4 DIY Ideas for Creating a Patio on a Budget

Outdoor entertaining can be a fun way to bring your loved ones together, but if your outdoor space isn’t large enough or quite ready for gatherings, don’t worry.

Here, we’ll go through some simple ways to add patio space on a tight budget.

Choosing Patio Materials

When choosing the ideal materials for expanding your patio, it’s important to consider costs and the time commitment required for installation.

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Stone Patio Installation

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Wood Deck Installation

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Paver Patio Installation

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Packed Gravel

Gravel is an affordable, easy patio solution. We recommend the more durable crushed granite or limestone over pea gravel or river rock. With basic tools, you’ll be able to create a smooth area for sitting and dining that will last for years.

To install, you’ll first mark the patio area and dig out grass and plants. Next, create a flat, tamped base. Add a perimeter border of landscape edging, wood, or bricks to contain the gravel. Then, line the space with fabric to block weeds and enable drainage.

You’ll then spread a four- to five-inch layer of angular gravel. Tamp it down firmly and apply polymeric sand to fill the gaps between rocks. These steps will harden it and hold the gravel in place.

Cost estimate: $560
Time estimate: Half a day

Crushed Stone

For a natural, rustic look, crushed stone makes an attractive, budget-friendly patio surface. This versatile material can also provide the base if you add pavers later.

First, compact and level the soil base. Add a perimeter border if desired. Apply a 4 to 5-inch layer of three-quarter-inch crushed stone. Tamp the stone. Then, mist it with water to settle it into a smooth, firm surface. Over time, refill any low spots to maintain the patio.

Cost estimate: $560
Time estimate: One day

Pavers

For long-lasting beauty, pavers are the way to go. The stone’s natural curves, borders, shapes, and colors can customize the look. Pavers carry a higher cost and installation time than other materials but can be a worthwhile investment.

After installing a tamped, leveled crushed stone base lay pavers in your preferred pattern. Sweep polymeric sand over the surface and into joints, then lightly mist with water. This step will prevent weeds and secure the pavers in place.

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With proper prep and installation, pavers can last 20 to 25 years or more. Simply replace any damaged pavers as needed.

Cost estimate: $1,560

Time estimate: Two days

Concrete Forms

For custom patios, Quikrete WalkMaker forms provide an innovative solution. They can mimic patterns like brick, slate, and stone in concrete.

After leveling the base, assemble the interlocking plastic forms. Pour the concrete, settling it into the mold. Once cured, remove the forms to reveal the imprinted pattern. Coloring or staining the wet concrete can further customize the look.

With some creativity, WalkMaker forms offer unique concrete patios on a budget. Their reusability allows casting matching steps and paths. It's a simple technique well within reach for first-time concrete installers.

Cost estimate: $1,480
Time estimate: Two days

Learn More About Patios

So, Is a DIY Patio Worth the Time and Money?

Installing your own patio reaps handsome rewards. Compared to hiring help, DIY installation provides major cost savings.

That said, patio installation requires significant labor. Excavating, hauling, and leveling materials takes work. You'll need to rent tampers, compactors, and concrete mixers to do the job right. Also, factor sweat equity into the overall cost.

Luckily, the options suit different budgets and abilities. Casual gravel patios are fast and economical. Pavers and poured concrete offer an elevated style with more installation effort. Choose the right DIY material for your yard based on cost, available tools, and skill level.

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DIY Patio FAQs

What is the most budget-friendly DIY patio material?

Packed gravel is the lowest-cost option. Gravel is inexpensive, and installation involves digging, tamping, spreading, and adding borders. It's a fast way to add usable backyard space.

How difficult is it for a beginner to install pavers?

Pavers require more skill than materials like gravel. Proper gravel base installation is crucial — it must be dug out, tamped, and leveled. During paver installation, getting the drainage and the slope right is key. Beginners can install a paver patio but should expect the work to stretch multiple long days.

Should I pour a concrete patio myself?

DIY concrete patio pouring is certainly doable with good planning, tools, and assistance. But, mixing, pouring, and finishing concrete is labor-intensive. Beginners may struggle to achieve proper concrete consistency, slope, and smoothness. Consider starting with a smaller concrete path to build skills first.

How long does a DIY patio installation take?

How long a DIY patio installation takes varies by size and material. Gravel and crushed stone patios can be installed in one to two days. For novice DIYers, more advanced projects like pavers and poured concrete patios often take two to three days. I recommend getting extra help as this speeds up the work significantly.

Should I hire patio pros instead of doing it myself?

Although pricier, hiring a pro ensures proper installation since they regularly tackle these projects. They already own the right tools, can easily transport and handle heavy materials, and work quickly. Professionals remove the physical burden and uncertainty from patio jobs. If your budget accommodates, professional installs yield excellent results.

*Cost and time estimates below are for a 12′ x 12′ patio area. Cost data sourced from Angi and HomeGuide.