A Hosting Floor in the Great Outdoors

Deck vs. Patio: A Homeowner’s Guide on Longevity and Value

There’s something unmistakable about a Michigan summer, as anyone who lives

here will lament over a hot chocolate four months every year. It’s nostalgic for

anyone who’s experienced it: the feeling of bare feet lakeside in the warm sand

or a sunny afternoon with an ice cold lemonade. We squeeze every ounce of

value out of warm evenings, crisp fall afternoons, and those picturesque nights.

Because we know better than most: good weather here is precious, and it never

lasts as long as we want it to.

Your deck or patio is where your home meets the outdoors. It’s a transition

space between you and the world where you can step out with your morning

coffee, enjoy a conversation around the fire and extend your hosting space

naturally. This bridge between your indoor life and the world outside silently

supports every backyard moment. Crossing your old porch, you might notice a

spongy board underfoot. A few corroded nails have popped up, and the railing

to the door isn’t quite as sturdy as it used to be. It’s time for a new deck, you

realize. Or is it?

Sticks & Stones: The Bones of the Build

It’s important to understand that a patio and a deck aren’t the same thing, even

though they both create more outdoor living space. A patio sits directly on the

ground, generally built out of stone, pavers, or concrete. These products blend

more naturally with your yard’s landscape. Deck construction is more regulated,

and the technical installation knowledge has little overlap with that of patio

construction. While a patio can’t technically be a deck, some homeowners

combine the concepts—building a raised platform with stone or concrete

surfaces—to get the look and feel of both. Knowing the difference helps you

choose the right option for your home and lifestyle.

From the Ground Up: Materials Matter

Decks are mainly built from pressure-treated lumber. An option with an

extended lifespan would include composite or PVC decking options. With the

proper construction, ventilation and maintenance, a wood deck can last

decades before needing significant work. In less common situations, more

intensive solutions like steel-frame and masonry pillar structures can reduce

maintenance but typically share higher up front install cost and design or

engineering to meet Code and local requirements.

The surface of a deck, which is often overhauled by homeowners before a

comprehensive rebuild is considered, can be made of several kinds of material.

The most common are deckboards made of treated lumber, PVC or composite.

Many deck board manufacturers have strict installation guidelines and limited

warranty coverage when these are not followed.

Resurfacing an Old Deck: Right or Wrong for Lifelong Leisure

Most often, we see homeowners and contractors making the choice to replace

an older deck, especially with the dramatically increased cost of construction3

materials. People find that the cost of resurfacing offsets the price of a new

deck enough to simplify the decision. When the structure underneath a

resurfaced deck is too old to last many more years, a ground-up rebuild is the

smartest course of action. For homeowners deciding whether to replace or

upgrade, material choice becomes the next critical factor.

Composite Decking: Ticket to Totally Maintenance-Free?

With increasing popularity in recent years and a strong uptick in usage during

Covid with the dramatic rise in lumber prices, composite decks have become a

common inquiry for homeowners who value durability and a long lifespan on

their outdoor projects. A number of factors help these decks to outlast their

wooden counterparts, but there are factors to consider that make the decision a

bit more challenging.

Without the need to sand, treat or stain a new composite deck every 1-2 years,

the appeal is relatable. Add a composite or aluminum railing, and the

maintenance is negligible. The most significant factor becomes the installation

team. There are a number of technical differences to installing a composite deck

over a wooden one, some of which are not common knowledge to all deck

installers. The most important way to make sure your deck lasts for decades

and adds value to your home and yard is to make sure that you have a trusted

team behind the product.

Most composite boards require proprietary fasteners that are unique to their

manufacturer. A good crew emphasizes using the proper fasteners on the install

and the proper equipment to keep outcomes consistent. The choices made at

the ground level protect your investment and help both the deck and the

warranty last for decades. An experienced contractor might even offer

additional options like joist taping, drainage, access solutions for long term

durability and care.

Patios are an alternative with a competitive per-square-foot cost compared

to decks. Although most patios perform best with some regular maintenance,

they will have a comparable lifespan to a well-built deck. Pavers are not the only

patio solution. Often, factors like budget, use and size affect the homeowner’s

conversation with their backyard designer or contractor who helps them

determine which material is best for them.

Concrete: Simple, Structural, Secure

In the Midwest, people say there are only two types of concrete: cracked

concrete and concrete that hasn’t cracked yet. Our severe winters and extended

rainy seasons cause concrete to break down (yes, you read that right!). Concrete

is not waterproof, and does deteriorate gradually over time, especially when

exposed to temperature swings and constant saturation.

