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The Best Outdoor Shades for Privacy and Temperature Control
Outdoor shades can provide welcome coverage in areas such as balconies, porches, sunrooms, or patios. Depending on th...
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16 Home Improvements and Repairs That Are Best Not to DIY
There are plenty of projects that handy DIYers can do without the help of a professional including painting, installi...
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Score up to $700 off and Grills and Outdoor Living Essentials During Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday 2023 has arrived! And end-of-season sales on outdoor living essentials—grills, outdoor furniture, pool v...
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The Best Cheap Fire Pits To Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
If you have an empty space on an existing patio or are designing a new outdoor area to spend time with family, friend...
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Blackstone Takes a Great Griddle and Makes It Even Better
When it comes to flat-top grills, few carry the reputation of those made by Blackstone. The company’s griddles are we...
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Solo Stove Tower Patio Heater Review: Expectation vs. Performance
Outdoor patio heaters extend the usefulness of decks, patios, and other outdoor living spaces into the cool and crisp...
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The Best Copper Fire Pits of 2023
While fire pits come in various shapes and materials, few offer the mix of style and function that a copper fire pit ...
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The Best Portable Pellet Grills of 2023
Cooking outdoors can be an adventure or just everyday fun, and the best portable pellet grills provide a range of opt...
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25 Easy Home Repairs You Should Never Pay Someone Else to Do
Making small repairs from time to time is part and parcel of owning a home. While you can spend hundreds, or even tho...
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For Under $30, This LED Lantern Lights the Way
Whether camping in the woods, dealing with an unexpected power outage, or facing some other dimly lit situation, it’s...
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The Best Labor Day Deals on Fire Pits, Camp Stoves, and More
Fall is a favorite season for many, with dropping temps signifying the perfect opportunity for an evening around the ...
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How to Install a Shade Sail
Shade sails have quickly become one of the most popular ways to create an open-air outdoor living space shaded from t...
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Yep, It’s Still One of the Best: A Weber Kettle Grill Review
While the basic design of the Weber kettle grill may not have changed that much in the more than 70 years since its d...
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Solved! What Is Stamped Concrete?
Q: I want to upgrade my old patio, and a friend suggested getting a stamped concrete patio installed as a budget-frie...
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The Cost of Building a Deck vs. a Patio: 8 Factors to Consider When Upgrading Your Backyard
The choice between constructing a deck or a patio in a homeowner’s outdoor space often hinges on a variety of factors...
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The Best Electric Coolers of 2023
Electric coolers offer portability and reliable cooling wherever they can be plugged in. Keep one in the garage, in a...
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The Best Patio Umbrellas for Windy Conditions of 2023
In breezy outdoor areas, it’s important to use a suitable patio umbrella for windy conditions. These extra-sturdy umb...
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The Best Pellet Grills Under $1,000 of 2023
Pellet grills eliminate the need to choose between a standard barbecue and a smoker (or purchasing both) by offering ...
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Another Weber Grill That's Well Worth It: A Spirit II E-310 Review
One of the best-known names in outdoor cooking appliances, Weber is well regarded for its lineup of charcoal, gas, an...
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Pet Playground: 12 Easy Ways to Make Your Patio Pet Friendly
According to experts, having a dog or cat can be great for one’s physical and mental health. Everywhere across Americ...
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Solved! What Is a Lanai?
Q: We’re finally moving to a warmer state and we’ve noticed a lot of the homes have a room called a lanai. What is a ...
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Bug Battle? My Experience Testing the DynaTrap Insect Trap
When it comes to battling mosquitoes and other flying insects, finding an effective and reliable solution can be a da...
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Sitting Pretty: 20 Garden Bench Ideas for Every Backyard
One of the simplest ways to savor the season is by relaxing on a garden bench. From there, you can truly appreciate t...
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Take Your Backyard Barbecuing to the Next Level With the Kamado Joe Series II
The Kamado Joe may be one of the best ways to elevate your backyard barbecuing to the next level, but is it worth its...
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Composite Decking vs. Wood Cost Comparison: 9 Considerations Before Choosing
Homeowners who are looking to install or replace a deck are typically faced with a major choice: composite decking vs...
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Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit Review: A Perfect Tabletop Fire Pit for a Quick Fire
While Solo Stove is best known for its large smokeless fire pits, its line of tabletop fire pits is up and coming. Th...
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8 Ways Your Deck Can Injure You
Deck and porch failures cause a significant number of injuries in the U. S. each year. During a 5-year study by the C...
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Last Chance Prime Day Deals: Shop Patio Furniture for Up to 47% Off
The clock is ticking, Amazon Prime Day is almost over. This year, the annual shopping holiday through 12 am PT on Jul...
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13 Time-Tested Tricks for a Bug-Free Backyard
Common garden pests like mosquitoes and ticks aren’t simply an itchy nuisance. According to the Centers for Disease C...
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The 11 Best Fire Pits Tested in 2023
Whether camping, tailgating, or hosting backyard bonfires, a fire pit is the critical centerpiece. Originally just a ...
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Breeo vs. Solo Stove: An Honest Breeo Fire Pit Review by a Solo Stove Fan
It seems that every new deck and patio upgrade includes a fire pit, and savvy buyers are going smokeless. I’ve tested...
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The Best Grill Gazebos of 2023
A grill gazebo, sometimes referred to as a grill pergola, protects you from the elements when Mother Nature doesn’t w...
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Does Your Fire Pit Need a Battery-Powered Fan? We Tested a BioLite FirePit+ to Find Out!
Relaxing by the campfire is a great way to unwind, until smoke drifts your way. It is possible to build a less smoky ...
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How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes Naturally: Our 15 Best Tips
There are more than 200 types of mosquitoes living in the United States ready to ruin summer concerts, pool time, bar...
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Is an Electric Pressure Washer Powerful? I Tested a Ryobi Pressure Washer to Find out!
Nothing beats a good pressure washer for blasting dirt and mud from sidewalks, driveways, and dirty cars. I've used s...
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The 15 Best Patio Furniture Deals from Home Depot's Memorial Day Sale
The countdown to the unofficial start of summer—aka Memorial Day—is over! And whether you're still short on seating f...
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15 Best Memorial Day Deals to Shop at Lowe's Right Now
Memorial Day weekend is only finally here! Lowe's deals have been picking up steam all month for the long weekend sal...
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The Best Outdoor Projector Screens of 2023
Once you have an outdoor movie projector, you can throw a watch party using the garage door or a wall as a screen. Bu...
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Patio Furniture Is Up to 50% Off at Wayfair Right Now
When it comes to furnishing your outdoor setup for summer, Wayfair is one of the best places to shop. They have an un...
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Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights Lit Up My Life
Outdoor lighting is one of the best enhancements for any home exterior, whether for patios and decks or walkways and ...
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The Best Outdoor Towel Racks of 2023
Outdoor towel racks keep those big luxurious beach towels fresh and fluffy before use and provide somewhere for them ...
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The Best Hybrid Grills of 2023
When buying a new grill, backyard barbecue enthusiasts often find themselves forced to choose between the convenience...
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The Best Smart Outdoor Lights of 2023
Smart outdoor lights can be useful throughout the backyard or garden, with choices to light up pathways, improve secu...
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14 Things You Should Never Clean With a Pressure Washer
Pressure washers are invaluable tools for removing graffiti, dirt, and other stuck-on debris from surfaces, but there...
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The Best Built-In Grills of 2023
A built-in gas grill is a staple of any outdoor kitchen. These luxury items of backyard barbecuing drop into an outdo...
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How Much Does Composite Decking Cost?
