Which comes first? The patio or deck?
Depending on the size and placement of your deck, a patio is generally constructed first. This minimises potential damage to your deck during construction of the patio, and allows the subframe and decking boards to be built around the columns. A neater finish is achieved when the boards are mitred around posts and with the appropriate engineering, the patio columns and their foundations can be incorporated into the decking subframe.
Building a patio over a deck retrospectively is achievable, however lifting decking boards and modifying the deck to suit the patio can often create modifications that appear as an ‘after thought’
Both the patio and deck generally complement each other and both will enhance the usability of your outdoor living area. A covered deck lasts longer and needs less maintenance, so be sure to design a patio that covers the entire deck. On the other hand, a patio without a deck or finished floor can limit the functionality of the space and leave it appearing half done.
Our hot tips for planning your project are listed below:
- Decide on a patio design. The design must satisfy your primary needs and complement your house design.
- Determine your deck’s footprint. Will the deck share a perimeter with the patio or extend beyond the patio columns?
- Can the patio columns form part of the deck subframe? The patio designer will need to engineer the footings and column size to support both structures.
- Proceed with your patio installation.
- After footings are set, commence the deck frame installation.
Install decking boards and neatly mitre around columns. We recommend a composite decking board with minimal maintenance requirements. Concealed fixings make for a neater finish. Wider boards have a greater visual impact and are a popular choice.
Planning is key. When the project is carefully thought out and executed in the right order, the end result can look that much better!
If in doubt, speak with one of our friendly supervisors at Abel Patios and we’ll happily provide some guidance on where to start. Contact us today!