Patio vs Porch vs Deck, it’s an idea most Australian homeowners will battle with at some point when planning an outdoor renovation. There’s a lot of confusion around this topic. Some people lump them all in together, and others may separate them more than what’s needed. So let’s look at each of these structures and how they can transform how you use your outdoor space.
At SEQ Patio Group, we specialise in the design and construction of all kinds of outdoor shade structures. So while our name suggests that we only work with patios, we can actually add shade to any type of outdoor structure.
Patio vs Porch: Key Differences
When considering different outdoor spaces, patios and porches can often be confused with each other, but there are some key differences between them. The main similarity is they both commonly have shaded areas. A porch (also called a veranda) will most likely have a built-in porch roof when the house was first built, or it will have a roof added after as a renovation. A patio area won’t always include a roof, however, in Australia that’s a rare thing to find because of the blistering outdoor heat we get. Patio roofing has become part of the culture here, so when you say ‘Patio’ most people will think of something that includes a roof.
Patios in Australia, tend to mean a shaded outdoor space. Though European definitions may differ, when the average Aussie hears the word ‘patio’ they’ll probably think of something like the image above. However, that’s technically a patio roof, and a patio is, by definition, a paved outdoor area adjoining a house.
Location
A patio is typically located in the backyard or at the side of a house, usually on solid grounds like concrete or gravel. Whereas a porch is usually either attached to a house at the front, side or back—and often includes steps going up to it—meaning it can be elevated off the ground.
Materials
Patios can be made out of almost any kind of material, such as wood, stones, bricks or tiles, while porches are more typically constructed with wooden framing and decking boards due to their elevated nature.
Uses
On top of that, patios are better suited for hosting all kinds of outdoor activities, due to their solid construction and the amount of space they provide. Porches are generally more popular for sitting down and enjoying the view from a cosy spot outdoors during a leisurely day or evening.
What’s the difference between a patio and a deck?
That’s a great question! A patio and a deck are two different outdoor structures, but they’re not all that different.
A patio is a paved outdoor area that’s not built up. The patio pavings tend to be placed directly on the ground that has been levelled out and flat.
A deck on the other hand, is a flat elevated platform that connects the home to the yard. Decks can be either elevated or on-grade. An elevated option is often preferable if your yard is sloped or you want to take advantage of views.
Can you add a patio roof to a deck or veranda?
You’ve decided on a patio, porch, or deck—but can you add a roof to any of them?
The short answer is yes. It’s possible to add a roof to any type of outdoor space.
But, the construction will be different for each one as each space has different needs and requirements for your roof.
Patio Roofs
A patio roof can be attached to a home’s fascia or built above it in the form of a flyover patio roof. However, a patio can also be freestanding and built separately from the rest of the home.
Porch Roofs
Porches usually are covered by an entire roof structure. This tends to be in the form of a long, rectangular roof that stretches from one end of the house to another, or even wraps around the sides. The roof protects the porch from rain and bright sunlight so people can enjoy a nice cuppa’ no matter the weather.
Deck Roofs
Since the main difference between a deck and patio flooring is the level of elevation, adding a roof to a deck is a similar process. Decks next to the home can benefit from an attached deck roof. Decks isolated from the home are best combined with a freestanding cover.
Should I Build a Patio, Porch or Deck? Factors to Consider
You might be wondering whether to build a patio, porch or deck for your outdoor space. Each of these have different advantages and it’s important to do your research and make sure you are getting the right choice for you. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:
Style and Aesthetics
The style of your patio, porch or deck should match the overall look of your home and landscaping. Consider what materials, colour palette, furniture and lighting you might like to use in order to create an outdoor space that is cohesive with the rest of your home.
Space & Footprint
Think about how much space you have available for a patio, porch or deck. Do you want something that requires minimal maintenance or something more complex? A porch is the least space-consuming, but they’re not ideal for entertaining guests. A patio or deck are ideal for people who want a more functional space to use for gatherings or simply more room to manage a growing family.
Budget
Your budget will also be an important factor in deciding between a patio, porch or deck. Some materials require more investment than others — and there may also be building permits, labour costs or delivery charges involved too.
A porch and deck will require additional costs to build the base structure, whereas patio flooring can be paved on any flat ground. This makes it the most affordable option of the three.
At the end of the day, you want to choose an outdoor space that fits your lifestyle now — but also has room for growth if needs change in the future. With those factors in mind, it should help make deciding between a patio, porch or deck a bit easier!
View this post on Instagram
In the end, it all depends on your needs and preferences. A patio is typically an open, flat space that can either be attached to your home or freestanding. A porch typically offers more enclosed living space that is attached to the home. And a deck is an elevated platform that can be attached to your home or freestanding, offering a more elevated outdoor living experience.
No matter which you choose, a patio, porch, or deck can be the perfect addition to your outdoor space. SEQ Patio Group are experts in installing outdoor shade solutions. If you want more shade outdoors, contact us today and we’ll organise a free on-site visit to discuss a quote.
