If you’re looking to boost your outdoor entertainment space, a big component of the project will likely be the addition of adequate and plentiful seating areas. You have two general options for seating and dining outdoors: wood decks or paver patios in Michigan. They each come with their benefits and drawbacks. Today our brick experts will go over the pros and cons of each to help you decide on the best option for your home and budget.
Cost
The final cost to you will depend greatly on the type you get: deck or paver patio, as well as any customizations and features you may want to add. Pricing is typically based on the size of the patio, how much work needs to be done for installation, and types of materials used, among other factors.
Let’s say you require multiple footings to create a raised wood deck. This would cost more than if you were to install a simple paver patio. On the other hand, if you have a sloping backyard that needs extensive excavation to install a paver patio, this will add to your cost.
In general, paver patios are less expensive than wood decks. Because brick paving is easier to maintain, repair, and replace than wood decking, you will likely get more of a return on investment with the paver patio.
Installation Time
Installation time will depend on a variety of factors, especially regarding the land on which the patio will be installed. If you have a flat backyard, installation time will be minimal. If you have sloping land or landscaping that must be removed, the extra prep time will add to the overall timeline.
Another consideration is that many towns require building permits for wood and other decks, yet not for paver patios. Why? Decks are installed onto the house, while paver patios are a standalone slab elsewhere on the property. Thus, code requirements can affect installation times.
Durability and Maintenance
Brick pavers are more durable than wood. Yes, you can add to the lifespan of a wood deck by using high-quality materials and staining or sealing every couple of years, but this adds to your costs. And while wood can warp, rot, and become infested with pests, pavers do not.
It’s also easier in general to maintain a paver patio. You may have to re-sand or re-level the patio area over the years due to the ground settling or shifting underneath, but you’re not spending as much on new materials because pavers can last decades.
In Conclusion
Whether you choose a wood deck or a paver patio will depend on a variety of factors, such as budget, function, desired aesthetics, and willingness to perform maintenance. This is why it’s helpful to come up with a budget for your project, get a few estimates, then compare the costs of both. Consider the function you’re going for and how it will impact the design. In the end, we believe paver patios not only perform better and look better, but they also last longer and give you a bigger return on investment.
Schedule Your Free Estimate on Paver Patios Today
Call us to schedule your free estimate and consultation today on installing a paver patio. We would be happy to come up with a customized design concept for your new patio to enhance the enjoyment of your home and boost property value.
