Manufacturers Are Practically Giving Away Brick Pavers: Here's The Secret

Budgeting for a patio remodel is tough. What might seem like a fairly simply project that's meant to improve your outdoor space can easily result in a laundry list of expenses. When foundational tasks like leveling surfaces and redesigning your landscaping are combined with finishing touches like outdoor furniture and lighting, budgets can easily soar into the tens of thousands of dollars, leaving you to regret the idea of a revamp before you've even gotten started. One of the easiest ways to cut costs is to go the DIY route — no hired labor means a significant dip in expenses — but there's still the price of materials to consider. Luckily, we have a simple trick for that, too.

If you're planning to freshen up the existing flooring of your patio or install some stylish paths that cut through your garden, consider taking a look at brick manufacturers' surplus inventory. While they're not giving away materials for free, you can pick up stylish pavers for a severely reduced cost. Pavers that are slightly discolored, overproduced, or created as a tester are often listed at a discount, giving DIYers the chance to score prices that are much more reasonable than you'd see at your local hardware store. With a bit of research and a few calls to local suppliers, you'll get to revel in your stunning backyard makeover without wincing every time the cost crosses your mind.

While shopping for surplus or discolored bricks is a great way to save some money, it will require a bit of effort on your part. It's rare to find prices for these products listed directly online, especially if your local manufacturers primarily sell wholesale rather than directly to consumers. As such, it's often necessary to give these suppliers a call to see what kind of material they have on hand that they might be willing to offload. This might limit your potential selection, make it more difficult to compare pricing at a glance, or increase the time it takes to shop around, but it's worth the hassle if you're flexible with your needs and timeline.

Local businesses are the best place to buy budget-friendly pavers. While nationwide surplus suppliers exist, limiting your search to manufacturers in your immediate area can significantly reduce the cost and make things more convenient. Even if you're getting a good deal from a supplier across the country, the money and effort required to ship a large amount of heavy brick pavers can shrink your savings and significantly extend the time it takes to complete your project. Call around to local brick manufacturers and construction supply depots first — even contractors and patio installers in your area are worth a shot, as it's common to end up with excess materials after a job. It will make things easier for you, but it also gives you a chance to reduce your negative environmental impact, talk to people who are familiar with the ideal materials for your climate, and support your community.