Whether you're bored of your patio's look or it simply needs a refresh, now's the time to spruce up your outdoor space.

"Investing in DIY cosmetic updates can improve the appeal of your space without breaking the bank," says Cristina Miguelez, remodeling specialist at Fixr.com, a home remodeling information website.

She says it's logical that people want to make their patio more pleasant since during the pandemic, they're likely spending more time at home rather than traveling or going out.

She's right. Homeowners are taking on more projects these days. According to an online CRAFTSMAN Built@Home survey of 1,005 American adults conducted by Atomik Research, 76% worked on at least one home improvement project last year, with 32% of men and 22% of women reporting having completed a garden overhaul during the pandemic. Nearly 20% of respondents said they plan to install an outdoor patio, deck or entertainment space during 2021.

Luckily, a makeover doesn't have to cost a lot. Read on as experts share their tips for designing a budget friendly outdoor space.

*Lights

"Reviving an outdoor space doesn't have to mean purchasing all new furniture," says Sarah Nelson, a senior designer for Spacejoy, an online 3D interior design company that specializes in affordable designs. "Sometimes, it is just focusing on the ambiance."

She loves adding string lights and outdoor faux candles to create a relaxing, inviting space. These touches literally and figuratively brighten the area and give it a cozy feel.

Outdoor string lights can be found at discount stores and home improvement stores in a variety of affordable piece ranges. Note that you may need a few strands for the desired look.

*Decked out

Refresh your outdoor living area by replacing existing deck planks with composite planks.

"Composite is low maintenance, holds up much better than wood and will provide your space with a fresh look," says Miguelez, not the cost per square foot is between $10 and $40.

*Vertical appeal

Think about vertical space when making over your patio.

"Adding in a plant wall will create such a unique focal point for your outdoor area and really help bring that calming sensation that we are all in search of when we go outside to recharge," says Maria Castillero, Spacejoy's lead designer.

*Walkways

For a long lasting landscape makeover, consider adding stones to create pathways, driveways, and flower and garden beds.

Miguelez says you can start a project for as low as $120 for a 25-square-foot patio seating area using pea gravel that's 3 inches deep.

Vineta Jackson, who writes about home improvement and DIY projects for her website, The Handyman's Daughter, completed a backyard makeover at her home, including putting in a pea gravel patio.

She says the pea gravel patio is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your backyard space. "It gives you a clearly defined entertainment area that's perfect for a fire pit and seating," she says. "And you can do it yourself in a weekend."

*Warm up

Consider adding a fire pit to create a focal point for gatherings. "A concrete fire pit is a great choice for DIY projects and is the most inexpensive," says Miguelez, who suggests getting a sturdy concrete fire pit that's weather-resistant.

Expect to spend a little more than $100 for a 36-inch concrete fire pit. For more money. (over $500) but less work, consider a prefabricated out-of-the-box fire pit.

*Take a seat

Invest in new cushions and accessories like pillows and candles. Then sit back and relax so you can enjoy all the small changes that add up to big patio pizzazz.