How do I build a patio or deck on the cheap about 12x20?
We bought a house with no deck or patio in back. Which is the cheapest way to build a patio or deck? We live in Northern Va.
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You can build a floating deck yourself if you have the skills and the tools! "Cheap" is a relative term-but this may be less expensive than some other options!
https://blog.homedepot.com/how-to-build-a-floating-deck
Thanks!
Hi Linda, We built a our own concrete patio and DIY'd the entire thing. We just did this last Fall actually.
Our planned cement slab was on a slope too so we actually had to build a retaining wall to allow for the concrete. I don't know if yours is on a slope so disregard the extra posts on building a retaining wall if you don't need one. I included it so you have more than enough information if you need it.
I have 3 posts associated with the entire project (patio on a slope) where we prepared for the cement slab and We DIY'd the whole thing. I have ALL details in these posts starting it from scratch!!!
1st post:
https://karupp-did.net/plan-and-diagram-a-retaining-wall-to-diy/
-describes diagrams and sketches needed to build a retaining wall along with planning the wall and cement pad.
-laid out how to plan and diagram a retaining wall.
-math calculations to figure out how much stone and block to order
-how far we dug down and the cross section diagrams of what is going on under the ground
2nd post:
https://karupp-did.net/building-a-retaining-wall/
-What we did to build the retaining wall.
-what materials were needed.
-the actual building pictures
3rd post:
https://karupp-did.net/pour-a-cement-pad-diy/
-how to order concrete
-how much concrete we would need based on math calculations that I give you.
-what materials we needed
-the process of pouring the cement
I hope this helps you, that is the exact reason why I wrote it! When you look at the posts, please feel free to comment with any questions. Good LUCK!!!
Check marketplace and craigslist for discounted building supplies. You can also check stores for discounted lumber. You can save a bundle doing it that way if you are patient.
This is probably the cheapest and easiest way to build one: https://www.frugalfamilytimes.com/2016/08/how-to-make-hot-tub-deck-for-250-and-2.html?m=1
Depends on how long you will live in the house. Decks will rot and need maintenance in the meantime. Concrete will last almost forever.
Have seen decks made of pallets that can be hunted down for free. Attach them together. Then just stain.