Did you feel that cold snap in the air? That means winter is coming, or as we like to call it: spring planning season in Johnston.
It’s right around now that homeowners start to think seriously about outdoor living improvements. And if you're considering adding outdoor space to your property, you've probably wondered whether a deck, porch, or patio makes the most sense for your situation. After all, it’s a big investment and you want to choose well!
As experienced Johnston IA outdoor living builders, we help families make the right call. Decks, porches, and patios are all great. But the best choice is going to depend on your budget, your needs, and your property.
Here’s what you should consider.
Sloped Yard? Reach out to Johnston, IA Deck Builders.
Decks excel when your yard slopes away from your home or when you want to create outdoor living space without extensive grading. Johnston deck builders can work with challenging terrain that might make patio installation difficult or expensive.
If maintenance has you worried, consider composite decking. Natural wood is great, too, but composite can provide both excellent long-term value with minimal upkeep. Traditional wood has natural charm, however, it does require staining from time to time.
With either option, you can also add shade structures, pergolas, and roofs.
Need Protection from the Weather? Johnston, IA Porch Builders Can Help.
Porches provide the ultimate protection from bad weather. Unlike decks or patios, porches include integrated roofing that can protect you from rain, snow, and intense summer sun.
Johnston porch builders can design spaces that range from simple covered areas to fully enclosed three-season rooms with screening or windows. This makes porches flexible despite the weather and can extend your outdoor season well into fall and the earlier side of the spring.
Working With Level Ground? That’s Where Johnston, IA Patio Builders Come In.
Patios work best when you have relatively level ground and prefer ground-level outdoor living. Johnston patio builders can create everything from simple concrete surfaces to elaborate natural stone installations.
Maintenance varies dramatically based on material choice. Stamped concrete offers design versatility with minimal upkeep, while pavers provide old-world charm. Natural stone has timeless appeal but typically requires more maintenance and attention in the form of cleaning and resealing.
Cost-wise, basic concrete patios have the lowest starting price point, making them suitable for budget-conscious homeowners.
5 Things to Consider: Shade, Weather, Design, Terrain, & Features
Porch, patio, or deck, you can always find a way to add shade. The way you do it is a little different for each type of structure, though. Decks and patios can incorporate pergolas or shade structures, while porches include integrated roofing from the start.
For maximum weather protection, porches are the clear lead. And this is especially true when designed with screening or window systems.
Classic wood construction works beautifully for porch and deck options, and has that inimitable timeless appeal that complements traditional home architecture. Sleek composite materials suit contemporary designs and tend to last longer than natural ones. Pavers and natural stone provide old-world charm that works particularly well with brick or stone home exteriors. Stamped and stained concrete allows patio designs to mimic more expensive materials while maintaining budget-friendly pricing.
Terrain matters too, as your yard's topography will help determine the best option. Level ground favors patio construction, while sloped terrain often makes decks or elevated porches more practical and cost-effective.
All three options can incorporate outdoor kitchens, fire features, and entertainment systems for extended seasonal use. Patios excel for fire pit installations due to their ground-level nature, while porches can accommodate built-in fireplaces and entertainment walls more easily.
Let’s Build Something Beautiful, Together
The best choice depends on your specific situation. You’ll need to consider budget, your yard type, desired level of weather protection, and long-term maintenance preferences. But one thing is for certain: Johnston families have lots of options, and they’re all attractive in their own ways.
Ready to explore those options in more detail? Download our design guide to start planning your perfect outdoor space.
It would be our distinct pleasure to meet with you for a no-obligation complimentary design consultation. Call Harold Cross and his team at 515-203-8734, or contact us using
our online form.
