For many Australians, the backyard is a cherished space where memories are made and relaxation is a ritual. However, giving this area a facelift can often seem like a costly and daunting task. But what if you could dramatically transform your outdoor space without breaking the bank? A clever Kmart shopper has done just that, using a surprisingly affordable item to turn her backyard into an oasis of comfort and style.
The savvy DIY enthusiast faced a common dilemma: an ‘unusable concrete space’ around her home that needed a touch of magic. Quotes for professional decking came in at a steep $3,500, but our resourceful homeowner wasn’t deterred. Instead, she took matters into her own hands, armed with a trip to Kmart and a healthy dose of elbow grease.
The secret to her stunning transformation? Four packs of wooden decking tiles from Kmart, retailing at just $19 each. These tiles are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly user-friendly. They easily slot together, requiring no nails or glue, and feature a plastic bottom that elevates them off the concrete for drainage. The result is a beautiful outdoor look that anyone can achieve.
To ensure longevity and enhance the natural beauty of the acacia wood, the DIYer applied two coats of Aquadeck decking oil. The finishing touches included an outdoor rug, an umbrella, and two stylish sun loungers from Bunnings, creating a poolside lounging space that turned a previously wasted area into the highlight of her home.
The total cost? A mere $400. That’s a saving of $3,100 from the original quote, proving that with a little creativity and effort, you can achieve professional-looking results on a DIY budget.
Kmart has become something of a ‘secret weapon’ for home renovators, offering a range of outdoor products that can elevate any space. Bijour Jacqueline from Vanilla Palm Designs, a DIY home renovator, praises Kmart’s offerings. While she hasn’t used the decking tiles herself, she’s a fan of Kmart’s viral travertine stone tiles, which she laid for a bathhouse floor and a pathway. ‘I was able to lay them myself, and they are as good now as they were the day I laid them about two years ago,’ she said.
The decking tiles, in particular, have garnered rave reviews from Kmart fans and DIY enthusiasts alike. They’re versatile, easy to install, and perfect for rental properties since they can be taken up without hassle. The tiles have been used to spruce up balconies, create pathways, and now, as we’ve seen, transform backyards.
Some have questioned the durability of a $19 product. While there have been comments about the tiles lifting, discolouring, or cracking, the original DIYer emphasised the importance of treating the tiles before laying them down, as they are not pre-oiled or treated. With proper maintenance and a few spare tiles on hand for replacements, these decking tiles can stand the test of time. Positive reviews on Kmart’s website and stories of the tiles lasting for years with minimal upkeep support this claim.
Have you undertaken a DIY project that transformed your space? We’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you might have for fellow seniors looking to do the same. Share your stories in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other with our resourcefulness and creativity!
Also read: This $15 Kmart find is making waves in home decor
