Last Updated on July 12, 2023 by bethrmartin

Whether you’re looking to renovate your current outdoor patio or are starting from scratch on a new build, deciding on the perfect patio flooring can be tricky. With so many materials and flooring options available, it can be hard to know where to start.

The right patio will set the stage for outdoor entertaining and make your space feel like an extension of your home. Ensuring you select the correct material is essential for your budget, overall aesthetic, and necessary to support your outdoor furniture.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the most inspiring patio flooring ideas for this year. From classic concrete to trendy tiles, there’s sure to be something here that will get your creative juices flowing.

So read on and get inspired!

A pool in a courtyard is surrounded with an orange tree and bistro seating. The patio flooring is a mix of concrete, natural stone, and brick tiles to form a low maintenance but beautiful outdoor space.

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Here are the best outdoor flooring ideas of the year.
  1. Wood Deck
  2. Classic Black and White Checkerboard
  3. Terracotta Tiles
  4. Painted White Wood Deck
  5. Herringbone Brick Flooring
  6. Concrete Tiles in a Fun Pattern
  7. Pea Gravel
  8. Stenciled Deck
  9. Stamped Concrete
  10. Pebble Mosaic
  11. Wood Patio Pavers
  12. A Colorful Mural
  13. Artificial Grass
  14. Flagstone with Gravel
  15. Wood Decking with Irregular Boards
  16. Saturated Concrete Tiles
  17. Mosaic of Materials
  18. Polished Concrete
  19. Organic Brick Pattern
  20. Concrete Pavers
  21. Modern Concrete Pavers with Grass
  22. Travertine
  23. Composite Decking
  24. Pavers with Micro-Plants
  25. Concrete Pavers with Bricks

1. Wood Deck

Wood plank patio flooring is shown through an interior courtyard of a beach house on Folly Beach, SC.

Wood decking is a classic outdoor flooring choice for a reason. A backyard deck is a perfect addition to any outdoor area, and you can use paint or stain to make your design unique and weather-resistant.

If you want to keep the cost down, this project is manageable to install, and materials are affordable. If you’re handy with power tools, a new wood patio could be an easy DIY project that can quickly add a new room to your home.

2. Classic Black and White Checkerboard

A restaurant is shown with black and white ceramic tiles as patio flooring and bistro seating. There are planters and string lights hanging from the pergola ceiling.

A black and white checkerboard patio has a way of feeling vintage and modern at the same time. This look can be achieved with many types of tile or stone, and it’s sure never to go out of style.

The way that greenery looks against the classic black and white floor feels so Parisian and lavish.

3. Terracotta Tiles

Terracotta tiles are used as patio flooring in front of this terracotta colored building covered in charming vines.
Terracotta tiles are one of those cheap patio floor ideas that have such a classic, old-world style.

Terracotta tile is one of the most classic outdoor patio flooring ideas, and it’s easy to see why. This stylish outdoor flooring material has been used for centuries for its durability, making it a fantastic choice for high-traffic areas.

A terracotta floor is resistant to cracking and fading, so it’s perfect for outdoor areas with plenty of sun and rain exposure. This solution is a relatively cheap option but will remain a timeless choice.

4. Painted White Wood Deck

This design takes a cheap patio but paints everything white to create a cohesive, beautiful design. Lots of plants make this outdoor space look lush and a woman sits at a table enjoying the day.
Painting everything white may seem like just one of the latest trends, but this coastal look is classic and a safe option if you need to refresh your outdoor spaces in an affordable way. Often, it’s the cheapest option, and it will look great!

If you are looking for the epitome of casual, coastal cool, look no further than wood decking that has been painted white. This look immediately will make you feel like you’ve gone on vacation, and who doesn’t want that in their backyard?

This budget-friendly style is a great way to update an existing deck that looks past its prime. It’s an easy DIY and will make your outdoor area look fresh and clean until you are ready to install something new.

5. Herringbone Brick Flooring

A brick flooring walkway leads through multiple outdoor spaces to a courtyard in Charleston, SC.

