Part 3/3: How to choose between a patio and deck

If you are at this point, I am going to assume you have read part 1 addressing the benefits of stone patios over decks, and part 2 discussing the benefits of decks vs stone patios. If you have not, I encourage you to follow the links and read them before continuing. It will ultimately help you make the most informed decision on which outdoor space is best for you and your lifestyle.

The best choice for you depends on your property, lifestyle, and budget. As previously discussed, your property may dictate which route your chose- second floor outdoor spaces must be a deck, and significant slopes to the yard make stone patio installation very difficult and extremely expensive. Think about your lifestyle and how you intend to use the space. If you enjoy sitting by a fire, then stone patios will likely be a wise investment for you and your family. Do you prefer more privacy? Stone patios are lower to the ground and have more flexibility in design and landscaping to provide privacy. Finally, your budget. Decks and stone patios provide both expensive and more affordable options. Decks can be constructed from wood (cheaper) or manufactured composite materials (more expensive), whereas patios can be made from pre-cast pavers (cheaper) or natural stones such as granite or flagstone (more expensive). However, stone patios tend to be the cheaper of the two options overall. Remember to consider both the initial investment as well as the longevity of each product. Just because it is cheaper in the beginning, does not always mean it will still be cheaper 10 years down the road. 

Finally, like everything else, we must discuss the potential return on investment (ROI) of both options. According to Deck Magazine and Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs Value report, a homeowner will recoup an average of 80% of the cost of construction on a new wood deck. This actually decreases to between 60-68% when examining composite decking material. Alternatively, the ROI for stone patios is much harder to nail down. Some suggest a return near 60% for every dollar spent, while the Gallop organization believes a well built patio can increase a homes perceived value by up to 12% (far more than the cost of installation).

Regardless of your choice, it is important to remember that aesthetic condition, craftsmanship, and functionality of the space will ultimately dictate your return on investment. The decks and patios that see the largest ROI are those that flow within the property with regard to the homes proportions and the land it sits upon. Design plays a large role in this situation, so be sure to talk to your contractor or landscaper about which option best suits your needs. If you are considering the installation of a deck or patio, be sure to give us a holler. We would love to help bring your ideas to life.