Part 1/3: Benefits of patios vs. decks

Recently, at a meeting with potential clients a common subject came up- when to build a deck vs when to build a patio, and how do you choose. This is a rather interesting subject and will be our topic of conversation over the next 3 posts.

If you are looking to increase your useable outdoor space without breaking the bank, adding a patio or deck could be the solution. Each option offers an area to gather with friends and family, enjoy a dinner, or relax under the sun (or stars); the option you choose will likely depend on your property, lifestyle, and budget. In our first of three blog posts, we will outline the benefits of patios vs decks.

Patios provide a classic look built directly on the ground, a feature that appeals to many homeowners. It can be connected to the house or constructed in a separate part of the yard and attached via a pathway. Patios are most commonly constructed out of natural stone, tile, concrete or brick pavers. Nowadays patios can be a simple poured concrete pad or complex with ornate interlocking pavers with built in fire pits/ fireplaces, barbecues, and sitting areas, making them the perfect outdoor space for relaxation or socialization.

The longevity of stone is difficult to match, since many types of natural stone patios can last for centuries (far longer than you or potentially anyone is in the house). That being said, stone in almost any form (natural or man made) will endure all weather conditions and remain beautiful through temperature swings, storms, and direct sunlight. Stone is incredibly durable and can take heavy traffic, be it people, furniture, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, or even vehicles. As long as the installation has been done correctly- a proper base is prepared and quality products are laid, a stone surface will last through anything. Unlike wood, the design possibilities are endless, whether its natural stone or precast pavers like Barkman cast concrete solutions. The surfaces can be graded in any direction preventing the pooling of water, which will increase their lifespan (especially come the fall and spring seasons during freeze thaw cycles in Edmonton). Finally, stone typically requires little to no maintenance, far less when compared to wooden decks over their lifetime.

Despite the above, there are a few downsides/caveats that must be discussed when considering stone patios. First, the expense of the project can often exceed ones budget. Sure, that natural flagstone looks gorgeous, but are you also prepared to pay upwards of $10 sq/ft for the material alone? However, there are also look-alike products that can be substituted for far cheaper, such as the Barkman precast concrete pavers . Secondly, patios must be installed at the ground level. In other words, if your yard is sloped or you want the outdoor space raised up, excavation and retaining walls will need to be installed and this can rapidly increase the cost of your desired space. ​

Make sure to check out our next post on the benefits of decks vs stone patios.