Highlights Composite decking has a typical cost range of $3,600 to $7,800 and a national average cost of $5,450. Th...
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11 Best Front-Door Wreaths for Every Season
Front-door wreaths add color, curb appeal, and a warm welcome for visitors. You’ll find these decor staples range fro...
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The Best Blackstone Grills of 2023
These days, with a flat-top grill, cooks can grill foods they’d never dream of putting on a regular grill, including ...
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Could the Solo Stove Bonfire Get Any Better? It Can With This New Accessory
Solo Stove started selling wood-burning camp stoves back in 2011, and it soon made the leap into smokeless fire pits....
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How Much Does a Bluestone Patio Cost to Install?
Highlights A bluestone patio typically costs between $4,608 and $7,200 to install, with customers across the country...
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How Much Does Trex Decking Cost?
Highlights The average cost range to install a Trex composite deck is $1,600 to $9,600, with homeowners across the c...
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Solo Stove Pi Fire Review: Turn Your Solo Stove Into a Pizza Oven
For backyard chefs, there is always another gadget to open the culinary horizon and—ideally—improve outdoor cooking. ...
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25 Lush Patio Plants for Your Outdoor Seating Area
As warm weather rolls around, there’s nothing quite like lounging in the fresh air surrounded by luscious greenery. W...
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The Best Outdoor Benches of 2023
An outdoor bench can make a beautiful garden look even more picturesque. Outdoor benches evoke a feeling of relaxatio...
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Bob Vila’s 10 “Must Do” Projects for March
With the change from winter to spring comes a new flurry of activity: The warm weather will undoubtedly draw the fami...
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25 Types of Nails and How to Use Them
“If the only tool you have is a hammer, it is tempting to treat everything as if it were a nail,” wrote Abraham Maslo...
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Remodeling Your Home? Consider These 10 Ways to Incorporate Recycled Materials
Home remodeling is a $400 billion industry, with about 1. 123 million new single-family homes built in the United Sta...
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The Best Outdoor Living Products Tested in 2022
Just as having the right tools for the job matters, we strongly believe that investing in the right gear enhances you...
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Composite vs. Wood Deck: Which Is Right for Your Outdoor Space?
There are few experiences better than a sunny evening of relaxing or entertaining on a backyard deck. As a result, de...
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The 21 Best Deals on Patio Furniture, Outdoor Heaters, and More for Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday is one of the best days of the year to furnish your patio at a low price thanks to deals on outdoor sect...
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5 Questions to Consider When Building Your Dream Deck
Who doesn’t enjoy leisurely sipping a coffee outdoors on a sunny morning, or a good old-fashioned neighborhood cookou...
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10 Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space for Fall Entertaining
With autumn's arrival comes fiery foliage, exuberant game days, and crisp but comfortable outdoor temperatures. While...
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10 Deck Skirting Ideas That Dress Up an Outdoor Space
There are many reasons to add skirting around your deck. It can help keep beams and other structural elements beneath...
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The Best Outdoor TVs
Whether you have a partially covered outside space like a veranda or poolside cabana or not, there is an outdoor TV t...
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Our Favorite Patio Heater Is Now $100 Off on Amazon
As the official shift in seasons approaches, it's time to start thinking about ways to prolong patio season with ligh...
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The 5 Best Things to Buy in September, According to Retail Experts
The experts at Offers. com have revealed their list of the best things to buy in September, and it's full of savings ...
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8 Important Things to Know Before Putting a Hot Tub on Your Deck
Installing a hot tub on a deck can certainly kick your outdoor living space up a notch. Adding this oasis for relaxat...
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The Best Chimineas of 2023
Whether you're looking for a portable heat source to extend your patio’s seasonal usage or a stylish focal point for ...
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Lowe's Labor Day Sale 2022: Save on Appliances, Grills, Tools, and More
The Labor Day sales are in full force right now, with retailers offering exciting discounts on everything from furnit...
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The Best Pressure Washer Soaps
It’s possible to clean driveways, siding, grills, or automobiles by hand, but a better option is to use a pressure wa...
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The Best Outdoor Kitchen Sinks
Nothing beats cooking and entertaining outdoors until it comes time to clean up. An outdoor sink can make the task le...
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The Best Labor Day Patio Furniture Deals at Home Depot, Wayfair, and More
We're so close to Labor Day—Monday, September 5—we can almost taste the charred hamburgers and kebabs coming off of t...
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The Best Outdoor TV Covers
Outdoor TVs make it possible to catch a game while barbecuing, to binge-watch a series while sunbathing, and to enjoy...
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The Best Tabletop Fire Pits to Enhance Your Home, Tested
Tabletop fire pits, also called tabletop fireplaces, provide the cozy aesthetic and charm of a crackling fire but in ...
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22 Transformational Front Porch Ideas Your Neighbors Will Want to Copy
Your front porch is the first thing guests see when they walk up to your home. Along with your landscaping, it’s also...
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How Much Does a Retractable Awning Cost?
Typical Range: $500 to $25,000 National Average: $3,100Awnings are a type of exterior architectural element that p...
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The Best Outdoor Bar Carts
The bar is fully stocked, the ice bucket is filled, and something delicious is sizzling on the grill. Get the alfresc...
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The 12 Best Wind Spinners of 2023
Watching a wind spinner twirl around in your front yard or garden can be quite fascinating. Thanks to the intricate a...
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15 Outdoor Bench Plans You Can Build This Weekend
Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or just looking for the right weekend project to get your feet wet, building...
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We Tested the Solo Stove Bonfire and It Lived Up to the Hype
Spending an evening outdoors by the warm glow of a campfire is a great way to unwind with family and friends. But bef...
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The Best Outdoor Wood Sealers
Wood is susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot if it is left exposed to rain, sleek, snow, and other moisture. Addition...
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How Much Does It Cost to Power Wash a Deck?
Typical Range: $90 to $770 National Average: $150Decks are the perfect outside area to entertain family and friend...
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Is It Better to Repair or Replace a Damaged Deck? 4 Ways to Tell
Q: I spend a lot of time on my deck, and lately I’ve noticed a few creaky boards and some rotting on the railing. We’...
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The Best Outdoor Rocking Chairs of 2023
Outdoor rocking chairs can make the perfect addition to a front porch, deck, or patio. You can sit outside and enjoy ...
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13 Floating Deck Ideas Perfect for Big or Small Backyards
When most people hear the word deck, they immediately visualize wooden planks and rails attached to the side of a str...
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How Much Does It Cost to Stain a Deck?
Highlights The typical range for deck staining costs is $540 to $1,250, with a national average of $775. Cost facto...
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How Much Does Deck Painting Cost?
Typical Range: $600 to $1,500 National Average: $1,013Painting a deck can be a quick way to spruce up outdoor livi...
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The Best Gas Grills Under $500 in 2023
At $1,000 or more, a high-end gas grill is a pricey enhancement to your outdoor living space, but it doesn’t have to ...
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10 Smart Ways to Upcycle Old Tablecloths
Need yards of fabric for a craft project, but don’t want to spend big bucks on fancy textiles? Look no further than y...
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The Best Outdoor Sectionals
The right outdoor sectional can elevate a yard and turn it into a cozy retreat for relaxing and entertaining. As with...
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Bob Vila's 10 “Must Do” Projects for June
The first day of summer is almost here, and memories of the long, cruel winter have all but left our collective consc...
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The 10 Best Places To Buy Outdoor Rugs in 2023
The best outdoor rugs are an easy way to clearly define a seating or dining area on your deck or patio. Not only that...
