We tore up our own backyard to save over $4,000 and honestly… I’d do it again. 😅 This is Part 3 of our DIY paver patio series: the budget breakdown. We were quoted $6,000+ for a patio extension, so my husband and I decided to tackle this backyard renovation ourselves. Here’s what it actually cost: • Skid steer rental for excavation: $350 • Plate compactor rental: $75 • Landscaping fabric: $60 • Truckload of leveling sand: $350 • 350 sq ft of pavers (delivered): $935 • Polymeric sand for the paver joints: $90 • Edge restraints (that I hated): $130 • Miscellaneous DIY tools + concrete blade: $100 Total DIY patio cost: $2,090. After laying the pavers, we made all the edge cuts with an angle grinder and somehow managed to get the transition to our existing patio looking pretty dang professional. I even ditched the border bricks I bought and “shopped” my own backyard for free landscaping rocks instead. 😂 This DIY backyard makeover ended up being cheaper than the poured concrete quotes we received, but I love that paver patios add so much more character, texture, and curb appeal. If you’ve been debating a DIY patio installation, consider this your sign that it might be more achievable than you think. Now we’re moving on to the DIY outdoor kitchen, so follow along for the final backyard reveal. ✨