Renting holds a number of benefits, but creative freedom isn’t one of them. No drilling, no permanent changes, no this, no that. In the end, there aren’t many options left and you’re stuck with an eyesore for a patio, right? Wrong! The key is to stick to design elements and features that are removable, reversible, and low commitment. You should be able to install it with little to no tools and pull it apart in minutes when it’s time to go. With these temporary flooring ideas for renters, you can create comfort, make your space feel lived in, and leave behind no evidence when you move.
1. Interlocking Tiles
Interlocking tiles and renter patios are best friends. Seriously, they’re the number one choice when it comes to patio flooring ideas for renters. They snap together without the need of any adhesives, nails, or other similar materials. They also come in multiple types, making it easy to customize your patio according to your needs. You can choose between plastic, composite decking, and wood-like tiles depending on your budget and style. Lay them directly over concrete or tile and trim the edges as needed, creating a raised surface that allows water to drain underneath. When moving time comes, simply unsnap them, stack them neatly, and take them with you.
2. Outdoor Rugs
Cleaning is the biggest benefit of outdoor rugs because you need nothing but a hose and a bit of sunshine. But they’re also worth gold when it comes to renter patios. They cover stains, chips, and uneven patches in an instant, while looking neat and intentional. Polypropylene options resist moisture and fading, which is ideal for uncovered patios that get a lot of rain and sunshine. If you opt for large rugs you can reduce tripping hazards, but if you layer rugs they can cover larger areas with more creative potential. You can also go wild with different colors and textures as long as you anchor the edges. Solid colors can calm busy spaces but patterns distract the eye from flaws. It’s all up to you.
3. Artificial Grass Roll or Tiles
You can add green to your rental patio without responsibility with artificial grass. They come in roll or tile options, making it easy to cover the surface for now and then take it all with you when you move. Artificial grass is perfect for softening cold concrete without the hassles and maintenance that come with real grass. You can easily cover the flaws of the patio by simply rolling out the grass and trimming it to fit. Tiles offer easier handling and cleaner edges. Both drain well because of their drainage holes and pair beautifully with planters and wood furniture. Choose an option with varied color tones and a matte finish so it looks realistic.
4. Pallet Deck Platform
Pallet decking creates a raised, removable floor that you can cover with outdoor rugs or sheets of plywood for a smoother surface. Arrange the pallets tightly together on level ground, remove the splinters, and sand the rough spots. Or, choose plastic pallets if you’d like even less prep work. If you tie them together with brackets, they won’t shift as time passes. Pallet platforms allow airflow underneath as well as good drainage, and they hide surface issues without any construction and excessive hardscaping work. The entire floor can be disassembled and reused later, which is why this is a good option for renters.
5. Recycled Rubber Tiles
There’s another type of interlocking tile that you can use to cover your rental patio. You can also use it to create a makeshift patio over bare ground if you don’t already have a structure to work with. Rubber tiles were originally designed for gyms and playgrounds, which is why they used to be black. Today, you can find them in neutral finishes that suit patios and classy areas better. They handle moisture well, provide cushioning and durability, hide dirt and wear, and reduce noise.
6. Peel-and-Stick Tiles
If you’ve already got a patio that’s sturdy and smooth, you can get away with peel-and-stick tiles. They’re designed for temporary floors because they adhere lightly to smooth surfaces. The only thing to note is that you need to ensure that you install them carefully and remove them slowly and gently to avoid residue from sticking around. And they also work best in covered patios with minimal sun and moisture exposure. Choose tiles that are specifically designed for floors, not walls and go for a pattern that mimics ceramic or stone convincingly.
7. Carpet Tiles
Instead of a large outdoor rug that doesn’t cover your entire patio area, you can try carpet tiles. Outdoor-rated tiles are designed to be moisture resistant while creating a cozy feel that also reduces noise. It’s a great way to extend the warmth of your home to your patio. The tiles can sit without adhesives and you can lay them directly over any flat surface. Plus, removing them leaves absolutely no marks.
8. Foam Floor Mats
Foam floor mats are perfect for play areas and classrooms. But did you know that they’re a great temporary patio flooring option for renters? They’re very lightweight (so much so that you need to weigh them down) and surprisingly affordable. They handle light moisture well and they’re just as easy to clean as they are to install. Go for neutral or stone-look designs to avoid that playroom feel and to allow you to use it in another setting when you move.
9. Pea Gravel Over Fabric
Pea gravel is cheap, easy to install, and surprisingly easy to remove as well. If you lay fabric directly over the patio or bare ground and then add a thin, even layer of gravel, you’ll have a fully reversible surface that won’t leave any evidence behind. All you need to do when you’re ready to go is scoop up the gravel and remove the landscape fabric. Keep the gravel contained with edging or containers and give it a quick rake or top up every now and then. It hides an uneven surface with stains and markings easily and drains well.
10. Cork Outdoor Tiles
Cork outdoor tiles can resist moisture and they also feel comfortable underfoot. They install without adhesives, creating a continuous surface that absorbs sound. You can extend their lifespan by using them on covered patios, but they’re pretty hardy and cheap enough to replace when they get too weathered. Removing them is practically effortless and you can reuse them with any outdoor design.
