2023 Low Cost Backyard Flooring Options

Typical Cost To Build a new Deck
Low
$3,560
Average
$4,270
High
$5,120
See costs in your area

Well-thought-out backyard flooring can add that extra sparkle to your home. The patio is your first getaway option whenever you feel cooped up in the house.

So, making the place cozy and aesthetically pleasing is a worthwhile investment that you’ll enjoy in the end.

Apart from the furniture that will glam the place, another important consideration to keep at the forefront of your mind is the flooring that goes with it. Here, you’ll find the best low cost flooring options for your backyard or patio.

To get started on your flooring installation, contact your local flooring pros for FREE ESTIMATES!

Low Cost Backyard Flooring Options

Like any other project, setting up the floors for your backyard starts with a budget.

Let’s have a look at the approximate figures.

How Much Does It Cost To Install Flooring In The Backyard?

A 300-square-foot backyard space would cost around $4,500 for materials and $2,850 for labor. So, it’s safe to say that quality backyard floors cost $7,350 if you outsource the labor.

Backyard Floor Cost Per Square Foot

On average, flooring materials that can be used in backyards cost around $15 per square foot.

For most backyard floors, you’ll have to factor in the labor costs, and many professionals will charge you $9.50 per square foot.

However, this number varies depending on the flooring type and the project’s complexity.

Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code


15 Cheapest Backyard Floor Options

Below is an overview of the top 15 low cost flooring options for a backyard or patio.

Flooring Type Material Cost per 300 Square Foot Labor Cost per 300 Square Foot
Artificial Grass $600-$2,700 $900-$3,300
Concrete $900-$1,200 $1,200-$4,500
Wood $2,400 $1,500-$3,300
Carpet $300-$1,200 $300
Vinyl Flooring $450-$2,100 $4,867-$1,950
Ceramic Tiles $150-$4,500 $900-$4,500
Ground Cover Plants $10 per tray $900-$1,200
Brick Flooring $900-$3,000 $1,800-$2,400
Plastic Tile $150-$4,500 $900-$4,500
Foam Tiles $450 $600-$900
Rubber Tile $540 $1,740-$2,040
Gravel Flooring $900-$1,200 $1,200-$4,500
Composite Flooring $900-$3,000 $1,050-$4,500
Natural Stone $1,500-$6,000 $1,050-$4,500

1. Artificial Grass

Artificial grass is an excellent low-cost backyard floor if you love that natural feel of grass and without the hassle of mowing the lawn or setting up sprinklers.

Artificial grass is very similar to real grass and provides a great place for your pets and kids to play without worrying about bites from bugs or the itchiness that comes with the real grass.

Also, it’s perfect for areas with the most foot traffic– you’ve probably seen this on football fields.

Artificial Grass Cost

For a 300-square-foot space, expect to spend between $900 and $3,300 on labor. You’ll pay between $600 and $2,700 for turf to cover the same area.

Artificial Grass Cost per Square Foot

Artificial grass costs between $2 and $9 per square foot, and most installers charge between $3 and $11 for every square foot installed.

Pros:

  • Easy to maintain
  • No bugs and pests
  • One-time installation costs
  • Comfortable for walking and lying on

Cons:

  • It might seem fake if not well installed

2. Concrete

Many homeowners prefer concrete flooring for their backyard, and for a good reason. Concrete is an affordable, durable, and, most importantly, easy to maintain outdoor flooring option.

Concrete can be stained or painted to look like wood, natural stone, and even tile.

Maintaining a backyard concrete floor is a snap; if it gets dirty, simply hose it down; otherwise, sweeping should work for the most part.

Did you know? Concrete is the most durable flooring option out there. It can last as long as the house still stands.

Concrete Flooring Cost

The total labor cost for installing backyard concrete ranges from $1,200 to $4,500 for a 300-square-foot space. For materials, you’ll spend between $900 and $1,200 for the same space.

Concrete Cost per Square Foot

Concrete material costs between $4 and $15 per square foot. Contractors will charge $3 to $4 per square foot installed.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Low maintenance

Cons:

  • Prone to moss in more humid areas
Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code


3. Wood

For centuries, wood has been a go-to for various types of flooring; your backyard is no exception. It is affordable and stylish and can serve you for a long time if you maintain it well.

