When it comes to patio, deck, and porch design, many homeowners wonder what the difference is between them all. They might also be confused if a patio and deck are interchangeable or if a porch is just a patio with walls.
In this article, Cal Frame BBQ explores the differences between patio vs. deck vs. porch so you can figure out how to design and decorate your outdoor space!
Contents
What is a deck?
If you’ve ever seen a house with a wooden platform attached to the back or side, that’s a deck. Decks are typically wood but can also be composite materials like Trex.
Decking boards are then laid perpendicular to the beams and joists to create the flooring surface.
Decks can be open or covered and are a great place to entertain or relax outdoors. Here are the common characteristics of a deck:
- Decks are usually built with wood but can be composite materials like Trex
- Decks have beams and joists that the decking boards are laid perpendicular to
- They can be open or covered
- The space under a deck can be used for storage
What are decks mainly used for?
Decks are mainly used for entertaining guests or relaxing outdoors. Most people install decks because they want to create an outdoor living space.
If you have a deck, chances are you use it for cooking out, hosting friends, or enjoying the outdoors. Decks can also store patio furniture or grilling supplies like those at Cal Frame BBQ.
What is a patio?
On the other hand, a patio is a paved outdoor area that adjoins a house. Patios are made of concrete, stone, pavers, or brick. When you say patio, this refers to the actual flooring material.
The patio can be used for many activities, such as entertaining, dining, or simply relaxing. Here are the common characteristics of a patio:
- Patios are made of concrete, stone, pavers, or brick
- They can be any size or shape
- Most patios adjoin the house, but they can be freestanding.
What is a porch?
Last but not least, a porch is an outdoor space that is attached to the front of a house. Unlike decks and patios, porches are usually enclosed and have a roof. In fact, porches are often called “covered decks” or ” screened-in patios.”
Porches can be used for entertaining, relaxing, or as an extra space to store things like bikes or patio furniture. Among other things, here are the common characteristics of a porch:
- Porches are usually enclosed with walls and a roof
- They can be any size or shape
- Porches are typically built on the ground but can be raised off the ground.
- Porches can be used for entertaining, relaxing, or storing patio furniture and other outdoor items.
You can think of porches as a cross between a patio and a deck. They’re typically made of wood or composite materials, can be any size or shape, and are built on the ground level (but can be raised off the ground). Porches combine the best of both worlds by providing a protected outdoor space.
Decks, Patios, and Porches: What’s the Difference?
Generally, decks are made of wood or composite materials and built on the ground level (but can be raised off the ground). At the same time, porches are usually enclosed with walls and a roof and are typically built on the ground level (but can be raised off the ground).
Patios are made of concrete, stone, pavers, or brick and can be any size or shape. Most patios adjoin the house, but they can be freestanding. Among all, a porch is probably the most versatile outdoor space since it not only has a roof and walls for protection from the elements.
How to design your patio, deck, or porch: factors to consider
When designing and decorating your patio, deck, or porch, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to think about:
The size of the space:
How big is your patio, deck, or porch? This will determine how much furniture and other decors you can fit in the space. Think about how you want to use the space and what activities you’ll be doing there.
The shape of the space:
Is your patio, deck, or porch a regular rectangle or square? Or is it an irregular shape? The shape will also affect how you design and decorate the space. For example, if you have a large, rectangular patio, you might want to consider installing a pergola or placing furniture in specific areas to create different “zones.”
The location of the space:
Is your patio, deck, or porch in a sunny spot? Or is it in a shady spot? The location will affect what kind of plants you can put in the space and how you can use the space. For example, if your patio is in a sunny spot, you might want to consider adding some sun-loving plants or installing a patio umbrella for shade.
The flooring material:
What is your patio, deck, or porch made of? This will affect what kind of furniture and other decors you can use. For example, if your patio is made of concrete, you might want to consider adding an outdoor rug or some patio cushions for comfort.
The weather:
What is the weather like in your area? Think about the temperature and precipitation. This will affect what kind of furniture and other decors you can use. For example, if you live in an area with hot summers, you might want to consider adding some patio umbrellas for shade.
What do you plan to use the space for:
Are you planning on a backyard barbecue? Or do you just want a place to relax and read a book? The answer to this question will affect what kind of furniture and other decors you need. Grill? Chairs and a table? Outdoor rug? Planters?
What are some essential furniture and decors for a patio, deck, or porch?
While the furniture and decors you’ll need will depend on how you plan to use your patio, deck, or porch, there are some essential items that every space needs. Here are some things to consider:
Seating
Consider adding some chairs, a bench, or a patio set. If you have the space, you might even want to add a chaise lounge or an outdoor sofa. Direct Wicker’s wicker furniture, for example, is a popular choice for patio and porch furniture since it’s durable and easy to care for.
Tables
Every patio, deck, or porch needs a table. Whether you need a coffee table, end table, or dining table will depend on how you plan to use the space. If you’re planning on entertaining, you might want to consider a patio set with an umbrella.
Planters
Plants are a great way to add color and life to your patio, deck, or porch. Consider adding some potted plants or hanging plants. You might even want to add a garden if you have the space.
Lighting
What’s a patio, deck, or porch without some lighting? Add some string lights, patio lanterns, or even solar lights. Candles are also a great way to add ambiance to your space.
Decorations
Additional touches like rugs, cushions, pillows, and throws can make your patio, deck, or porch feel like home. Get creative and have fun with it!
Final Thoughts
Decks, patios, and porches are great ways to extend your living space and enjoy the outdoors. But it’s important to know the difference between these three outdoor spaces.
The type of space you have will affect how you use it and what kind of furniture and decors you’ll need. So, think about how you want to use your patio, deck, or porch, and then start making it your personal oasis.