(913) 706-4700 
Concrete patios and wood decks have one important thing in common: they both serve as a type of “outdoor floor.” The biggest difference between the two is the material type: patios are crafted from concrete pavers or poured concrete in most cases, while decks feature composite or weather-resistant wood.
Some of the substantial differences between the types of materials include design versatility and functionality, cost, and construction. There are some crucially important factors to keep in mind when making your choice of a patio or a deck.
Are Weight Restrictions a Factor for Outdoor Accessories?
A wood deck or other elevated structure might come with unforeseen problems in the amount of weight that it can support. The weight one of these structures can support is one of the reasons building permits are required for decks. Opting for a deck requires careful consideration of what activities will take place and what the weight of your furniture and other items will be.
Examples of items that are often on the heavier side include pizza ovens or outdoor fireplaces. These types of items are heavy enough to make being at ground level desirable. There is less preliminary work required for a patio than there is for a wood deck.
How Do the Costs Differ for Concrete Patios Compared to Wood Decks?
Concrete patios may cost far less than wood decks in Kansas City. For example, wood decks average $16 to $30 or more per square foot, while concrete averages from $15 to $22 per square foot. The most expensive type of concrete that uses pavers averages $24 per square foot.
The colors and patterns used may affect your costs, particularly if you go for stamped concrete. Although railings or steps are rarely required for patios, you may want to think about the benefits of adding seat walls.
What Maintenance Does a Patio Need and How Long Does It Last?
Wood decks require regular maintenance, including washing, restraining, and other upkeep related to wood rot. Patios require little routine maintenance beyond resealing and washing. The only exception is concrete pavers, which require the joints between the pavers to be refilled every few years.
In most cases, you can expect your patio to last 30 years or more. Wood decks, on the other hand, are susceptible to weathering, which can lead to costly repairs over time.
How Much Design Flexibility Do You Have?
Wood decks can be painted or stained in almost any color you can think of. However, the shapes are more limited, mostly confined to rectangles or square shapes.
Poured concrete is easy to put into almost any shape. There are more color choices available, although your color choice will be permanent, so make sure you choose one you’ll love!
You may opt for stamped concrete that resembles other types of materials, like wood, stone, or brick. Engraving or decorative scoring are also possibilities for creating geometric designs.
Another concrete option that provides lots of shapes and colors is using concrete pavers. Like stained or stamped concrete, these color choices are also permanent.
Concrete Patios vs Wood Decks: What to Do When You’re Ready to Decide
Once you’re ready to decide, your next step will be working with the best contractor for the job. If you’ve decided to go with the convenience and reduced cost of a patio, Johnson Concrete is ready to help every step of the way with the look you want.
We create stamped concrete patios according to your specifications, with the exact look that you are seeking. Contact us today to learn more about our concrete patios.
