If you have outdoor space on your property that you’re not taking advantage of, then maybe an exterior home improvement project is in the cards for you. There’s nothing like adding outdoor living space to your home so that you can enjoy your outdoor area in comfort when the weather allows for it. Of course, there are several different options when it comes to outdoor spaces to choose from, the most popular being either a paver patio or a deck. With that in mind, the following is a breakdown of both to help you decide whether a paver patio or a deck suits your home best.
A paver patio differs from a deck in that it sits flush to the ground and is built out of concrete or brick patio pavers; both of which are relatively easy to install and maintain. In fact, one of the major advantages of a paver patio is that it’s incredibly easy to take care of and will last upwards of 25 years. Paver patios can also cover a lot of space almost anywhere you want on your property. You can build a small paver patio space away from your home or a large patio space up against any side. The only limiting factor is the ground beneath the patio. It needs to be on level ground, which means that if your property isn’t level, some grading work may be required.
Patios typically cost less to install. Less effort is required (unless the property needs excavation work) and fewer materials are needed. Permits for paver patios are generally not necessary. Despite all of the advantages, there are a couple of potential drawbacks to keep in mind as well. Your paver patio will require yearly maintenance to get rid of any weeds or misalignments as the years go on. However, it is usually easier to maintain a paver patio than a deck.
Unlike a patio, which sits flush to the ground, a deck is raised above the ground. Decks are typically built to be adjacent to the home and, as a result, look like an extension of the home and not just an add-on. As such, decks tend to provide a high ROI (return on investment). In fact, the average ROI on a deck is 76 percent, which is higher than any home improvement, including indoor renovations. There’s also a lot more flexibility in the design of the deck and the materials that you can build it with. Decks can be built out of wood and vinyl, and they can be painted or stained to complement your home design.
Because decks are built off of the ground, the slope of your property won’t have as much of an effect on its construction as it would on a patio. It also provides a better view of your outdoor space due to being raised off the ground. However, decks do typically require a lot more maintenance than a patio. They should be power washed every few years — while wood decks will need to be stained and sealed every couple of years as well. If you do build a wood deck, then it will be more vulnerable to potential issues as well, such as rot and fading. Finally, decks are much more expensive and cost an average of $30 per square foot.
To determine whether a deck or a paver patio is the best option for your home, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each carefully. For information about how to best utilize your outdoor space, contact us at Twin Oaks Landscape in Ann Arbor, MI, today.