Decks vs Patios – How to Choose
by Dwayne Regehr
Earthworks Landscaping does woodwork and stonework. Let's figure out which one is right for you.
(Patio-bias warning! Though decks are more popular than patios, we do admit to having a patio bias.)
Cost
Decks
Decks range in price from about $30.00 / sq ft (for the simplest pressure-treated wood construction) to $100.00 / sq ft or more (for things like low-maintenance composite decking, aluminum and glass handrails, etc.)
Patios
Patios range in price from $20.00 / sq ft to $60.00 / sq ft. The price depends on materials chosen, complexity of design and location of patio. As you can imagine, simple shapes are quicker to do than complex free-form designs. And, as far as the location of the patio goes, if we can get our machinery into the area, it's much easier to excavate and bring in stone base.
Maintenance
Decks
Wooden decks require regular maintenance to stay looking great. Typically, treatment with water repellent and stain every three to seven years does the trick. Composite decks require less maintenance, although the wood framing will still deteriorate over time.
Patios
Patios require much less work. By using polymeric sand between stones and pavers, the problem of weeds in joints is all but eliminated. Patios will last longer than decks, with less maintenance. There's a reason the Romans built their roads from stone instead of wood!
Design
Decks
Decks are typically restricted to right-angled shapes. Wood curves can be really interesting to build, but they are also challenging and therefore costly.
Patios
Patios can be built relatively easily in any shape. This gives you complete design freedom!
Terraced patios can get pricy, so if you want that third dimension, a multi-level deck isn't a bad way to go. That said, an elevated stone patio with built-in seating is a very impressive sight.
Aesthetics
Decks
- Who doesn't love the natural warmth of wood? It's a friendly, cozy look.
- For real wood, there are many stain shades to choose from and there's an increasing variety of colours and styles of composite decking available.
Patios
- Stone reminds us of the natural environment, like wood does, but stone also carries a feeling of permanence.
- There are a wide range of paver styles and colors available to suit your taste.
City of Winnipeg Residential Building Permits
Patios
No permits are required for most patios under two feet in height.
Decks
Most decks require a permit, so be prepared to spend a fun afternoon at the City of Winnipeg permit office!
Either way, deck or patio, we can help you sort it out. You can tell we love patios, but building decks are also great projects.
We love all this stuff over at Earthworks, so don't hesitate to send us an email at dwayne@earthworkslandscaping.ca
