Patios, Pergolas, and Decks, Oh My!

So, you’ve decided your backyard needs a facelift. Or you’ve moved into a new home and the backyard is a blank slate. Whatever the situation, it’s a fun time to dream about what your ideal outdoor space will look like. Today we’re going to focus on the hardscape. In a nutshell, hardscaping is anything in your overall landscape design that isn’t living. So, it’s the opposite of your landscaping – grass, plants, shrubs, and trees. 

Let’s start with deciding whether a deck or patio is the better fit.

Deck vs Patio

Truthfully, deciding whether a patio or deck is the best fit for your home depends on the structure of your home as well as which one you prefer. Your budget may also play a factor in this hardscape decision.

Decks are made of wood or composite decking and are raised off the ground. They are physically attached to your home, and so require a permit. They’re a good option if your home is built on a crawl space, or the back of your home is on a slope. 

Patios are flush with the ground and are an excellent option if your backyard is mainly level. However, with grading and the use of multiple levels and retaining walls, you can still have a patio even if your yard is sloped. It just takes more prep work.

We have some clients who have us put in both. An elevated deck with a patio underneath is a great design solution for a home on a slope. 

Pergola vs Pavilion

More and more of our clients are opting to put in a pergola or pavilion to provide protection from the elements. These open-sided structures can be made from a variety of materials to complement the rest of your outdoor living space.

A pergola has an open slatted top, which allows the sun to shine through. Many people train vines such as wisteria or Bougainvillea to provide a living roof of sorts. Just be sure to purchase non-invasive varieties. Pergolas can be located on a deck or patio, as well as out in your garden areas.

A pavilion is simply a pergola with a closed roof. It can mimic the profile and materials used in the roof of your home, to provide a cohesive look to your outdoor living spaces. 

Make It Exceptional. Make It Woodfield.

The design team and hardscape contractors here at Woodfield can work with you to determine whether a deck or patio (or both) is best suited to your needs and aesthetics. With the addition of a pergola or pavilion, you and your family and guests have protection from the hot sun as well as a pop-up rainstorm.

We design and install high-end decks and patios made from quality materials such as tropical hardwoods, composite decking, natural stone, and pavers. We do not install decks made of pressure-treated lumber or install stamped concrete patios. Check out our Portfolio for examples of our work. 

To schedule a consultation, fill out the contact form or call 443-299-6500. We design and build high-end patios, decks, outdoor kitchens, pavilions, and more for our clients in central Maryland. We look forward to working with you!