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.
wooden walkout deck with flowers
Feb 5, 2025
Feb 5, 2025
Deck replacement costs depend on materials, any structural damage you need to fix, and more. This guide explores how much it costs to replace or repair a deck.
Woman relaxing in a chair on porch.
Feb 6, 2025
Feb 6, 2025
Old and run-down porch railings can be an eyesore and pose a risk of falling. Find out how much it costs to replace your worn out porch railings with new materials.
empty finished deck with double glass doors leading to home
Feb 11, 2025
Feb 11, 2025
Refinishing your deck is a great way to restore its appearance and fall in love with your outdoor space. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like size and type.
luxury house with wooden walkout deck
Nov 25, 2024
Nov 25, 2024
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.
outdoor entertaining on deck
Feb 12, 2025
Feb 12, 2025
If you’re wondering—who can I get to refinish my deck?—you’re in the right place. Learn who you can hire to refinish your deck if you aren’t up for the DIY.
Deck with wooden railing
Dec 2, 2024
Dec 2, 2024
When is a railing required on a deck? If you’re not sure that your deck follows the law, explore these critical deck railing requirements.
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Builder engineer and supervisor checking process
Hiring the right pro to build your pool is critical for a successful project. Find out what questions to ask pool builders to find the right match.
Modern house with concrete patio and outdoor furniture
Concrete is ideal for an outdoor patio, walkway, or steps. Here are the questions to ask a contractor about your next concrete installation project.
swimming pool in large backyard
Asking the right pool repair questions will not only help your contractor fix your pool but also help you set your budget and expectations.
luxury home with outdoor tennis court
Installing or resurfacing a tennis or game court is a big investment. Follow these residential tennis court questions to help you talk with a contractor.
Playful siblings having fun during summer day at the pool
If you’re looking to get your backyard summer-ready, use this guide to learn pool opening costs, budget appropriately, and how to save money.
Family relaxing and watching children playing and swimming in backyard pool
Before diving into your new pool, you must complete some safety checks. Learn everything you need to know about pool bonding and grounding.
woman in a heated swimming pool at night
Pool heating doesn’t need to cost a fortune. How to heat a pool goes well beyond gas heaters or heat pumps. Here are eight tips and tricks for warmer water.
swimming pool in summer home
A zero-entry pool can be a great fit for homeowners with kids or for people with mobility issues. But what is a zero-entry pool exactly? Let’s take a closer look.
A man replacing a pool liner
Knowing how long pool liners last can help you plan out a replacement and avoid unexpected costs. Use this guide to determine how much life yours has left.
Overview of a swimming pool with a blue pool liner
Need to update the look and feel of your pool? Use this guide on pool liner replacement cost to see how much this pool project will set you back.
Brother and sister jumping into the pool
Balancing pool chemicals is one of the most important parts of pool maintenance. This guide will show you how much chlorine to add to a pool and more.
Senior woman swimming in a swimming pool
How long do pool filters last? Maintaining crystal clear water will depend on pool size, use, the chemicals used, and the filter type.