Deck vs. Patio — Snakes, Weeds, and Moisture Concerns

last year

Hi all,

I'm a new homeowner of an old house and would appreciate some advice on how to move forward with our backyard. We currently have a deck that seems to be put directly on the ground.

We have spotted snakes going underneath the deck, and an outgrowth of ivy and weed under and around the deck. That means to me there is a happy hidden garden under the deck that attracts a lot of life. Unfortunately, that makes me uncomfortable using it.

Additionally, there appeared to be significant termite damage on the other side of the split house (which had been treated and we have replaced of a couple of beams and posts). So I was concerned about the moisture control under the deck.

My immediate response was to consider replacing the deck with a paver patio, but I know I know nothing about a house. What would you recommend for peace of mind?

Thank you very much in advance for your insights.

Featured Answer

3katz4me

last year

Stamped concrete patio is the way to go. Deck maintenance is a real PITA even if you get a composite material. We have a paver patio and that has issues too - ants and vegetation growth.

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Comments (13)

littlebug Zone 5 Missouri
last year
My sister in law, who has a terrible aversion to snakes and bugs, bought a house with a similar wood patio. They tore it off and poured a concrete slab patio. She loves it.
Frog Ghost thanked littlebug Zone 5 Missouri
djacob z6a SEWI
last year
I agree about concrete, but I would have the installers do a brick stamp on it. There are many different patterns to choose from. You get the look of an inlay brick without the issues that come with an in laid paver products. Pavers can move and shift over time and you won’t like dealing with that.

debra
Frog Ghost thanked djacob z6a SEWI
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Sigrid
last year
What kind of snakes? If they were garter snakes, they are probably keeping down the mouse population. Garter snakes can be black, gray or brown.
klem1
last year
There are no spotted snakes that are venomous so I wouldn't let them worry me.
K Laurence
last year
This is exactly why I hate decks. Have it removed & replaced with either concrete or pavers. BTW, I’ve had pavers in two homes the past twenty years, they still look like new, no ”shifting” or movement as mentioned.
Frog Ghost thanked K Laurence
K Laurence
last year
“Venomous”or not I don’t want them anywhere near my house! I have a family member who would have a heart attack or a stroke if confronted with one, seriously.
klem1
last year
A very intelligent and world renowned man once said "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself". Phobias are real for those who suffer but with effort they can be less life altering . Make a list of things that kill or seriously injure people (auto collision, disease, gunshot, plane crash,accidental fall,,,,,,,,. Based on past experience compare the liklyhood you will fall victim to each with liklyhood of being snake bit. Once you have a handle on that, research the % of victims that die of snake bit. Hopefully that will take some of the edge off fear of snakes.
einportlandor
last year
Regardless, one's garden is a place to relax, not necessarily a place to work through one's neuroses. OP, if the deck bothers you, tear it out! It's not that special! Replacing it with a patio will allow you to change the shape, texture, size, etc. Make it just the way you want it so you smile every time you step out the door. Go for it!
klem1
last year
After the deck is gone , don't rest on your laurels , there's all kinds of creepy crawlers living in and around landscape plants so those also need to be ripped out. Then you can smile and relax.
porkchop_z5b_MI
last year
I've had both decks and patios, and I by far prefer a patio.
klem1
last year
Fewer menacing creatures are able to reach a deck but it's farther to the ground for drunks.
pennfire
last year
Our cottage in the woods came with lots of snakes. I am not a fan. take out all the shrubs and plantings to reduce the places for critters to live and hunt.

i have seen 20+ old patio pavers that still look great. a poured concret pad is easy and probably the least expensive option.
Frog Ghost thanked pennfire