Want to build a patio, but are a little short on cash? Here are some tips to guide you through the process of building a patio for next to nothing.

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. You can actually get the same look at feel of stone without the high price tag that usually comes along with it. Use broken pieces of paving stones. Place them together like a mosaic on your patio area. You can use spray paint on them and create some really great stone looks by using neutral and natural colors.

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. After Summer, everything gets marked down. So, this is your chance to sneak in and get paving stones and other garden supply items at a discounted price.

3.) If you're going to have a patio poured, look for times when cement companies are not as busy as normal. Again, after Summer and Spring, business dies down. 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 is much cheaper than some of the higher grades, and can be every bit as beautiful. You can save even more money by building the patio on your own or just with a few close friends or family members.