Maintaining wood flooring can be quite a hassle, though.

The planks might begin to rot in moist conditions, and in very hot conditions, they will become too dry and, thus, highly flammable. So be careful if this is the flooring you’re going for.

A great alternative for wood would be composite wood. It is made up of wood and plastic particles.

Composite wood is durable, affordable, and comes in many colors and patterns, so you can easily find a perfect match for your home.

Wood Flooring Cost

For a 300-square-foot patio, you’ll spend between $1,500 to $3,300 on labor and an average of $2,400 for materials.

Wood Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Wood planks cost an average of $8 per square foot, and most flooring experts will charge between $5 and $11 per square foot.

Pros:

  • Doesn’t require professional installation

Cons:

  • Can rot if the environment is humid

4. Carpet

Carpet is a great flooring option for those looking to add a bit of color to their backyard without necessarily breaking the bank.

Carpets are easy to maintain and can last a long time if you take care of them.

Keep the carpets dry and vacuum or wash them whenever they get dirty.

Did you know? Indoor carpets are different from outdoor carpets. Unlike indoor carpets, outdoor carpets are durable and have low pile. They look similar to what you’ve seen in schools and offices.

Carpet Flooring Cost

For a 300-square-foot space, peel-and-stick carpet will cost you between $300 and $1,200. Labor costs $300 on average.

Carpet Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Peel and stick carpet options range from $1 to $4 per square foot, and roll carpets start at $0.30 per square foot.

For installation, you’ll spend $2 on average.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Good for DIY-ers since they are easy to install

Cons:

  • Wears out quickly

5. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has become an excellent alternative to high-end outside flooring materials, including natural stone, hardwood, and ceramic flooring.

Over the years, many homeowners have opted for vinyl flooring for their backyard because of the upgrades that continually improve the product. Vinyl flooring looks like real hardwood, except you don’t have to worry about spills, splatters, or rot.

Some vinyl floors come as planks or tiles, and the edges can be locked in, making for a great DIY project. So, if you decide to take the DIY route, you’ll save a few dollars on the project.

Did you know? Vinyl flooring can last up to four decades if properly installed and maintained.

Vinyl Flooring Cost

Outsourced labor costs between $867 and $1,950 for a 300-square-foot space. You’ll pay between $450 and $2,100 for the same space for the vinyl planks.

Vinyl Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Vinyl planks will cost you between $1.50 and $7 per square foot.

If you decide to hire a flooring contractor to install it, expect to pay an extra $2.80 to $6.50 per square foot for installation.

Pros:

  • Waterproof
  • Resistant to scratches
  • Long-lasting
  • A variety of patterns and colors

Cons:

  • Not eco-friendly
Typical Cost To Install Vinyl Flooring Average: $1,315 - $2,160
See costs in your area

6. Ceramic Tiles

If your backyard is susceptible to rain, you will love the benefits ceramic offers.

For one, ceramic tiles are water resistant, so you don’t have to worry about swelling or rotting.

The water-resistance also makes for easy maintenance. If it accumulates specks of dirt and debris, you can hose it down or simply sweep it.

We also have the durability factor. Ceramic tiles can last a lifetime and even longer.

Ceramic tiles are also an affordable alternative to hardwood and natural stone flooring. Plus, ceramic tiles come in different patterns allowing you to add that touch of diversity to your home.

Ceramic Tile Cost

For a 300-square-foot space, expect to spend between $900 and $4,500 on labor costs. For materials, you’ll pay between $150 and $4,500 for the same space.

Ceramic Tile Cost Per Square Foot

Ceramic tile costs between $0.50 per square foot on the low-end and $15 per square foot for the high-end pieces. Most professionals charge between $3 and $15 per square foot.

Pros:

  • More affordable compared to hardwood and natural stone flooring
  • A wide array of patterns and colors to choose from
  • Waterproof

Cons:

  • Requires professional installation

7. Ground Cover Plants

Ground cover plants are an interesting addition to the list. They hug the ground and remove the hassle of regularly mowing the lawn, making them a bit easier to maintain.