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8 Landscaping Mistakes That Make a Home Look Outdated
As with everything else, landscaping trends come and go. Staying abreast of the latest in landscaping trends—and phas...
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The 8 Biggest Outdoor Living Trends for 2022
Whether it’s dining alfresco, gardening, or lounging in the sun, time spent outdoors can boost your health and happin...
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Solved! How Long Does It Take Wood Stain to Dry?
Q: I’m having a barbecue with a group of friends this weekend, and I want to show off my new deck. However, I haven’t...
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The Best Ryobi Pressure Washers
The Ryobi brand has long been a trusted source in power tools and lawn equipment. In recent years, the company has br...
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9 Deck Plans for Extending Your Outdoor Living Space
Adding a deck to your home is perhaps the best way to maximize your outdoor space for entertaining, relaxing, playing...
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21 Deck Color Ideas to Brighten Up Your Outdoor Space
Choosing a new color for your deck—whether you paint or stain the existing wood or change the color of the decking bo...
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12 Porch Swing Plans for Building the Ultimate Outdoor Siesta Spot
A porch swing is a great place to relax on a balmy evening while sipping something cool and refreshing—what’s not to ...
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The Best Traeger Grills of 2023
Perhaps no brand is as synonymous with pellet grills and smokers as Traeger. The company has been producing premium g...
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The Best Smokers for Beginners of 2023
There’s nothing quite like the taste of smoked ribs, pulled pork, or a nice, tender brisket. Achieving good results w...
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The Best Online Furniture Stores of 2023
Shop from the comfort of your couch, even when you’re shopping to replace your couch. The process of browsing for fur...
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The Best Plate Compactors
Nothing is as effective as a plate compactor when it comes to creating a solid foundation for hardscaping projects li...
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How Much Does Deck Repair Cost?
Highlights The typical range for deck repair costs is $859 to $3,321, with a national average of $2,019. The main f...
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The Best Fire Pit Covers
The metal fire pit that serves as the focal point of your backyard on brisk evenings won’t last long if it’s not prot...
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How Much Does Hail Damage Repair Cost?
Typical Range: $285 to $57,500 National Average: $10,807Hailstorms can fill many people with dread, and the result...
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How to Pressure Wash a Deck for Annual Maintenance
Pressure washing is an effective method for cleaning off dirt, dust, and other debris, as well as stripping layers of...
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24 Covered Deck Ideas for a Shaded Backyard Seating Area
Adding shade to a deck can transform a backyard space and make it much more appealing for rest, relaxation, and enter...
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Bob Vila’s “Must Do” Projects for April
Spring is here, and with it comes a bouquet of seasonal responsibilities. It’s time to clean and repair outdoor eleme...
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45 Backyard Landscaping Ideas for Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Living Space
Incentivize yourself to spend more time enjoying your yard and garden. Fresh air, natural light, and the right backya...
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The Best Outdoor Light Bulbs
Outdoor light bulbs provide extra security and crucial visibility for those coming and going after dark while enhanci...
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The Best Solar Deck Lights Tested in 2023
High-quality solar deck lights can add a lovely glow to your deck space without adding a penny to your electric bill....
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10 Beautiful Stamped Concrete Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Spaces
This subtle touch will pretty up the patio, walkway, driveway, and more in no time.
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The 14 Best Places to Buy Patio Furniture in 2023
An outdoor living space can offer a much-needed respite from the daily grind, a way of communing with nature while re...
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The Best Porch Swings of 2023
There are few better places to kick back on a lazy summer day, preferably with a glass of lemonade in hand, than a po...
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How to Hang Plants From the Ceiling
Hanging plants add appeal to a front porch or covered patio, and they can even liven up indoor spaces that may lack t...
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10 Ways to Dress Up a Drab Concrete Patio
Whether you are creating a new patio or dressing up an existing one, these great ideas are both attractive and practical.
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Before & After: A Drab Concrete Patio Becomes a Chic Outdoor Living Space
Like many homes built on a slab foundation, ours has a standard concrete patio that extends from the back of the hous...
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The Best Outdoor Dining Sets
An outdoor dining set is the perfect centerpiece for summer barbecues on the lawn, morning coffee on the patio, or ba...
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The 12 Top Smokeless Fire Pits of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
An outdoor fire pit creates an inviting campfire vibe that extends enjoying a backyard space well into the evening. B...
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9 Creative Ways to Heat Your Pool This Summer
With a little ingenuity, you can warm a cold swimming pool without having to spend thousands of dollars on an expensive pool heater.
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Small Ways to Spruce up Your Deck That Will Make a Big Difference
Showing your deck a little love (and perhaps buying a few new things) can turn this outdoor space into your new favorite “room.”
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14 Deck Railing Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
It’s time to make the deck shine with these inspiring deck railing ideas.
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12 Porch Roof Ideas for Your Home
Boost curb appeal with these cool concepts.
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12 Products from The Home Depot That Will Instantly Boost Your Curb Appeal
Small touches from this big retailer are sure to be outdoor showstoppers.
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8 Retro Trends to Bring to the Backyard
Watch out, modern: 20th-century style is back, and it's headed straight for your outdoor space.
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How to Hang Outdoor String Lights
Outdoor string lights are both stylish and functional, illuminating your outdoor living space while providing an invi...
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Pitiful Patio? 5 Ways to Rescue a Deteriorating Concrete Patio
If your patio has seen better days, don’t worry; you’re not alone. While concrete is incredibly strong and durable, n...
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The Best Hidden Fasteners for Your Decking Project
The traditional way of building a deck involves screwing through the decking boards to wooden joists beneath. It’s si...
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13 Beautiful DIY Flower Pot Ideas for Your Porch or Garden
Outdoor spaces offer ample room for creativity. Transform your garden from average to amazing with flower pot ideas that range from practical to surprising.
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10 Ways to Dress Up Your Deck for $100 or Less
Summer is officially here, and it’s time to make sure your outdoor living space is as comfortable and inviting as your home’s interior. <br></br> <br></br> ...
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How To Restore a Weathered Deck
Restoring a weathered deck is a great project to tackle solo or with a partner, and it returns a noticeable and satis...
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Are Trex and Other Composite Decking Materials Now More Affordable Than Lumber?
Summer’s here, but the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t behind us yet. Homeowners are looking for ways to congregate safely wi...
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8 Ways to Save Your Deck From Sun Damage
Maintain your deck’s appearance and prevent graying by using one—or more—of these tried and true methods.
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The Best Deck Design Software
A custom deck offers a comfortable outdoor space for sunny days, and designing your deck is the first step toward you...
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Important Deck Safety Tips Everyone Should Know
According to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), more than 50 million homes have outdoor decks, ...
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The Best Gazebos of 2023
An outdoor gazebo can be a luxurious addition to a backyard, garden, or deck. Much like pergolas and shade sails, the...
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The 6 Best Cantilever Umbrellas for Shaded Relaxation
A standard patio umbrella can provide a shady respite on hot, sunny days, but a cantilever umbrella goes the extra mi...
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The Best Retractable Awnings of 2023
On sunny days, an awning provides just the sun protection and shade you need on your porch, patio, or deck. An awning...
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The Best Deck Resurfacers to Refinish Your Outdoor Space
There comes an unfortunate time in the life of a deck owner when it becomes apparent that a beloved backyard party sp...
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The Best Outdoor Speakers of 2023
Take the fun outdoors on a sunny day—enjoy the warm weather while listening to your favorite tunes or podcast. Music ...
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8 Deck Staining Mistakes Most DIYers Make
When applying stain, avoid these common mistakes that can leave your deck vulnerable to damage and environmental hazards.