Concrete, even well-mixed and properly finished, is susceptible to cracking with

water saturation and the heaving of the soil below it. Without proper drainage,

this is common. Pavers, concrete and natural stone are all susceptible, and

drainage is crucial for all applications. In our area, water is the biggest threat to

a porch, patio or paved area. It is crucial to develop a drainage plan to pair with

your new install.

Stamped Concrete: The Unique Compromise

An alternative to making the leap from a brushed finish to a paver patio is the

stamped pad upgrade. A number of installers who do brushed concrete have

stamping and coloring tools with a variety of styles to affect the appearance of

your new pour. However, drainage is even more important when considering a

stamped concrete product, because these coloring and stamping products are

often difficult to perfectly replicate. When cracking occurs, as it always does,5

these products must often be completely replaced for a cohesive and

consistent appearance.

Pavers: A Range of Solutions

Possibly the largest ranging solution in both price and appearance is the paver

patio. Many options are priced above a brushed finish option, but can be

competitive to some stamped concrete. The premium look and feel of a paver

space make them a popular selection for clients with mid-to-high-end taste

wanting a traditional or modern appearance.

Manufacturers since the pandemic have made significant improvements in

labor force quality and training practices, but many of the big-box-store

suppliers are still plagued by these issues. There are significant advantages to

selecting a trusted brand for your pavers and block. These companies provide

warranties for peace of mind, ensure adequate quality control and emphasize

standardization to make installation quicker, smoother and more efficient. Ask

your contractor for a brand they recommend, and consult with a contractor who

is familiar with the installation methods and maintenance requirements of the

brand you pick.

As far as ongoing care, every 1-3 years most patio owners reseal their pavers to

maintain the appearance and take the opportunity at 3-5 year intervals to

clean, reseal and re-grout. Patios tend to move slightly with the soil as it

expands and contracts, allowing it to survive with less cracking and

maintenance over time compared to a poured-in place concrete option.

Natural Flagstone: Timeless Appeal

Natural flagstone stands alone on this list as a product with both longevity and

reusability. One exception to this generality is sandstone, which is the

lowest-end natural stone option. On the whole, however, natural flagstone shows6

superior water resistance to asphalt and concrete, and weathers to a deeper

coloration in the elements.

Flagstone is frequently pulled up and relaid to restore old patios and walkways

because of its durability. Many homeowners appreciate its natural appearance

and timeless contribution to any outdoor living space. Natural stone makes for a

seamless blend of decorative landscape and functional living area. These

advantages make natural flagstone a premium selection for mid-and-high-end

clientele.

Life Expectancy: How The Cookie Crumbles

In Michigan, nothing outside lasts forever-especially summertime. But with

informed selection and proper installation you can be ready to enjoy your

outdoor living space every year. Here is a list of products and their expected

lifespan before needing a major overhaul or significant repairs.

Patio & Decking Products Product Life Expectancy:

Composite Deck 30-50 Years

Natural Stone 25-40 Years

Paver Patio 15-25 Years

Treated Wood Deck 25-35 Years

Concrete (brushed) 15-25 Years

Concrete (stamped) 15-25 Years

Deck vs. Patio: So Which Is For Me?

In Michigan, success isn’t about the surface—it’s about what’s underneath.

Proper base preparation and drainage are non-negotiable for either option, and

a proper installer is the one who takes the time to address these concerns. Good7

work doesn’t come cheap, and cheap work isn’t all that good, so keep in

mind that the labor and material cost for any living space will be an investment

in your home. Make an effort to communicate your priorities to your contractor,

and ask for advice as you determine the best fit for your needs.

Return on Investment (ROI):

●. Decks often show higher short-term ROI and are viewed as a living

space extension

●. Patios provide strong long-term value thanks to durability and low

upkeep

From an appraisal standpoint, both can increase home value—but only if they’re

built correctly. Poor drainage, improper footings, or cheap materials can turn

either option into a liability instead of an asset.

The Bottom Line: Function Before Finish

There’s no universal winner in the deck vs. patio debate. The right choice

depends on your yard, your lifestyle, and how long you plan to stay in your

home. A deck can elevate views and usability. A patio can deliver unmatched

longevity and simplicity.

What matters most is partnering with a contractor who understands your

chosen product, climate effects, and long-term performance. When your

outdoor space is engineered with intention, it becomes more than a weekend

upgrade—it becomes a lasting extension of your home.

You’re not just building a deck or patio.

You’re building value that stands up to the seasons.