An ugly patio can instantly put you in a bad mood and suck every bit of joy out of your gatherings and events. It also ruins the look of your home and lowers its value, and that’s not even the worst of it. The bad news is that replacing it comes with a price tag that belongs on display in a museum. But you already know that, right? So, covering it becomes the next option, and this list of inexpensive ways to cover an ugly patio is here for it. With a new jacket, the structure stays but the problem disappears, and that’s worth more than a new patio.
1. Outdoor Rugs
Covering your ugly patio with an outdoor rug is as easy as laying it down and cleaning is as easy as hosing it down and letting it dry. A good weather-resistant rug will cover anything from stains and cracks to mismatched concrete and chipped tiles. It’s important that you go for a weather-resistant option because it’ll drain easily and resist fading in the sun and from foot traffic. Large rugs work better than small ones, but you can get the same effect with multiple smaller ones weighted down at the ends to prevent shifting. Not only is this an inexpensive way to cover your ugly patio, but it’s also the perfect temporary solution if you’re renting.
2. Artificial Grass Roll
You can extend your beautiful yard to your patio by covering it with a roll of artificial grass. If your yard doesn’t have grass, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring some greenery to your landscape, giving your children and pets somewhere to play. Paired with planters or wood furniture, artificial turf will soften the hard edges and hide your patio’s flaws. The key is to find turf that looks realistic with proper drainage holes instead of a flat, shiny option that’ll simply look fake and cheap. Installation is as easy as cleaning the surface, rolling out the turf, trimming it to fit, and securing the edges.
3. Pea Gravel Overlay
Pea gravel can solve many landscaping and hardscaping problems, and an ugly patio is one of them. It’s inexpensive, incredibly easy to install, and it’s a great temporary fix if you’re renting or making the big patio upgrade soon. The best part is that it even hides uneven surfaces, which can be a bit of an issue with other inexpensive ways to cover an ugly patio, like outdoor rugs and artificial grass. Use landscape fabric to prevent weeds from finding a way through and to make it easier to collect the gravel when trying to remove it. Edging is important because it can contain the gravel, preventing the stones from wandering off.
4. Rubber Interlocking Tiles
There are many types of interlocking tiles that can hide ugly patios, like wood decking, foam, and rubber. Rubber would be the cheapest option and it’s both practical and forgiving. They can cover cracks, reduce noise, handle foot traffic well, give a comforting softness underfoot, and handle moisture. All while being easy to clean. Choose a color that suits your home because they don’t just come in the standard black you’ll typically see in gyms and garages. However, darker tones are a lot better at hiding dirt. Lay them directly over concrete without adhesive and you’re done with your quick and affordable patio makeover.
5. Painted Concrete Stencil
Visual camouflage with flair. That’s what stenciled concrete is. Clean your patio thoroughly and repair any major cracks, then paint the entire surface with exterior concrete paint. You can use stencils to mimic tiles, for geometric patterns, or to add classic motifs to your design. The two most important aspects are choosing the right color palette and sealing everything properly when you’re done. Light base colors with darker patterns are perfect for a bright space that’s grounded without visual overwhelm. You can also use this idea if your patio is already painted and smooth, but you feel like it needs something new.
6. Foam Floor Tiles
Foam floor tiles are great for a temporary but effective solution. They’re lightweight and easy to install with a simple no-tool-click-together system. Unfortunately, they don’t handle excessive moisture well, so an uncovered patio that gets heavy rainfall wouldn’t be ideal. However, they’re able to handle light moisture and they’re easy enough to remove and replace once they start getting a bit weathered. In addition to their other benefits, they provide soft cushioning and warmth underfoot, making your patio more comfortable without flaws.
7. Tile Stickers for Concrete
Tile stickers are ideal if you have a smooth surface that simply needs a refresh. Just remember to clean and dry it before you add the stickers. They mimic tile designs rather convincingly without the hard work and large price tag that go into tiling. They’re budget-friendly and removable, but they don’t do well with heavy wear and excessive moisture exposure.
8. Cork Outdoor Tiles
In addition to rubber and foam tiles, you also get cork tiles that work well outdoors, don’t cost much, and are easy to install. They effectively hide ugly marks while adding texture without the hardness. Treated cork can resist moisture but it’s better suited for covered patios, where these tiles provide insulation and comfort underfoot. Neutral cork tones are a beautiful fit for patios with modern and natural decor.
9. Interlocking Deck Tiles
The last type of interlocking tile on this list of inexpensive ways to cover an ugly patio is one suited best for decks and outdoor spaces. They’re available in wood, composite, or stone finishes and you simply snap them together where you want them. Not only do these tiles interlock to cover the patio underneath, but they create a raised platform, so the water can drain through easily and the base surface is protected. If your patio is uneven as well as ugly, this is a durable and reliable solution that requires no tools and minimal prep.
