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.
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.
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.
Deck with wooden railing
Xiao Faria daCunha
•
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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swimming pool wood deck
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Feb 27, 2025
When Should You Change the Sand in a Pool Filter?
Changing the sand in the pool filter will keep the water clean and the filter functioning. But when should you change the sand in a pool filter? Let’s find out.
Urban house with a cozy paver patio
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Feb 27, 2025
5 Questions to Ask Your Patio Contractor About Installing or Repairing Brick and Stone Patios, Walks, and Steps
When you’re installing or repairing brick or stone patios, walkways, and steps, these are the important questions to ask your patio contractor.
Woman relaxing in a chair on porch.
Deane Biermeier  •  Feb 27, 2025
5 Questions to Ask About Building a Deck or Porch
If you’re preparing to build or replace a deck or porch, here are the first questions you should be asking a contractor before hiring them for the project.
empty tennis court summer
Kelly Weimert  •  Feb 26, 2025
Standard Tennis Court Dimensions: What’s the Right Size for My Home?
A tennis court’s size significantly affects gameplay. Use this guide to learn how to size your tennis court based on factors like space available and regulation requirements.
Mother and child playing in a swimming pool
Lauren Bongard  •  Feb 25, 2025
Sand vs. Cartridge Pool Filters: Which Gets Water Clearer?
Deciding between sand versus cartridge pool filters? Plunge into the specifics of each type of pool filter, pros, cons, and comparisons in this handy guide.
Pool in the backyard of large house
Mariel Loveland  •  Feb 25, 2025
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool? [2025 Data]
Is it time to treat yourself to backyard pool parties and late-night swims? Start with our guide, which answers the question: how much does it cost to build a pool?
home swimming pool
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Feb 24, 2025
How to Clean a Pool Filter in 6 Steps
Cleaning a pool filter is a simple process that can prolong the life of your cartridge filter. Here’s how to clean a pool filter on your own, in six steps.
Toddler and grandma playing in the pool
Stacey L. Nash  •  Feb 24, 2025
What’s the Difference Between Two-Speed vs. Variable-Speed Pool Pumps?
Two-speed and variable-speed pool pumps perform the same function, but how they do it can create a splash or squash the fun at your next pool party.
Young woman floating on a pool tube
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Feb 24, 2025
How Long Should a Pool Heater Last Before You Need to Replace It?
Your pool heater should keep your pool comfortable for when you’re ready to jump in, but how long should a pool heater last? Here’s what you need to know.
Father and son playing in swimming pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Feb 21, 2025
6 Pool Maintenance Questions to Discuss With a Pro
Pool maintenance isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. You’ll need to discuss these pool maintenance questions with a pro to develop a fine-tuned plan.
A professional repairing a pool heater
Mariel Loveland  •  Feb 21, 2025
5 Pool Heater Questions to Ask a Pro
Before installing a pool heater, you’ll need to discuss a few things with your contractor. Here are five pool heater questions to run through with a pro.
Dad playing with his kids in the pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Feb 21, 2025
5 Questions to Ask About Fiberglass Pool Installation
Installing a pool is a big undertaking. Before you start your project, here are some important questions to ask your fiberglass pool installer.