Deck Vs. Patio: Which is Cheaper?

You’ve decided that you want a deck or patio, but you are not sure which one is cheaper. Maybe you have budget concerns or just don’t want to spend more money than you have to get the job done. Well, we compiled some information to help you in deciding between installing a deck or a patio.

Deck Vs. Patio Cost 

On average, you will pay between $4,000 and $15,000 to build a deck. The total cost of your deck is determined by the materials chosen for it, the cost of the railings, size of the deck, design/style of the deck, cost of the permits, contractor fees, labor costs, deck removal cost, and how much DIY work is done. Still, the cost of materials and installation is only the upfront cost. There will be more maintenance and upkeep costs for the deck during its life span. Maintenance costs depend on the materials used for the deck and railings, the climate, and the kinds of pests in your area. You must perform regular check-ups and upkeep if you want to keep your deck in good condition.

As for patios, the average cost ranges from $800 to $9,800. The overall cost depends on the material chosen for the patio, size of the area, cost of grading the soil, and the cost to install rebar and a concrete substructure (if necessary). Patios require less maintenance than decks, but there is still some maintenance that must be done. The cost and maintenance schedule will depend on the materials used on the patio.

Homeowners may choose to adorn their decks and patios. In this area, the costs are highly variable and dependent upon the homeowner’s design preferences. Such costs may include furniture, construction of a walking path, installation of a grill/fire pit/fireplace, cost of the pergola/gazebo, landscaping, lighting, and any other costs that must be paid to create the patio you want for your home. 

Patio Repair Cost 

Patio repair costs vary greatly based on the type of material used and the kind of repairs needed. On average, patio repairs will cost you $290 to $4,100. Ideally, you will decide to repair the patio before the damage is too extensive, which could be more costly. Otherwise, you may need to remove or replace the patio altogether. We list some common repair costs in the chart below.

If you have to repair the walkway, pergola, gazebo, fire pit, etc., those costs will be based on the item and the kind of repair needed. If you are looking for a cost estimate on those repairs, ask for contractor quotes or research maintenance and repair costs for each item. If the repair cost exceeds the replacement cost, just replace it unless there is some other value to the item outside its market value.

Patio Build Cost

The basic cost of building a patio ranges from $800 to $9,800. The are other costs to be considered to like lighting, upgrades, and style of patio. The average costs of some items you may want to consider are listed in the charts below.

Natural Stone Patio Cost 

Natural stone materials include slate, quartzite, bluestone, travertine, and limestone. It’s best that you use natural stone found in your local area, as it’ll likely withstand climate conditions and have a longer life span. Natural stone works exceptionally well with curved and unusually shaped designs. The natural stone can be cut to fit into any design, and the gaps between the natural stone can be filled with mortar. It costs $10 to $40 per square foot.

The drawbacks of natural stone are that it’s an expensive, heavy material, often difficult for small children, the elderly, or those in high heels to walk on. Lastly, weeds are likely to grow in between natural stones. 

Brick Pavers Cost 

Brick pavers are made from clay and heavier than regular bricks. The material is known for its durability and strength. They stand up under heavy use and inclement weather. Brick pavers are also resistant to scuffing, warping, and scratching. Sealing makes them stain-resistant.

Moreover, the interlocking pavers produce a stronger final product than can be observed in an individual paver. Maintenance is low – just sweep the patio and wash it with soapy water to remove any stains. The brick pavers should be resealed about every three years. If pavers settle, which may happen, reset them. This material has the lowest level of maintenance and upkeep of competing material and is the easiest to repair.

Drawbacks, the patio looks best when installed at homes with brick elements. The brick is traditional and long-lasting but not as modern-looking as other materials. Also, it comes in a limited variety of colors and textures. Designs can vary by changing the layout of the pavers. Although brick pavers are less expensive than natural stone, they are still more expensive than poured or stamped concrete and outdoor tiles. Cost estimates should include fees for using the specialized equipment required for its installation.

Furthermore, if you lack experience installing brick pavers, hire a professional contractor to do it. The installation of a brick paver patio is a commitment. The stones are heavy, expensive, and last a long time. So, if you want to change any aspect of the patio after its installed, you will most likely have to replace the entire patio. Another complication, after you have installed your patio, you may find it difficult to find replacement brick pavers that match the color and texture of the old ones on your patio. Consequently, if you are not interested in having a mismatched brick paver patio, you will have to install a new one.

Flagstone Patio Cost

Overall, flagstone is an aesthetically pleasing material with a high return on investment if you keep and maintain it over its life span. Flagstone is durable and can last for centuries. It’s easy to install because it doesn’t require mortar or cutting to fit into different designs/styles.

Flagstone is great for DIY projects since you can piece them together and their natural edges don’t need to match up exactly to other pieces. This means you won’t need to worry about properly spacing the stones. Plus, if you source the material from your local area, it will be more resistant to inclement weather. Additionally, this extremely low maintenance material only needs to be swept and washed with soapy water if it has been stained. Bonus, repairing the flagstone patio is really easy. If one of your stones is broken or damaged, remove the stone and replace it with another one. It costs $15 to $30 per square foot.

Drawbacks, flagstone requires lots of time and sweaty labor to install. The heavy stones mean that the workers will get a workout when transporting and arranging them. Piecing the stones together may be time-consuming too. Furthermore, flagstone is not heat resistant and very slippery when wet. To avoid problems with the material, cover the stones with a heat-resistant and slip-resistant material. If you are installing your flagstones over sand or another material that shifts over time, you may have to level the sand again and put it in a concrete mortar. 

Tile Patio Cost 

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are available in many different colors and styles. Their finished appearance is a high-end, elegant look. When possible, you should purchase slip-resistant and non-porous material because it is safer and less likely to become a home for algae. 

Drawbacks, tile prices vary greatly. On the high end, some tiles are more expensive than natural stone. Before you purchase slip-resistant tiles, check with your insurance company if they will be covered under your current policy. Tiles that are not slip-resistant may cause more falls and increase your homeowner’s insurance. Consequently, homeowner’s insurance claims can lead to higher premiums because of the increased risk of injury on your property. It cost $15 to $20 per square foot.

Does A Patio Cover Add Value?

Yes, a patio cover can add value to your home. The ones built at the time of the home’s construction add the most value. If you choose to add a patio later, then install one that complements your home. The patio cover permits the homeowner to use the patio in different kinds of weather, makes it an extension of the home’s living space, and creates an area that is functional for various activities (e.g., entertaining, reading, drinking wine).

It is important to select a patio cover with attractive material that complements the home. Also, the life span of the patio cover and whether it performs its intended use are important too. Lastly, don’t go overboard when installing a patio cover. You want to buy a low to mid-priced cover because the entirety of the patio must be in good condition, complement the home, and be desirable to the buyers, not just the patio cover.