How To Create the Perfect Backyard Deck on a Budget

Read our guide to learn how to choose the right backyard deck idea for your outdoor space and budget.

Written by Brenda Woods Updated 09/25/2024

Even the smallest backyard can be improved by a deck. Not only does it give you more opportunities to enjoy your home, but also it can increase your property value.

If you want to build a deck in your backyard but don’t know where or how to start, our guide provides the perfect starting point. We will review various budget-friendly backyard deck ideas, decorating and landscaping tips, how building a deck as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project compares to hiring a professional, and maintaining your deck over the years.

Budget-Friendly Deck Designs

From pallet boards to pergolas, there are many ways to create a beautiful outdoor living space that offers both functionality and low-maintenance beauty. Before settling on a backyard deck design, consider how much space you have to work with.

Measure your yard and consider any other elements you want to feature, such as a swing set, garden, orchard, or other backyard oasis focal points. This will ensure that your deck complements your yard.

Small Deck Designs

You may have limited space, but small deck ideas can have lots of personality. Building a pergola is one of the best ways to create a wooden deck in a small space. A pergola is an outdoor structure with vertical wood posts that can make a privacy fence. Pergolas come in various shapes and sizes. You can build them by hand or purchase them from a hardware or home goods store. You can also customize pergolas with elements such as patio covers, a trellis, or an awning. Pergolas are functional and easy to build, making them a great choice for small backyards.

A ground-level deck, also known as a floating deck, is another excellent option for small outdoor spaces. A ground-level deck is a small structure built directly on the ground. It usually doesn’t require stairs and is easy to maintain and clean. You can build one out of any composite decking or wooden deck boards in just one or two days. Customize your floating deck with a stylish outdoor rug, patio furniture, or other outdoor furnishings, and you’ll have a great outdoor space without spending too much.

You might think of a gazebo as an extension of a pond or lakefront space, but it can also be a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor patio or deck. Even if you don’t have any concrete or wood decking in place, adding a gazebo gives you and your guests a place to relax outside. A gazebo is also covered, so you don’t have to worry about rain or snow. You can purchase most gazebos fully assembled, making them ideal for a discerning homeowner who wants a stylish outdoor space without a large time investment.

Large Deck Designs

If you’re lucky enough to have a large yard, your deck options are almost endless. Still, before you start your deck project, think about how to best utilize the space without overspending. From a spacious dining area to a fire pit surrounded by large, comfortable chairs, creating an outdoor living space in a large yard can be a joy.

A multilevel deck is a popular option for homeowners with extra space and a lofty budget. With a multilevel deck, you can create layers to your outdoor space, with one area designed for dining and entertaining and another for relaxation. You could put a hot tub on your multilevel deck or decorate it with string lights and finish it with all the custom decor elements you like, from chic rugs to garden boxes.

A covered deck is also ideal for large outdoor spaces. You can install a retractable awning if you’re on a tight budget or build a wooden or aluminum roof over the deck. Some homeowners opt to extend their home’s roof out over the deck to create a seamless look.

Those who love entertaining and have space to spare can opt for an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens have many customization options. From pizza ovens to industrial-quality grills and smokers, homeowners can tailor their outdoor kitchen to their specifications. Be sure to select outdoor furniture that coordinates with your appliances for a sleek appearance.

Affordable Decking Materials

Once you’ve decided on the general design for your deck, you’ll need to choose the right type of decking material for the project. Here are some popular decking materials:

Composite decking: Composite decking is durable and long-lasting. It is usually made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and recycled plastics. Composite decking comes in many colors, styles, and finishes, making it easy for every homeowner to find something that suits their taste. However, composite decking tends to be more expensive than other types of decking material.
Natural wood decking: Natural wood decking gives your outdoor space a laid-back, rustic look. You can select either pressure-treated or untreated wood. Pressure-treated wood is more likely to resist insects and the elements, but it might be slightly more expensive than untreated wood.
Plastic decking: Plastic decking is low-maintenance and resistant to harsh weather. It is resilient in high-traffic spaces and can last several decades with proper maintenance. However, some plastic decking can have an unnatural appearance, making it hard for some homeowners to match it to their roofing or siding.

