Does a deck add more value than a patio?

• <div><p>Both a well-constructed deck and a patio can add value to your home. Patios are generally cheaper to build but don’t offer the same aesthetics as a quality deck. Therefore, decks can be more appealing to buyers than patios, increasing a home's resale value. </p></div>

Get matched with top patio pros in East Glacier Park, MT

Q: What is the proper rise and run for stairs?

• <div><p>The <a href="https://www.iccsafe.org/">International Building Code</a> requires individual step risers in a residential staircase to measure between 4 and 7-3/4 inches and the maximum rise of a staircase not to exceed 12 feet between landings. Individual step treads can&rsquo;t be less than 10 inches deep. </p></div>

Q: Does patio installation require a permit?

• <div><p>In many cases, you will need a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/do-i-really-need-building-permit.htm">building permit</a> for your patio, but it depends on the type of patio. Generally speaking, any improvements to your land considered &ldquo;permanent&rdquo; will require a permit. Since a concrete patio is a permanent foundation, you will need a permit. On the other hand, a paver patio or flagstone patio usually sits over gravel and sand, are considered &ldquo;temporary&rdquo; improvements, and rarely require permits. To be safe, you should always ask your building department or your patio company if a permit will be necessary.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you don't put gravel under concrete?

• <div><p>If you don&rsquo;t put gravel under concrete, the concrete can crack, sink, bow, or crumble. Even the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/concrete-forming.htm">concrete forming</a> process will not go as smoothly if you are working directly on the soil or bare bedrock. The lack of a proper gravel layer can also lead to drainage issues below your slab, leading to water issues throughout your lawn and around your foundation.</p></div>

Q: How long does it take to build a staircase?

• <div><p>Building a new staircase can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the design, materials, and whether an old one needs to be demolished. Straight staircases are quicker to build than curved or spiral staircases, which require more intricate design and precise measurements. </p></div>

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Find Patio pros in East Glacier Park

Sentri Homes

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Sentri Homes

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188 local quotes requested

Sentri Homes is a full-service contractor delivering high-end home additions, whole-home remodels, new custom builds, luxury kitchens, structural framing, roof replacements, and every major renovation. We assign a dedicated project manager to every job, deliver meticulous craftsmanship with clear communication, and back our work with an industry-leading warranty to ensure complete peace of mind on your largest investments. Our in-house team of licensed builders and master craftsmen consistently earns 5-star reviews by turning big visions into stunning, high-value homes—when you need one trusted partner who truly does it all, we’re the proven choice.

Norwest Contracting

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Norwest Contracting

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30 years of experience. Done right the first time.

Grovom Painting

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Grovom Painting

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22 years of experience

Your HOME - Your BIGGEST INVESTMENT ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍ ‍‍Increase your home's value with a quality paint job that will protect it from Montana's extreme weather. We know that when you choose us, you are entrusting us to protect, preserve, and beautify your biggest asset—your home. ‍‍‍‍‍‍ ‍‍WWW.PAINTINGMONTANA.COM -- 406-461-6094

FLOORING AMERICA POIEMA

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FLOORING AMERICA POIEMA

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40 years of experience

Locally owned & operated business supporting our local community. We proudly serve the Flathead valley for over 25 years in flooring. Our dedicated staff has over 89 years of experience in the flooring industry dedicated in the best customer service. We provide financing through GE Capital, the national leader in providing flexible consumer credit options for all of your purchasing needs.

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company, Inc.

5.00(

)

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company, Inc.

5.00(

)

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Paradise Fencing and Construction Company Inc. has been serving Montana since 1996. Our company is fully licensed and insured. Paradise main office is based out of Great Falls with crews traveling the state of Montana. The Fencing side of our business installs every type of fence available. If sprinkler work is needed we subcontract out the work to top rated sprinkler companies to make sure the project is done correctly. Paradise Construction performs all of the work from dirtwork to finish work. Paradise subcontracts its electrical, plumbing, and HVAC to top quality providers.

Patios questions, answered by experts

The International Building Code requires individual step risers in a residential staircase to measure between 4 and 7-3/4 inches and the maximum rise of a staircase not to exceed 12 feet between landings. Individual step treads can’t be less than 10 inches deep.

In many cases, you will need a building permit for your patio, but it depends on the type of patio. Generally speaking, any improvements to your land considered “permanent” will require a permit. Since a concrete patio is a permanent foundation, you will need a permit. On the other hand, a paver patio or flagstone patio usually sits over gravel and sand, are considered “temporary” improvements, and rarely require permits. To be safe, you should always ask your building department or your patio company if a permit will be necessary.

If you don’t put gravel under concrete, the concrete can crack, sink, bow, or crumble. Even the concrete forming process will not go as smoothly if you are working directly on the soil or bare bedrock. The lack of a proper gravel layer can also lead to drainage issues below your slab, leading to water issues throughout your lawn and around your foundation.

Building a new staircase can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the design, materials, and whether an old one needs to be demolished. Straight staircases are quicker to build than curved or spiral staircases, which require more intricate design and precise measurements.

Both a well-constructed deck and a patio can add value to your home. Patios are generally cheaper to build but don’t offer the same aesthetics as a quality deck. Therefore, decks can be more appealing to buyers than patios, increasing a home's resale value.

The East Glacier Park, MT homeowners’ guide to patio services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Kelly Weimert
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May 20, 2025May 20, 2025
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How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost? [2025 Data]
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PVC vs. Composite Decking: Which One Should You Choose for Your Deck?
In the battle of PVC versus composite decking, which material comes out on top? Discover the benefits and drawbacks of each type in this guide.
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Feb 5, 2025Feb 5, 2025
9 Types of Concrete Finishes for Patios
Installing a concrete patio and want to customize? Check out the different types of concrete finishes for patios to choose what works best for your taste.
Erica Lamberg
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Aug 13, 2025Aug 13, 2025
Deck vs. Patio: Which Is Better for Your Home?
Deck vs. patio — what’s the difference and which one is the better choice? Dive into the pros, cons, and more, and make the perfect decision for your home.