One of the nicest way to add character and style to your backyard is to add a patio or deck of some kind. Whether you favor brick patios, travertine tile, or edgy pool deck ideas, it’ll certainly add some charm to the lay of the land. It can also turn some otherwise drab yard into a useful area. If you have a pool, hiring pool deck pavers can be a great way to turn that space into a useful place for people to dip their feet in the water, dry off, monitor swimmers, and simply lounge around. There are many different options on the market for materials that you can use for a patio or deck and sometimes all the choices can quite frankly be a bit bewildering. How do you choose the right thing? Luckily, pool deck pavers or patio builders will be able to help you out with suggesting materials and there are plenty of online resources to use as well.
What’s the Difference Between a Deck and a Patio?
Perhaps one of the most basic distinctions between a patio and a deck is that a patio is built on the ground level and decks are typically not built on the ground level. And because a deck is higher up, it also usually requires railings of some kind to be put in for safety and stability. Patios can be any size or shape and doesn’t need walls surrounding it. Decks usually need more upkeep to prevent molding or rot, since the most common material for decks is wood or a composite type of material. Decks can be more expensive to install than patios, but are easier to do yourself.
What Materials Should I Use for a Deck?
Wood is often a popular option for homeowners to choose for their new deck. Woods such as redwood, cedar, or pine that’s been pressure treated are often common woods that are used in building a new deck. Pressure treated wood is actually a great route to go, because it can last for up to 15 years, is relatively inexpensive (as compared to other types of decking) and is the most popular material to boot!
However, composite decking or vinyl decking can be easier on a person’s budget and doesn’t warp or splinter, like wood decking often does. You may also need to put in less upkeep — where wood can easily mold or rot without a proper sealant, vinyl tends to be more resistant.
Aluminum decking has also slowly found an increasing market. It’s harder to find, but is the strongest type of decking and has been proven to last the longest out of any other material. If you’re building a pool deck tough, you’ll want to consider other options. Pool deck pavers often use concrete or a tile to create a smooth and uniform look.
What Materials Might be Best for a Patio?
The nice thing about a patio is that well…it can be made out of almost anything! Concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel….you name it, someone’s probably built a patio out of it somewhere! As long as you build a patio on a deep base (between eight to 12 inches in depth), they should last for awhile and also look brand new for at least a year. Most patios are constructed of stone or tile — travertine is a popular option if you’re looking at tile. It’s a limestone that’s made in hot mineral springs and comes in a range of colors — white, tan, brown, cream, and gold, which can lend an earthy look to your patio! Stone or concrete may be more durable options and can often last longer. For a simpler and less expensive option, some people may use different types of gravel or pebbles. Brick can get pricy, but often looks elegant and rustic.
Naturally, if you have any questions, you should ask the pool deck pavers or other builders, especially if you have any reservations. Be sure to do your research before you agree on location and materials as well!
