Want to build a patio, but are a little short on cash? Here are a few tips that will help you build a patio as cheaply as possible.

1.) Patios can be beautiful no matter what you use to build them. If you really like the look of stone, there are a couple of things you can do. It's fairly easy to learn how to build a patio that looks like stone, but much easier on the wallet. All you need to do is get broken paving stone pieces. Then you can use them together and make a nice mosaic pattern to create a beautiful design. You can then spray paint them different colors that are neutral and natural like stone.

2.) Check your local garden supply stores for paving stones after summer. Spring and Summer are usually the busiest garden supply buying times of the year. Most garden and patio supplies go on sale after the summer ends and fall and winter begin. So if you want to save money while designing your patio and garden, waiting until the weather cools is a sure way to get your supplies at a discount.

3.) If you're going to have a patio poured, look for times when cement companies are not as busy as normal. Their workload is also higher during the spring and summer so waiting until fall or winter works best. You may not be considering your patio during the winter, but with a little planning ahead you can get fantastic discounts from the cement companies. Or, learn how to build a patio yourself using bagged concrete.

4.) Consider learning how to build a patio with lower grade concrete. This looks just as good as the higher graded concrete, but is much less expensive so you wallet will be happy. You can save even more money by building the patio on your own or just with a few close friends or family members.