Springtime is a good time for Ivy Lea Construction to build a deck or add a patio to your home in Western New York after the winter snow melts away.
What are some of the differences between a deck and a patio?
Decks are typically made of solid wood with slotted surfaces, elevated off the ground whereas water can run through the slotted floor to the ground underneath. Some areas require permits and/or inspections if you want to attach a deck onto your house. Patios are typically made of solid surfaces (such as stones or concrete) on the ground. They have a slight slope to deflect water away from the home and into the yard. Patios aren’t attached to the home which means municipalities typically don’t require permits or inspections should you want to add them. Unlike off-the-ground decks, patios are typically at ground level, though some have extra base material to elevate them several feet off the ground if desired.
If you have a second-story room and would like to be able to easily sit outside, a deck would be the logical choice. Decks can incorporate benches, planter boxes, railings and walls to add to their functionality, beauty, safety and privacy. Since rain water flows through decks, it’s important to check the dirt below on occasion for settling as well as to check the basement for any flooding should water pool and try to sneak into the home through cracked foundation walls. Also, over time, wooden decks may need some maintenance and a good re-staining/painting now and then to freshen them up.
Would you like to have a small fire outside? Then you should consider a patio where that’s appropriate. Paved/stone patios are quite durable, resistant to the elements, and unlike decks, their shape and size knows few limits. Occasionally you might notice weeds growing through cracks on older patios, though newly installed patios are generally solid and built to last decades without deteriorating. Sealing patios can make them appear shinier and refreshed looking.
Are you curious about adding a deck or patio to your Buffalo-area home? Call Ivy Lea Construction today at 716-875-8674 to get a free estimate.