The Difference Between a Deck and a Patio (and How to Choose Which Is Best for You)
Any outdoor living space is a big upgrade, especially during the warm summer months when the porch or patio is a great spot for picnics and summer get-togethers. While it may not seem like much of a difference, a veranda is different from a patio. For some homes, a terrace is best, while for others, a patio is best. Here are some helpful ways to figure out which one is right for you.
What is the difference between a veranda and a patio?
The big difference between a deck and a patio is that the deck is raised off the ground while the patio is at ground level. Although they can both be made from many different materials, decking is usually made from lumber, while patios are often made from stone or brick. The main thing to keep in mind when choosing which one you want is the shape of the ground you plan to put it on. You should also consider whether you are planning a fire pit or barbecue, what kind of view you want, and what local ordinances will allow you to build.
Your yard matters
If your outdoor space includes a flat area at the same height as your home, a patio might be a good option. Adding pavers or stone to a well-drained, level surface should work well. If your yard has a hill or a steep drop, then a deck with legs that allow it to rise over uneven or sloping terrain is the best choice. If you have a gentle slope, you can build a patio with built-in steps or multiple levels of seating. Of course, you can also use the deck on a flat surface.
Fire Safety Considerations
To use your fire pit safely, choose a non-flammable surface and leave enough space around it. Never place a fire pit directly on a wood or composite deck. Even if you have a metal fire pit with a stand, use it with extreme caution and keep a fire extinguisher handy. Having a screen above your fire will help avoid fires caused by sparks that can be blown away by the wind. ) The same rules apply when using a barbecue on a wooden deck. A fire pit is best for a stone or brick patio, as the surface you are using is non-combustible.
Consider the form
Sometimes the difference between choosing a terrace or patio depends on the view. If your deck is elevated from the ground, you can get a better view of the sunset or the surrounding landscape. However, be aware that height can also affect the privacy of your outdoor space, as a raised deck can also give your neighbors a better view of you drinking coffee in your bathrobe. A ground-level patio can make it easier to maintain privacy with a fence or greenery. A patio can also be a good choice if you want to hide your surroundings – looking towards an office building or the highway may not mean outdoor recreation for you.
Familiarize yourself with the rules and building codes before you start planning
Aside from practical considerations such as terrain, choosing between a terrace or patio is up to you, unless local building codes are an issue. A terrace might need a permit, but a patio probably won’t. Some municipalities have regulations regarding the height of your deck above the ground, the number of posts per square foot, and the height of the handrails. Checking local regulations will help you determine if a terrace is worth building, especially if it would require a licensed contractor. But even if you choose a patio, you must first call 811 ( the national know-before-you-dig-number ) to make sure you don’t have any utility lines before you start digging to level the ground.