Well, I have a patio and one thing about it is that all the "junk" from the rest of the yard ends up on it. Leaves, dirt, grass clippings, bark..you name it, it's on my dang patio. However, I can't Have a deck because the patio is basically an extension of my foundation. I would choose a deck--even if only 6 inches off the ground--any day!

If you have a fre eview like in the picture I would say deck!

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Wow guys! Thanks a lot. I still haven't moved forward on this project, but as summer approaches I want to. You have all given me a lot to think about. Thanks Lesley.

I really like the idea of a deck basically on the ground. I just love the wood planks more than paving.

In my opinion, there are a lot more design options when you build a patio. In addition, there is much less maintenance than with decks, unless you use manufactured wood. And even if you don't have the time to care for a patio, an aged patio always looks better than an aged deck. We just built an inexpensive L-shaped concrete patio in my backyard with a simple design and it looks fantastic. Next is a pergola and sod, and fun with plants, furniture and accessories. Good luck!

I like the idea of a patio - I just had one put in with various shapes of pennsylvania bluestone - flagstone - it is gorgeous - and does not need staining, sanding, won't deteriorate since it is stone. I also had a small deck that serves more as an entry point into the house - I love it, too. It's size was small enough that I chose IPE wood with metal railings to minimize upkeep. I guess it depends on where you are putting it.

Consider the elevation in relation to your doors, if you only have a few inches to work with between the bottom of your door and your grade (ground level) I would suggest a patio but if you have excess room around 10-12 inches you have plenty of room for a deck. You just want to be mindful that whatever you choose is not creating more labor (which ups the cost) than would be required for the other option. In short don't put a patio where a deck should be or vice versa. Good luck and have fun

What kind of stain should we use for our Ipe deck?