Ground cover pants are also a great way to contribute to the ecosystem because they provide food for bees and butterflies.

Some great ground cover plants that make for nice backyard floors include:

  • Canadian Anemone
  • Deadnettle
  • Candytiff

Ground Cover Plants Cost

For ground cover plants, you can buy seeds for as low as $4 per pack or an entire tray of propagated plants for $10.

They are flexible, and you can plant as much or as little as you want. Ground Cover Plants are another great DIY venture, but a professional will charge $3 to $4 for every square foot covered.

Ground Cover Plants Cost Per Square Foot

Some options, such as creeping phlox, can cost around $10 per tray.

Pros:

  • Eco-friendly

Cons:

  • Not suitable for those with allergies

8. Brick Flooring

While often overlooked, bricks are a great way to add life to your backyard because of their pleasant, rustic look.

Bricks come in different colors and patterns too. If you look around, you’ll surely find something that matches your taste.

While bricks aren’t cheap, they are durable if they are set up properly. Quite frankly, they can last as long as the house still stands.

Brick Flooring Cost

The total labor cost for installing brick flooring in your backyard ranges from $1,800 to $2,400 for a 300-square-foot space. Materials will set you back between $900 and $3,000 for the same space.

Brick Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Material costs $3 to $10 per square foot, and contractors will charge $6 to $8 per square foot installed.

Pros:

  • A variety of colors and patterns to choose from

Cons:

  • Difficult to recover aesthetics after a mold infestation
Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code


9. Pallet Floor

It’s lovely when you see homeowners get creative. Pallets have evolved these days and have many functions, including decor.

If you consider yourself creative, then pallets can make a good low priced backyard floor. This option, though, is strictly for DIY-ers.

Pallet Floor Cost

For a 300-square-foot patio, you’ll spend an average of $2,400 for the material.

Pallet Floor Cost per Square Foot

Pallets cost an average of $8 per square foot.

Pros:

  • Allows for creativity
  • Material needed is readily available
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • The end product might not be as imagined

10. Plastic Tile

Plastic tiles remain some of the most inexpensive and durable exterior flooring options. They are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance on your part.

Plastic Tile Flooring Cost

The labor cost for installing plastic tiles ranges from $900 to $4,500 for a 300-square-foot backyard. You’ll pay an additional $150 to $4,500 in material costs for the same amount of space.

Plastic Tile Cost Per Square Foot

Plastic tiles cost as little as $0.50 and as high as $15 per square foot. Most professional flooring contractors will charge between $3 and $15 per square for labor.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Inexpensive

Cons:

  • Not eco-friendly

11. Foam Tiles

With innovations hitting the flooring industry daily, foam tiles are now an interesting addition to the market. They are soft, comfy, and springy – your kids and pets will love them.

Foam tiles can also make for a good DIY project because they are light and easy to install.

Foam Tile Cost

The labor cost for installing foam can range between $600 and $900, and the material can cost you $450 for a 300-square-foot space.

Foam Tile Cost Per Square Foot

Foam tiles cost an average of $1.50 per square foot, and labor will set you back anywhere between $2 and $3 for every square foot installed.

Pros:

  • Kind to your feet
  • Easy to install
  • Good for kids and pets

Cons:

  • Not eco-friendly
Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code


12. Rubber Tile

Is rubber tile even a thing? Yes, there are so many variations of tile, including rubber tiles.

Rubber tiles are slip-resistant and durable, and they absorb shock.

Many manufacturers design the product to mimic asphalt, artificial bricks, and even stones.

Rubber tiles are also an excellent option if you have kids running around. They are soft, and you don’t have to worry about the little ones getting hurt.

Rubber Tile Cost

For a 300-square-foot space of rubber tiles, expect to spend between $1,740 and $2,040.

Rubber Tile Cost Per Square Foot

You’ll pay around $1.80 per square foot of a rubber tile. You will incur an additional labor cost of $4 to $5 per square foot.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Not slippery
  • Kind to your feet
  • Unique

Cons:

  • Not eco-friendly

13. Gravel Flooring

Gravel is a great backyard floor, especially if you live in a dry area.