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11 Deck Lighting Ideas for Illuminating Your Outdoor Space
String lights, pendants and other kinds of lighting can make your deck safer—and more stylish—when the sun goes down.
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The Best Patio Doors of 2023
Patios, decks, backyards, and balconies are great spaces to enjoy the outdoors. And easy-to-use patio doors are ideal...
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Solved! The Best Deck Railing Height
Q: How Do I Meet Height and Spacing Code Requirements on My Deck Railing?A: Homeowners with a backyard may daydream a...
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The Best Outdoor Electric Grills for Your Patio or Deck
The right grill can mean the difference between steaks with the perfect amount of pink and steaks burning to a crisp....
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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Deck?
Highlights The typical cost range for building a deck is $4,141 to $11,713, though the national average cost is $7,9...
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Schedule This Deck Waterproofing Project to Prep Your Outdoor Space for All Kinds of Weather
Enjoying the ambiance of a backyard deck on a warm evening is a summer highlight for many families. With proper maint...
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15 Hot Tub Deck Ideas for a Relaxing Backyard
Find inspiration for your backyard oasis with these hot tub deck ideas fit for royalty.
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These Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades Offer the Best ROI
Eco-friendly home upgrades won’t just make your home more comfortable, they can also help you save money over time. These 10 upgrades offer the best return on you...
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The Best Exterior Wood Stains
Outdoor wood furniture and structures look great when they’re brand new, but if you don’t take care of them, the sun,...
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How To: Make a Homemade Deck Cleaner That Works Like a Charm
An outdoor deck sees lots of traffic. Muddy shoes, spilled food, and wet dogs can leave it dirty, stained, and smelly...
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The Best Folding Chairs
While many types of patio furniture, such as benches and table-and-chair sets, remain outdoors during warm weather, t...
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The Best Pergola Kits of 2023
A pergola is an attractive and functional architectural structure for residential and commercial outdoor spaces. Cons...
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The Best Deck Screws
Deck screws secure decking boards that make up the walking surface of a deck, porch, dock, or boardwalk. If you are c...
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The Best Adirondack Chairs of 2023
With their low, reclined backs and wide arms, Adirondack chairs exude relaxation. After settling into an Adirondack c...
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The Best Wind Chimes of 2023
Wind chimes aren’t just decorations; they elevate an outdoor space. The best wind chimes are part artwork and part pe...
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The Best Inflatable Hot Tubs for Your Backyard Oasis
Inflatable hot tubs can turn any backyard into a spa-like environment, providing relaxation and stress relief at a fr...
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The Best Shade Sails of 2023
Harness the same look of a sail shade’s beauty and ingenuity at home. A shade sail is similar to a boat’s sail except...
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The Best Zero-Gravity Chairs of 2023
Developed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), zero-gravity chairs were designed to protect a...
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The Best Lounge Chairs for the Patio or Pool
After a hard day’s work, nothing feels better than kicking back in a lounge chair on your patio or next to the pool. ...
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The Best Mosquito Traps Tested in 2023
Taking control of the mosquito population on your property isn't just about comfort—it's also about health. These rel...
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15 Easy DIYs for Instant Autumn Curb Appeal
It's time to sweep away all memory of the sweltering dog days of summer and start celebrating this season of bountiful harvests and crisp days spent in the comfor...
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Solved! This is How Long It Takes Concrete to “Dry”
Q: I will be pouring a concrete slab as part of a landscaping renovation project and I’d like to know how long it wil...
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The Most Common Concrete Problems—And How To Fix Them
Concrete provides a sound structural foundation for homes and is ideal for slabs like patios, walkways and, driveways...
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The Best Outdoor Projectors of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
An outdoor projector offers a wonderful way to enjoy an entertaining evening with family and friends. Before hosting ...
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The Best Hammock Stands
Sitting in a hammock is one of the greatest summer pleasures and an excellent way to kick back on the weekend. But th...
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The Best Expandable Hoses Tested in 2023
Expandable hoses are self-draining kink- and twist-resistant alternatives to standard garden hoses. They weigh far le...
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Deck vs. Patio: Which is the Right Outdoor Space for You?
Both decks and patios are great choices for outdoor living. These open-air spaces provide the perfect backdrop for en...
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13 Breathtaking Ideas for Backyard String Lights
String lights aren’t just for festive holidays. These bright, affordable mini-bulbs can add sparkle and enjoyment to your outdoor spaces, whatever the season.
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12 Easy and Inexpensive Ways to Upgrade Your Home’s Exterior
Try these low-cost, high-impact improvements to make your home look more tidy, beautiful, and welcoming. While some exterior home improvements can be pricey, leng...
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10 Porch Colors That May Inspire You to Paint Yours
A freshly painted porch can really pep up your home’s curb appeal. If you're thinking about a porch makeover, consider choosing one of these popular colors, or tr...
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The Best Freestanding Hammocks
Even if you don’t have trees to hang a hammock from, you can enjoy the soothing sway of this comforting outdoor bed b...
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The Best Outdoor Ceiling Fans, Tested and Reviewed
Quiet, unobtrusive, and energy efficient, ceiling fans can be a wonderful addition to practically any room in the hom...
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The Best Deck Boxes for Outdoor Storage
Especially outdoors, it's easy to be short on storage space.  Rather than relegate pool toys, gardening tools, and ci...
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Entertain the Whole Family at Home with 10 DIY Lawn Games
Ring toss, tetherball, lawn bowling—these outdoor games are not only fun to play, they're super easy to make.
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The Best Deck Sealers Tested in 2023
For lots of folks, the deck is a place to make memories: relaxing, socializing, just enjoying life. But the elements ...
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25 Ways to Upgrade Your Outdoor Living Space for Almost Nothing
Making a lasting impression on your outdoor living doesn't have to make a big dent in your wallet. Here are some of our favorite ways to DIY your own deck decor u...
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Testing the Best Patio Heaters for Your Outdoor Space
Investing in a patio heater is a great way to extend the entertaining outdoor season any time of year. We recently te...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Sealing the Deck
A backyard deck can be the perfect platform for good times, but a wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it...
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The Best Grills Tested in 2023
Head outdoors, put on some music, grab a drink, and fire up the grill. From simple burgers and hot dogs to steaks, ke...
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The Best Outdoor String Lights Tested in 2023
Outdoor string lights can brighten a backyard or a patio space and make warm nights more relaxing and festive. These ...
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The Best Deck Cleaners Tested in 2023
Outdoor decks are favorite spots for entertaining and relaxing, but like all exterior surfaces, they eventually get d...
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The Best Deck Paints Tested in 2023
Decks extend the living area for personal downtime and festive gatherings, so they have to withstand a ton of traffic...
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The Best Patio Umbrellas Tested in 2023
What’s the ultimate must-have for outdoor living when you need a reprieve from the sun? A patio umbrella, of course. ...
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The Best Pressure Washers Tested in 2023
Nothing says “clean” like a thorough pressure-washing. Decks, driveways, patio furniture, and window shutters—they al...
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The Best Portable Grills, Tested and Reviewed
Those who host frequent backyard cookouts tend to have firm opinions about what kind of grill keeps mouths watering. ...
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15 Spring Home Maintenance Musts
To do a thorough job of spring home maintenance and cleaning, follow these easy and smart routines.
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13 Decisions Homeowners Never Regret
These home improvement projects will make you happier at home and will increase the value of your house when you’re ready to put it on the market.
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The Best Deck Stains Tested in 2023
Harsh UV rays, battering rain, and temperature extremes can take a toll on a wood deck, leaving it faded and dull. St...
