Slash Outdoor Flooring Costs with Durable Yet Economical DIY Options
Upgrading outdoor spaces can be expensive, especially when it comes to installing new flooring. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly DIY options that provide durability without draining your wallet.
By choosing the right affordable materials and learning some key installation tips, you can slash outdoor flooring costs dramatically while still ending up with an attractive, long-lasting surface. Keep reading to discover some of the best economical choices for DIYers of all skill levels.
Consider Low-Cost PVC Decking for a Composite Look
Composite decking offers a gorgeous, natural wood aesthetic but comes along with a hefty price tag. For a fraction of the cost, PVC decking provides a similar appearance minus the high expenses.
As an outdoor flooring material made from synthetic components rather than natural woods, PVC decking is far more budget-friendly. It resists fading, staining, mold, and other outdoor damage more effectively than real timber as well. Maintenance involves the occasional soap-and-water cleaning to keep it looking fresh.
PVC Decking Installs Simply With Common DIY Tools
Installing PVC deck tiles or planks takes basic DIY skills and standard tools like a circular saw, drill, and screwdriver. Correct prep work ensures proper drainage and prevents shifting or buckling.
Decking manufacturers provide detailed instructions for straightforward assembly. Most systems feature interlocking tiles or tongues and grooves on planks for smooth connections.
Concrete Pavers Offer Custom Looks at Low Cost
Concrete pavers lend patios, walkways, and driveways versatile style at wallet-friendly rates. Choose from myriad shapes, colors, textures, and patterns to design a unique outdoor flooring look.
This affordable paving withstands heavy usage in high traffic zones along with sun, rain, snow, and other elements. Proper base prep and installation techniques result in long-lasting durability.
DIYers Can Easily Install Concrete Pavers
With some planning, muscle, patience, and basic tools, concrete paver installation makes a good weekend DIY project.
- Excavate area
- Add graded aggregate base
- Set edging to contain pavers
- Place and level pavers
- Sweep polymeric sand into gaps
The finished surface stays firmly in place for decades and thrives outdoors in any climate. Upkeep involves re-sanding gaps occasionally to prevent weeds or ants.
Artificial Grass Tiles Offer Low-Effort Landscaping
Seeking lush lawn looks without continual mowing and watering? Grass tiles offer the pleasing aesthetic of turf with almost zero upkeep. Rain percolates through the permeable backing. Minimal cleaning and infrequent brushing keeps synthetic blades looking neat.
With realistic details mimicking natural grass, these easy-install tiles create stunning lawn effects on patios, rooftops, balconies, and beyond. No mud or allergens mean carefree indoor/outdoor enjoyment.
Click-Lock Grass Tiles Form Seamless Lawns
Interlocking edges on each tile ensure tight seams simply by pressing connected units flush. With no glue or special tools necessary, setup takes just minutes for an instant lush oasis minus the work.
Level flagstone, concrete, or compacted soil offer suitable bases to handle weight and drainage. We recommend purchasing a few extra tiles for repairs or future expansion projects.
Pea Gravel Offers Economical, Neutral Groundcover
For covering large patio spaces affordably, pea gravel delivers. The natural round stones create textural, neutral surfaces perfect for displaying potted plants or outdoor living furniture while masking dirt.
Laid at least two inches deep, pea gravel withstands foot traffic and furnishes cream, tan, or gray substrates effortlessly camouflaging spills and stains. Simply rake back into place occasionally.
DIY Pea Gravel Installation Is Straightforward
No advanced skills are necessary to set pea gravel. However, prepare the site appropriately for successful results:
- Eliminate vegetation
- Dig out area to necessary depth
- Add landscape fabric to block weeds
- Install edging to contain gravel
- Order delivery per square footage
- Rake smooth at proper depth
With the right precautions taken during installation, pea gravel offers years of reliable, economical use in outdoor living zones.
Upgrading backyard patios or gardens doesn't require breaking the bank. Plenty of budget-friendly yet durable and stylish DIY outdoor flooring options exist for savvy homeowners willing to put in some sweat equity.
Whether your taste runs towards natural stone looks or artificial grass, and your skill level covers basic or more complex installations, affordable choices await. Use these economical materials tactically to refresh high-traffic spots most prone to wear for problem-free outdoor enjoyment.