Should I Install A Patio Or Decking Area In My Garden?

Just picture it now: it’s 6 o’clock on a Sunday evening in August. You’re being hugged by an air of warmth left over from the sunny day, and you’re relaxing in your favourite chair. 

Where did you picture yourself? On your property’s decking area, or on the patio?

Having extra space within your garden is the key to having a good summer (and winter – hello, have you ever heard of outdoor heaters?!) but you may find yourself wondering which is better for your property: a patio, or a decking area?

Let’s explore the most glaring issues to help you decide. 

Cost 

In this case, size really does matter. 

Naturally, the cost of your project will significantly depend on the size of the decking area or patio you want installing, not to mention the materials. 

According to Price Your Job, the average cost to install a 20 square metre decking area using basic timber material is around £1,000 – £1,500.  If you’re feeling a bit more la-de-dah, premium timber will increase the price to around £2,500.

In comparison, opting for patio over decking just may save you some pennies, as prices can go as low as £6 per square foot. Alongside this, a quality patio can last more than 25 years whilst also maintaining its value. 

Maintenance 

It’s all good and well having your fancy new outdoor area finished and ready to rock and roll, but let’s not overlook the importance of maintenance. 

What’s the point in having something done if you’re not going to look after it?

Depending on the material, decking requires much more thorough aftercare than patios. Decks need to be power washed, stained, and sealed on a yearly basis in order to maintain its value.

Patios, on the other hand, generally don’t require regular maintenance which can increase its appeal to busy homeowners. Stone patios are extremely durable – pop it down once and you’re free to party on. 

So, which one is right for you?

If you’re looking for a cheaper, no-fuss option, you may want to opt for a patio area to fulfil your outdoor chillaxing requirements, otherwise a decking area will provide exactly the same but at a more ‘premium’ level.

Whichever you decide to pick, don’t forget to get yourself a seating area, an outdoor heater, and perhaps some pretty fairy lights to really set the scene.

Whilst you’re already dealing with one renovation project, why not take a look at other areas of your home? If you feel as though you’d like some fresh new fencing in your new garden, or a roof replacement to add value to your property, Findley Roofing & Building are roofers in South Shields and elsewhere in the North East, and they’d be glad to help.

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