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Can Your Deck Last Another Season?
A well-built deck increases your living and entertaining space and boosts your home's value, with a nice 70 percent c...
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9 Pro Tips for Building an Outdoor Kitchen
To create a functional and beautiful outdoor kitchen, you need materials that can really stand up to the elements—and few materials surpass the durability of ston...
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9 Budget-Friendly Ways to Revive Your Porch
Itching to spruce up the front porch, but anxious about spending more money? Rest assured that you can create an inviting front veranda without breaking the bank....
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The Best Outdoor Furniture for Under $100
Anyone who has spent any amount of time shopping for patio, porch, or deck decor knows that outdoor furniture can cost as much as indoor furniture—and sometimes m...
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13 Beautiful Ways to Use a Backyard Pergola
Take your backyard to new heights with more than a dozen versatile uses for a trendy garden feature. Ahead, these pergola ideas will inspire and even guide your n...
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The 15 Best Lawn Games to Play This Summer
Summertime is the perfect time to shoot the breeze in the backyard with your family and friends. Whether your soirée of choice is a barbecue or a pool party, ente...
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14 American-Made Buys for Your Outdoor Living Area
Ready to celebrate America's independence with a front yard fireworks display? Before you stock up on firecrackers, miniature flags, and barbecue fixings, conside...
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9 Ideas for a Beautiful Brick Patio
Perk up your patio with great-looking, long-wearing brick with one of these ideas.
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13 Exotic Ideas to Transform a Basic Backyard
Don’t bother booking that summer vacation in the tropics, because with a few well-chosen touches, you can enjoy a verdant oasis right in your own backyard. In fac...
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Tough Choice, Easy DIY: 2 Projects to Rescue a Worn-Out Patio
As the weather warms up, patios take center stage for entertaining. But alfresco meals with friends and family lose a...
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22 Sneaky Storage Solutions for Your Deck, Porch, and Patio
How can you kick back and relax on your deck if there's stuff everywhere? Keep outdoor spaces neat and essentials handy with attractive furnishings that corral cl...
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Why We Love the Sleeping Porch
As a youngster, one of the summer's great thrills was "sleeping out," usually on someone’s deck or porch, but sometim...
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Solved! Here's Why So Many Homeowners Paint Their Porch Ceiling Blue
Q: Why do so many homes in the south have a blue porch ceiling? And what’s the best way to recreate the look on my po...
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12 Outdoor Upgrades That Make Your Home More Valuable
Exterior upgrades enhance the look of your property and can offer recreational benefits. Not every renovation, however, produces a return on investment, and some ...
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10 Smart Ways to Bring Shade to Your Outdoor Space
Enjoy your yard without overheating when you implement any of these patio shade ideas.
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Backyard Makeover: DIY a Patio Table with a Built-In Cooler for Drinks
Has a relatively empty patio left you uninspired to head outdoors?When it comes to setting up the deck or balcony, yo...
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9 DIY Lanterns to Illuminate Your Porch, Patio, or Garden
When the weather gets warm, outdoor living heats up, and porches and patios become the place to be. As your sunny days shift to balmy nights, add some atmosphere ...
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10 Classic DIY Projects for the Outdoors
It's time to embrace the warmer weather by tackling a couple of outdoor DIY home improvements. There's so much to be done, where do you start? How about right her...
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5 Smart Ways to Use a Slab of Concrete
Concrete, that durable, go-to material for foundations and footings, also deserves a place in your home's yard—and we...
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How To: Get Rid of Flies Outside
Landing on the food at your backyard barbecue. Buzzing around your face as you do yard work. Zipping through your fro...
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15 Doable Designs for DIY Outdoor Furniture
The weather is warm—it’s finally time to start making the most of your outdoor space. You can transform your yard, deck, or patio into a true extension of your ho...
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Solved! What’s the Best Wood for Outdoor Furniture?
Q: I love the warm look of wood for outdoor furniture, but I’m not sure which of the many species will look and perfo...
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The Best Outdoor Rugs
The line between indoors and out continues to blur as people take advantage of warmer temperatures, patio heaters, an...
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What's the Difference? Painting vs. Staining the Deck
Finishing a newly installed wooden deck or refinishing an older one will protect it from moisture- and weather-relate...
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How To: Cut Pavers
Pavers—be they brick, stone, or concrete—are a pleasing alternative to large expanses of plain concrete, adding visua...
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The Biggest Outdoor Design Trends of 2018—So Far
A yard is more than grass that you have to mow, it's an extension of your living space. Homeowners who commit time and money toward landscaping their yard not onl...
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All About Outdoor Radiant Heating Systems
This article has been brought to you by SupplyHouse. com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. If you’re...
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The Best Ways to Improve Your Home's Value in 2022
Priced out of the current housing boom? Remodeling might be the way to go instead of buying a new house, and these projects offer the best value for the money.
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9 Things to Know Before You Screen In a Porch
A porch is an extension of a home’s living area: a place to savor a summer’s breeze, observe wildlife, or bask in bir...
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10 Cheap Ways to Bring the Beach to the Backyard
During the dog days of summer, hot weather and sunny skies may make you wish you could be at the beach every day. Unfortunately, little responsibilities, like hav...
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Solved! The Best Decking Material
Q: I’m putting a new deck on my house and I want to make sure it is constructed properly. What is the best decking ma...
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15 Doable Designs for a DIY Patio Table
Adding a chic coffee table, an elegant end table, or a rustic dining table to your patio or porch is a must if you want to stretch your living space into the outd...
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14 Inventive Ideas for a Perfect Porch
Your porch can be so much more than just a landing pad on the way in or out of your house—it can be a place to unwind, entertain, and make a great first impressio...
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10 Genius Ways to Make Your Backyard a Blast
There's no place like home, and that's true of your backyard too. It's the go-to spot for ball games, cookouts, and poolside lounging. No doubt about it, the back...
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10 Outdoor Living Ideas to Steal from California
California is well loved for its sunny skies and mild year-round weather. It's the type of place where outdoor living is a given. California homes reflect that wa...
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Welcome Home: 11 Fresh Ways to Spruce Up Your Front Door
Whether your front door is drab, dated, or downright unwelcoming, you can change its look—and re-energize the soul of the space—with a few simple but artful chang...
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How to Pour Concrete the Right Way
Learning to pour concrete may save money and build your skills, but without proper equipment and attention to detail,...
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6 Ways to Make Your Home (Almost) Maintenance-Free
We used to frequent brick-and-mortar shops and keep hard copies of every document; today, we buy our groceries online, stream our favorite videos, and store every...
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How to Remove Tree Sap From Anything and Everything
The beauty, shade, and privacy offered by trees make them a popular environmental feature for any property. But many ...
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So, You Want to... Build a Floating Deck
Summer isn’t summer unless you’re soaking up the sun, grilling, and chilling in your own backyard. Yet a traditional ...
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DIY Lite: The Easy Way to Build Better Backyard Privacy
Are your neighbors so close that it feels like you practically share a backyard? There's no need to fence off your pr...
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10 Ways to Buy Better Curb Appeal for Under $50
It's a simple fact that curb appeal helps sell houses. But for those with no plans to move any time soon, a visually appealing exterior and landscaping is a point...
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8 Best Buys for an Outdoor Kitchen You Can Afford
An outdoor kitchen might not seem essential to some homeowners, but for those who treasure long summer nights and backyard fun, it's an absolute necessity. Whethe...
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So You Want to... Hang a Porch Swing
A porch swing symbolizes one thing: leisure. That’s why it became such a popular fixture in the mid-19th century and ...
