If you're thinking about adding an outdoor living space onto your Illinois home, there's a few factors to consider before making the decision. The two most common outdoor additions to a property are decks and patios, and while both are great options for homeowners, your budget, property and more play key roles in deciding which one is best for you.
Erdmann Outdoor Living has been an expert exterior remodeler in the Western Chicago suburbs specializing in outdoor structures such as decks, patios, pergolas and more since 1982. Our skilled team of contractors utilizes their extensive knowledge and our top-tier materials to build outdoor living additions for Chicagoans looking to enjoy their yard and the fresh air more frequently. Below are some of the items we believe homeowners should weigh when deciding what will best suit their needs and environment.
The Layout of Your Yard
The first thing any contractor will look at when advising a customer on what to construct for an outdoor living space is the yard itself. An uneven property isn't well-suited for a patio, but a deck could easily be constructed over the top of a changing slope. On the other hand, a flat yard makes a great foundation for a patio installation since cement or other materials can easily be poured or laid out evenly.
Another thing to look at is how much space you have in your backyard. A small, narrow property is a better candidate for a deck, since you won't lose any square footage, while a larger yard could easily accommodate a patio without taking away too much space.
The Climate of Your Region
Another important factor when deciding between a deck and patio is the climate where you live. In Chicago, the sometimes sweltering summers are best enjoyed from a deck, as they absorb far less heat than patios. Erdmann Outdoor Living uses TimberTech decking, which comes in both composite and PVC varieties and are engineered to stay cooler in hot temperatures.
When the cold Chicago winter settles in, both decks and patios typically withstand the elements just fine, but patios can be utilized more frequently during these months, especially if accessories are added on, such as:
- Enclosures
- Built-In Fireplaces
Differences in Pricing
The difference in cost between decks and patios is another reason homeowners may prefer one over the other. Patios cost significantly less to construct, and on top of that, require far less maintenance. This is because patios are usually made from durable materials such as:
- Stone
- Cement
- Gravel
- Brick
The starting price point for decks will always be higher, and can come with more maintenance. A traditional wood deck is less costly than a composite one, but will be prone to rot, insect damage, and splintering if not regularly tended to. Composite decks will cost a homeowner more, but require far less upkeep. It's also worth noting that the resale value of decks is higher than patios, so these can still be a smart investment in the long run!
Lifespans of Decks and Patios
Another key difference between these two outdoor living spaces is their lifespans. Due to being constructed from stronger materials, patios normally outlive decks, and are known to reach up to 50 years before needing to be replaced. Decks however see far less longevity, but depending on the materials used, can still last a homeowner multiple decades.
Traditional wood decks last an average of 10 to 15 years, depending on the regular maintenance it receives. Composite decks have a significantly better outlook, and can last up to 30 years before requiring replacement.
Erdmann Outdoor Living only uses the best materials available for every outdoor living space we engineer for our valued customers, so when you work with us, you can bank on either a patio or deck that will be around for many years to come. Our custom-made structures won us the National Deck Competition in 2022 and a feature in Deck Specialist Magazine, just to name a few of the recognitions we've received for our high-end products and services.
When you want a deck or patio added to your Chicago-area home, Erdmann Outdoor Living is the company to call. Reach out today for a free estimate on either a deck or patio, and speak with one of our expert team members about how either can greatly benefit you and your home!
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