gotten multiple quotes already, or you’re just starting your research, take a moment to consider the information in this post.
What’s the difference between a deck and a patio?
It’s common for homeowners to use “deck” and “patio” interchangeably, and it’s no fault of theirs. There is a difference between the two features, and we’re going to explain those differences.
The biggest difference between a deck and a patio is their placement. Both extend off the back of the house, usually from a door; however, a deck is raised off the ground while the patio is set directly on the ground. Furthermore, patios are typically constructed of stone, brick, or harder materials. Decks are constructed with wood or vinyl. Finally, patios can only be built on the first level of a home. A deck can be built on any level of a home, as long as code from your municipality allows it. This means that you could have a deck installed on the second or third story of your house while a patio would only be available to the story that’s nearest to the ground.
What’s the difference in cost?
As with any home renovation project your decisions on size, placement, materials, and more will determine your cost. Relatively, though, patios tend to cost less than decks. Below are a variety of factors that can affect the cost of any patio or deck installation project:
- Materials
- Location
- Placement
- Size
- Extra features
Also consider the slope of the ground away from the home. Will you need extra dirt work completed to install a level patio? With a deck, you don’t need level ground to install it, since it’s not placed directly on the ground.
Finally, the cost of either a deck or a patio will also be determined by the market. As more people move to Colorado, the market’s pricing will rise gradually, since there is more demand and a similar amount of supply. Deck contractors in Greeley will fill their schedules with more people wanting decks, and they will raise their prices.
Do you need a deck or a patio?
How do you intend on using the home addition feature? If you want to incorporate landscaping design, you may want to choose a patio. If you’re more concerned with keeping guests off the grass but allowing them a space where they can enjoy the outdoors, a deck is a great option. Patios can be built against or away from the home. Most municipalities in Larimer County tend to be require decks to be attached to the home. Patios take advantage of the already existing ground. Decks offer a chance to gain a better view of the mountains or plains since they’re built off the ground.
Your local deck contractor servicing Greeley
After more than a decade of providing deck installation services for northern Colorado, JJ Fencing and Decks knows what it takes to build you the deck you want and need. If you’re still looking for a deck builder, give us a call today! We serve Greeley, Fort Collins, Loveland, and the surrounding areas.