Labor Day Patio Upgrades on a Budget

Not going anywhere for Labor Day weekend? How about upgrading your home’s outdoor space instead? It will give you a relaxing oasis without having to pay for a plane ticket. And like most home upgrades, it’s a gift that keeps giving. Long after Labor Day weekend is over you’ll still have a lovely patio to enjoy that you upgraded on a budget.

Spray Paint Plastic - If you’ve got cheap plastic chairs or a table upgrade them with a simple can of spray paint. For about $5 you can pick up a can of Rust-oleum’s Paint for Plastic Spray. It’s great for plastic lawn chairs and doesn’t require primer. Plus it comes in 11 colors from basic black to spruce green.

Add in a Fire Pit - Upgrade your outdoor space by adding in a fire pit. As temperatures drop this feature will become even more useful. Check out DIYNetwork.com for 8 easy-to-build fire pit designs. Using natural rocks or concrete pavers, you can knock this project out in a day.

Upgrade Your Grill - That rusty grill has got to go. Create a focal point for your patio by upgrading to a nicer stainless steel model. This time of year as summer wraps up, retailers are slashing prices on these outdoor gadgets so you should be able to pick one up for a fraction of the regular price.

Set the Mood with Lighting - Adding outdoor lighting doesn’t have to mean calling in an expensive electrician. Use solar powered lights or even candles to set the mood. BHG.com suggests converting heavy-gauge feed scoops from a farm-supply store into candleholders for a low-cost lighting option.

Add Greenery - Gather up some empty outdoor pots or pick up some affordable terra cotta containers at a discount store. Paint them with some spray paint and add in some affordable shrubs or flowers for an instant patio improvement.

By Alison Storm

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