What is a Better Investment in Maryland, a Deck or a Patio?

When homeowners want to increase their outdoor living space, they typically have two options: deck or patio. These two home improvement projects have been at odds since the dawn of time…or at least since patios and decks became commonplace. We hear the question all the time, “What is a better investment in Maryland, a new deck or a new patio?”

A New Deck vs. a New Patio

Initial Cost

The cost for patios and decking are relatively similar. Of course, it all comes down to materials. Do you want a flat concrete patio, a flagstone patio, or a paver patio? Do you want a wood deck or a composite deck? Different materials will affect the price of the project accordingly.

Difficult Landscape

One area where decks have a clear advantage is when it comes to odd landscapes, especially hills. While decks can easily turn an otherwise useless hilly backyard into a functional outdoor living space, patios need level ground. Plain and simple.

Maintenance

For years, patios had the clear advantage when it came to maintenance. Other than plucking the occasional weed from between patio pavers, there is not much maintenance associated with patios. Just sweep debris away and hose them down from time to time. Wood decks, meanwhile, require annual maintenance: cleaning, sanding, staining, and repairs. Enter composite decking.

Newer composite decks offer all of the benefits of wood decks, without any of the maintenance. That’s what we like to call a win-win.

Return on Investment

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2015 Cost vs. Value Report, a wood deck in Maryland carries an average return on investment of 83.3%, while a composite deck carries an average investment of 77.0%. A new patio falls somewhere in between composite and wood decking.

Which Do You Prefer? A New Deck or a New Patio?

Of course, it all comes down to personal preference and existing restrictions: landscape, home design, etc. Do you prefer the look of a paver patio, or do you prefer the look of a new deck? Is your backyard flat, allowing you to choose either home improvement project, or is your backyard uneven, limiting your choices? Where is your backdoor located? This will also play a role in your decision.

If you think a deck makes the most sense for you, contact Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence today!

Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence: A Maryland Deck Builder

Mid- Atlantic Deck and Fence has been building custom fences and decks throughout Maryland since 1987. Today, we have one of the largest selections of low maintenance decking products in the state.

Click Here to request an estimate today!

We use a 3D deck design software program to give you a better idea of how your new deck will look on your home. This is just one of the many reasons that Mid-Atlantic Deck and Fence Co. is one of Maryland’s leading and most innovative deck and fence companies.

If you have any questions about choosing the right deck, please contact Mid Atlantic Deck & Fence (MAD Fence) today by clicking here or calling 1-800-833-9310. We proudly serve Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery and surrounding counties.

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Tags: deck, Investment, Maryland, patio