Difference Between Deck Porch and Patio

Key Difference – Deck vs Porch vs Patio
 

Deck, porch, and patio are three words that are used to refer to exterior domestic spaces. All three of these architectural structures allow us to enjoy outdoors without stepping a foot outside the house. Although all these areas have many common features, there are some differences between them in terms of architecture. A deck is a flat, roofless platform or terrace adjoining a house; a porch is  a covered shelter projecting in front of the entrance of a house whereas a patio is a paved outdoor area adjoining the house. This is the key difference between deck, porch and patio.

What is a Deck?

A deck is a flat, roofless platform or terrace adjoining a house or other building. It can be structurally attached or detached to the house. Decks are usually made of wood. Redwood and cedar are the commonly used timber for decks. Decks are usually not made at ground level; they are elevated from the ground. Thus, most decks are enclosed by a railing. Decks can also be covered by a pergola or canopy. Decks can have space for dining, seating, and BBQing.

What is a Porch?

A porch is a covered shelter projecting in front of the entrance of a building. It is always attached to the house, or the main building. Although the porch is external to the walls of the house, it may be enclosed in various types of frames such as walls, columns which extend from the main building. A porch can be covered or open. In American English, the term veranda is the same as a porch.

What is a Patio?

A patio is a paved outdoor area adjoining a house. The word patio comes from Spanish and refers to an inner courtyard. Patios can be attached or detached from the main buildings. However, they are always built on the ground and do not need railings. A patio is usually at the back of a house and is used for dining and recreation. It is typically decorated with outdoor furniture and plants. Concrete, stones, tiles, brick, cobbles are some common materials that are used to build patios.

What is the difference between Deck Porch and Patio?

Position:

Deck can either be at the front or back of the house.

Porches are at the front of a house.

Patios are usually built at the back of the house.

Material:

Decks are typically made of wood.

Porches can be made of various materials.

Patios are typically made of stone, concrete, tiles, bricks or cobbles.

Purpose:

Decks can be used for dining and recreation.

Porches are used for recreation.

Patio can be used for dining and recreation.

Attached:

Decks can be attached or detached to the house.

Porch is attached to the house.

Patio can be attached or detached to the house.

Roof:

Deck typically doesn’t have a roof.

Porches have a roof.

Patios typically don’t have a roof.

Level:

Decks are elevated from the ground.

Porches are on the same level as the main house.

Patios are built on the ground.