8 Patio and Deck Ideas That Won't Break the Budget

Here are 8 inexpensive patio and deck ideas that won't end up breaking the budget or your back. From pallets to experimenting with color accents now - take your patio to the next level!

Spring is here and summer is right around the corner, which means more daylight and time spent outside. When the sun is out and the weather is nice, your patio may be your favorite place to relax and unwind.

Every patio can use a refresh from time to time, but updating your space doesn’t have to ruin your budget. Here are eight inexpensive DIY patio ideas to help you take your time spent outside to the next level this season.

Use pallets

Wood pallets can be used for a variety of backyard patio projects. Check with local businesses, as many will give them away for free, but you can also get them from a recycler or purchase them from a manufacturer. With some basic ingenuity, you can arrange them to create elevated patios, coffee tables and even lounge furniture. Add a dash of personality with paint and accessories.

Don’t skip on salvaged materials

Remember that updating your patio doesn’t have to mean buying everything new. You can add plenty of pop to your enclosed patio, backyard space or pool patio by using salvaged materials. Check with home improvement stores, at flea markets, or in online classifieds. You may be able to find beautiful salvaged bricks, pavers or granite that you can use to create a totally unique floor or walkway.

Add some lights

If you’re using your patio in the evenings (and why wouldn’t you?), you’ll definitely need some lights. Adding lights is relatively inexpensive, and it’s an easy way to show off your personality. Buy a few strings of hanging lights and drape them around the space, get some tiki torches or hang a few bohemian lanterns. The options are almost endless.

Create planters from pavers or cinderblocks

Planters and pre-planted flowers can be expensive, but you can save money and add colorful accents to your patio by making your own planters using pavers or cinderblocks. Simply arrange them into your preferred shape and, if needed, secure the sides with adhesive or screws, then add soil and plants. If you’d like, you can even add a coat of spray paint for extra personality.

Throw in some color

You can easily find inexpensive accent items to help add color and pop to your patio. Add a couple of bright outdoor throw pillows to your furniture, buy a cheery, colorful umbrella for your pool patio, or place brightly colored knick knacks on your tables. These items are easy to find during the spring and summer, but for real savings, try shopping end-of-season sales when many patio retailers offer deep discounts.

Add height

Arbors and trellises are easy ways to add visual interest to your patio. You can often find these items at flea markets. Decorate them with plants, hanging lights or other materials to add extra interest. They’re easy to install, and they’re eye-catching features that are sure to be the center of conversation at any gathering. If you’d prefer, find some wood or PVC pipe and colorful curtains to make a simple cabana.

Breathe in some new light with paint

It’s amazing what a difference a coat of paint can make. If your patio floor is looking a bit rough, freshen it up by painting it a solid color, or get ambitious and create a pattern. Don’t want to commit to something that permanent? No problem. Purchase an inexpensive drop cloth and some paint to make a cheap outdoor rug.

A little elbow grease goes a long way

Whatever your vision for your patio is, you can make it a reality without breaking the bank. Look for creative DIY projects, and if you’re willing to put in a little time and effort, you’ll have an affordable, updated space that you can enjoy all season long.