

Nonetheless, if you do decide to build either yourself, it’s more reasonable to build a patio rather than a deck. However, all patio materials are quite heavy, take time and knowledge to build, and it would be hard to tell if you installed your patio properly. If you decide to build your own patio, it might be a good idea if you use a simple material like gravel. Not to mention, it takes a good amount of your personal time. However, you need the right experience, tools, knowledge, and patience it takes to build a quality deck. A good thing about building your own deck is obviously saving money on installation costs. DIY building of patios or decks both have their pros and cons. Some people who don’t want to pay installation costs consider building it themselves. So, the best overall investment would be to build a deck. Patios cost less to install, but have a return on investment at around 50%. Decks are more costly to install, but have a higher return on investment at around 60-80%. Which is the better investment? Let’s see. Since building a patio or a deck is considered a home improvement, it has the potential to increase your resale value. (Wondering how thick does a concrete slab need to be for a patio? Check out that article to find out!)

The cheapest material to build a patio with is concrete. As shown, it’s cheaper and easier to build a patio. Then, the materials cost close to $1.50 – $30 per square foot. On average, patios cost about $3,200 to build and around $10 – $20 per square foot to install. On average, decks cost around $7,000 to build and around $35 per square foot for installation.Īlso, the materials for decks cost around $3 – $25 per square foot. The overall cost to build either of these structures depends mainly on its size and materials used.


Costs Estimates (Averages) of Building a Deck or Patio As you can see, patios have a bigger material selection, than the materials needed to build a deck. Finally, wood patios look the most natural and traditional, but may need regular replacement. However, brick paver patios are cheaper than stone and could look just as nice. If you want more of a high-end appearance, either stone or flagstone can be used, but it’s more expensive.
#Diy concrete patio ideas on a budget install#
The most affordable and easy to install material to build a patio is gravel. Stamped concrete adds a little personality, but requires more maintenance. However, some people find it a little plain. Moving on to patios, concrete patios are the most prevalent and the cheapest material used today. Why choose composite decking over wood? Find out in that article! Patio Materials Finally, aluminum decks are the most expensive ones, but have the longest lifespan. Decks built with plastic cost just as much as composite decks, but last longer and require way less maintenance. However, they are designed for maximum durability, which resist fading, staining and the toughest weather. Composite Decking MaterialĬomposite decks, on the other hand, are made to look like wood but can cost more. However, there are some deck maintenance tips to keep your deck looking brand new. However, wood demands the most maintenance out of any other material. Decks mostly are built out of wood which is the most popular and natural-looking material. One important element that determines the price in either a deck or patio is the material used to build it. These two structures also vary in price, materials used, sustainability, and more! Deck and Patio Materials Since decks and patios are not the same structure, their cost to build varies. The main difference between decks and patios is that decks are structures elevated from the ground, while patios rest directly on the ground. Then, deciding which is best for your home! The main difference between a deck and patio It’s also important to learn about factors relevant to each such as costs, differences, returns, advantages and disadvantages, or both. Want to enhance your outdoor space, but don’t know how? A great way to start is by understanding the difference between a deck and a patio.
