Porch vs Patio: Which One Is Right for You?

Quick answer: A porch is attached to your house, usually has a roof, and is often a little above the ground. A patio is a flat space on the ground, usually open to the sky, and often in the backyard. Pick a porch for shade, rain cover and quiet seating. Pick a patio for bigger groups, meals and grilling.

Many people mix up the two words. That is okay. The porch vs patio question comes up a lot, and the answer is simple once you see them side by side.

In this guide, we explain each space in plain words. We compare patio vs porch on the things that matter: cover, space, upkeep and use. Then we show you what outdoor furniture works best in each one, with real picks you can shop today.

What Is a Porch?

So, what is a porch? A porch is a covered space attached to the outside of your house. It is usually at a door, and it often sits a few steps above the ground. Most porches have a roof or an overhang, so you stay dry when it rains.

Porches can be at the front, the side or the back of a home. Some are tiny, just big enough to say hello to a guest. Others are big enough for a swing, a few chairs and a small table.

An expert quoted by The Spruce says a back deck with a roof over it can also be called a back porch. So the roof is the big clue.

Types of Porches

The most common types of porches are:

• Front porch: at the main door. It adds curb appeal and a warm welcome.

• Back porch: at the rear door, often next to the kitchen or yard.

• Wraparound porch: goes around two or more sides of the house.

• Screened porch: has screens to keep bugs out.

• Enclosed porch: has walls or windows, so you can use it in cooler months.

Best for: a quiet morning coffee, a rainy-day sit, and small, cozy visits.

Looking for porch seating? See our PolyLumber Porch Swings.

What Is a Patio?

So, what is a patio? A patio is a flat outdoor space built on the ground. It is usually made of concrete, pavers, brick, stone or gravel. Most patios are open to the sky, and most sit in the backyard or on the side of the house.

A patio can be next to the house or a little way off, as long as there is a path to it. You can add a pergola, an umbrella or a cover to get shade. Patios are a good spot for a dining table, lounge chairs and a fire pit.

Best for: family dinners, parties, grilling and relaxing in the sun.

Planning a table? Browse our Outdoor Dining Sets.

Difference Between Porch and Patio

The difference between porch and patio comes down to a few things: how each one is attached, whether it has a roof, and where it sits. If you are asking what's the difference between a porch and a patio, this table gives the short answer.

Still wondering about the difference between a porch and a patio? Think of it this way. A porch is part of the house. A patio is part of the yard.

For a deeper look at building costs, Angi's patio vs. porch guide has current numbers. Prices change often, so we do not list them here.

Porch vs Patio: Pros and Cons

Porch Pros

• Shade and rain cover, so you can sit outside on wet days

• Adds curb appeal to the front of your home

• The roof helps protect your furniture from sun and rain

• Can be screened in to keep bugs out

Porch Cons

• Costs more to build than a patio

• Takes more work to build, and often needs a pro

• Can feel tight for big parties

• Not a safe place for a fire pit or grill, because it is attached to the house and has a roof

Patio Pros

• Usually costs less to build than a porch

• Simpler to build, and more DIY friendly

• Lots of room for tables, chairs and groups

• Works well for a grill or a fire pit

Patio Cons

• Little weather cover unless you add shade

• Dust and leaves collect on it more

• You need to add all the furniture and shade yourself

Family Handyman's patio vs. porch article shares more expert tips if you are planning to build.

Before you build anything, check your local building rules and your HOA. That goes for porches and patios, even if the space is in the backyard.

Porch vs Deck vs Patio (and Other Outdoor Spaces)

Some people also ask about decks and other outdoor spaces. Here is a quick guide to porch vs deck vs patio.

• Deck: A raised platform attached to the house, usually made of wood or composite. Most decks are open to the sky. If you ask patio vs porch vs deck, the deck is the raised, open one.

• Balcony: A small raised space on an upper floor. It usually has a railing and no stairs to the ground.

• Veranda: An open-air space with a roof, often with a railing around part of it.

• Portico: A covered entry with columns, close to the door.

• Stoop: A small step or landing at the door, often with no roof.

• Lanai: A covered outdoor room, often screened, common in warm places.

• Terrace: A leveled or paved outdoor area, sometimes on a slope or a roof.

Whichever space you have, you can browse all of our Outdoor Seating.

Best Furniture for a Porch

Porches are shaded and snug, so pick pieces that are comfy and fit a tight space. Measure the depth first. Leave room to open the door and walk by.

Porch Swings

A swing is the classic porch pick. A 5-foot swing fits 2 to 3 adults. A two-seat swing is better for a narrow porch.

• Heritage 5 Foot Swing with Console: good for a wide porch.

• Heritage Two Seat Swing: a smaller size for tighter porches.

