What Types Of Patio Are There, And How They Differ From Decks And Balconies?
A perfect backyard for relaxing, spending time with family and outdoor gatherings is incomplete in the absence of a sitting area. Hence, it is a key factor to consider while designing the backyard, and the important question is how it will fit with the rest of the backyard landscape. A patio or deck is regarded as the best way to create a comfortable and well-defined seating area in the backyard. But things become very confusing when people ask about the differences between a patio and a deck.
People also ask what option is more expensive and if it is possible to build the patio through DIY or an expert team would be required. Please read this article until the end as we discuss the differences between decks, patios, porches, verandahs, balconies, etc. and assess the benefits of a patio.
WHAT IS A BACKYARD PATIO?
The term, patio is used to define a paved area built directly on the ground. It has no walls at all, and depending on your choice, you can attach or keep it unattached from the main residential part. Mostly patios are conceptualised and designed in such a way that they complement the rest of the backyard and the property perfectly.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE PATIOS MADE UP OF?
Depending upon your requirements, you can use various materials, including stone, concrete, bricks, tiles, pebbles, pavers, p-gravel and rocks. Since the structure is tiny, there is no need to add safety railings to the patio.
Based on your requirement and the climate in your region, you can get a skillion roof patio built using a skillion patio kit.
WHAT IS A DECK?
A deck is an open outdoor platform or a porch with no roof. It extends from the building, and in some cases, it is a completely free-standing structure. It can be made of wood, vinyl or composite wood material. Some important factors to consider while deciding between a patio and a duck are -
- A pergola or a cover can be built over both decks and patios
- Fire pits on decks need a fireproof material to separate them from the wood
- Both decks and patios can accommodate an outdoor kitchen
- Both can surround a spa or a swimming pool
- Decks generally cost more to build than patios
- Inspected regularly to meet the requirements set by the government
- Wood decks require annual maintenance to preserve their look
CAN I BUILD MY SMALL PATIO?
Building a patio through DIY is very easy these days as skillion patio kits are available easily in the markets. However, it is recommended to seek services from professionals as it is a time-consuming and exhausting affair. Here are some quick steps to build a small backyard patio on your own.
- Outline the patio area, remove the sod, and excavate a 5-inch base
- Line the excavated area using landscape fabric
- Fill the excavated area with a 4-inch-deep layer of sand and gravel
- Lay down the stones (brick, flagstone, etc.)
- Spread builder’s sand over the stones and work it in with a stiff broom
- Grab your garden hose and finish the patio by watering the surface with a fine mist
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PATIO AND A BALCONY?
A patio and a balcony are completely distinctive structures that can be differentiated easily. Patios are usually made of stone or concrete and installed at ground level.
On the other hand, a balcony is an elevated structure attached to a building on the first floor, second floor or even higher.
A patio is often built completely adjacent to a property, and as mentioned above, it can be a separate area in your backyard. It is available in various sizes and shapes and can be used for different purposes. There are elevated patios as well that come with Skillon Roof Patio.
PATIO FEATURES
- Typically Ground-Level Structures
- Made Of Stone, Brick, Or Gravel
- Often Adjacent To A Home, But Not Attached To Any Structure
BALCONY FEATURES
- Elevated Structure Installed On The Second Story Or Higher
- Feature A Railing And Often A Roof
- Attached To A Building’s Structure
HOW MANY TYPES OF PATIOS ARE THERE?
Patios are mainly characterised by the materials that they are made up of. We have mentioned above that different materials are used for patio construction, and the best ones are discussed here.
GRAVEL PATIO
The first material that homeowners consider for patio construction is gravel. It gives a solid and uniform surface to the patio. Another reason is that gravel is very inexpensive and simple to lay. The drainage system is also very excellent, and this also makes gravel a viable option for patio construction.
FLAGSTONE PATIO
Another fantastic option chosen by patio lovers for decorative patio construction is flagstone. It is also an economically available material, but it can deliver a beautiful garden patio that enhances your property’s overall value. Different types of flagstones are available to choose from, and they all come with different qualities and characteristics.
Apart from this, there are also cut stone patios and paver patios, and both are equally popular in Australia. Paver patios, in particular, are more in demand as pavers are available in different finishes and looks. They can resemble timber, bricks, and tiles and look great upon completion.
