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
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From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
light tan deck with green grass and bushes surround it and silver wire deck chairs and table on top
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 21, 2025
May 21, 2025
Building a composite deck can increase your home’s appeal and value. Composite decking costs depend on the size of your deck, the materials, labor, and more.
friends hanging out on front porch
Stephanie Mickelson
•
Jun 3, 2025
Jun 3, 2025
Are your porch columns old or simply unsightly? It might be time to refresh them. Here's a breakdown of the cost of replacing porch columns.
Couple sitting on a deck by fire pit drinking wine
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 22, 2025
May 22, 2025
Ipe decking costs vary depending on size, construction, finish, and whether you DIY the job. Learn more about how to budget for this project.
Couple enjoying outdoor breakfast
Jill Harness
•
May 22, 2025
May 22, 2025
Prioritize deck safety tips for your favorite outdoor space and spend more time enjoying nature with friends and family and less worrying about your deck.
Woman standing on a backyard deck enjoying coffee
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Jun 3, 2025
Jun 3, 2025
A deck railing provides safety and aesthetic appeal to an elevated deck. Learn how to build or replace a wooden deck railing using this step-by-step guide.
wooden deck in backyard
Deane Biermeier
•
Feb 27, 2025
Feb 27, 2025
Consult a pro if your deck or porch looks worse for wear. Here are the top deck repair questions to discuss with a contractor before getting started.
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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.
house and backyard with patio furniture
Taylor Sansano  •  Jun 13, 2025
How to Build a Paver Patio
Paving a patio can be challenging if you’ve never taken on this type of yard project before. Learn how to perfectly pave your patio.
Woman sitting on the deck snuggling with her dog
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 12, 2025
What’s the Best Material for Decks? What to Choose for the Ultimate Hangout Spot
Know the best materials for decks for different styles, colors, maintenance, climates, wood decking, regular decking, and pool decks.
Wooden deck of house
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 12, 2025
What Is the Best Wood for Decks? 6 Top Picks
Installing a new wooden deck? Explore this guide to learn about the best wood for decks, including the benefits, costs, and life expectancy of each type.