A bare concrete balcony can feel cold and unfinished, even when the rest of your home is cozy. I’ve helped a lot of tiny outdoor spaces feel like a real “extra room,” and these cheap balcony flooring ideas are my go-to upgrades when I want big impact fast.
Mixed Wood-and-Turf Zones
Mixing deck tiles with artificial grass is my favorite way to “zone” a small balcony into lounging and plant areas. I’ve done a half-and-half layout, and it made the space feel bigger because each area had a clear purpose.
Products that could assist:
- Interlocking Wood Deck Tiles: Transform your balcony instantly with these snap-together tiles that offer warmth and a natural wood aesthetic.
- Artificial Grass Rug or Tiles: Create a lush, green lounging zone easily with soft faux turf that requires zero watering.
- Woven Planter Basket: Soften the edges of your flooring zones by adding textured, natural woven baskets for your plants.
Artificial Grass Carpet
A roll of artificial grass turns a gray balcony into a little “garden” zone, and it’s surprisingly budget-friendly for the coverage you get. I’ve used it for a reading nook, and it instantly made the space feel more playful and cozy.
Some handy options:
- Artificial Grass Turf Roll: Transform your balcony instantly with a realistic turf roll that adds lush greenery and soft texture underfoot.
- Heavy Duty Double-Sided Tape: Secure your new grass carpet firmly in place outdoors to prevent slipping or curling edges.
- Utility Knife / Box Cutter: Trim your artificial grass roll easily to fit unique corners and dimensions of your specific balcony space.
Painted and Stenciled Concrete
When the balcony floor is solid but boring, I paint it and add a stenciled pattern to fake that high-end tile look for cheap. I’ve done this with porch paint and a clear sealer, and it held up way better than I expected.
Maybe worth checking out:
- Large Floor Stencils: Create a stunning custom look on your balcony by applying geometric patterns directly to your concrete floor.
- Exterior Porch & Floor Paint: Refresh your worn concrete surface with durable exterior paint designed to withstand foot traffic and weather.
- Foam Roller & Paint Tray Set: Ensure smooth application of your base coat and stencil work with this essential set of painting tools.
Painted Plywood Deck Squares
This one surprises people: sealed plywood squares can work as a cheap balcony floor when you paint them and leave tiny gaps for drainage. I’ve used porch paint plus an outdoor sealer, and the graphic look felt modern and intentional.
Useful items to consider:
- Non-Slip Porch & Patio Floor Paint: Refresh your outdoor space by applying durable, weather-resistant paint that provides essential traction and modern color.
- Clear Waterproof Wood Sealer: Protect your DIY plywood tiles from moisture damage and rot with a high-quality, long-lasting exterior sealant.
- Circular Saw or Jigsaw: Cut your plywood sheets into perfect uniform squares or planks with a reliable, easy-to-handle power saw.
Pebble Borders for Odd Gaps
When balcony tiles don’t fit perfectly, I fill skinny edges with shallow trays of river pebbles for a clean border that looks landscaped. I’ve used this trick around rail posts, and it made those awkward gaps look totally planned.
A few relevant products:
- Decorative River Rocks and Stones: Fill awkward balcony gaps with these smooth, natural stones to create a visually pleasing, spa-like border.
- Narrow Wooden Serving Trays: Use these sleek rectangular trays to contain pebbles neatly along edges, preventing loose stones from scattering.
- Interlocking Deck Tiles: Lay the main foundation of your balcony floor with these easy-to-install tiles before adding your pebble borders.
Faux Tile Pattern With Tape and Paint
A couple paint colors and painter’s tape can create faux tile or a checkerboard floor right on your balcony slab for almost nothing. I’ve tried it on a rental-friendly timeline, and it delivered that “designer patio” vibe fast.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Exterior Floor & Porch Paint: Refresh your balcony concrete with durable outdoor paint designed to withstand foot traffic and weather elements easily.
- Multi-Surface Painter’s Tape: Create crisp, clean lines for your checkerboard design using tape that adheres well to textured concrete surfaces.
- Concrete Sealer & Finish: Protect your new faux tile design from fading and water damage by applying a clear, protective topcoat.
