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.

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.

Alison Kasch

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Jun 4, 2025

How Much Does a Vinyl Deck Cost to Build? [2025 Data]

Vinyl is a durable and relatively inexpensive choice of decking material. Your vinyl deck cost will depend on labor, the deck size, and more.

Outdoor table and umbrella on a flagstone patio

Allie Ogletree

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Jun 16, 2025

How Much Does a Flagstone Patio Cost? [2025 Data]

Flagstone patio costs vary by the size, material type, labor, and more. Stay tuned to see how much your flagstone patio could cost.

light tan deck with green grass and bushes surround it and silver wire deck chairs and table on top

Lawrence Bonk

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May 21, 2025

How Much Does Composite Decking Cost? [2025 Data]

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.

A couple enjoying their time on the deck next to a firepit

Catherine Hiles

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Jun 4, 2025

Deck ROI: How Much Value Do Decks Add to a Home?

Decks provide usable outdoor space for relaxing and entertaining. But do decks add value to a home? Find out the answer in this informative guide.

Lawrence Bonk

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May 20, 2025

Types of Decks for Every Home: A Complete Guide to Materials and Layouts

When planning an outdoor oasis, there are many types of decks to consider. This guide explores popular materials and styles to help you pick the best one.

Veronica Sparks

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May 26, 2025

How Much Does a Wraparound Porch Cost? [2025 Data]

Are you wondering what factors might affect a wraparound porch’s cost? Budget for this rustic and charming addition with our cost guide.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?”

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.