• Classic 4 Foot Adirondack Swing: the slanted back of an Adirondack chair, in a swing.

Rockers and Gliders

If you like to sit and move a little, try a rocker or a glider. Not sure which one? Read our guide, Glider vs Rocking Chair: Which One Is Right for Your Porch or Patio?. Then browse PolyLumber Rockers and PolyLumber Gliders.

Adirondack Chairs and Side Tables

Adirondack chairs are easy to love. Add a side table for drinks. The Freedom 3-Piece Traditional Adirondack Chair with Side Table is an easy set to start with. See all Adirondack Chairs.

Benches

A bench by the door is handy for shoes, bags and a guest. Browse PolyLumber Benches.

Best Furniture for a Patio

Patios are open and bigger, so plan for groups, meals and sun. Add shade with an umbrella or a pergola.

Dining Sets

A dining set turns a patio into an outdoor dining room. Start with our Outdoor Dining Sets. Hosting a big crowd? See our 9 Piece Dining Sets, and read 7 Ways a 9-Piece Patio Table and Chairs Set Can Transform Your Outdoor Entertaining.

Conversation Sets

A conversation set is a table with seats set close together, made for talking.

• Classic 46 inch Round Patio Table set with 4 Deck Chairs: a round table with four chairs.

• Heritage 3 Piece Patio Counter Set: a good fit for a smaller patio.

See all Conversation Sets.

Deep Seating and Lounging

For sofa-style comfort outside, look at Deep Seating. Our guide, What Is Deep Seating Patio Furniture?, helps you choose.

Bar and Bistro Sets for Small Patios

Short on space? A bar or bistro set fits a corner well. Browse Bar Sets, Bistro Sets, Tables, Chairs & Stools. Our Outdoor Bar Stools: The Complete Buying Guide can help with sizes.

What Material Holds Up Best on a Porch or Patio?

A covered porch gets less sun and rain. An open patio gets the full sun, rain and wind. So pick a material that can take the weather.

Many Gooddegg pieces are made from HDPE poly lumber. It looks like painted wood, but it does not splinter or warp. It resists fading, cracking and rot, and it does not need painting or staining. That makes it a good fit for both spaces.

Want to compare materials? Read Polywood vs. Wood vs. Wicker Outdoor Furniture and What Makes Outdoor Furniture Last?. When you are ready to clean it, see How to Clean and Care for Polywood Furniture.

Which Is Right for You: A Porch or a Patio?

If you are stuck on porch or patio difference and what to pick, use this table. Start with what you want to do in the space.

Can You Have Both a Porch and a Patio?

Yes. Many homes have both. Use the porch for quiet time and the patio for guests and grilling. Pick the same material and color family for both so they match. Browse Outdoor Seating and Outdoor Dining to plan the whole look.

Quick Buying Checklist

Before you choose between a patio or porch setup, run through this list:

• Measure the space, including the depth.

• Check how much roof or shade you have.

• Count how many people you want to seat.

• Pick a weather-ready material.

• Plan for storage and care.

• Check local rules and your HOA before you build.

Porch vs Patio FAQs

Is the backyard a porch or patio?

Usually it is a patio, if the space is on the ground and open to the sky. If the space is attached to the back door, has a roof, and sits above the ground with steps, it is a back porch.

What is the difference between a porch and a deck?

A porch is usually covered by a roof. A deck is a raised platform, often wood or composite, and most are open to the sky. Both attach to the house. The roof is the easiest way to tell them apart.

What is the difference between a patio and a balcony?

A patio sits on the ground, usually in the yard. A balcony is a small raised space on an upper floor, with a railing and no stairs to the ground. A balcony fits a small bistro set. A patio fits a table for many.

Is a balcony also called a patio?

Not really. A balcony is raised and attached to an upper floor. A patio sits on the ground. People may use "patio" for a balcony in casual talk, but they are different spaces.

Is a patio a veranda?

No. A veranda has a roof and is usually attached to the house, often with a railing. A patio is on the ground and usually open to the sky, unless you add a cover.

What do you call a patio in front of a house?

It is often called a front patio. Some people mean a front porch. If the space is on the ground and open, it is a patio. If it is attached, raised and roofed, it is a porch.

Ready to Furnish Your Space?

Whether you pick a porch or a patio, Gooddegg has outdoor furniture that is made for the weather. Browse our full collection and enjoy free shipping on every order.

Keep Reading

• Glider vs Rocking Chair: Which One Is Right for Your Porch or Patio?

• What Makes Outdoor Furniture Last?

• Polywood vs. Wood vs. Wicker Outdoor Furniture: Which Should You Buy?

• What Is Deep Seating Patio Furniture?

• Outdoor Bar Stools: The Complete Buying Guide

• Polywood Furniture: The Low-Maintenance Guide for Outdoor Spaces