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
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
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.
Mitchell Grant
•
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
Kelly Weimert
•
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.
aerial view of second story deck of home
Taylor Freitas
•
Mar 4, 2025
Mar 4, 2025
Under-deck drainage costs can be pricey. Your final quote will depend on labor, materials, and the size of your deck. Start budgeting with this 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.
outdoor entertaining on deck
Jacqueline DeMarco
•
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.
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filling pool with well water
Lauren Bongard  •  Mar 13, 2025
Can You Fill a Pool with Well Water? What You Need to Know
Learn how to fill a pool with well water safely and easily. We have the tips you need to fill your pool while protecting your family and well water supply.
Tennis court with homes in the background
Timothy Moore  •  Mar 13, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Tennis Court?
Building a tennis court is a significant investment that can pay off in years of enjoyment. Use this guide to learn how much it costs based on factors like surface type and lighting.
A family having fun in the swimming pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Mar 13, 2025
How Much Does an In-Ground Pool Cost? [2025 Data]
Considering a swimming pool for your backyard? Find out everything you need to know about in-ground pool costs, from materials to labor and more.
Indoor swimmers pool
Lauren Bongard  •  Mar 13, 2025
How Much Does an Endless Pool Cost? [2025 Data]
Dreaming of getting in those daily laps without tearing up your backyard? Here’s what to know about endless pool costs so you can plan your project.
Country house with a big backyard
Lauren Bongard  •  Mar 13, 2025
How Much Does Pool Removal Cost in 2025?
Removing a pool is a labor-intensive job, but the investment can be worth it. Use this pool removal cost guide to estimate how much you’ll pay for the service.
Swimming pool in summer day
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Mar 12, 2025
How to Find a Leak in a Pool and Get to the Bottom of It
If you think your pool is losing water, read this guide to learn how to find a leak in a pool and quickly find the source of the problem.
Man cleans fall leaves from pool
Deane Biermeier  •  Mar 12, 2025
Pool Closing Checklist: How to Prepare Your Pool for Winter in 11 Steps
Make a pool closing checklist for your above ground pool this season to protect it from winter damage and ease springtime opening.
A tennis racket and some tennis balls
Kelly Weimert  •  Mar 12, 2025
Pickleball vs. Tennis Court: Which Is a Better Fit for Your Home?
Debating between a pickleball court or a tennis court? Use this guide to learn all about the difference in sizes between these two courts and compare them based on factors like maintenance and longevity.
A boy jumping in a pool happily on a sunny day
Stacey L. Nash  •  Mar 11, 2025
Weekly Pool Maintenance Checklist for a Sparkling Clean Pool
An easy weekly pool maintenance checklist can keep your pool free of algae and debris so you and your family can swim all summer long.
Backyard with a swimming pool
Dan Simms  •  Mar 11, 2025
Pool Water Delivery: How to Fill a Pool With Water
Need to refill your pool after cleaning or the winter season? Use this guide on how to fill a pool with water for a few different affordable methods.
A couple discussing while sitting at the edge of their pool
Rachel Hoffman  •  Mar 11, 2025
What Size Pool Heater Do I Need for My Pool?
Keeping your pool heated can make it comfortable even in chilly weather. Learn what size pool heater you need to keep your pool as warm as you like.
Patio awning with solar panels
Melissa Graham  •  Mar 10, 2025
5 Questions to Ask When Installing or Replacing a Metal Awning or Patio Cover
Consider these awning questions when installing or replacing a metal awning or patio cover. The answers can determine who you hire and how long the project takes.