Many people would be aware of decks commonly seen on ships and other marine vessels. A deck refers to the permanent covering over the hull or the compartment of the ship. This horizontal structure typically serves as the roof of the hull. In addition, it invariably becomes the primary working surface of the ship.
However, when it comes to buildings and architecture, the term ‘deck’ has a different connotation. It refers to a flat surface that builders typically construct outside houses. It remains connected to the main building. But, it will usually remain elevated from the ground. In addition, it will be able to support weight, in much the same way as a floor does. Homeowners will usually enclose their decks with railings for safety purposes. Outdoor decks can form a part of the garden landscaping. Alternatively, they could serve to extend the living areas of houses.
Many home renovation projects invariably involve door or window replacement. However, when it comes to enhancing the functionality and the beauty of your home exteriors, an outdoor deck can be a worthwhile addition. Installing an outdoor deck enables you to give your home exteriors a natural focal point. A deck can make any home appear more compelling and attractive. At the same time, it offers high levels of versatility too. For instance, you could utilise your deck for hosting parties, dining in the open air, camping or even, relaxing.
Many people like spending time outdoors. However, the lack of a comfortable sitting area often stymies them. As a result, despite having spacious yards, these individuals fail to capitalise on their exterior living spaces. Outdoor decks can transform this situation almost effortlessly. Not only are outdoor decks useful when it comes to throwing parties or entertaining guests. These additions can be equally useful on days when you want to bask in the sun in solitude from the comfort of your home.
What is the Difference Between a Patio and a Deck?
Home renovation projects are an inevitable part of life. When people purchase houses, they often look for ways to make the house more liveable. In addition, they explore the avenues by which they can leave an imprint of their personalities on the house. This typically involves displaying their personal tastes and preferences via their home décor accessories, colour combinations and designs used throughout the house.
But, homeowners’ needs seldom remain constant. Family expansions or lifestyle changes will necessitate modifying or renovating the house. Many renovation projects typically involve bathroom and kitchen renovations. However, in some cases, homeowners might want to make their home exteriors more liveable too. This will inevitably make many homeowners wonder whether a patio would look better on their properties or a deck.
The difference between a patio and a deck is not hard to understand. But, knowing which architectural element will look better on your property certainly presents a challenge. To ascertain which of the two would suit your property best, you will need to consider the space available and your requirements.
A patio denotes an open outdoor space set in the ground adjoining the house. Some patios remain attached to the house, while other houses could feature detached patios. In many cases, patios will use a number of materials such as stone, brick, tile or gravel, placed on a base featuring concrete or sand & pebble. Builders will usually construct patios at ground level. Thus, there is little need for installing safety railings as children or pets will not sustain injuries from falls from a ground level patio.
In contrast, builders specialising in alfresco renovations will construct even the lowest decks at an elevation from the ground. For this, they will rely on a system of structural supports. These supports make it possible to build decks at any level of the house. As a result, you could construct a deck attached to your living room at the ground floor. Or, you could even construct decks attached to rooms on the second or third floors of your home or maybe, even the roof.
It is worth mentioning that decks necessitate the need for safety railings. This is especially so for multilevel or higher-level decks. As mentioned earlier, even decks built at ground floor levels will remain elevated from the ground. So, a fall from even a ground floor deck could result in injuries. Decks are also useful in case your yard has an unusual layout. You could use them to create an outdoor recreational space in your yard.