Once installed, it requires little to no maintenance at all.

Some materials, like pea gravel and pebbles, are naturally beautiful and will give your backyard a spectacular appearance.

If you’re a DIY lover, you can set up the flooring yourself, provided you don’t have a massive backyard and have a lot of time to spare. But if it’s challenging for you to define the borders, then it’s best to hire professional help.

Gravel Flooring Cost

The total labor cost for installing a gravel flooring $1,200 to $4,500 for a 300-square-foot backyard. For the gravel, you’ll spend between $900 and $1,200 for the same area.

Gravel Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Gravel costs between $4 and $15 per square foot. Contractors will charge $3 to $4 per square foot installed.

Pros:

  • Little to no maintenance

Cons:

  • Uncomfortable to walk on
Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code


14. Composite Flooring

Composite decking is an excellent choice for those looking for wood-like flooring but want to avoid the disadvantages of wood.

With composite decking in the play, it’s time to bid annual sealing and cleaning goodbye.

Composite flooring has similar properties to vinyl flooring and is non-porous and hard, so the product won’t rot.

The planks come in a “click-clock” design making for an easy installation for DIY-ers.

Unfortunately, you can’t paint or stain composite flooring, so choose the color scheme and pattern wisely.

Composite Flooring Cost

The labor cost for composite decking ranges from $1,050 to $4,500 for a 300-square-foot space. For materials, you’ll spend between $900 and $3,000 for the same amount of space.

Composite Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Composite flooring planks run between $3 and $11 per square foot. Most flooring contractors will charge between $3.50 and $9 per square foot installed.

Pros:

  • You can install the flooring yourself if you have a DIY mindset
  • Water resistant, so it doesn’t rot

Cons:

  • Can’t be customized with stain or paint

15. Natural Stone

Though not the cheapest, natural stones are a great way to dress up your patio. They are long-lasting, and they add a classic look to the home.

Unfortunately, expect to spend a bit more on maintenance because they must be resealed regularly to maintain their look.

Natural Stone Flooring Cost

The labor cost for installing natural stone ranges from $900 to $2,700 for a 300-square-foot space. For materials, you’ll spend between $1,500 and $6,000 for the same space.

Natural Stone Flooring Cost Per Square Foot

Natural stone costs between $5 and $20 per square foot. Most professionals will charge between $3 and $9 per square foot installed.

Pros:

  • Nice aesthetics

Cons:

  • Expensive to maintain

What Is The Easiest Outdoor Flooring?

Some easy-to-setup outdoor flooring include carpet, gravel, and vinyl.

What Type Of Flooring Is Best For The Outdoors?

Artificial grass is a good outdoor flooring option because it is cozy and comfortable.

However, it’s not the only contender. Ceramic and rubber tiles serve well, too.

What Is The Easiest And Cheapest Outdoor Flooring?

A carpet is probably the easiest and cheapest outdoor flooring option.

Unfortunately, it wears out quickly, which makes it a short-term solution.

What Flooring Can You Put Over Concrete Outside?

There is something about composite decking and carpets that make them feel just right on a concrete floor.

Conclusion

Choosing the best flooring for your backyard comes down to personal preference and the budget at hand.

However, it’s also important to consider the durability of the material, water resistance, installation type, the aesthetics, and the feel on your feet.

Average Costs For:
Most Homeowners Spent Between: Most People Spent: $1,769 - $3,192 (for 180 sq. ft.)
Low End
$1,215
Average
$2,162
High End
$3,745

See costs in your area Start Here - Enter Your Zip Code



About Leo Bender

Leo has been a contractor since 2003, specializing in: roofing, siding, general contracting (GC) and residential remodeling. Leo is also a Certified HVAC, Oil & Gas Heating Technician/Installer. In addition to roofing and remodeling, Leo is passionate about Solar, green building and energy conservation, so a lot of my time and energy goes to installing energy efficient heating and cooling systems.


See more about Remodeling Calculator team here


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *