There are many varieties of outdoor structures, so it is common to mistake one for the other. Likewise, the deck and terrace might share a few features, but they differ in designs and characteristics.
Both of them are spots for relaxation and recreational purposes. One would think, what elements make a deck and terrace distinct from each other. Let’s discover them today!
A deck is an elevated outdoor structure, usually constructed from wood or composite material. The terrace is an open platform and less expensive to build. Wooden decks need maintenance and care, but they also enhance the property value. Besides, you can design and customize them as per your liking, unlike terraces.
It can be hard to stick with one outdoor space option when you are unaware of the various categories plus their pros and cons. This article will help you differentiate between a deck and a terrace to decide which one to choose.
What Makes A Deck Different From Terrace?
Most often, homeowners use the term deck and terrace interchangeably, but they have clear differences. Generally, a terrace is known as a flat roof or open platform that extends outward from a building. On the other hand, a deck is a flat surface constructed outdoors that is capable enough to withstand the weight.
While both deck and terrace are treated as ideal places for hosting get-togethers, parties, and entertaining guests, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two. But, if you observe closely, both are very distinct in terms of materials usage, maintenance requirements, visible appeal, and overall look.
Also Read: Best Decking Material For Winter
Thus, if you are interested in enhancing and upgrading your property by adding either a terrace or a deck, you must be able to tell them apart. By knowing the differences, you would have more clarity regarding making the correct choice for yourself.
Five Distinguishing Factors Between A Deck And A Terrace:
Some key factors separate a deck from a terrace on a more technical level. Let’s give them a read!
1. Material:
Decks are roofless platforms, primarily composed of composite wood or processed lumber. People also prefer using natural wood for deck installation. But, most avoid it as the wood is prone to splintering, warping, and swelling under extreme weather conditions.
A terrace surface, on the contrary, utilizes a wide range of materials, including concrete, brick, stone, and ceramic tiles. In addition, wood can also get used for this multi-purpose outdoor space, but it is not that common. Because of the difference in materials, the terrace is often long-lasting compared to decks, as wood can deteriorate faster when exposed to harsh environments.
2. Building Cost:
When comparing the cost of the deck and terrace, a few things can determine which option is more expensive. It includes material costs, project location, the scale of work, also, not to forget other additional features that you want to add to your outdoor space.
For instance, a terrace built directly on the ground is significantly cheaper than a raised one. Similarly, this is more within budget to install ordinary decks on a flat surface rather than raised or floating decks. However, as a general observation, decks are on the more expensive side than the terrace.
The biggest reason behind this is that the deck material, such as wood or composite, is not cheap. In addition to it, the labor cost required for the deck construction plus leveling the ground can further elevate the price range of this project.
3. Maintenance Requirements:
It is much easier to maintain a terrace, especially when compared to a wooden deck. Wood is vulnerable to damage, cracking, and splintering in varying temperatures. It demands extra care and upkeep to keep them in a good state and extend their life span. Also, wooden decks are sensitive to moisture and may lose their glory if exposed to heavy rains and snowfall. Thus, if you live in a region with unpredictable weather, you are bound to maintain your deck regularly.
Terrace does not require constant upkeep, but it doesn’t mean that you can neglect it. To keep your outdoor place as good as new and to uplift the look of your house, you should also pay attention to the maintenance of your terrace.
Also Read: Can You Install Composite Decking In The Winter
4. Value-Adding To Property:
Every homeowner wants to increase the value of their property for future resale. By taking this point into account, they prefer an option that helps them achieve this goal. Decks are a more modernized version of outdoor spaces, so they have more value-adding potential than simple terraces. A well-constructed deck can increase the house value to about 60 to 75 percent, and for a terrace, it is about 50 percent.
Besides, regional factors also have a crucial role to play. Decks can add even more value to the property in areas where outdoor lifestyles are a luxury. Moreover, as composite decks are almost maintenance-free, picking them will favor the homeowners more than a simple terrace.
Also Read: Deck VS Porch
5. Design Customization:
When choosing a deck or a terrace, it is dependent on what you prefer. Terraces can be suitable for some house types, while decks are ideal for others. However, the edge you get with decks is that you can customize them according to your liking and design requirements. If you opt for composite decks, you get more freehand over choosing a unique design style and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property. With terraces, the customization options get limited, and you cannot experiment with them a lot.
Conclusion:
Decks and terraces are distinct from each other, having their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Wooden and composite decks can elevate the whole appearance of your house and give it a touch of modernity. There is not argument in that everyone loves a beautiful and fun outdoor entertainment spot for spending some memorable time. Terraces can also provide you with additional outdoor space, and they are less expensive than decks. It is up to you to decide which one will work the best for you.
Also Read: Deck VS Balcony: Differences, Costs, Pros and Cons