Pea gravel is low-cost since the stones remain loose and don't need to harden or set, this gravel can be used to easily create a patio in any shape. It is just as easy to mount, so even for a novice hardcaper it is a reasonably simple DIY project. If properly looked after, a pea gravel patio will last forever.
Gravel is the most affordable patio material, followed by wood and pavers. Natural stone patios cost the most, especially if you use high-end materials like granite, travertine, and bluestone. You'll get your money's worth with either gravel or stone.
Concrete
Concrete is a simple, inexpensive material for building your patio. The price ranges from $6-$13 per square foot. Poured concrete is easy to shape, thus making it possible to create different shapes and designs to make it more unique.
Bluestone has consistently been popular for outdoor patio stones for two main reasons. Not only is it extremely tough and durable, but it is also weather-resistant. The incredible color of bluestone makes it a favorite amongst homeowners.
Pebbles are easy to install and another cheap patio stone material. These stones can provide your outdoor space with a charming, lovely appearance. The low-cost landscape material option does not require setting or hardening. Therefore, you can create any shape of patio you want with ease.
Natural stone, tile, pavers, and brick are some of the longest-lasting patio materials. These materials are durable and resistant to weather and wear, which makes them a good choice for long-lasting structures.
The most affordable patio material is usually bark chippings, followed by gravel. However, remember you may need to factor in the cost of garden edging, too. For a step up in price, opt for poured concrete or concrete pavers, although it's likely you will need to pay for installation.
Pretty Up a Patio or Back Porch on a Budget
Start by making your outdoor space more functional with our creative privacy solutions and inexpensive outdoor lighting ideas. Then, layer in inviting accents like outdoor furniture, throw pillows and rugs. You can even upcycle everyday items into stylish outdoor decor.
When it comes to building a patio, paving isn't the only option to choose from. In fact, poured concrete, dirt, loose gravel, and mosaic tiles are all fine options as well.
If you are looking for an easier alternative to a paver patio, then a patio with a pea gravel base material might be the right choice for you. This type of patio will take several steps less than a gravel paver patio to make.
To install a 400-square-foot paver patio, most homeowners spend between $3,476 to $8,872. Homeowners can expect to spend between $3,476 and $8,872 for a 400-square-foot paver patio (or $8.69 to $22.18 per square foot). Most homeowners spend an average of $4,537 to install a paver patio (or $11.34 per square foot).
While individual pavers aren't expensive, laying pavers is more time- and labor-intensive than pouring concrete. The up-front cost of pavers can run anywhere from $8 to $25 per square foot, while concrete runs about $3 to $6 per square foot.
Typically, pea gravel is going to be your cheapest paver (and a great DIY design idea).
After you lay gravel, you'll need to spread a smooth layer of concrete sand for your pavers to settle in and stay. If you try to replace either of these aggregates with dirt, it won't be long before you have to tear it all up and start from scratch.
As far as backyard ideas on a budget, patio umbrellas are a perennial favorite. Extra-large patio umbrellas add shade right where you need it. Most are pretty mobile, so you can switch up your patio design as needed. Combine multiple umbrellas or create a shady nook on one corner of your deck, patio or backyard.
The national average cost for a new patio is $4,500, but the price range can go from $2,290 to over $6,420. Patios can be very expensive if it's a large project or incredibly affordable if you're on a tight budget.
It can be tricky to figure it all out. Generally speaking, a quality cushioned chair will cost between $800 and $2,000. A quality sofa will cost $1,800 to $3,000. Look for dining tables between $900 and $2,000 or more.
Wood is more expensive then is aluminum and steel is more expensive than wood. Of all the different materials used to construct patio covers and pergolas, I'd have to say that the aluminum covers are the most affordable.
Richcliff pavers make excellent flagstone substitutes due to their realistic surface textures and muted shades. The Dawn Mist color variation used here is a popular and affordable alternative to Bluestone, accentuated by a Copthorne border that incorporates complementary burgundy red hues.
For a basic 10ft x 10ft fully covered vinyl patio cover, the average cost ranges between $3,825 – $6,275. DIY kits for solid roof patio covers range between $1,800 – $4,300. The average cost of vinyl lattice patio covers range between $2,200 – $4,350.
If you want to get the most out of your new patio for the year, you're best off getting to work closer to the beginning of the year - around April. This way, your new outdoor space will be ready to enjoy during the warmer months.
In the spring it also tends to rain more, making it muddier and messier to install. There is less chance of damaging your landscape during construction in the fall and winter since much of your vegetation will already be dormant. (It also still a great time to plant new trees and shrubs around your new patio!)
Travertine was once considered a luxury paving material. Recently, however, travertine has dramatically dropped in price to become one of the most common paving types on pool decks and in warm climates. Travertine stays cool to the touch even in the hottest weather, which makes it feel great on bare feet.