Brick is a classic outdoor flooring choice, and a herringbone pattern is a stylish twist on the traditional arrangement. This looks incredibly sophisticated and makes any outdoor patio space feel timeless and chic.

6. Concrete Tiles in a Fun Pattern

The patio floor is made of different sizes and colors of concrete tile to create a unique look. A marble picnic table is covered by a pergola.
Be creative with your patio flooring and mix shapes and colors in a bold way.

Concrete tiles are a wonderful patio flooring idea because they are durable, easy to clean, and come in various colors and patterns. You can also mix and match tile arrangements to create separate floor zones on your patio.

7. Pea Gravel

This is an outdoor space with a painted pergola, bistro chairs, a banana plant, and a gravel floor. The space is mostly painted black and white with wood accents.
Gravel is inexpensive but can still be a chic and stylish outdoor flooring solution.

You can install pea gravel quickly and efficiently in your outdoor space, as it’s an inexpensive patio flooring idea. Stylish, durable, and practical, gravel can disguise any imperfections in the patio surface while providing excellent drainage.

8. Stenciled Deck

An abstract pattern of gray and white is painted on a wood flooring deck. The deck has two chairs, a coffee table, and an outdoor sofa, and is surrounded by outdoor plants.
A DIY painted outdoor rug is an easy patio flooring solution that will transform your space.

A painted stenciled deck is a great way to add pattern and interest to an otherwise blah patio space.

This look can cover an entire wood patio floor or create a faux-painted outdoor carpet to break up the zones of your outdoor room. If you aren’t scared of a little paint, this might be your next DIY.

9. Stamped Concrete

The patio flooring is stamped concrete slab and teak furniture is surrounded by tropical plants.
A stamped concrete patio can be as sleek and contemporary or decorative as you wish, making it a versatile option for any patio floor design.

If you’re looking for a patio flooring idea that has all the durability of concrete but is more interesting to look at, then a stamped concrete patio is the way to go.

Concrete can be stamped with many patterns, and the additional texture will give the patio a slip-resistant quality. You can also add color to give this look infinite design possibilities.

10. Pebble Mosaic

The patio floor design is created with pebbles in a mosaic pattern surrounded by a small outdoor courtyard.
A pebble mosaic is a patio floor idea for the most dedicated DIY’ers or if you have a big budget. This project is highly custom, but it could wow if done correctly.

A pebble mosaic terrace is a unique and stunning outdoor patio flooring design that will set your garden apart and leave people speechless. An elaborate pattern is created from small, smooth stones to make up this surface.

This concept has no rules, and you can truly let your imagination run wild here. If you want something genuinely fantastic and one-of-a-kind, a pebble mosaic can’t be topped.

11. Wood Patio Pavers

Wood flooring tiles in a herringbone pattern with ivy spilling across the top.
Wood pavers are an easy patio floor idea. You can cover an existing patio floor easily – Image via Wayfair

Wood patio pavers (like this affordable option from Wayfair) are a popular outdoor flooring idea because they are low maintenance and stylish.

These floor tiles are available in different types of wood and are readily available from many hardware stores, so you can easily choose the option that best fits your home and style.

This easy DIY is a perfect way to cover an existing eyesore or bring personality and richness to an area. The natural material will complement any decor, and a natural wood tile is an excellent alternative to stone or concrete.

12. A Colorful Mural

A concrete patio with steps has been painted with a brightly colored abstract mural. A reddish dog is smiling in the middle.
When it comes to cheap patio floor ideas, it doesn’t get much more fun than paint!

You might not think of painting a mural as an option for the floor, but this can create a stand-out patio surface. Update an unsightly concrete slab or patio with some cheerful colors, and you will only wish you had done this cheap DIY patio project sooner.

Painting is a great way to add personality and interest to any area and make your outdoor room your own. Whether you try this on a small area of your concrete patio or fill up your whole patio floor, you will make a huge impact.

It’s cheap, can withstand the elements, and will allow you to be endlessly creative without spending too much money. And when you want a new look, you can just repaint it!

