Pavers, Concrete, or a Low Deck? Choosing the Right Option for Your Limited Height Patio

When it comes to enhancing your back deck, having a low height to work with can pose a challenge - here are some options for you to help you decide! If you only have 11 inches from the threshold of your patio door to the ground, it’s crucial to weigh your options carefully. Let's dive into the possibilities of using pavers, concrete, or building a low deck, and what you should consider for each scenario.

Low Deck

Building a low deck in a space with limited height requires precise planning and careful consideration of materials and structural support.

Height Constraints and Joist Selection

• With an elevation of 11 inches, you are limited in the size of joists you can use. Given that a typical deck board is about 1 inch thick, you have 10 inches remaining for your framing.

• Using 2x8 joists, which are 7.25 inches high, will work within this limit. This leaves you with enough space for the structure while maintaining a gap below the threshold.

Floating Deck Considerations

• Decks below 30 inches (or in some areas, 24 inches) can be built as floating decks, resting on blocks instead of footings below the frost line. However, in northern regions where ground freezing and thawing can cause heaving, using deck blocks is not advisable.

• Instead, we suggest using Pylex 10555 helical piles. These can be driven below the frost line and are adjustable, providing a stable foundation that resists movement. In situations where you cannot fasten the deck to the house, these will cause lateral stabilization issues. In this scenario, we use cross bracing with concrete poured around the pile to stabilize the deck from swaying.

Framing and Support

• Ensure your pressure-treated framing is at least 2 inches above the ground. Even though modern pressure-treated wood is rated for ground contact, it does not contain arsenic like older versions and may not last as long in direct contact with soil.

• With the joist height at 7.25 inches and a decking thickness of 1 inch, you’re left with 1.75 inches of clearance from the ground. This configuration allows for a solid structure that is elevated just enough to avoid direct soil contact.

Span and Beam Configuration

• For a 2x8 joist spaced 12 inches on center, the span is 11.5 feet for southern pine in a 60 psf ground snow load. This requires flush beams (two 2x8s sandwiched together) as band joists on each end and possibly in the middle, depending on deck size.

• Helical piles should be spaced every 5'6" apart under the flush beams for optimal support.

Cost Considerations

• A low deck involves costs for joist hangers, hardware, decking, framing, helical piles, and labor. These can add up, potentially making it more expensive than other options like stamped concrete or pavers.

Concrete Patio

Concrete patios are a durable and low-maintenance option that can be customized with various finishes and colors.

Height Requirements

• Concrete can be poured to any desired height, making it an ideal solution for limited space.

• Ensure proper drainage by sloping the concrete away from the house.

Finishes and Aesthetic Appeal

• Concrete can be stamped, stained, or colored to mimic more expensive materials like stone or brick.

• The versatility of concrete allows for a range of design possibilities to match your aesthetic preferences.

Durability and Maintenance

• Concrete is guaranteed to do one thing: crack. Proper installation with a stable subbase and reinforcement can minimize cracking, but some cracking is inevitable.

• While concrete installation can be quicker and require less structural support than a deck, it can still be costly depending on the finish.

• Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper curing and to avoid issues like cracking.

Cost Considerations

• Expect to pay between $9.50 and $13.00 per square foot for a plain concrete slab. For more decorative finishes, costs can range from $10 to $24 per square foot.

Paver Patio

Pavers offer a flexible and attractive solution that can be easily customized to fit your space and design preferences.

Height and Leveling

• Pavers can be laid to fit the exact height requirements, making them suitable for areas with limited vertical space.

• Proper base preparation and leveling are crucial to ensure stability and longevity.

Variety and Design

• Pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for a wide range of design options.

• They can be arranged in different patterns to create a unique look for your patio.

Maintenance and Durability

• Pavers are easy to repair and replace if one gets damaged. They also allow for better drainage compared to concrete.

• Regular maintenance, such as re-sanding joints and sealing, is necessary to keep them looking their best.

Cost Considerations

• The cost of pavers varies based on the material (e.g., concrete, brick, stone) and design complexity.

• Installation can be labor-intensive, particularly for intricate patterns, with costs ranging from $14 to $29 per square foot.

Choosing between pavers, concrete, or a low deck all have their pros and cons:

• Low Deck: Provides a warm, natural look and additional outdoor living space but may be more complex and costly to install within height constraints.

• Concrete: Durable and versatile with low maintenance but guaranteed to crack. Costs range from $9.50 to $13.00 per square foot for plain slabs, with decorative options costing more.

• Pavers: Flexible and aesthetically pleasing with easier repair options but requires regular maintenance to keep in top condition. Costs range from $14 to $29 per square foot.

If you need further guidance or have any specific questions, feel free to reach out!

Jacobe Palmiter @JCS Construction Services