Get ideas for patio placement and layout in your yard. Designer/contractor Scott Cohen takes you to several homes to show you how he designed patios that take advantage of each yards size These patios are both functional and beautiful.
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What is a Patio – What is a Deck?
Depending on where you live, these two words are sometimes used interchangeably. It could depend on your region or area, or someone could be simply using the wrong word.
For clarification, a patio is something that is either built into or directly on top of the ground.
A deck is something that is raised or above the surface of the ground. Building a deck, depending on how high you decide you want it, could also allow for you to have space underneath if for storage or a patio.
A good example of a deck with space underneath – would be building one off the second story of a townhouse that allows for you to walk out the second story door or out the first floor (or basement) underneath the deck.
A deck off a second floor bedroom is also popular.
Types of Decks:
Above Ground Pool Deck
These decks are almost essential if you have an above ground pool. They make entering and exiting the pool a breeze, (a lot like an underground pool). They also make your entire back yard safer. Your pool will be protected from breaks and your family won’t be at risk to falling off out of the pool.
Wood Deck
Obviously the traditional deck. Wood deck are the classic choice and are easily the most confortable option. Using wood also gives you unlimited design options. Plus, you can paint or stain the deck as much as you like, thus suiting it to any season or changing exterior of your home.
Composite Deck
The composite deck could be the most exciting new innovaion in deck material. Half wood, half polymer, the composite deck has all the strength and durability of a vinyl deck with the aesthetic appeal of a wooden deck. It also won’t splinter and it lasts a long time.
Roof Deck
Hey, not all of us live in the suburbs with a beautiful sprawling backyard. Urban townhouses often suffer from lack of backyard space, but vertically they have far more options. You can build a rooftop deck in most townhouses and apartment buildings. You could also incorporate a small garden. Just make sure that you have a secure railing to prevent any dangerous falls. Sun Bathe Away!
Vinyl Deck
Truly the deck that the space age built vinyl decks are affordable, durable and they last forever. You never need to stain or paint them. They come in just about any color you could imagine. They also work like real wood, so you don’t have to buy any new tools in order to install one in your back yard. Your splinter free family will thank you for the vinyl deck.