13. Artificial Grass

A wood dining table filled with food and dishes is surrounded by chairs. The patio flooring is an artificial grass lawn. Bistro lights are hanging overhead, and a brick wall is in the background.
Artificial grass can make your outdoor living space so much more accessible. It requires almost no maintenance and it much easier to walk on without shoes than the grass species we have in the South!

Artificial grass is a great outdoor patio flooring option for those who want the look of real grass without maintenance. An artificial lawn is easy to care for, doesn’t waste water, and will stay green all year.

You can also achieve complicated, creative patterns that would be too difficult to keep alive with natural grass.

14. Flagstone with Gravel

Abstract shaped concrete patio pavers are surrounded by decorative gravel and other natural materials, leading up to a mid-century modern home. A giant cactus is growing from boulders along the path.
Gravel mixed with flagstone at this contemporary home looks ultra-refined but is still one of the best cheap patio floor ideas.

Flagstone is a popular outdoor flooring option because it is as beautiful as it is easy to maintain, and layering it with gravel makes it feel more relaxed.

Inlaying the natural stone in gravel can simplify the installation process, and the look is sure to be chic and casual. Flagstone is available in various colors and shapes so that you can adapt the design for your individual space.

15. Wood Decking with Irregular Boards

Your deck floor doesn’t have to blend in like everyone else’s. Adding irregularly shaped wood boards or an unusual pattern can give it a more organic and natural appearance that will stand out.

This simple change is easy to achieve but makes a huge impact. The extra design work will take a little more thought, but this project is achievable for a handy DIY enthusiast. You can create the perfect outdoor oasis with simple tools and planning.

16. Saturated Concrete Tiles

Bright orange, black, and gray concrete tiles are used as patio flooring in this market in Mexico City, Mexico.
Concrete tile can be used for indoor and outdoor use, and it’s one of the easiest patio flooring options to care for.

These concrete tiles are similar to the ones we showed previously but appear more like an artistic focal point on your patio. The bright colors of these saturated concrete floor tiles are bright and bold and will make any patio feel cheerful and lively.

So often, elaborate and pretty also means a lot of care, but this isn’t the case with concrete tile. This material is a durable option and extremely low maintenance, so you can keep those saturated hues with almost no effort.

17. Mosaic of Materials

This backyard shows multiple outdoor flooring ideas together. The patio design uses a mosaic of low maintenance artificial grass and porcelain tiles at angled stripes to make an unusual pattern.

If you want to let your imagination run wild, a custom mosaic floor is a fun patio flooring idea. This creative concept is a charming option for a bold, small space or to break up larger yards into zones.

If you want to let your imagination run wild, a custom mosaic floor is a clever patio flooring idea. This creative concept is a charming option for a bold, small space or to break up larger yards into zones.

Try mixing a brick patio with a mosaic of turf and stone to create an organic space that doesn’t overwhelm your yard with too much of one texture. Have fun, be creative with the shapes you come up with, and let your imagination run wild!

18. Polished Concrete

A polished concrete patio floor has green patio furniture with a sparse native plant garden surrounding it.

When looking for the epitome of modern, polished concrete floors are hard to beat. They are beautiful, contemporary, and incredibly durable, making them the perfect patio solution.

This is not one of the cheaper outdoor flooring ideas, but if this is the aesthetic you want, their superb longevity and beauty can offset the costs in the long run.

19. Organic Brick Pattern

Four white metal chairs and a white metal table sit on a patio floor made from brick pavers surrounded by greenery.

Your brick patio doesn’t have to be laid in a traditional pattern, and the most striking patios can be created if you think outside the box. Try a design that uses bricks in an organic, free-flowing arrangement.

The more creative you are, the more your outdoor space can be transformed into something extra special.

20. Concrete Pavers

A concrete patio floor made from tiles is surrounded by a Parisian courtyard. The building with white with teal doors and has many planters.

Concrete pavers are a popular patio flooring option because they provide a solid foundation for outdoor furniture and can easily withstand heavy foot traffic. They are available in various colors and styles so that you can find the perfect design, no matter your taste or how much you want to spend.

