If you're like many homeowners, you have considered adding outdoor living space to your home. It provides space for entertaining, dining, or just relaxing with your family, and can be designed to be as simple or elaborate as you want, with fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and even built-in entertainment centers. The first step to this home remodeling project is to decide whether you want a deck or patio.

What Is a Deck?

A deck is an uncovered porch or platform. Most decks are directly attached to the home, allowing direct access from indoors, but some are freestanding. Freestanding decks may be built to take advantage of a view, for example, or to surround a swimming pool. 

Decks are one of the most popular home remodeling projects, in large part because they typically add value to a home and have one of the best return on investment rates. The average deck has a 72% ROI, which is higher than home remodeling projects like kitchens and baths. 

Decks are typically built from wood or composite materials and have railings for safety. They are ideal for homes built on uneven terrain, as they can be constructed with supports to accommodate different levels, and there's no need to create a flat surface. They can also be customized to coordinate with the rest of the home with paint or stain. 

A deck is a major home remodeling project, and as such, typically requires a permit to build. It may also be subject to local zoning regulations in terms of height, weight capacity, and size. Decks can be built to accommodate outdoor kitchens, hot tubs, or fire pits, but it's especially important to account for weight and materials to ensure safety. 

What Is a Patio?

A patio is a defined, usually paved area situated directly on the ground. It may be attached to the house or built in another part of the yard; for example, patios are often built in gardens or shaded areas. A patio may be constructed with pavers, concrete, gravel, bricks, or a combination of materials. 

Patios are typically less expensive to build than decks and don't require permits. They do, however, require level ground, and creating a level surface can drive up the cost of the project. Patio design is flexible, and it's possible to build any size or shape that fits in your yard. Adding features like a fire pit can also be easier since there aren't any weight concerns. However, the ground underneath must be properly prepared, or the surface can crack or shift. 

Whether you decide you want a deck or a patio, turn to All Bay Builders in Vacaville, CA, for quality construction. These licensed and insured general contractors have more than 17 years of experience in home remodeling and will help you design and build the ideal outdoor living area. Client satisfaction and open communication are their priorities. Learn more about this veteran-owned and family-managed business online, and call (707) 690-8421 to schedule a consultation.