Concrete Patio Vs. Wood Deck: Which Is Better?
When planning an outdoor living space, choosing the right material can make all the difference in cost, durability, and long-term aesthetics. While wood decks have been a go-to choice, concrete has long been a preferred alternative. At kreitmaker, we supply and deliver premium concrete that brings durability, performance, and flexibility to outdoor spaces in Toronto and the GTA.
Why a Concrete Patio is a Great Alternative to a Wooden Deck
Aesthetics
Concrete can mimic the look of materials like stone or slate, without the associated upkeep. Whether your design calls for a rustic texture or a clean slate pattern, concrete can be designed to suit your style. It's an ideal way to add elegance and curb appeal to residential and commercial spaces.
If you like the look of wood but you want something more durable and weather-resistant (as we'll discuss below), concrete can offer you the best of both worlds. In addition to other natural materials like stone and slate, it can also closely mimic the look of natural wood – it can even be stained to match the colour!
Exceptional Durability for Canadian Climates
Toronto weather can be harsh. Fluctuating temperatures, ice, rain, and UV exposure all take a toll on outdoor materials. Unlike wood, concrete resists fading and decay. When installed properly and sealed regularly, it can last decades with minimal wear.
The fact is, concrete is one of the strongest building materials available. With wood decks, whether you choose hard or soft wood, the material is naturally porous and will absorb moisture, leading to a range of different problems.
This makes concrete a better choice for many outdoor projects, especially those in high-traffic areas or environments where exposure to moisture and sunlight would quickly degrade traditional wood.
Low Maintenance, High Performance
Maintaining a wood deck involves sanding, staining, sealing, and replacing boards regularly. In contrast, concrete stains and finishes are moisture and UV-resistant, so they'll only need periodic resealing and basic cleaning to maintain their look and structural integrity. Plus, the sealed surface of concrete doesn't have all the nooks and crannies that wood planks have, and so there are fewer spots for dirt and debris to build up. This means even routine cleaning is easier.
For maintenance, concrete is the clear winner over the high-maintenance requirements of a wood deck. If you'd prefer to spend your time enjoying your deck rather than maintaining it, concrete is the way to go.
Cost-Effective & Efficient
When it comes to building a deck or patio, size, materials, and the type of terrain on which the project will sit can all affect the cost. However, concrete patios are typically less expensive upfront due to the lower cost of materials and labour for installation compared to wood decks.
There are also long-term savings with concrete patios due to their longevity. With concrete, you won’t need to invest in stains, or replacement boards every few years.
Faster Installation & Shorter Project Timelines
In most cases, it takes just a few days to install a concrete patio, not counting curing time. Concrete typically needs 48 hours to set enough for light foot traffic. A wood deck, however, often takes a few weeks to install, including digging post holes and pouring footings, framing the deck structure, installing decking boards, and optional staining/sealing (which adds drying time).
If speed is an important consideration for your project, and the site is suitable, a concrete patio may be the right choice. And with our same-day volumetric concrete delivery (available six days a week across Toronto and surrounding areas), you can keep your projects on schedule without delays or over-ordering.
A Long-Term Investment in Property Value
Concrete not only looks great and performs well, but it can also add value to a property. A custom-designed concrete deck sets your property apart from others on the market, and signals quality construction.
For homeowners, investing in a concrete deck is an upgrade that pays dividends when it’s time to sell.
Why Choose kreitmaker for Your Concrete Needs
Whether you’re a contractor looking for reliability or a homeowner seeking lasting beauty, concrete offers unbeatable value and performance. At kreitmaker, we support your project with:
- Same-day concrete delivery across Toronto, Mississauga, Scarborough, Stouffville, and more.
- Volumetric concrete delivery trucks that let you pay only for what you use and mix on your timeline.
- Expert customer service to guide you through product selection and planning.
- Easy ordering through our app for fast, hassle-free scheduling.
Skip the splinters and stains, and opt for concrete to build a deck that lasts. Contact kreitmaker today to order concrete and bring your patio project to life.