What is the difference between an apartment patio and an apartment balcony?
While similar in function, there are some technical differences between an apartment balcony and a patio.
A balcony is an outdoor platform that extends from the exterior wall of an apartment (usually on 2nd floor or above) and isย attached to the building, whereas a patio is typically found on ground level and may or may not be attached.
Additionally, a balcony is usually made of wood planks or concrete whereas a patio is typically stone, brick, or concrete.
Let’s take a deeper look at the definitions of each, as well as the differences.
What is a Balcony?
An apartment balcony is an outdoor platform that extends from the exterior wall of an apartment home creating an outdoor space. It is usually found on the 2nd floor or above and is usually enclosed with a balustrade (railing).
Some balconies connected to apartments are larger in size and work well for socializing and entertaining.
A balcony is used for multiple purposes. It serves as a way to enlarge the space of an apartment while providing an outdoor leisure area for occupants who do not have the freedom of a backyard. It also allows people to enjoy natural sunlight without having to leave their apartments.
Most balconies are made of concrete or wood-similar planks.
What is a Patio?
A patio is a paved living space outside the apartment house and is typically found on ground-level apartments. It is adjacent to the apartment house (but may not be connected to the structure) and serves as a great space for outdoor recreation, dining, or entertaining. It is often adorned with plants, furniture, and lighting.
Patios are usually made of brick, concrete or stone.
Basic Differences Between an Apartment Patio and Apartment Balcony?
Level
Patios are usually found on the ground level while balconies are on the 2nd floor or higher.
Attach vs. Detached
Patios are either detached or attached to the main building while a balcony is always attached to the apartment building.
Size
Patios are usually much larger in size compared with some balconies
Materials
Patios are usually made from materials like concrete, stones, and bricks while balconies are usually built using concrete and cast iron. Top level flooring on top of concrete may be wood-similar planks.
Functionality
Patios are more common for outdoor entertaining and recreation while balconies are more suited to recreation only because of the limited space available.
Is a Patio and Balcony the same thing?
No, while similar a balcony usually refers to a raised structured (2nd floor or higher) and a patio is usually on the ground floor.
What is a Deck?
While a deck and balcony are often used interchangeably, usually the ‘term’ deck is more commonly referenced when discussing homes or townhomes.
Having said that, some may use the term ‘deck’ to describe a particularly large apartment balcony.
What is a Porch?
Porch is a term used to describe a structure attached to exterior of the front of a house that provides a sheltered or covered area.
What is a Veranda?
A veranda is a roofed, open air covered porch usually found in a single family house or commercial building. It is not something typically found in an apartment unless it is in the common space / amenities of the apartment complex.
Now that you understand the fundamental difference between balconies and patios, you can make a more informed decision about which feature you desire.
