At the heart of most landscaping is a versatile living space that can take the form of a deck or deck. To plan your layout well, you will have to choose from the outset whether you prefer one over the other. This decision will completely change the look and functionality of your outdoor yard.
The difference between a deck and a terrace
Although the terminology may change depending on who you are talking to (balcony, deck, and terrace), we will make a distinction here to explain two types of construction, even if, in reality, the terms are regularly interchanged. The terrace is considered a structure raised above the ground, supported by concrete pillars or screw piles. This structure can then be made of poured concrete, wood, composites, etc. The deck is considered here to be a construction that is at ground level. It can have several bearings if necessary and also be constructed using several materials.
Good advice for choosing between a terrace and a deck
The deck and deck both have advantages and disadvantages. A landscape architect will help you assess your needs according to your tastes, interests, and constraints to create the outdoor courtyard that will suit you best. Here are some tips from a landscaping professional.
Take into account the functionality of the space to be created
When you have to choose between a ground deck or an elevated terrace, you must first ask yourself how you will use this space and how your residence is located on your land. We must determine which access will be the most used to move from the residence to this new living area. Then, you have to see with what other space, interior or exterior, it will be linked and how the circulation will be done. For example, if you walk between the house and the new space very frequently, you may find a deck more practical, as it can be installed at the same height as your house and limits the use of steps. If you have a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, other relaxation areas, or other pavilions on your property and do not make too many entries and exits of the residence, you may prefer the deck to the terrace.
Take into account the cost and life of the construction.
When it comes to costs, the two are similar when building a quality structure. Since it is possible to install the most quality covering materials on both types of construction, it is the structures that support the whole that will change. In the case of a terrace, you will need to provide concrete pillars or screw piles and a structure to accommodate finishing materials. For ground decks, it is imperative to provide good compacted granular foundations to support the covering materials. Compared to the lifespan of the two structures, the ground deck wins hands down.
Explore the different designs of decks or terraces
Although nowadays it is possible to build decks and terraces with the same design criteria, certain characteristics lend themselves better to one or the other. For example, if you want to have a deck on the ground that is at the height of your ground floor, but your residence is not built to receive it, it is still possible, but it will probably require modifications to the residence. If you wish to have a raised terrace but which is not attached to the residence, it will be necessary to plan the structural elements accordingly to stabilize the platform to avoid it waltzing under your feet when you walk on it. There are also some materials, like wood, which should not be installed on the ground unless a structure and drainage are provided accordingly to avoid premature rotting of the structure. Moreover, even if it is possible to install a covering of natural stones on a raised terrace structure by reinforcing it, you must make sure to choose a stone that will be calibrated (all of the same thickness) with a different finish than natural (sawn, flamed, sandblasting, etc.).
Think about the panoramic view
When planning your deck or deck, you must consider the constraints and potentials offered by the environment to make the most of the assets and reduce the disadvantages. For example, if your neighbors have a direct view of your backyard, a ground deck will give you more privacy. On the other hand, if you decide to go for an elevated terrace for its convenience, you may need to incorporate privacy panels into your project. Finally, if your land offers a breathtaking view and wants to take advantage of it, you can set up a deck on the ground, which will have a better lifespan while keeping level access.
