Sometimes beautiful architecture and a neat front yard are not enough to make your home stand out. A cozy and pretty backyard deck lets you spend quality time with your family and entertain your loved ones. An aesthetically pleasing backyard deck increases the visual appeal of your home. Moreover, it adds more landscaping value and helps you build equity.
What Are Some Backyard Deck Ideas on a Budget?
A common misconception among homeowners is that they need the fortune to build a deck. But thanks to a plethora of affordable materials and varying designs, building a deck on a budget is now possible. Here are some affordable backyard deck ideas that won’t break the bank.
Wooden Decks
Wooden decks are perfect for small spaces and making a comfy spot for you to host grilling and drinking sessions with friends or family.
A small covered deck located off the main living area offers a great way to host a large party. Your guests can easily move in and out through the French doors.
Bench Seating
A conventional and laidback deck with custom or built-in seating cushions exudes elegance and fun at the same time.
You can choose different deck designs to fit small or large crowds, according to your budget and backyard area.
Stained Deck and Installed Railings
Another great way to build a new or revamp an old deck is to stain it and add waterproof it with a special coating.
Install customized railings that add more security and comfort to your backyard deck.
Cedar Deck
If you are looking for contemporary design and incredible functionality, a contemporary deck looks fabulous with a jacuzzi or a grilling area.
You do not have to worry about unexpected rainfall damaging your expensive BBQ grill or pool as a large umbrella can offer some solid protection.
Fire Pit and Pergola
Another great idea to give a new life to your backyard deck is adding a pergola and a fire pit to your deck. Add contemporary lights and seating options to impress your friends and family. (Find out what a pergola is with pergola 101!)
And if you are wondering, ‘what can I cover my pergola with?‘ we have some ideas for you!
Covered Decks
Covered decks are ideal for enjoying a scenic view throughout the year. If you live by the mountains, a river, or have large living room windows, then a covered deck gives you a secure and comfy outdoor space.
Choosing a wood decking material gives you a natural feel and will match the rustic design of your home.
Tiered-wood Deck
Look at this beautiful tiered-wood deck. We think it is a perfect way to use up free space in your backyard. You can also opt for a design where the deck changes directions or install built-in lights to add more variations to a conventional design.
Homeowners also use this design to designate large areas of their deck or backyard for different uses.
A Coat of Fresh Paint
When you want to breathe new life or add color to your backyard deck, choosing different finishes, stains, or paints is an affordable idea.
You can also mix and match different colors to create a multi-colored deck. Staining different batches in multiple colors creates an exciting look to revamp your old and boring backyard deck.
Ground-level Decks
Such decks not only improve the aesthetics of your old backyard space but are also easy to build. If your backyard area has numerous trees or plants, you build this deck in between your plants. This way, you offer them room to grow. It is best to add built-in features if you want to add more height to your deck.
Go creative with your seating areas or planters to make this simple backyard deck more interesting.
Hanging Planters
When you do not have enough money to rebuild your deck, or are low on soil space, make use of creative above-ground ways to add more beauty to your deck. Vertical hanging planter walls are not only cost-effective, but they are also low maintenance.
Use a good mix of year-round plants, and your backyard deck will be a beautiful place to hang out all year round.
Refinished Deck
If you don’t want to change the existing look of your deck but just need to add some freshness and durability, a fresh stain refinishes your deck. Sealants and stains are affordable and available in a variety of options to help you mix and match colors. You can use your backyard furniture or landscaping as a guide.
What is the cheapest deck to build?
The cost of different decking materials varies according to the quality and type of materials you choose. Looking at an outdoor decking materials comparison can help you make the best decision as well. But the price of each material depends on your location and the type of lumberyard you purchase it from, so comparing rates is a great idea.
If you want to build the cheapest backyard deck, choose pressure-treated wood as your material. Typically, you will have to pay from $0.75 to $1.25/linear foot for 5/4×6 ACQ treated decking.
For a little higher price, you can find higher-grade materials with longer lengths. Pressure-treated wood is also perfect for homeowners on a budget, but you will have to maintain it frequently for guaranteeing longevity. Remember to stain your deck regularly as this type of wood can be prone to warping, splits, cracks, or discoloration.
There are hundreds of affordable brands to choose from, so you will never run out of options. You can also browse from a wide range of composite and vinyl decking options. Generally, reputed and expensive brands cost between $3.00 to $4.00 per linear foot. However, some stores provide affordable composite materials for half the price. In addition to that, hidden fasteners, special screws, or different deck building materials can also cost you differently.
Final Thoughts
Building or remodeling your backyard deck brings excellent value to your home. You don’t have to choose expensive materials or exotic backyard deck designs. Using affordable and necessary materials can help you create a classy and cozy backyard deck to enjoy parties or spend time with your loved ones.
Follow our guide of affordable backyard deck ideas to enjoy fun times with your loved ones. While you can build or refinish your deck yourself, don’t try out anything or use equipment that you have no experience in avoiding injuries. If you are not sure where to start, reach out to All Pro Decks, the best deck and patio builder there is. We can surely help you get the backyard deck of your dreams!