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18 Inspiring Ideas for Easy Outdoor Entertaining
Do you and your guests need a distraction from the heat this summer? These 18 DIY ideas for outdoor entertaining are high in crowd appeal and unbelievably low in ...
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9 Simple Porch Ideas to Steal from Real Homes
An inviting porch that is both functional and stylish is every homeowner’s dream. Whether you're looking to enhance a porch that's spacious or small, these 9 easy...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Deck Maintenance
A deck is a plein-air addition to your home. Like the space inside your residence, it needs regular cleaning and main...
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11 Low-Cost Buys to Boost a Boring Backyard
Although it's nice to spend spring and summer visiting fancy parks and outdoor camps, comfort, cost, and convenience keep many families close to home. With some s...
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23 Design Ideas to Make Your Deck a Destination
Who needs a vacation when your outdoor space is deck nirvana? Transform your deck with these innovative ideas, so you can reap the benefits of sunshine and fresh ...
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10 Outdoor DIYs You Can Do for a Dollar
Now that the worst of winter is behind us, it’s time to set our sights on relaxing, entertaining, and eating alfresco. But outfitting these spaces with decorative...
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8 Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard with Pavers
Pavers are more commonly thought of as sturdy patio bases than as useful design tools for your landscapes. But these outdoor essentials are endlessly versatile, p...
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8 Tiny Backyard Buildings for Work or Play
You know that disheveled shack in the corner of the yard? It might just be one of your home’s major assets. These backyard buildings prove that an underutilized b...
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6 Steps to a Budget-Friendly Porch Makeover
If you're lucky enough to have a front porch, you may think of it mostly as a repository of muddy shoes, cobwebs, and chipped paint—a far cry from the relaxing re...
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9 Creative Ways to Build a Backyard Hangout
There's no reason to settle for a barren backyard when there are seating options like these to inspire you. As this collection of DIY projects demonstrates, you c...
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7 Ingenious IKEA Hacks for Your Backyard
Having a backyard is a luxury and lets face it, also a lot of work to keep it looking like the oasis you want it to be. You could spend a ton of money on planters...
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DIY Lite: A Wooden Bench That Anyone Can Build
As summer approaches, the growing number of sunny hours each day means that we have more time to spend out in the yar...
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Genius! DIY a Custom, Collapsible Sunshade
Some days, hanging out under an awning is the closest we can get to enjoying the breeze underneath a shady beach umbr...
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How To: Pour a Concrete Patio
Whether rectangular or curvy in design, next to the home or freestanding in the yard, a concrete patio establishes ne...
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How To: Stain Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure treating protects wood from the elements, helps prevent insect attacks, and minimizes the effects of aging. ...
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Design Ideas to Steal from 10 Amazing Outdoor Kitchens
If cooking out is a big part of your warm weather routine, an outdoor kitchen is a great investment. The joys of eating al fresco are multiplied when you have con...
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DIY Lite: Make a Wood-Slat Doormat for Almost No Money
The entrance to your home is the first impression that strikes visitors, so why don't you make it a friendly one with...
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How To: Build a Paver Patio
Patio. The very word conjures up visions of lazy, relaxing afternoons spent with friends and family. For those whose ...
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6 Simple Steps to a Refreshed Deck
Winters put backyard decks to the test. If yours emerged from the ravages of the season worse for wear, take heart. Today, the floorboards may be weathered and th...
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9 Insanely Easy 1-Hour Backyard Projects
Spring and summer bring longer days—but that doesn't mean it's much easier to squeeze in all the projects and repairs that you'd like to do. But when it comes to ...
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9 Lessons Learned from Tiny Backyards
It’s a basic human desire to own a little plot of land. But what if your plot is really, really little? With some clever planning and a few spatial and visual tri...
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How to Clean Outdoor Cushions 
Because they remain outdoors for a good portion of the year, patio cushions weather plenty of dirt and debris. Bird d...
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Bob Vila Radio: Raising Sunken Pavers
If a few of the pavers in your patio or driveway have begun to sag, don't fret—there’s an easy, DIY-friendly fix. Her...
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How To: Paint Wicker Furniture
Wicker evokes summertime porch-sitting perhaps more than any other outdoor furniture. But besides all the fair-weathe...
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How To: Mix Sand with Paint for Non-Slip Surfaces
Slippery when wet! Those words of caution may be most familiar in the context of hospital and airport floors, but the...
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Liven Up Your Winter Porch with 8 Cold-Loving Plants
A spot of color and life on your front porch can ease the winter doldrums. So dust off your gardening gear and pot up a couple cold hardy containers. Plants in co...
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9 Easy DIY Fire Pit Ideas
After a summer spent out in the Great Wide Open, we hate to retreat indoors, but in most parts of the country, it’s o...
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8 Kids Clubhouses You Never Want to Outgrow
So many memories are made in the backyard. Every kid craves a little place of his or her own—a place to imagine and invent, plot and plan. A clubhouse is the perf...
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Transform and Protect Your Deck in a Single Coat
Your deck was no small investment: If you haven't been taking good care of it, now's the time to give your deck the c...
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How To: Paint a Deck (From Preparation to Restoration)
Q. First-time deck painter here. I have prepared my deck as well as possible, scraping away old paint and sanding the...
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How to Hang a Hammock
Laying in a hammock is the epitome of summertime relaxation. Getting the hammock set up, on the other hand, can be a ...
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12 Seductively Serene Screened Porch Ideas
Protected from the elements by a sturdy roof, screened-in porches allow both light and breezes to filter through their insect-proof barrier. A screened porch is g...
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Get Grilling! 10 Best Grills Under $100
Nothing says summer quite like a backyard barbecue, but pricey outdoor cooking equipment leaves a bad taste in our mouths. That’s why we did our research to ident...
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1 Dozen Ways to Make the Most of a Small Yard
Outdoor spaces can increase our enjoyment of our homes. When the weather is nice, it’s like having an extra room—or wing—of the house. Make the most of yours, no ...
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12 Ways to Wake Up Your Tired Outdoor Furniture
When spring is in the air and the weather starts to heat up, so does your outdoor entertaining. But after a long winter, your outdoor furniture might be looking s...
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10 Ideas to Steal from Picture-Perfect Patios
The <i>patio</i>, from the Spanish for "courtyard," is an open-air living space that creates a transition between your home and the great outdoors. Patios are won...
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Blown Away: 12 Upcycled Wind Chimes You Can Make
Do you want a unique set of wind chimes to add some personality to your garden, patio, balcony, or deck? You’re in luck—no need to go to an expensive home boutiqu...
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How To: Protect and Beautify a Wood Deck
This post has been brought to you by Thompson's WaterSeal.  Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Choose ...
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10 Ways to Create Your Own Paradise in the Backyard
Any outdoor living space, be it a compact apartment terrace or an expansive poolside patio, becomes so much more invi...
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How To: Build a Basic Backyard Fire Pit
Many homes have fireplaces or propane stoves inside, but there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fire pit under the sta...
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Considering a Wood Deck? It's Not Just About Good Looks
There are many wood species that can be used for outdoor decks, but not all offer the same benefits and maintenance r...
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Planning Guide: Patios
Patio. The word itself calls to mind an image of splendid sun-drenched days spent sipping chilled drinks under the we...
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Patio Materials 101
Patios can make your outdoor space more enjoyable, increase your home's value, and not so insignificantly, save you m...
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How To: Care for Your Grill
Summertime! The living is easy and—more often than not—the food is grilled. From burgers, dogs, and steaks to chicken...
