[hickory lane]

I started this thread. I'm reading with interest all the replies and appreciate the input. However, like many threads, some of the comments are straying off topic. The question wasn't "should I build or sub out decks?" or "Do decks have a place in 'high end' work?" To me it's a practical matter. Why build up a paver patio to a 4' high door? Or come down 4' of steps immediately out of the door? Keeping in mind, of course, that to most people, there is a $ consideration. My client has told me they absolutely don't want a deck, even a small landing.............and they have a limit on how much they want to spend. Oh yea..............they also have a nice stone foundation that they don't want to hide. OooooKkkkkkkkk. Sure I could build up a patio 2' and put it 4 feet off the house with a stone wall all around. But I'll bet they won't like the price.

Thanks again for all your input!

[PSUscaper]

I guess you never seen a $150,000 dollar deck?


No, but I've seen $150,000 septic systems. Does that make it a high end crap field?

[PSUscaper]

"My client has told me they absolutely don't want a deck, even a small landing.............and they have a limit on how much they want to spend"

Agla made a incredibly good point on subject similiar to this in another post regarding a outdoor grill.

I think the main point was, if the people can't afford it, then why are you going to go out of your way to make something happen that shouldn't. If a deck is the only option that makes economic and engineering sense, then tell them they have to build a deck. I would still price out a patio plan and give them something to think about, but don't cut corners or the intergrity of the job because they don't have the funds. It sounds like you are heading in that direction, which is good. You never know though, they may all of a sudden 'find' that extra money to build that patio.....it is tax return season!

[GLAN]

I like decks.....have one.

They are more versatile with doing add one features and such. I do like the steps bottoming onto a patio.

[agla]

Hickory,

This is not necessarilly the right way or the only way, but it is the way that I would approach it:

Sketch out a patio with an appropriately sized set of masonry steps that match the quality of the patio and house. Price it out and present it to them. Up to know they seem to know only what they don't want. When they see it, it may give them something to strive for. It puts an option in front of them.

If it is a slider you don't need a landing, but if it is a door you need at least three feet. Remember to leave at least 3-4' between the patio and house for planting and show it in your sketch. That also shows that they are not wasting patio space with the steps, but just infilling dead space. If you can get them horny for it, they'll find a way to pay for it. If they are dull to the idea, then they are dull toward getting it up (the money, of course) to pay for it.

You can't want something until you have been given a reason to want it. Show them that reason if you have the time or are otherwise on board with this project. Don't work hard for them if they are not committed in some way.

[hickory lane]

Thanks Agla...........you are on track with what I was thinking. I'm going to suggest a set of masonery steps with pavers that will match the patio. She want's 2.5' of landing even though it's a sliding door. I'll build a stone wall about 18" high to support the outside of the patio since it's a bit of a slope. And, yes, I always encourage 3 or 4' beds between the patio and the house. They have the money..........as usual they don't want to spend it.
Still a bummer people won't listen to the deck/patio combo idea.
Thanks for the input!

[TriCountyLawn]

We do more decks than patios anymore. And i wouldn't say that we are unhappy about it. We have just finished up 3 composite decks (fiberon brand) and really like working with the composite stuff, plus people cant seem to get enough of it.

The decks are starting to change the way our company is geared completely. Seems as if the Decking, porch and fence niche is taking off. Ive swung a hammer longer then ive landscaped so this work is very welcomed.

Yes there are more permits and inspectors however that comes with the territory. We have several designs that are in the works right now that involve a mixture of pavers, block wall and decking. I will keep you guys updated and post pics if these projects materialize.

[LandArts]

There is definitely a trend away from building outdoor structures with wood...maybe the fact that those structures have to be rebuilt every 12-15 years has something to do with it. Also, in most suburban settings elevating seating areas above grade just doesn't feel comfortable.

I've been really suprised at the quotes I've been hearing for decks...gotta be more per square foot than most patios we install.