Quick Answer: Deck or Patio?
Choose a Deck If:
- • You have a sloped or uneven yard
- • You want elevated views
- • Higher resale value is important
- • You want a softer, warmer surface
Choose a Patio If:
- • You have a flat, level yard
- • Budget is your top priority
- • You want zero maintenance
- • You plan to use fire pits
Deck vs Patio: Pros & Cons
🏠 Deck
Advantages
- Works great on sloped or uneven yards
- Elevated views and better aesthetics
- Softer, warmer surface underfoot
- Can be attached to house for seamless access
- Higher ROI at resale (65-75%)
- Easier to add outdoor kitchen/features
- No waiting for concrete to cure
- Can be built over obstacles (roots, pipes)
Disadvantages
- Higher initial cost ($20-75/sq ft)
- Requires regular maintenance (wood)
- Can splinter if not composite
- May require permits in many areas
- Can fade or warp over time
🧱 Patio
Advantages
- Lower initial cost ($6-25/sq ft)
- Minimal maintenance required
- Extremely durable (25-50+ years)
- Fire-resistant for grilling
- Won't fade, rot, or warp
- No splinters or loose boards
- Ground-level accessibility
Disadvantages
- Requires flat or leveled ground
- Hard surface - less comfortable
- Limited design options
- Can crack over time (concrete)
- Drainage can be problematic
- Lower ROI at resale (50-65%)
- Not ideal for sloped yards
Deck vs Patio Cost Comparison
Installed prices for PA & NJ in 2026.
| Material | 🏠 Deck | 🧱 Patio |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Concrete | N/A | $6-12/sq ft |
| Stamped Concrete | N/A | $12-18/sq ft |
| Brick Pavers | N/A | $15-25/sq ft |
| Natural Stone | N/A | $20-35/sq ft |
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $20-35/sq ft | N/A |
| Cedar/Redwood | $30-45/sq ft | N/A |
| Standard Composite | $40-55/sq ft | N/A |
| Premium Composite (Trex) | $50-75/sq ft | N/A |
* Prices are per square foot, installed, including materials and labor.
When to Choose a Deck
A deck is the better choice in these situations:
Sloped or Uneven Yard
Decks can be built at any height with posts and beams, making them ideal for slopes.
Want Elevated Views
A raised deck provides better sight lines and a premium outdoor living feel.
Planning Outdoor Kitchen
Decks make it easier to run gas, electric, and water lines for outdoor kitchens.
Prioritize Resale Value
Decks typically offer higher ROI (65-75%) compared to patios (50-65%).
When to Choose a Patio
A patio is the better choice in these situations:
Flat, Level Yard
A level yard makes patio installation straightforward and cost-effective.
Budget is Priority
Basic patios cost $6-12/sq ft vs $20-35/sq ft for basic decks.
Want Low Maintenance
Concrete and pavers require virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Fire Pit or Heavy Grilling
Patios are fire-resistant and ideal for fire pits or heavy grill use.
Resale Value: Deck vs Patio
65-75%
Wood Deck ROI
Highest return
60-70%
Composite Deck ROI
Great return
50-65%
Patio ROI
Good return
Deck vs Patio FAQs
Is a deck or patio cheaper to build?
A basic concrete patio is typically cheaper ($6-17/sq ft) than a deck ($20-75/sq ft). However, elevated or sloped lots often make decks more cost-effective than grading for a patio.
Does a deck or patio add more value?
Wood decks return 65-75% of cost at resale, composite decks 60-70%, and patios 50-65%. The best ROI depends on your neighborhood and what comparable homes have.
Which lasts longer, a deck or patio?
Concrete patios last 25-50+ years. Composite decks last 25-50 years. Pressure-treated wood decks last 15-25 years with regular staining.
Is a deck or patio better for sloped yards?
Decks are significantly better for sloped yards. Building a deck over a slope with posts and beams is often more economical than grading the land for a patio.