Fall is here and we are all eager to soak up the good weather that is to come! Fortunately, there are many different types of outdoor living spaces that can help you enjoy sunshine and fresh air from the comfort of your own home. Here are some different types of outdoor living spaces and how to determine which might be the best fit for your home.
Decks are elevated structures built using wood or composite materials, and are usually attached to the back of a house. These outdoor living spaces are ideal for rougher landscapes, since they are typically supported by four posts, which allows them to be level on an uneven surface. Decks are easily customizable and can be added to many different types of houses, including smaller houses, mobile homes, and multi-story homes. Additionally, most decks can be outfitted with guardrails, so you and your family can enjoy the views from your backyard safely.
The word “patio” actually originates from Spain, translating to “an inner court open to the sky.” Patios are set apart from homes, usually in the backyard, and are almost always paved or covered with small gravel. Unlike decks, most patios have to be constructed on even terrain because they have to be paved and are typically made from stone and concrete. One perk of having a patio is getting to enjoy nights by a fire – homeowners with patios often enjoy a built-in fireplace or fire pits, since the patio is separate from the house and would not pose any risk of fire to the home.
Porches are often considered covered decks, simply because they are attached to houses. But there are different architectural designs for porches and they are not always constructed using wood, like decks. Enclosed porches have railings around the front and sides, whereas more simple portico designs just serve as covered breezeways or entrances. And wraparound porches live up to their name; they wrap around either the entirety or majority of a home’s exterior. Many people, especially in the South, choose to build screened porches, so that they can enjoy fresh air while protecting themselves from bugs.
A pavilion is typically a large, solid-roofed structure with open walls and 4-6 supporting pillars. The beauty of these structures is that they can be free-standing or connected directly to your home. Since they are typically designed to be long and rectangular, pavilions are often bigger in size than the other structures on our list. If you enjoy hosting larger groups of people in an outdoor space, while being protected from harsh weather or direct sunlight, then a pavilion would be the perfect addition to your home.
Choosing any of these options for outdoor living will give you the freedom and space to enjoy your summer to the fullest.
If you’re ready to build the outdoor living space of your dreams – whether it’s a porch, deck, or pavilion – Whitmer Decks is here to help! We specialize in designing and constructing custom outdoor living spaces of all types, including porches, pavilions, and decks.
Contact our team of experts today for a free quote.