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Planning Guide: Outdoor Kitchens
The summer backyard barbeque, an American tradition, has developed into a year-round pastime that includes everything...
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Outdoor Showers 101
Outdoor showers accent pool areas or backyards, providing a convenient place to clean off and a yard feature that is ...
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Building a Basic Deck? Top Tips for DIYers
Decks and other outdoor spaces are different from ordinary rooms. They serve as an intermezzo between home and nature...
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All You Need to Know About Concrete Pool Decks
Textures and coatings can give you a lasting concrete pool deck to match your needs and weather challenges.  Creating...
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Creating Your Ideal Outdoor Room
No matter what climate you live in, chances are outdoor rooms are hot in your area — and with good reason. Outdoor ro...
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Pea Gravel Brings Beauty to Any Patio
Outdoor spaces add value, not only for resale, but in lifestyle terms as well. If you're in the process of designing ...
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Beat the Heat with These 10 Cool Outdoor Umbrellas
No need to rush off to Kokomo—you'll get there fast and then you'll take it slow with these stylish umbrellas that can create a paradise right in your own backyard.
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Keep Your Cool with 10 DIY Ice Chests
At your next outdoor bash, don't keep going back into the house for drinks! Instead, grab yourself a cold one from one of these clever—and stylish—"ice chests."
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10 Easy, Budget-Friendly Backyard Makeovers
Create the space of your dreams with these easy, inexpensive ideas for upgrading your backyard and outdoor living areas.
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How To: Build a Horseshoe Pit
When summer is on, it’s time to get outside and play. If you're looking for ways to make your backyard more fun, why ...
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Composite Decking 101
For what is meant to be a relaxing outdoor refuge, a deck can sure be a lot of work. Sanding, power-washing, refinish...
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Backyard Decks Go Green with Redwood Construction
Contrary to popular belief, redwood can be a very environmentally-friendly building material especially when compared...
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10 Faux Planters with Genuine Style
Lightweight and low-maintenance, these budget-friendly planters match the look and style of much more expensive options.
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How To: Build a Brick Patio
Of all the materials suitable for use in patio construction, brick stands out for its beauty and ease of installation...
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10 Simple "Under $60" Curb Appeal Updates for Any Home
Sometimes little changes can make a big difference. Here are ten ways to liven up a drab entry without breaking the bank.
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So, You Want to... Build a Porch
A porch is simply a deck with a roof on it, right? Not quite. While some porches may be as simple as that, many are m...
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Porch Style
Americans love their porches, and for good reason. This neutral sliver of space between household tasks and yard work...
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The Colonial Porch
There are many design details that distinguish the Colonial-style porch. Here are ten that will help you get the look.
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The Farmhouse Porch
Classic and non-fussy, the farmhouse porch is all about easy care and casual style. Here are ten products to help you create the look.
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Outdoor Showers: The New Accessible Luxury
Whether they are freestanding, store-bought, or built-in, today's outdoor showers are accessible luxuries for many. Here are some of our favorites.
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9 Easy-to-Make Garden Luminaries
Even if you are not an avid DIYer, you can easily make one of these garden luminaries to lighten your landscape.
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How To: Make an Outdoor Shower
Whether you’re cooling off, rinsing off, or actually bathing, an outdoor shower is a fun and relatively easy summer D...
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How To: Stain a Wood Deck
A wood deck is certainly a thing of beauty, but only if it is well maintained from year to year. If your deck is show...
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Patio Pavers 101
Pavers are a versatile, DIY-friendly, landscaping material that can be used for laying paths, steps, driveways, pool ...
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10 "Best in Class" Patio Pavers
Whether you are looking to create a walkway, patio or pool surround, today's pavers offer unlimited design options for any hardscape plan.
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Planning Guide: Wood Decks
Deck building is on the rise. According to a 2011 report by The Freedonia Group, leading business researchers, “U. S....
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Winterizing Your Patio Furniture
As sad as it is to move indoors after enjoying your outdoor furniture all summer, taking a little extra time to care ...
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Constructing the Porch and Reviewing the Mechanical Systems
A big farmer's porch will run the whole width of the house. Bob discusses the boiler, which will heat the domestic hot water, radiant floor heating, and hydro-air...
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Fiberglass Windows, Sliding Glass Patio Doors, and Mold-Growth Prevention
Fiberglass windows and sliding glass patio doors are installed. A trailer is brought in to remove moist air and bring in dry, clean air to prevent mold growth whi...
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Installing the New Garage Doors
Bob talks with Robert Rainey of PJ Overhead Door as the new and improved garage door panels and tracks are installed on the Norwell home.
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Building a First-Floor Slab and Walls with Concrete
The home's concrete-slab floor is constructed with foam decking and connected to PEX tubing that will heat the home. The ReddiForm foam blocks enable a single con...
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Building a Redwood Deck and a Redwood-and-Cedar Fence
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley build a redwood deck. Carpenter Danny Ruffini installs a custom-made redwood-and-cedar fence on the perimeter.
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Laying Out and Framing the Deck
Bob checks in with carpenter Bob Ryley as he lays out and begins to frame the deck.
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Installing Bluestone Pavers on the Terrace
Bob meets with Mark Marini of Schumacher Landscaping to discuss the installation of the bluestone pavers on the lower terrace.
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Installing a Retaining Wall
Bob reviews the Allen Block retaining wall that is being installed in the backyard. This secondary terrace will serve to transition from the wood deck to the big ...
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Reviewing the Front Porch, and Installing Interior Columns and a Vanity
Bob reviews the Victorian design elements of his front-corner porch and the interior columns that echo the exterior ones, and then watches the turn-of-the-century...
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Beginning the Landscaping
Bob meets with landscape architects Rick and Nancy Lamb to assess the back yard. Arborist Charley Cummings trims some Hemlock trees.
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Replacing an Exterior Door and Windows
A new, lower-maintenance front door is installed, as well as new bay windows.
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Fixing a Rotted Deck and Columns on the Porch
Carpenters replace a rotted deck, and a rotted porch column is reconstructed with concrete.
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Installing a Porch Floor and Light and Constructing a Porch Trellis
The front of the Melrose house gets finishing touches, including a new, insect-resistant porch deck, new trellises, and a porch light.
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Hardscaping, Selecting Plants, Installing Artificial Grass in the Backyard, and Preventing Weed Growth
Backyard landscaping has progressed with the completion of stone work, new plantings, weed control, and the installation of artificial grass.
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Installing Exterior Lighting
Landscape lighting is installed in the front and back yards.
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Spraying On and Painting a Heat-Reflective Pool Deck
Don Humphrey is spraying a cement and polymer mix onto the pool edge.
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Color Staining a Concrete Floor
Tom Moorad joins Bob to satin a concrete floor.
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Creating Decorative Styrofoam Columns
Bob works with Jesse Gonzalez to create Styrofoam columns for the decorative columns on the front of the house.
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Roof Deck Construction
Bob and Chris Vila meet with David and Jed Walentas of Two Trees Development on the top of a nearby building to get some ideas for the project building's roof deck.
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Safety Railing Installation
An ironworker secures the rooftop deck's safety railing to its footings. Then, Bob meets with the window installer who is putting frosted thermal glass walls on t...
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Privacy Glass Installation
Bob looks on as the window installer puts in the glass walls for the head house (the structure surrounding the stares that lead up from the penthouse).
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Building the Roof Deck With Ipe
Bob watches the ongoing installation of the roof deck, which is being built woth a sustainable tropical hardwood decking called Ipe.
