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.
wooden deck in backyard
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
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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swimming pool wood deck
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Installing a pool is a big undertaking. Before you start your project, here are some important questions to ask your fiberglass pool installer.