Home Exteriors

Your exterior siding and windows help shield your home from the elements. But let’s be honest—they should look beautiful, too. We’ve got expert guidance on keeping your siding and windows strong and looking great for years to come, and a list of pros to call if you ever need repairs.

A man, boy, and dog playing in the yard
Photo: MoMo Productions / DigitalVision / Getty Images
A man, boy, and dog playing in the yard
Photo: MoMo Productions / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
A house front entrance with partially carpeted stairs
Dan Simms
•
Apr 25, 2025
Apr 25, 2025
Wondering how much it costs to build a staircase in your home? Use this convenient cost guide to get an accurate estimate for your home improvement project.
A child plays basketball in front of a garage
Lauren Bongard
•
May 19, 2025
May 19, 2025
Sometimes it’s best to start fresh with a new garage, and that starts with tearing down the old one. Learn how much it will cost to demolish your garage.
MOTHER AND DAUGHTER HAVING FUN IN KITCHEN
Ginny Bartolone
•
Dec 20, 2024
Dec 20, 2024
Strong floor joists are the key to a structurally safe home. The cost of floor joist repair will often come down to what is causing the problem.
Residential timber framing
Deane Biermeier
•
Jun 8, 2025
Jun 8, 2025
Are you wondering how much lumber you need for your construction project? This lumber calculator will help you estimate how much to purchase.
Refrigerator repairman
Derek Rose
•
Dec 5, 2024
Dec 5, 2024
When planning a home renovation or remodel, asking your contractor to reduce the price of the job is never an easy task. But negotiation is possible! Read these tips for negotiating with a contractor the right (and effective) way.
Man on computer at home desk
Catherine Hiles
•
Dec 5, 2024
Dec 5, 2024
Has your contractor accidentally caused damage to your home? Here’s what you need to know about filing an insurance claim against a contractor.
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A suburban house with chain link fence on the front lawn
Mary Beth Eastman  •  Jul 3, 2025
5 Best Types of Chain-Link Fences: Which Is Right for You?
Explore 5 common types of chain-link fences: galvanized, vinyl-coated, privacy, mini-mesh, and security. Find the perfect fit for your property needs.
New modern contemporary house exterior with fence and front door
Kate Fann  •  Jul 3, 2025
Vinyl vs. Aluminum Fences: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Comparing vinyl vs. aluminum fencing is a question many homeowners consider when installing a new fence. Here's how to narrow down your choice.
​​Empty hammock hanging in backyard
Ginny Bartolone  •  Jul 3, 2025
How to Build a Fence on a Slope: Raked and Stepped Methods
If you assumed your hilly yard disqualified you from building a fence, think again. Here’s how to build a fence on a slope, including two ways to do so.
A woonen patio on a sunny day
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jul 2, 2025
5 Common Patio Problems and Solutions
Many common patio problems can be addressed early. Here are ways to repair different types of patio damage and how to know your problem needs a pro.
white vinyl fence in backyard
Mariel Loveland  •  Jul 2, 2025
How to Replace a Fence Post: The Complete DIY Guide
If you have a damaged or rotten fence post, you might need a replacement. This guide will show you when and how to replace a fence post in a few simple steps.
home patio with glossy concrete
Jill Harness  •  Jul 2, 2025
Why Should You Seal a Concrete Patio? 5 Benefits and When to Avoid Sealing
Sealing a concrete patio can significantly extend its lifespan and enhance its appearance, preventing cracking, staining, and fading. Here are 5 reasons why you should seal concrete patios.
Deck made of cedar wood
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jul 2, 2025
4 Reasons Your Cedar Deck Is Turning Black and How to Fix It
Many homeowners wonder why their cedar deck is turning black. This article explains the most common causes and how to fix them.
A house with a red brick wall
Xiao Faria daCunha  •  Jul 1, 2025
How to Tuckpoint Brick to Make Your Mortar Look Like New
You can hire a professional to fix a decaying brick wall, or you can save money and do it yourself by learning how to tuckpoint brick using the steps below.
A worker checking on a brick wall of a construction site
Xiao Faria daCunha  •  Jul 1, 2025
How to Hire the Best Masonry Contractor for Your Project
If your brick or stone wall needs repairing, then you need a brick masonry contractor to tackle the project. Hiring a mason for a project can feel daunting, but if you follow these tips you’ll know just what to do to find the perfect pro for you.
The pale yellow vinyl siding of a one family house
Dan Simms  •  Jul 1, 2025
Why Is My Vinyl Siding Wavy?
Wondering why your vinyl siding is wavy? Chances are the installation is to blame. But the issue could be sunlight, heat, or foundation issues.
wooden fence around home
Taylor Freitas  •  Jun 30, 2025
How to Fix a Rotted End on a Fence Gate: A Guide for DIYers
Wondering how to fix a rotted end on a fence gate? Your best bet is to replace the entire post. This step-by-step guide walks you through that process.
Backyard patio with outdoor table and a BBQ grill
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 30, 2025
5 Reasons Your Patio Is Sinking and How to Fix Them
Many homeowners wonder why their patio is sinking. We share the top five reasons and how to fix them.