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

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 on your patio.

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

Similar to the cost of a composite deck vs patio, the average cost of a pressure-treated lumber deck is about $6 per square foot. That makes the cost of a wood deck vs pavers patio fairly comparable, at least initially. Because wood requires routine maintenance to slow down its natural decay, like sanding and resealing. By contrast, the lifetime cost of a pavers patio is almost the same as the sticker price.

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, maybe 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.

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