A concrete patio is durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to worry about replacing the pavers anytime soon. Mildew can be easily pressure-washed off this type of paving tile, and maintenance is minimal, so you can spend more time enjoying the weather with your friends and family.

21. Modern Concrete Pavers with Grass

The patio floor is tiles made of concrete with grass laid in between. The houses have steep roofs and ornate wooden doors, and the location looks tropical with lots of palm trees.
Concrete tile pavers can create a bold, contemporary effect that will make your backyard garden look like a sleek oasis.

If you want patio flooring that looks natural and organic yet sleek and modern, try mixing concrete pavers with grass. You can use either grass or artificial turf for this project.

Also, consider just doing a portion of your patio in pavers to make it appear like an outdoor carpet.

This patio flooring aesthetic is a fantastic option to bring warmth to a super contemporary outdoor space or can be a quirky weekend project for a DIY enthusiast. Don’t feel like you have to stick with squares, and let your imagination run wild with the paver shapes!

22. Travertine

The Barcelona Pavilion highlights the natural stone floors and walls and a clear, blue sky.

It’s had a significant resurgence over the last few years, but travertine never really disappeared. These outdoor tiles can be pricey, but this stunning and classic outdoor flooring style will look flawless for years to come.

The natural texture of travertine isn’t only beautiful but also slip-resistant, so it’s perfect for patio floors. If you want to try the DIY route, travertine is also available in small format tile, making installation easier.

If you want this classic look for less, faux travertine is a fantastic, cheap alternative for your patio floor when you don’t want to sacrifice aesthetics but must be budget conscious.

23. Composite Decking

A patio floor is shown with composite wood flooring. It's surrounded with a decorative fencing and planters.

When you love a wood patio but know you want to avoid dealing with the upkeep, composite decking is one of the best flooring options on the market.

The price is significantly higher, but the low maintenance makes this patio material an excellent choice for long-term care in all weather conditions. These wood tiles are easy to install and a great, durable option for covering an existing concrete floor pad or balcony.

24. Pavers with Microplants

Natural stone pavers are inlaid in grass in a lush tropical scene in Indonesia. A traditional thatched roof on a home is shown at the entry.
Micro-plants are an easy patio floor idea that’s environmentally friendly.

If you want your patio flooring to feel very organic but still have the stability for furniture, try pavers mixed with grass. This can be very easy to install, care for, and it will look like a storybook if you select the correct plants.

25. Concrete Pavers with Bricks

The concrete patio floor tiles have inlayed bricks in between to form a pattern. Two chairs and a side table sit in front of a terracotta colored wall.

If you don’t have the money for fancy tiles but want to make a bold visual impact, try using bricks mixed with concrete patio pavers. The bricks will break up the monotony of the concrete, and many exciting designs can be created with off-the-shelf materials.

This concept is a great cost-saver and will add appeal to the overall aesthetic of your house. With a bit of ingenuity, you can create unique decorative patterns with standard concrete pavers and bricks, creating a cozy outdoor retreat.

Conclusion

Giant concrete slabs form a walkway up to a classic mid-century home in Palm Springs, CA. A gravel yard is filled with succulents.
Contemporary and sleek patio flooring is a great way to define spaces and create a polished yard. These concrete slabs are a great option for high traffic areas.

No matter your budget, you have many great flooring options to make your outdoor room look fantastic and creative. Your patio floor can be a great way to create a focal point in your backyard and show off your unique personality.

Even with a limited budget, you can find ways to incorporate these outdoor patio flooring ideas in many ways. If you love travertine but can’t justify the cost, maybe you can find a concrete paver that looks very similar. I love the look of painted tiles, but that material doesn’t work well in my climate, so I painted a similar style on our deck. Just think outside the box!

I hope this list has inspired you and given you some great ideas for your backyard area. So, which one of these patio flooring ideas would look the best in your outdoor space?

If you liked this guide, check out my post on the best Outdoor Ceiling Fans!

Natural stone pavers are used as patio flooring in front of this ivy covered building outside of Paris, France.
Rustic patio flooring can add so much charm to your outdoor garden.