With spring in full swing the indoors is beginning to blais and you want to spend more time with the birds. The only problem you're having is that there's no dry place to put your chair. You need a deck or patio.
A deck is always above the ground, even the low ones. So you have a minimum of 10-11" if you include the 1" decking on the 2" X 10" supports. This is good if there is moisture around for some parts of the year because it keeps you high and dry. Small ones are cheap and easy to build.
A patio can be off the level ground too but has to be built up. Most patios are on the level with drainage around to get rid of unwanted moisture. The nice thing about a patio is that, built right, it will last as long as the home, as most of the materials are usually stone or pavers. They are usually built on compacted gravel and sand base or on a slab of cement.
Another good feature about decks is that you can change them quite easily, especially if the decking is screwed down. You can add flower boxes and color to any shade you want and then change it next year.
For the best results contact a decking contractor.
While patios are pretty enough, I prefer a deck. I just think the warmth of wood is so much nicer and easier on the eye. I've seen some that have been terribly neglected though and left to the elements without any kind of weatherproofing protection applied. It's an important step to remember if you decide to go it alone or your poor deck will be rotting before you know it. I agree, it's better to leave the job of installing decks and patios to the professionals.
Search the TrustedPros directory and discover the best contractors in your area.
Find your home service pro