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While the terms deck and porch are often used interchangeably, they are two distinct home features. Porches offer a roof that protects from the elements when coming and going from the house. Generally, porches are on the front of your home. On the other hand, decks are generally built in the backyard of a home and offer no roof or protection from the elements, like rain or snow. Porches typically require less maintenance and upkeep thanks to the roof, but both features require regular cleaning and repairs to maintain good condition.

The cost to build a deck is $8,025 on average. However, this cost can range anywhere from $1,500 to $22,000, depending on multiple factors, such as size, materials, and deck type. You can expect to pay $30 to $60 per square foot when building a new deck.

Cedar decks are often the most cost-effective option, ranging from $4 to $9 per square foot for materials. However, pressure-treated decking, which is resistant to rot, is more expensive, ranging from $15 to $25 per square foot for materials.

Yes, adding either a porch or deck (or both!) to your home can add value. Both of these features add character and curb appeal to your home, but even more importantly, they add an element of convenience. Plus, these home features create additional square footage of living space to your home. Adding a porch onto your home can give you a return on investment (ROI) of up to 84%, while adding a deck can provide an ROI of up to 80%.

Several types of porches are available to meet your needs and style preferences. Some common porch types include:

• Porticos are essentially a roof over a walkway leading to the home's front entrance. 

• Sunrooms are closed-in porches that are an extension of the house with glass or plastic panels that allow optimal sunlight. 

• Wraparound porches extend around the entire home, or at least the front and one side, and offer multiple entrances to the house.

• Back porches are an extension of the home’s floor into the outdoors. These offer more protection and privacy than a deck.

As with patios, there are many types of deck choices to choose from to add personalization to your home. Some common deck options include:

• Attached decks are anchored to the home and include simple ground-level options or multi-level structures with stairways and separate landings. 

• Detached island decks are not attached to the home; they’re a freestanding structure in the yard. 

• Wraparound decks connect the back of the house with at least one other side and often are built with railings for safety. 

• Multi-level decks connect your deck through varying levels of elevation, featuring landings that are attached to stairs.