Decks vs. Patios: Cost, Pros, Cons, & Comparisons

Outside living spaces like decks and patios offer a wealth of opportunities for entertaining. From grilling out with family and friends to simply unwinding after work, a patio or deck can create the right atmosphere for many happy memories.

But before you take the plunge on planning an outdoor living space that works for your lifestyle, you might have questions. Is it cheaper to build a deck or a patio? (Hint: a patio is usually cheaper, though a deck is a better return on investment.) Which is easier to build? Should you build a deck attached to your home or a free-standing patio? There are many options when it comes to building outdoor living spaces and it can be tough to weigh the pros and cons.

• Differences Between Decks & Patios
• Paving vs. Decking Cost
• Pros and Cons of Patios and Decks
• What’s the ROI for a Deck vs. Patio?

Differences Between Decks & Patios

The main difference between decks and patios is their design, placement, and structure.

Understanding the differences between decks and patios can help you make an informed decision about which is right for you. You’ll want to consider the building materials, costs, location, terrain, and your own personal tastes.

Beyond the differences between decks and patios, there are different subcategories for each. Compare them to see which is right for you.

What is a Deck?

Decks are raised platforms made of a variety of materials, including wood, pressure-treated lumber, composite, PVC, and more. Usually, a deck is attached to the home. They can sit high above the ground and be accessed via a staircase or be built low to the ground and raised only by joists.

Two Types of Decks

While an elevated deck may be what comes to mind for many, it’s possible to also have a deck at ground level. This type of deck is different from a patio because a patio sits directly on the ground while the deck does not.

• Elevated Deck - In many neighborhoods, elevated decks extend from the living and dining areas of the main floor. Because they’re elevated, they work well on sloping lots and other uneven ground, which makes them ideal for raised homes or hilly areas.

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• Ground-Level Deck - Despite the name, a ground-level deck is not completely level with the ground. While these decks are low to the ground, they still require a slightly raised substructure. Ground-level decks often have a few stairs for guests to comfortably access the deck. Additionally, a ground-level deck requires less maintenance than an elevated deck and does not have to be attached to the house in order to be a stable structure.

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What is a Patio?

Patios are outdoor seating areas that are flush with the ground and most commonly made of concrete. (You may also opt for stone, gravel, brick, and other materials for a patio.)

One of the most important considerations for those deciding between a patio or deck is whether or not your ground is level. Since patios sit on the ground, a patio requires a flat surface.  Alternatively, you can shore up the ground so it’ll be flat.

Decking vs. Cement Patio Cost

The costs of decking vs. paving are difficult to weigh because there are several material options to consider. But including all necessary substructures and fasteners, the average cost of decking is about $9 per square foot. The pricing of paving with brick is about $6 per square foot, while paving with concrete is closer to $4 per square foot. You can double these estimates to help approximate the cost of labor. Making your patio a DIY project can help you save even more.

Composite Deck vs. Pavers

The cost of composite deck vs. pavers will depend on the quality of the material. You can find high quality composites anywhere between $5 and $13 per square foot. A simple brick paver patio will cost around $5 per square foot, while stamped concrete with ornate designs will cost closer to $12 per square foot.

The lifetime costs of a composite deck vs. paver patio are roughly the same. Apart from intermittently hosing them down or replacing the occasional broken paver, both require minimal maintenance.

Wood Deck vs. Pavers

The average cost of a pressure-treated lumber deck is about $6 per square foot, making it initially comparable in price to a patio made from pavers. However, wood decks require regular maintenance, such as sanding and resealing, to slow natural decay. In contrast, the long-term costs of a pavers patio are nearly the same as its upfront price, due to minimal upkeep needs.

Is it cheaper to build a deck or concrete patio?

It’s cheaper to build a concrete patio in terms of both the initial cost to lay a concrete patio, as well as its cost of maintenance over time. A concrete patio costs only $4 per square foot, while a deck costs roughly $6 per square foot for lower-cost pressure treated lumber. Typically, a patio is just a single slab, while a deck can be a simple, elevated one-level deck or have a more elaborate, multi-level construction. The more elaborate your deck, the more expensive it will be. If you’re looking for a cost-effective solution for a small space, a concrete patio may be your best bet.

Pros and Cons of Patios and Decks

One of the most common questions in the debate between patios and decks is the cost. However, there’s more to building an outside entertaining space than cost. You’ll also want to consider factors like the time involved to build, whether you’ll need a permit, the return on investment, and your lifestyle. Here are a few decks vs. patios pros and cons to mull over before you commit to building a gorgeous outdoor living space that works with your wants, needs, and aesthetics.

While both patios and decks are open air living spaces, that’s where the similarities end and the vast array of differences begin. The patio is on the ground, long-lasting, and offers privacy. The elevated deck soars in the air and offers a view.

If you’re trying to decide on a deck vs. patio, consider the terrain, your budget, and your preferences. When it comes to costs, patios are often cheaper, and easier to build but depending on the location, a deck may be a more valuable upgrade to your outdoor living space.

What’s the ROI for a Deck vs. Patio?

If you think you may sell your home in the next few years, you’ll want to consider the return on investment (ROI) for a patio vs. deck. Obviously, your choice in building materials will contribute to the costs. For example, choosing flagstone for a patio is more expensive than plain concrete. However, flagstone delivers a much more upscale, bespoke vibe compared to concrete, which can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal -- and market resale value.

Resources like Remodeling Magazine and HouseLogic show the ROI for a deck to be roughly 75% more than for a patio. As an example, a deck that costs $9,000 to build, could be worth an additional $7,500 when you sell vs. a patio that may cost $3,500 to build and is only worth $1,500 when you sell.

With a clearer understanding of the pros and cons of patios and decks, you have a firm foundation to plan for an outdoor living space you can enjoy. Plus, a potential investment in your home that may prove profitable when it’s time to sell. Have more questions? Contact a builder to determine what is right for you.