Build a patio on a budget – Here’s how
If you are considering now to build a patio on a budget, but not sure where to start, read on. In this article we offer homeowners a range of options and steps to consider for a patio construction project. The ideas we offer present value for money in the best sense, while enabling you to build a gorgeous patio to enjoy all year round.
How to build a gorgeous patio on a budget: Useful planning tips

Building a patio can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and add value to your home. But what if you don’t have a lot of money to spend? Is it still possible to build a gorgeous patio on a budget?
Here are some useful tips for planning and building a beautiful patio, even if you’re on a tight budget:
1. Keep the patio size small
It’s not necessary to have a sprawling patio in order to enjoy your outdoor space. In fact, keeping the size small can be a helpful way to keep costs down. By keeping the dimensions smaller, you’ll use fewer materials and won’t have to spend as much on labor. Not to mention, a smaller patio is easier to maintain and clean!
Also, choose a space-efficient design that will make your patio more comfortable even with limited dimensions. Try an easy-to-use decking calculator to help you determine the best patio shape and size according to your yard size and home exterior angles. Getting the patio size finalized can help you calculate the decking boards and components you’ll need, and the possible total cost of the project.
2. Choose the right location
One of the most important things to consider when planning to build a patio on a budget is choosing the right location. A patio can be built in just about any size or shape, so it’s important to pick a spot that will work well with your existing home and yard. If you have a small yard, you may want to consider building a raised patio so that you can take advantage of any available space.
Placing the patio close to your home can make it easy to install patio awnings. If you have a large yard, you may want to consider building a ground-level patio so that you can save on costs associated with excavation and landscaping. In either case, it’s important to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight so that you can enjoy your new patio year-round.
3. Select affordable materials
When planning your patio, it is important to factor in the cost of materials. There are many different materials you can use for your patio, but not all of them are equally affordable. Stone or brick can be quite expensive, so if you’re working with a limited budget, it’s important to choose an inexpensive material like concrete, gravel, or brick pavers. You can still achieve a beautiful result without breaking the bank.
It is also important to remember not to sacrifice quality for price when it comes to building a patio. While it’s important to stick to a budget, you also want to make sure that the materials you use are high quality and will last for years to come.
4. Consider making it a DIY project
Building a patio can be a great addition to your home. Not only does it provide you with additional space to enjoy the outdoors, but it can also increase the value of your home. However, patios can be expensive to have built by a contractor. If you are working with a tight budget, you may want to consider making your patio a DIY project.
If you’re willing to put in some elbow grease, you can save a lot of money by doing the work yourself. This includes everything from excavating and preparing the site to laying the pavers or poured concrete.
Local building requirements
There are a few things to keep in mind if you choose to go the DIY route. First, make sure that you are familiar with all of the local building codes and requirements. This will ensure that your patio is up to code and will avoid any potential problems down the road. Second, take the time to plan out your project.
This includes measuring the area where your patio will be located and drawing up a detailed plan. This will help to make the construction process go smoothly. Finally, be sure to budget for all of the necessary materials. With a little planning, you can build a beautiful patio on a budget.
5. Get creative with your design
One of the most important aspects of planning a patio on a budget is to be creative with your design. There are endless possibilities when it comes to patio designs, so get creative and come up with something unique. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Get creative with your furniture choices, layout, and accessories to create a space that is uniquely yours. You may even be able to find some affordable design ideas online or in magazines.
6. Shop around for the best deals
This is a great tip for anyone looking to build a patio on a budget. Don’t just settle for the first price you see on materials or labor. Shop around and compare prices from different suppliers to get the best deals. By shopping around for the best deals, you can save yourself a lot of money in the long run. Take your time to compare prices and options before making any final decisions.
7. Don’t forget the furniture
Once you have your beautiful new patio built, don’t forget to add some comfortable and stylish furniture. Fortunately, there are plenty of great options available at affordable prices.
You may want to consider shopping at yard sales or consignment shops for gently used furniture that you can repurpose for your patio. Or, you can look for affordable new furniture specifically designed for outdoor use. Whatever route you choose, make sure to add furniture that will help you enjoy your new patio to the fullest.
8. Consider the drainage
One of the most important things to think about when planning a patio is the drainage. After all, you don’t want your beautiful new patio to turn into a muddy mess after a rainstorm! Make sure to plan for proper drainage by sloping the patio surface away from your house and/or installing drain pipes.
Another useful tip is to use pavers or stones that are porous. This will help water to seep through them and avoid puddling on the surface of your patio. Finally, make sure that any plants you include in your landscaping are also well-drained so they don’t contribute to the pooling problem.
9. Add some lighting
It can be as simple as string lights or lanterns. Lighting is an important element in any space, and it can really help to set the mood on your patio. Plus, it will make it easier to see after the sun goes down.
If you want to get a little more fancy, you can look into installing some solar lights or LED lights. These will be more expensive up front, but they’ll save you money in the long run because you won’t have to keep replacing batteries or bulbs. And, of course, they’re much better for the environment.



How to build a patio on a budget in summary
By following these tips, you can build a beautiful patio without breaking the bank. So get started planning your dream patio today!
FURTHER READING ON GARDENING
At Housesit Match.com we often share practical tips and tools that can help our members. Here are some blogs published earlier that offer more information and advice on gardening.
Create the perfect garden – 7 Top tips
Home gardening safety tips – Green thumb 101
Home gardening ideas – Artificial grass