Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are more important today than ever. If you’re ready to show off your culinary skills in your new outdoor kitchen or put in a pool for the kids, we’ve got you covered. Learn estimated project costs, easy DIYs, and helpful tips for everything from pest control to covered patios. 

Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
a cedar deck with two patio chairs and a small table overlooking a lush green yard
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 24, 2025
May 24, 2025
Cedar is a popular decking material, best known for its natural wooden look and resistance to rot. So, how much does a cedar deck cost? Find out in this guide.
A deck with cable railing
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 26, 2025
May 26, 2025
If you’re updating a deck or staircase with a modern railing, you may be wondering how much cable railing costs. We dive into the cost factors you need to know.
Outdoor table and umbrella on a flagstone patio
Allie Ogletree
•
Jun 16, 2025
Jun 16, 2025
Flagstone patio costs vary by the size, material type, labor, and more. Stay tuned to see how much your flagstone patio could cost.
A view of a sunny wooden deck
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 23, 2025
May 23, 2025
Homeowners are turning to pressure treatment to shield their wood from the elements and pesky insects. Discover how much longer you can make your wood last.
A beautiful wooden deck with white railings
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Jun 2, 2025
Jun 2, 2025
Deck board replacement can keep your outdoor space looking good and safe to use. Learn how to replace deck boards yourself.
Fire place on the wooden veranda next to chairs in garden
Deirdre Sullivan
•
Jun 11, 2025
Jun 11, 2025
You can DIY a floating deck with the right layout, materials, and installation method. Here’s everything you need to know about how to build a floating deck.
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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.
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.
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.
Friends enjoying party at home
Lawrence Bonk  •  Jun 24, 2025
Here are the 7 Major Types of Patios
There are many different types of patios out there, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Here are the major patio types to choose from.
Worker installing polymeric sand
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Jun 24, 2025
How to Apply Polymeric Sand
Learn how to apply polymeric sand to keep your pavers sturdy and secure for years to come. It's important to know how to use paver sand in the right weather.
luxury patio with brick paver
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Jun 24, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Seal and Clean Pavers? [2025 Data]
Looking to spruce up your outdoor entertaining area? Learn how much it costs to seal pavers and what factors to consider when estimating your total.
Family eating dinner together on the patio
Paul F. P. Pogue  •  Jun 20, 2025
17 Deck Railing Ideas and Designs
Ready to upgrade your outdoor spaces? Turn your deck into a place you love to show off with these 15 rail design ideas.
Outdoor terrace with sofa and chairs
Catherine Hiles  •  Jun 19, 2025
Deck Building Codes: A Complete Guide
When you build a deck, you need to ensure it complies with local building codes. Here’s what you need to know about the most common deck building codes.
Modern concrete dining area with a grill
Catherine Hiles  •  Jun 17, 2025
Why Is My Concrete Patio Cracking? 7 Reasons and Solutions
A concrete patio is an affordable addition for outdoor dining and entertaining, but cracks are unsightly. Learn the answer to the question, “Why is my concrete patio cracking?”
Dinner party on a flagstone patio
Mitchell Grant  •  Jun 16, 2025
How Much Does Flagstone Cost? [2025 Data]
Flagstone gives your outdoor space a gorgeous, rustic feel. Find out the cost of flagstone per square foot or per ton. Our expert cost guide helps you plan your budget for your flagstone project from walkways to patios to walls.
Concrete patio with furniture and a pergola
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 14, 2025
4 Common Concrete Patio Problems and How to Fix Them
Here is everything homeowners need to know about common concrete patio problems, including when to call a pro and what to fix yourself.
Residential backyard with pavers
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 14, 2025
5 Patio Drainage Problems and How to Fix Them
Don’t let patio drainage problems ruin your backyard paradise. Discover the common issues and fixes so you can enjoy your outdoor oasis.