Backyard Landscaping

If you are planning to increase your alfresco space, then the best way is to have a deck or a patio. The choice is difficult to make as it encompasses investment and you certainly require the best option to enjoy your outdoor space.

Except for your personal fondness, there are definite things that you must consider before laying your decision between a stone patio and a wood deck. Though, personal fondness is an important factor that you must consider but there are several other factors to consider as well. Here are some of the factors that will help you make your decision appropriately.

1. Level of the ground on which it will stand: This is one of the important factors that you must consider before making any conclusion. What is the elevation of your rear door? Is it just a single step away to the yard or is there enough space with significant slope? A stone patio will be ideal for your backyard if it has not enough space to construct a deck and therefore, leaves no room for the needed supports. If your backyard has a large area, then you must think of a wood deck for the same. A wood deck will also allow building around trees without harming the trees if built over tree roots.

2. Patios incur low maintenance: Wood decks require more maintenance in comparison to stone patios. Wood decks usually entail an annual maintenance which is generally in the form of water sealing at least. Stone patios on the other hand entail less maintenance with just repointing of the surfaces at some point and not annually. Maintenance of both stone patio and a wood deck depends on the type of materials employed to build the deck and the environment of the deck in which it is built.

3. Cost of construction: The cost of a stone patio or a wood deck is more or less similar. It’s not that it will cost you a lot of dollars. The cost of constructing any one of them depends on the type of materials utilized. Commonly, it is considered that wood decks are pricey compared to stone patio pavers.

Stone Patio Designs

Even if you have understood the factors that you need to consider before finalizing between the two options. You must remember to consider the purpose of your outdoor space. Will you use your alfresco space for small gatherings or for large gatherings? Will these gatherings be casual or formal? Will you be using this space for reading newspaper, barbecuing, etc.? All these questions will help you decide what you want for your alfresco space. If you are thinking of formal or large gatherings, then it is appropriate to go for a smooth stone patio design whereas if you are planning a small, casual gathering, then a wood deck will just be perfect for the mood.

If you are still confused between the two, then you can opt for an artistically designed elevated wood deck which is often nicely highlighted with a lower stone patio. Lagras