Having an outdoor space in your home has many benefits. Either you go for a deck or porch, they promote better ventilation and add the comfort of relaxation. But, you might be having a hard time deciding which option among these two is a better choice for you.
As the deck and porch are outside, and both expand your living space, you would want to know if there are any differences between them. And if yes, what are they?
Deck typically does not have covers, while porches are covered and sit underneath the main roof’s overhang. Similarly, decks can be detached from the rest of the property, but porches are directly attached. You can install the deck in many places of your choice. Porches are either at the front of the house or on the opposing sides.
Before you make any changes to your property, it is always wise and practical to go through all the options, then finalize your decision. This article highlights the dissimilarities between a deck and a porch.
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What Makes A Deck Different Than Porch?
Everyone gets this thought one time in their life to improve the outlook of their home by adding an outdoor space. There are two basic options you can choose from, including a deck and a porch. Often, people get easily confused between the two because of some striking similarities. However, they are very different in terms of positioning and function.
Decks and porches have their own set of advantages, and to decide which can be the best outdoor living space for your home, you should know about the main difference between them. It will help you pick out the one that best suits your vision and lifestyle. Let’s give them a read!
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Design And Appeal:
Decks are roofless structures mainly composed of wood and come in different shapes and sizes. You can personalize them to fit them with the idea of your ideal outdoor living space. Based on your purpose and usage, you can design the deck accordingly to add a touch of convenience.
The most beneficial aspect of installing a deck is that it adds appeal to your home’s exterior. Regardless of the kind of wood or material you choose, your deck will successfully enhance the overall look of your property, making it more interesting.
On the other hand, porches have a roof or cover above them that provides you protection. You can easily sit outside without worrying about a sudden change of weather. However, it gives a more conventional and older vibe to outer space. Also, your margin of experimentation with the design is limited as the porch is directly attached to the home itself.
Location:
You can construct a deck in any specific part of your home as per your preferences. Most commonly, people like to install their deck in the backyard creating a fun area for dining or other entertainments. Some prefer having the deck on the sides of their property to utilize the extra vacant space. Thus, the deck location can also depend upon the amount of spare area you have on the property.
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Porches are usually added to the front of the home, acting as a part of the entranceway. They are covered by an overhang or extension of the roof, making them a safe and comfortable outdoor space. They can also be located on the sides of the house. But, they are always sharing the roof with the rest of the property and are not a separate addition.
Multi-Range Functionality:
A deck offers a wide range of functionality. It is a big reason behind its recent acceleration in popularity. You can design and construct it to use it as a relaxing space for many activities. For instance, they can work as a surround for swimming and hot tub, to create an outdoor dining room, or it may contain an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit. The possibilities with decking are endless.
You can use the porch as a sitting area and enjoy the weather or as a reception area for guests. It also can work as outdoor storage. However, compared to decking, your options with the porch are relatively restricted.
Sustainability:
The sustainability of a deck or porch depends upon the material used in its creation. Generally, a porch is believed to be more durable and long-lasting because of being covered with a roof. Decks, on the opposite, have direct exposure to harsh weather situations and have a shorter life span. They might require regular maintenance and can be hard on the budget.
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But, it is not always the case, and using appropriate materials for your outdoor space can turn them more sustainable. When you opt for materials like fiber cement decking and composite decking, it can prove helpful in extending the life span of the deck and porch. Similarly, the use of modified wood products can also provide added durability.
Uplifting Property Value:
Installing a deck in your house can significantly increase its resale value, and more and more people are considering it. There are a few logical reasons behind it. Firstly, the deck adds more useable space to the home, costing half of building a new room inside the house. Besides, they also make a visibly appealing gathering space and give a modernized feel to your property.
Adding a new porch might not promote a dramatic house resale value. Nevertheless, reviving the old one to a better condition can work in your favor. A well-maintained porch can determine how swiftly your property sells and the selling price.
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Final Thoughts:
Before you perform some improvements and additions to your home, it is better to know the differences between the deck and porch to make a better decision. The deck can be great for having a personalized space to do your favorite things, and you are free to install it anywhere you prefer. Although a porch gives you a protective area, it offers fewer designs for enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your home.