Upgrade Your Backyard Space With A Cost-Effective Alternative For A Deck

When you envision a deck, you might picture neighborhood barbecues or sipping your morning coffee in peace. What you might not anticipate is the price tag. According to data from Angi, the average cost to build a deck is $8,190, but you could pay $23,000 or more depending on the details. Meanwhile, you could create a patio for an average cost of $3,950, but a small patio could cost as little as $250.

Start by finding a location that fits the activities you want to do. If you want a spot to grill and entertain, keep your patio close to your house for easy access. For a relaxing oasis, you might locate it in a quiet corner near trees. A spot that's relatively flat and free of obstructions keeps your project budget-friendly. That way, you don't have to worry about leveling and stabilizing the ground with extra soil or building a retaining wall to keep it secure.

If you're looking for the most affordable material to create a beautiful backyard patio, gravel is the answer. You can expect to pay between $1 and $4 per square foot. However, it can feel rough on your feet. Natural stone or flagstone can be an affordable alternative, with a low-end range of $3 per square foot, but the price can escalate quickly, up to $35 per square foot, so choose your stones wisely. Another option is to combine the two. Lay several large stones with gravel filling the gaps to balance your budget and allow for good drainage.

Do the work yourself to save on labor costs, which range from $5 to $20 per square foot. A smaller patio area saves money on materials since you don't need as much to cover the area. When choosing the right patio shape for your backyard, keep in mind that square and rectangular patios are typically the easiest and most affordable. The straight lines of most pavers eliminate the need for cuts to fit the edges or intricate patterns of a curved area, allowing for a simple layout.

There are several affordable ways to make your backyard space more inviting and usable. An often overlooked tip is to clean up your backyard. Power wash your siding, fences, walkways, and other structures. Cleaning up flower beds and trimming bushes and trees opens up the space and makes it look better.

Plants add a natural touch and some color. Plant flowers directly in the ground near the patio, or opt for potted plants. There are also many fun ways to make your patio feel more like a living room. If you already have patio furniture, upgrade it with softer cushions or accent your seating with decorative pillows. An outdoor rug underneath your seating area softens the patio, adds color, and ties together the look. String lights enhance your backyard with a warm glow and usually cost only $50 to $150. If you have a larger budget, consider a built-in fire pit or a pergola.