Difference Between Porches And Patios In Memphis Here’s Our Quick Guide To Determining The Difference Between A Porch And A Patio, So You Can Decide What’s Right For Your Home
Good day to you. In this article, we’re going to quickly address the Porch vs. Patio debate.
In case you’re wondering, we’re Robbins Construction. We do full-scale, full-service remodeling and renovations here in the Greater Memphis, TN area. For us, words like porch, patio, raised deck, veranda, and so on, are par for the course.
For many homeowners across the nation, however, they can get confusing.
Why?
Because depending on where you live, you might locally define them differently.
So let’s talk about some basics first.
- Conventionally, porches are elevated off the ground and connected to your home with flooring, walls, and roofing; almost like an addition.
- On the other hand, patios are most often ground-level, paved, and don’t usually have coverings.
- Both can be in either front or backyards. That said, most porches tend to be front yard features to add value and character to the home. While patios are in the backyard or around side entryways and more private.
Example Porch #1 | From Southern Living | Laurey W. Glenn
Example Porch #2 | Flickr | David Hoffman
We really like the definition Lisa Hallett Taylor wrote for The Spruce on the subject:
“Basically, a porch is defined in most regions as an outdoor structure with a roof that is usually open at the sides. It is attached to, or projects from, the main residence and protects the entrance or serves as a resting place for occupants to entertain and enjoy the fresh air. It is sometimes referred to as a veranda or loggia.”
Wherever you go around the country, you’ll see endless ways to make a porch simple, or grande and exquisite. The American front porch appeared by the early 1700s, and 100 years later became a fixture of American architecture.
Now let’s take a look at a couple of good examples of patios.
General Considerations For Porches
- Porches can be made to perfectly match your home in every way, every detail. That said, when made of wood, they bring the maintenance requirements of wood.
- All homeowners appreciate increased living space, especially when it’s well-designed. Huge increases to curb appeal.
- The one major consideration with new porches is their initial construction costs. Depending on the size, scope, and complexity, they can cost tens of thousands.
That said, let’s switch gears and look at a couple of patio examples. Keep in mind these are both on the more extravagant end. The major differences are again, location (back yard) and the open-air space.
Patio Example #1 | Distinctive Outdoor Concepts
Patio Example #2 | HGTV | The DIY Network
Another nice quote from Lisa Taylor,
“The word patio comes from the Latin word patere, which means to “lie open.” Originating in Spanish or Spanish-American architecture, it is often an outdoor space that is open to the sky, although it can have a protective structure overhead. During the 15th century in Spain, square central patios surrounded by galleries and porticos became popular.”
Generally, you’re going to pay less for a patio than a porch. The installation shouldn’t take as much time either, as long as there aren’t any foundation or grading issues. Patios can also be a bit more expansive. You wouldn’t usually see a porch extending so far out from the home as some patio areas go.
What’s the one major consideration with a high-class or highly functional patio? Maintenance and upkeep. All that stone or paving is out there in the elements (sun + moisture) around the clock. Over time, slabs can crack, tiles need to be replaced, stones can come loose, the mortar can get really hard to clean, etc.
In our area of the country, as in others, critters and insects are also a concern with patios.
Wrapping Up The Porch vs. Patio Question
Do you have a much better idea of the differences between the two now — Porch vs. Patio? Porches are usually lifted off the ground, connected to the home as an additional living space, and covered with a roofing structure. Meanwhile, patios are usually ground level, paved and uncovered. We hope this helps, and thanks for your time today.
If you happen to be in the Greater Memphis area and interested in these kinds of remodeling, feel free to take the next step:
- Browse our Porches Page.
- Explore Our Outdoor Living Space Page.
- Reach Out & Contact Us or Visit Our Showroom
Are you ready for your next remodeling project? Let us take it to the next level. Schedule a free consultation today!
