So, do you know the difference between a veranda and lanai? What about a patio and a porch? These can all easily be confused with one another since they do all (usually) contain either patio furniture or outdoor accessories of some sort. However, there are some ways to tell them apart. Let’s break it down!
What is a Patio?
You probably already know what a patio is, but for comparison purposes, let’s recap. A patio is a paved outdoor area adjoining a house. One of the main differences you will find between patios, porches, lanais, and verandas is where they are located with respect to your home.
Patios are oftentimes used as an outdoor living room, so adding some outdoor sectionals, sofas, or chairs will really help make it that much more comfortable. Patios adjoin a home and are typically paved. Patios typically don’t have roofs and may use pavers, brick, stone, or concrete. Like the rest of the listed terms, patios are used to relax or dine outdoors.
What is a Porch?
Most homes have patios. Porches, on the other hand, tend to be an extension to the exterior of a house. Unlike patios, they usually have a roof, and has a wood floor. Porches can be located on the front, back, or even side of the home. You can even have multiple porches!
The sides of porches may be open or screened. The Simms team explains that they can be utilitarian, to protect you from elements while waiting to enter your home. Just like patios, porches are also used for relaxing or dining. You can even add some rocking chairs and enjoy the outside while reading a book or simply enjoying the nice weather.
What is a Lanai?
A lanai is actually a type of porch (or veranda). More specifically, a lanai is a term most frequently used in Hawaii (which probably explains why you’ve never heard of it) to describe a specific type of porch.
You are probably wondering how are they any different from a porch or sunroom if they are also an enclosed porch? As Charlene Oldham discusses in her post, lanais are slightly different from sunrooms because they (usually) have concrete floors and are found on the ground adjacent to the home.
A good thing to note, Angie’s list says that building a lanai is less costly than adding on a large sunroom to your home. “Lanais also offer more protection than a traditional porch because they usually feature screens or windows. They give homeowners that coveted indoor/outdoor living feeling, and are typically used for three seasons.”
What is a Veranda?
A veranda can be a large porch, usually used for entertainment or as a gallery room. Verandas are roofed and will often wrap around the front of a house and can even extend around the sides. Verandas may also oftentimes include a railing.
Unlike a lanai, a term used in Hawaii, a veranda is a term mostly used in the South. Unlike balconies that are elevated, verandas are a ground-floor addition. If you are someone who admires art, this room is perfect for you. Or if you are an artist yourself, go ahead… display and show off your work!
Lucky for you, whether you have a patio, porch, lanai, or veranda, Patio Productions can furnish all your needs! Now that you know the differences, you can figure out which room extension makes sense for you (if what you’re looking for is to add on). We love outdoor living as much as you and support all your upgrade decisions!
