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.
a cedar deck with two patio chairs and a small table overlooking a lush green yard
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 24, 2025
May 24, 2025
Cedar is a popular decking material, best known for its natural wooden look and resistance to rot. So, how much does a cedar deck cost? Find out in this guide.
A deck with cable railing
Lawrence Bonk
•
May 26, 2025
May 26, 2025
If you’re updating a deck or staircase with a modern railing, you may be wondering how much cable railing costs. We dive into the cost factors you need to know.
wooden walkout deck with flowers
Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 23, 2025
May 23, 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.
Large wooden deck
Catherine Hiles
•
May 28, 2025
May 28, 2025
Unstable deck stairs can lead to serious injury. Learn how to attach stairs to a deck to keep your outdoor living space safe, cozy, and secure.
Large wooden deck
Catherine Hiles
•
May 29, 2025
May 29, 2025
Deck railings keep you safe and give your deck a finished look. Here’s how to install railing posts on a deck to support strong and sturdy railings.
Couple relaxing on veranda
Catherine Hiles
•
May 28, 2025
May 28, 2025
Your deck railings help prevent injuries, but only if they’re the proper height. Discover the ideal deck railing height to ensure your safety and compliance with building codes.
Need help finding the right pro?
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
View all articles
Terrace deck with wooden railings
Catherine Hiles  •  Jun 2, 2025
What Is Composite Decking and Is It Right for Your Outdoor Space?
Composite decking is made of synthetic and natural materials and tends to last longer than wood. Learn what composite decking is and its pros and cons.
Summer staged deck
Catherine Hiles  •  Jun 2, 2025
PVC vs. Composite Decking: Which One Should You Choose for Your Deck?
In the battle of PVC versus composite decking, which material comes out on top? Discover the benefits and drawbacks of each type in this guide.
Patio deck with wooden chairs and a tree
Deirdre Sullivan  •  Jun 2, 2025
How to Build a Deck Around a Tree: 8 Helpful Tips
For homeowners wondering how to build a deck around a tree, the first thing to remember is to keep the tree happy to protect your investment.
Carpenter installing a wood floor outdoor terrace
Catherine Hiles  •  Jun 2, 2025
How to Remove Deck Boards: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to remove an old deck in this step-by-step guide. Deck removal is a challenging task and can take up to 10 hours.
Great landscaping with stone steps and path
Jouviane Alexandre  •  Jun 1, 2025
How to Build Stone Steps on a Slope in 9 Steps
Learn how to build stone steps on a slope. Discover the tools, supplies, and instructions needed to create a functional addition to your landscape.
Outdoor deck patio space
Jouviane Alexandre  •  Jun 1, 2025
How to Seal Patio Pavers in 6 Easy Steps
Applying a paver sealer to your driveway or patio will give it new life. Read on for steps to help protect your hardscape from stains and damage.
woman using chlorine tablet for pool
Deane Biermeier  •  May 30, 2025
How Much Chlorine To Add To a Pool?
Our chlorine calculator helps you determine the exact amount of chlorine to add to your pool, based on its volume and your desired parts per million (ppm) level.
Bluestone patio against tree
Allie Ogletree  •  May 29, 2025
How Much Does a Bluestone Patio Installation Cost​? [2025 Data]
Bluestone patios can transform yards, increase home values, and extend your usable space. Learn about average bluestone patio costs to budget for the project.
A house’s backyard with a fiberglass swimming pool
Lauren Bongard  •  May 29, 2025
How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost to Install? [2025 Data]
Fiberglass pools are a solid choice. If you are looking into installing one at home, read this guide to learn all the ins and outs of fiberglass pool costs.
Country cottage with green landscaped backyard
Kelly Weimert  •  May 29, 2025
How Much Does Aboveground Pool Removal Cost? [2025 Data]
If you're ready to get rid of that pool once and for all, use this guide to learn aboveground pool removal cost based on factors like size, type, and features.
In-ground swimming pool
Deane Biermeier  •  May 29, 2025
Pool Shock Calculator: How Much Shock Does My Pool Need?
How much shock does my pool need? Here's how to calculate how much pool shock to add to your pool based on its overall water condition.
Flagstone applied to home entrance
Kelly Weimert  •  May 28, 2025
What’s the Difference Between Flagstone and Bluestone?​
This article explains the key differences between flagstone and bluestone and helps you determine which is the better option for your home.