Do you want to spruce up your backyard but don’t want to spend tons of money? There are many ways to save and still have the most amazing deck in the neighborhood, which is why we prepared 10 ways for your deck without breaking your bank.
So, let’s take a look at the best backyard deck ideas for those on a budget.
Build a Floating Deck
Freestanding or floating decks are easier to make than regular decks, use less material, come in any size, and are perfect even for small backyards. They’re incredibly popular, as they don’t require a building permit, and you can place them anywhere in your yard.
What’s more, they cost next to nothing, so they’re an excellent idea for those on a budget.
Get an Outdoor Rug
If you have an old wooden backyard deck that doesn’t look its best anymore or a patio with unattractive concrete, buying an outdoor rug could be an excellent idea, as it can freshen up your outdoor area in no time.
Not only will it cover any wood chips or color imperfections, but it’ll make your deck space look much more cohesive and home-like, and it’ll make even a simple backyard deck pop. Additionally, outdoor rugs are easy to find and are generally truly affordable.
Add Benches
If you have a large family or like entertaining guests, benches can be an excellent addition to your backyard deck.
They’re stylish, don’t necessarily have to be expensive (you can even make them yourself), and create a lot of sitting space, so you can throw parties, host dinners, etc., all summer long.
Additionally, they come in various shapes and sizes, so even if you need a more rustic option than the one presented in the photo (to match your cozy ranch-style house, for example), it shouldn’t be too challenging to find.
Decorate With Plants
One of the most inexpensive deck ideas when it comes to decoration is to use a lot of plants. Planters and flower seeds are inexpensive but can do a lot for your space.
Planters and flowers in vibrant colors can make your deck come to life and even serve as a small garden. This will make even the simplest of decks with modest furniture look chic and inviting.
Build a Deck Covering Using Alternative Materials
Regular deck roofs are typically made entirely of wood, whose price recently skyrocketed. Still, this doesn’t mean you can’t have a covered deck, even if you aren’t prepared to invest a lot. Here are some covered deck ideas for those on a budget.
To save money, you can choose a deck cover with a wooden base and unique plastic panels. Such pergola can be an excellent idea, as it offers protection and a nice minimal aesthetic at the same time.
Invest in a Patio Umbrella
Creating a deck cover for a small backyard deck or a pool deck might prove to be impossible or simply too expensive.
So, you should consider investing in a high-quality umbrella that’ll serve both as decoration and the shade and protection provider for both you and your outdoor furniture. In addition, it’ll be cheaper than any covering and still be beautiful.
Add Some Decorations
We all know that tiny details like subtle decorative pieces can make your space shine. And they don’t have to be expensive. What’s more, you don’t have to look further from your home to get them.
After all, we’re discussing deck decorating ideas on a budget here. Look for the things you have lying around your home that would match your deck well.
You won’t believe how much difference adding some cozy cushions, a flower vase, a long-forgotten rocking horse toy, or any other interesting decor piece can make.
Alternatively, you can always try to thrift some unique pieces.
Add a Backyard Fire Pit
Introducing a fire pit to your outdoor entertainment area is sure to make your house everybody’s favorite. If you’re good with your hands, you can avoid the exorbitant cost of hiring professionals to build one by DIY-ing.
If DIY renovations aren’t your forte, you can always opt for an affordable portable metal backyard fire pit. This can be a pretty stylish option that’ll undoubtedly enrich your outdoor space.
Get Creative With the Lighting
Adding some lighting is an easy and cheap way to freshen up your simple backyard deck and make it more inviting. You can choose to hang some string lights, add some in-stair or in-floor lighting, bring in some lanterns, or even go for some outdoor chandeliers if you have a covered deck.
The lights will not only allow you to use your deck at night but also give the air of magic.
Freshen Up Your Deck Boards
If your boards look worn out, freshen them up by sanding and staining them. You can also add some fresh paint to make your deck look as good as new. This won’t cost you much, but it’ll make a huge difference.
Do this regularly to keep your deck spotless.
Conclusion
Having a fantastic deck doesn’t have to require a lot of money. A bit of DIY-ing, repurposing, or upcycling some things you already have, and a small investment can do wonders.
So, we hope you found our low-budget backyard deck ideas useful and that we’ve encouraged you to take on a deck renovation and make your backyard shine.
FAQ
How to create an inviting outdoor space on a budget?
There are many good ideas for sprucing up your outdoor space that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. For example, you could choose to:
- DIY your deck
- Do some landscaping (e.g., plant some trees), etc.
How to build a deck on a budget?
The most budget-friendly way to build a deck involves:
- Choosing to build a floating deck
- Building the deck off-season
- Buying unfinished wooden boards and treating them yourself
- Finding free deck plans online
- Inviting some friends to help you out instead of hiring professional help
What’s the cheapest deck to build?
Freestanding or floating decks are the cheapest to build, especially if you find some low-budget floating deck ideas online, use untreated wood, and do the finishing touches yourself.
What’s a floating deck?
A floating deck is a deck that isn’t attached to your house or any other structure. Instead, it’s built on concrete blocks or a gravel bed just above the ground level, which makes it appear as if it’s floating.
Can you buy a floating deck?
Yes, you can buy the floating deck modular kits. But, be aware that it can be more expensive than DIY-ing it. And you’ll still have to do some work. So, if you want to save as much money as possible, try DIY-ing your floating deck, or look into other backyard deck ideas on a budget.
