16 backyard deck ideas on a budget

Posted by Greg Parkins on

Personalising and enhancing your decking can feel like a daunting and expensive task – but it doesn’t have to be.

There are a wide variety of cheap and effective ways to make your decking a more attractive and practical space.

If you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve pulled together some fantastic backyard deck ideas on a budget.

1. Step-down space

Adding steps to your decking can be a great way to create the illusion of a larger space, as well as offer more potential for seating areas. Simply place some cushions on the step and you have a ready-made bench.

Tiered steps can be positioned around the perimeter of your decking to form a sunken area in the centre, or simply added to one end as a decorative element.

Such installations can be a challenging process, so it's always worth consulting with experts before beginning any work.

2. Pergola or gazebo

Transform your decking with a pergola or gazebo that blends seamlessly with your theme.

These structures offer shade and create a focal point for your decking. Climbing plants like ivy can be a great addition too, as they look attractive and create more natural shade.

Pergolas and gazebos can vary in price depending on the materials, but taking a DIY approach can keep the costs down.

3. Ambient lighting

Choosing the right lighting can be a game-changer for your decking.

This doesn’t have to break the bank either – simply add solar-powered post lights for a stunning accent to your decking when night falls.

There are a whole host of lighting options to consider, and depending on how far you want to stretch your budget, recessed lights, wall lights and lanterns can all be eye-catching enhancements.

4. Planters and greenery

The power of plants and other greenery shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to decorating your decking.

Leafy and colourful plants soften spaces and create a welcoming feel, and cost very little to buy or grow.

Planters can be a great way to add greenery to your decking, as can climbing plants, which can be positioned on walls or even your railings as decoration as well as privacy.

5. Outdoor rugs and mats

Perhaps one of the cheapest and easiest ways to improve your decking is with outdoor rugs and mats.

These can add a pop of colour, as well as provide comfort underfoot and protect the surface of your deck.

Place a welcome mat in front of a doorway, or opt for a large design to cover a significant area of your deck with an attractive pattern.

6. Fascia and cladding

Decking fascia and cladding can provide a premium finish, making your outdoor space look and feel more complete.

Cladding can perfectively replicate smooth timber and provide an authentic look for a fraction of the price.

It could be as simple as adding some cladding trim or installing composite wall boards – which can be customised to suit both modern and contemporary designs.

7. Painting, staining or cleaning

An obvious but often overlooked way to enhance your decking is simply giving it a rigorous clean, then staining or painting the surface.

Specialist paint, treatment and restoration products can revive your decking and leave it gleaming like the day it was built.

These products can also boost the longevity of your decking, and even improve safety in the case of anti-slip deck finish.

8. Privacy screens

Decking can often be in view of paths, roads, or neighbours, so improving privacy can be a welcome improvement.

Privacy screens are an easy way to achieve that and come in an array of designs to suit your decking and individual taste.

From decorative panels and rattan weave to artificial leaf screens, there are a variety of styles you can find for a bargain price.

9. Deck tiles

Interlocking deck tiles can be laid directly over your existing decking to create a refreshed surface.

This could cover your entire decking or even just a small area to create a new section you might use for BBQs or a seating area.

10. Fire pit, BBQ or chiminea

Transform your decking into a social space with the addition of a fire pit, BBQ or chiminea – all of which can be achieved on a budget.

Fire pits make a great centrepiece for you and your guests to gather round on chilly evenings, while a chiminea looks great tucked in the corner.

Full size BBQs or even a Hook'N'Cook Disposable BBQ Stand, which can be stored away after use, will give you every reason to get out there and enjoy your decking in the summer months.

11. Water features

Small fountains and other water features are a soothing and attractive refinement and don’t cost too much to buy and install.

These features can be placed around the outside of your decking, or even be positioned on the decking itself if there’s enough space.

Waterfall features are particularly popular and are a great way to fill a space in front of a large empty wall.

12. Edging

Much like decking fascia and cladding, edging is a subtle but impactful upgrade.

Achieve an elegant, framed look in a range of colours and styles while protecting high wear points.

Even if you have an unusual, curved space, there are edging and trim options you can utilise to create a premium feel at a minimal cost.

13. Shade structures

We’ve mentioned pergolas and gazebos, but there are further ways you can add a shaded area to your decking.

Shade sails are probably the most cost-effective choice and these can be a DIY protect with just a few durable materials.

Retractable awnings are another option and can be easily folded away when they’re not in use.

14. Stone or gravel pathways

While not necessarily a decking feature, improving the area around your decking is vital for an attractive outside space.

A neat stone or gravel pathway can connect your decking to other parts of your garden, driveway or outside space.

Combine this with the lighting, water features and greenery we mentioned earlier, and you’ll very quickly create an impressive space.

15. Railings refresh

If you feel like your decking needs a revamp, it doesn’t necessarily mean ripping it up and starting again.

Sometimes, focusing on getting your railings right can make your decking feel like a new space.

From aluminium and stainless steel to timber and composite, there are so many balustrade combinations to match your taste. Balustrade accessories like post and end caps can also be a simple yet effective tweak.

16. Hammock

When the sun’s shining, there’s no better place to unwind than a hammock.

Why not bring this relaxation to your decking, either with a free-standing or wall-mounted hammock. They’re as versatile as they are comfortable and cost very little to buy and set up.

Feeling inspired by these backyard deck ideas on a budget?

Browse the full range of decking, balustrades, lighting and accessories at Deck Supermarket. For static caravan owners, we also have an ultimate guide to caravan decking including a range of ideas to elevate aesthetics, improve safety and maximise outside space.


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