When trying to decide what kind of decking to choose, consider your budget as well as your long-term goals for your outdoor space. A deck is a major investment that you’ll want to enjoy for years to come. Consider consulting a contractor for some feedback or additional insight into what type of decking material is best for your unique needs.

Cost-Saving Tips for Deck Installation

Investing in a deck can cost lots of money. If you’re on a tight budget or don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on your new outdoor space, there are ways to save money in the process. For example, you can purchase lumber and supplies when your local hardware store has a sale. Sign up for email alerts from local stores so you’ll know when sales are coming up.

You can also do some work yourself if you’re comfortable with DIY projects. From sanding and smoothing the boards to purchasing all necessary materials yourself, there are many ways to lower your spending. Finally, repurposing materials can save you money. While this isn’t always possible, if you have boards from an old deck or from another project, you might be able to use them for your new deck.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

Deciding how to install your new deck is a big decision. Putting the deck up yourself can take significant time and energy, especially if you’re unfamiliar with home improvement projects. Depending on the type of deck you choose, it could take special skills or tools that you might not have.

Hiring a professional for your deck is a time-saving option. A contractor will have all the tools and materials necessary to install your deck and can usually finish the whole project in a few days or less. While it might be more expensive upfront to hire a contractor, you could save money in the long run because your deck is less likely to need tweaks or repairs down the road.

Maintaining Your Deck on a Budget

Just like the rest of your home, your deck requires regular cleaning and maintenance in order to last for years. Clean the deck thoroughly at least once a year with an industrial-quality deck cleaning solution. Always read the label of any cleaning product and consider the material your deck is made of. Before using a pressure washer, ensure that the decking material is resilient enough. A garden hose is also a good option for most decks.

Don’t use bleach or other harsh cleaning agents on your deck. These products can strip the decking of its natural color and damage any nearby plants. Always cover nearby plants and landscaping before cleaning your deck to ensure any chemicals don’t harm or kill them.

Sanding and sealing your deck can help it maintain its color and prevent any warping. Always sand the deck prior to sealing and don’t use paint as a sealant. Deck paint can take on a distressed look very quickly, especially when exposed to the elements. Synthetic sealants are a good option, since many of these protect against mold, mildew, and algae.

If you experience any severe weather, check your deck for damage as soon as possible. Regularly sweep away any debris, such as leaves, sticks, and branches, and remove any pooled water. Check for loose nails and deck attachments, as well as any rotten planks and wood. If you find any issues, fix them immediately, as these can present a health and safety hazard.

Our Conclusion

Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small outdoor space, you can likely install an inviting, well-designed deck. Customize your outdoor space to your tastes, needs, and budget, and you’ll soon find yourself spending more time than ever in your backyard.

Whatever kind of deck you choose, consider the materials you’ll need. Talk to a contractor about what sort of decking material will work best for your needs and budget and decide whether you want to install the deck yourself or outsource the job. Every kind of deck requires regular cleaning and maintenance, such as removing debris after any severe weather event and conducting a yearly deep clean. By taking proper care of your deck, you’ll extend its lifespan and ensure you always have a comfortable, clean outdoor space to enjoy.

FAQ About Backyard Deck Ideas on a Budget

What are some affordable decking materials?

There are lots of affordable decking materials, such as treated and untreated wood, composite decking material, and plastic. When choosing what kind of decking material you want, think about your budget and what sort of look you want the space to have.

Can I build a deck myself to save money?

How can I maintain my deck on a budget?

You can maintain your deck on a budget by cleaning your deck with a simple garden hose and cleaner from a hardware store. Remove any sticks, debris, and leaves from your deck regularly and manually check for loose nails, rotten wood, and any significant chips.

What are some cost-effective deck designs?

There are several cost-effective deck designs, such as a ground-level deck, or floating deck. Because this deck is at ground level, it saves you the cost of installing and cementing posts. You can also build a pergola at a relatively low cost, depending on the size and materials.

How can I save money on deck installation?

You can save money on deck installation by doing some of the work yourself, repurposing some materials, or buying deck materials during a sale.

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