Improving Your Backyard without Breaking the Bank: Helpful Tips

Every homeowner wants an Instagram-worthy garden these days, but is it really possible on a budget? There are options for remaking your backyard that won’t break the bank. Whether you want to add character or an entire pool, a few compromises and a little creativity will go a long way.

1. Staying Natural: Getting Artistic with Wood

Stack Some Pallets

Old wooden pallets can be stacked to form outdoor coffee tables or torn apart to make raised flower beds. The wood is affordable and sturdy, making it a great option for those who don’t want to buy and cut their own lumber.

Make a Gnome Garden

If you’re a fan of garden gnomes, you can add to the theme by turning an old tree stump into a gnome house. Simply visit a craft store and get a few cute miniature items, such as a wooden door and window frames. If you need a thrifty option, use popsicle sticks or twigs. You can go as basic or detailed as you like. This is a great project to do with the kids!

Create Twig Fences

This is another fun project for those aiming for that whimsical, fairy tale look. Collect tiny twigs and tie them together using metal wire or string. It might take a while, but when you string enough of the twigs together, you can use them as a small fence. Place these fences around flower beds, potted plants or miniature gardens.

2. Reduce and Reuse: Decorating with Old Recyclables

By using old items for décor or a certain function, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also saving the planet.

An Old Bike

Bicycles are wonderful tools for transportation, but if you have an old model that you no longer use, why not allow it to retire and become garden décor? An old bike looks amazing leaned against a tree or backyard fence, especially if you fill the basket with potted flowers.

Old Glass Bottles

Old wine and beer bottles can be placed on walls, fences, porch rails or anywhere else they can catch the light and add interest. Use them as vases for flowers, or fill them with sand or colorful stones.

Metal Mop Buckets

Any galvanized metal buckets will look interesting as they become one with your garden over the years. They can be used to hold potted plants or turned upside down to form stands for garden sculptures, sundials or other decorative items. Whether you allow them to rust and become overgrown in the garden or keep them neat and tidy on the porch, they’ll add a nice, old-fashioned feel to the landscape.

3. Splashing Around: Affordably Putting in a Pool

Owning a beautiful home with a swimming pool is a dream for most people, but is it really possible on a small budget? Here are some things to consider.

Pool Size

Going with a smaller pool will save you money, and unless you plan on throwing huge pool parties with dozens of people, it might be your best bet.

Surrounding Area

You will save money if you build and decorate your pool’s patio and safety fence yourself. Keep it simple and stick to a basic design. Skip the fancy lighting and choose affordable solar lights or a few strings of cheap Christmas lights instead.

Getting a Loan

If you don’t have the entire cost of your pool saved up already, financing is a great option. Some pool loans allow homeowners to make payments over time without having to wait to enjoy their pools.

If you’ve been thinking about redoing the backyard, there’s no better time than now to begin. Sometimes, a refreshing backyard makeover provides the boost you need to get inspired about other areas of the home.