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No, a deck is more expensive than a concrete patio. The cost to build a deck is between $4,200 and $11,700, or about $7,900 on average. This makes the average deck cost roughly twice as much as the average cost to build a concrete patio. Concrete patios also have far greater longevity and are easier to maintain.

Building a concrete driveway normally takes between one and three days, including the time to cure the concrete. Wait at least seven days before driving on your driveway and two days before walking on it. Your contractor may require additional time if you need to level the ground, install a drainage system, or order special concrete materials. Installing a driveway also often requires a permit, so be sure to include this wait into your prep time as well.

It is generally cheaper to build a concrete patio versus a brick patio. Basic concrete costs around $8 to $15 per square foot, while a brick patio typically ranges from $10 to $20 per square foot. The cost difference comes down to both materials and labor—pouring and finishing concrete is faster than placing each brick by hand. Brick pavers look great and last long, but they’ll cost more up front. If you’re looking to keep your budget in check without sacrificing function, concrete is usually the more cost-effective choice.

While patio installation requires some heavy equipment to excavate the area and compact the soil, you can learn how to do a DIY patio installation and potentially save money versus hiring a pro to do the work. You should be familiar with taking measurements and doing calculations to determine the right amount of materials, and you’ll need to be comfortable working with the necessary equipment.