Creating a pleasant outdoor space does not have to be prohibitively expensive. With the right planning and material choices, you can achieve affordable outdoor flooring that is economical, long-lasting, and comfortable. It is possible to construct a patio, deck, or driveway through the application of suitable flooring material selections and proper preparation. We will examine 8 beautiful and affordable outdoor flooring options that are aesthetically pleasing, reasonably priced, and weather-resistant.
Top 8 Outdoor Flooring Options
1. Concrete
Plain concrete is the least expensive way to cover your outdoor space. Plain gray concrete won’t make a big difference, but you can stain and stamp it in a huge range of colors and designs to make it look really nice from the street. The cloth lasts a long time and grips well even when it’s wet. The bad thing is that concrete can crack over time, and parts that aren’t level can cause people to trip. Between $2 and $5 (10 to 30 AED) per square foot is the norm.
2. Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring (LVP)
Today’s luxury vinyl planks offer stunning, realistic looks, replicating wood, stone, and other materials at a fraction of the cost. Waterproof, kid-friendly, and extra cushiony underfoot, LVP can also be a great choice for affordable outdoor flooring when installed in suitable areas. Pricing ranges widely, but expect to pay around $2-8 (10 to 30 AED) per square foot. Do avoid inferior vinyl products, as they can bubble or peel.
3. Wood Decking
Wood decking is always a good choice for a basic, warm look. Outside, pressure-treated woods last longer, and some types of wood, like cedar and redwood, naturally fight water and insects. The paints and sealants used today are great at protecting wood from water, mildew, and UV rays.
You can expect to pay between $7 and $30 (25 to 120 AED) per square foot to have it put. It will need to be treated and sealed on a regular basis to keep its good looks. Composite lumber is also becoming more popular because it lasts a long time and doesn’t need as much upkeep.
4. Ceramic or Porcelain Tile
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles make a sophisticated choice for patios, balconies, and covered outdoor areas. As part of affordable outdoor flooring options, these tiles are available in every color and pattern under the sun, infusing spaces with pops of color, visual texture, and global inspiration.
Prices range widely but average $5-15 (10 to 60 AED) per square foot. Use raised tile edges or tile spacers for a cleaner look that prevents cracked grout. In wet climates, consider adding drainage mats.
5. Interlocking Pavers
For quick, easy, DIY-friendly installation, interlocking concrete pavers connect like puzzle pieces without mortar. Their tight fit resists shifting while providing good drainage. A variety of pleasing shapes, colors, and patterns means you can create customized looks.
After excavating a 4-6 inch sub-base, set the interlocking pavers on a 1-2 inch bedding layer of sand or stone dust. Expect to pay about $3-10 (10 to 40 AED) per square foot.
6. Poured Rubber Flooring
Poured rubber provides a safe, durable surface for play areas, gym flooring, and workout areas. Using recycled tire rubber, this seamless material is easy on joints, provides sound dampening, and offers great traction even when wet.
Precision installation according to manufacturer specifications will provide the best results. This rubber flooring is also more affordable than rubber tiles at approximately $4-8 (15 to 30 AED) per square foot.
7. Stone Pavers
For organic beauty and charm, natural stone pavers make an unmatched choice for patios and garden paths. Materials like bluestone, travertine, and granite create a classic Old World look. Stone stands up excellently to weather and heavy foot traffic.
You’ll pay more upfront, from $5-15 (20 to 60 AED) per square foot, depending on the type and cut of stone. But it’s a sound long-term investment as stone can last a lifetime or more.
8. Painted Floor
For the ultimate budget-saver, a fresh coat of exterior porch and floor paint revives worn surfaces affordably. Use a bonding primer followed by two topcoats of durable outdoor latex floor paint. Add an anti-slip additive to the final coat for improved traction. Beyond costing just cents per square foot, paint allows for unlimited color options and coats over existing surfaces like concrete, wood, and composite decks.
Tips for Choosing Affordable Outdoor Flooring
When selecting an outdoor flooring on a budget, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Consider your climate. Choose materials suitable to temperature swings, seasonal weather, and typical moisture in your area. What lasts decades in Arizona won’t survive a New York winter.
- Factor in usage and foot traffic. Will the space host large parties or just small family gatherings? Is it primarily for adults or active kids and pets? Hardier floors withstand heavier use.
- Check required maintenance. Some materials, like wood, need frequent sealing and staining, while poured rubber and tiles need occasional cleaning. Make sure you can keep up with recommended care.
- Buy in bulk when possible. Materials purchased in larger quantities often cost significantly less per square foot. Split costs with neighbors doing home projects, too.
- DIY for savings. If laying stone or interlocking pavers, you can shave thousands off installation costs through DIY hard work.
- Allow for future removal. Temporary solutions like painted concrete are very budget-friendly. But removable pavers, tiles, and deck boards also allow you to modify your space more easily down the road.
Prioritize safety and lasting quality within your budget, and always obtain necessary permits. With smart planning, you can create a fabulous outdoor retreat even on a tight budget.
Conclusion
Creating a beautiful yet affordable outdoor living space is within almost any budget. With proper planning and material selection, you can install outdoor flooring suited to your climate, foot traffic, and personal style. Confer with landscape designers and flooring specialists for choosing the beautiful and affordable outdoor flooring options. Then, enjoy hosting fun gatherings outside with friends and family.
