Get matched with top patio cover pros in Morris, AL

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.

The cost of an awning is $1,400 to $4,400 on average. However, this cost could be as low as $100 or as high as $7,500, depending on a few factors. The type of awning you choose, the size you need, and your location all affect your overall cost. 

For example, portable awnings you can put up and take down yourself range from $100 to $400, whereas motorized awnings are more luxurious and cost between $2,000 and $3,500.

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.

Awnings are either fixed or retractable and can be paired with a variety of cover materials. Fixed awnings are a permanent outdoor feature of a building. These are highly durable and require ongoing maintenance. Once installed, the position of this awning cannot be changed.

Retractable awnings are more popular than fixed awnings since the cover can open and close. This allows homeowners to open and close the awning, depending on the weather. When not in use, it can be closed to allow for extra space.