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Installation of the Modular Home's Second Floor
Installation of the second floor sections begins as Bob points out the complexity of the pre-fabricated pieces.
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Composite Deck Railing Installation
Bob watches the crew installing the deck railing. The composite railing product comes pre-milled to accept all the railing components.
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Reviewing the Architectural Floor Plans for the Brownstone Remodel
Reviewing the architectural floor plans for the Brownstone remodel, salvaging the vintage sink, and removing asbestos tile uncovered at the start of demolition.
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Redwood Deck Installation and Tour of Vermont Organic Farm
Bob talks with Ron Holen from Georgia-Pacific as the finishing touches are completed on the redwood front porch deck. Bob also visits with farmers at Cedar Mounta...
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Installing Tapered Columns
Bob observes as carpenter Pat Cloutier finishes off installing the tapered columns on the front porch.
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Finished Brownstone Bathroom, Bedroom, and Patio
Bob and Chris Vila continue the walk-through of the Manhattan Brownstone with a look at the new bathroom.
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Discussing Architectural Plans for the Victorian Restoration
Bob walks with the owner and architect through different rooms on the first floor of the Victorian. Looking over the floor plans, they discuss the changes that w...
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Building the Backyard Deck
Bob observes as general contractor Charlie Tomaszewski finishes up the picture framing for the mahogany deck.
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Working With Unilock Tumbled Concrete Pavers
Bob joins Brian Kallmeyer (from Unilock) to talk about concrete pavers. Unlike natural stone, these pavers are made in a mold, so they are easy to work with. In t...
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Update on Deck, Breezeway, and Barn/Studio
Bob provides an update on the status of the mahogany deck, the breezeway, and the completed barn/studio.
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Engineered Wood Exterior Trim and Porch Ceiling
Bob meets with Dave Probst (from Louisiana Pacific) to learn about LP's Smart System Products and Lisa Francis (from the Engineered Wood Association) joins to wat...
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Building the Back Porch
With the help of Herman Jaensch and his students from Saunders Technical High School in Yonkers, NY, Habitat constructs the back porch of the Blitz Build house.
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Installing Trim on the Back Porch
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley install trim on the back porch of the Habitat for Humanity house in Yonkers, NY.
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Back Porch and Kitchen Tour
Bob takes a look at the rear side, and kitchen, of the Habitat for Humanity Blitz Build project house in Yonkers, NY.
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Reviewing the Home's Framing
Bob reviews the frame of the home and the interior layout.
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Finishing the Front Porch and Installing Custom Pine Shutters
Bob looks over the finishing touches, which have been put on the front porch. Also, Bob chats with the installers of the Pine shutters.
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Laying Plywood for the Front Porch Ceiling
General contractor Kevin Kalman and carpenter Bob Ryley lay plywood to the soffit of the front porch ceiling.
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Discussing the Home's Landscaping and Hardscaping
Bob discusses the home's landscaping and hardscaping with general contractor Kevin Kalman and landscaper Josh Gavin.
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Lamp Making and Landscaping
Bob explores the practice of custom lamp making and learns more about the outdoor fireplace.
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Reviewing the Exterior and Discussing the Addition
General contractor Sam Daniels gives Bob the details about the three-level northeast addition.
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Building a Porch Railing
Carpenter Bob Ryley and George (from Crosswinds Enterprises) collaborate to build a porch railing for the accessible home. Looking on, Bob discusses the building ...
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Mahogany Deck and Kitchen Appliances
Carpenter Bob Ryley works on the mahogany deck, while new kitchen appliances are installed and the lighting and cabinets undergo examination.
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Home Three: Roof Deck and Hot Tub Installation Project
Bob tours the third Elmwood project house, an eclectic Queen Anne sometimes known as the "Castle of Elmwood". The goal is to reinforce an old sundeck, so that it ...
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Hot Tub Installation
Bob drops by the third Elmwood project house to watch as the deck is covered with rubber and the hot tub is installed.
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Installing a Railing on the Hot Tub Deck
Carpenter Bob Ryley helps install the new railing on the hot tub deck.
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Laying Down the Mahogany Deck and Final Tour of Third House
The mahogany roof deck is complete, with the hot tub sturdily supported. Bob takes a final tour of the residence, the third Elmwood project house.
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House Five: Queen Anne Victorian Porch Restoration
Bob meets with Judy Lee, the owner of the fifth Elmwood project house. The front porch, built in 1892, must be replaced.
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Porch Restoration: Custom Reproduction Moldings and Chatsworth's Columns
Porch restoration continues on the fifth Elmwood project house, with Forester Moulding and Lumber re-milling many porch elements.
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Porch Railing and Screen Door Installation
Carpenter Bob Ryley helps install a new porch railing and new screen doors. An underground sprinkler system is also installed.
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Final Tour of the Restored "Bench" Porch House
Bob tours the finished house, the fifth in the Elmwood neighborhood project. Better grading and gutters have been added to prevent future water damage.
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House Six: Portico Restoration, Hardscaping, and Landscaping
Bob meets the owners of the sixth Elmwood neighborhod project house and reviews the proposed portico plans. Built in 1892, the Victorian home needs a new front po...
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Fighting Carpenter Ants and Repairing the Porch
The restoration of the front porch continues with workers putting the decking down and replacing the old columns. In addition, anti-termite control stations are p...
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Installing a Brick Walkway and Porch Lighting, and Milling the Railings and Balusters
Contractors put in the brick walkway. Forester Moulding and Lumber replicates the porch railings and balusters. Also, new security and sprinkler systems are insta...
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Tour of the Restored Victorian Front Porch and Garden
Bob takes a last look at the restored porch, its second-floor balustrade, polished-brass door fixtures, and the newly planted rose garden and boxwood bushes.
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Removing Lead Paint From Exterior Surfaces
Bob looks on as contractors remove lead paint from the porch columns, then safely dispose of the old paint.
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House Eight: Side Porch Renovation, Landscaping, and Home Inspection
The home's side entry will be restored using the original columns, which homeowner Jim Verity found in the basement. On the front porch, new support beams and rai...
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Installing Sprinkler System and Replicating Porch Balusters & Railing
For the side porch to be sturdy, it will need additional support. An underground sprinkler system is installed and replicating old railings is discussed.
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Landscaping, Front Column Installation, and Home Security System
Landscaping work continues, as the new security system is installed and the reproduction railing is going into place on the front porch.
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Finishing Touches on the Two Porches
Bob points out that the side porch is nearly complete and remarks on the landscaping, before he meets homeowner Jim Verity on the completed front porch.
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Restoring the Front Porch
The front porch is undergoing full restoration, due to excessive water and pest damage to the columns and other structural elements. Demolition begins and repair ...
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Weaving Cedar Shingles and Prepping Damaged Wood Trim for Painting
Front porch restoration continues with the roof being replaced and new red cedar shingles being applied on the porch wall. Bob demonstrates the shingle weaving pr...
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Painting Shingles and Shutters, Landscaping, and Hardscaping
Contractors put the finishing touches on the front porch by adding new Yellow Pine shutters and a coat of Sherwin Williams latex paint to the exterior.
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The Font Porch, Façade, and Yard
Bob visits the completed house and talks to the homeowners about their new home's new façade, with its completed porch and newly landscaped yard.
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Patio Plan and Demolition
Bob meets with the contractor to take down the old patio slab and lay out the new one.
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Project Update on the Patio and Kitchen
Bob meets with contractor Ed Weller for a project update. The patio is well underway and the landscaping is beginning. A stone grill has been started and, inside,...
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Installing an Electric Outdoor Grill
Bob and contractor Ed Weller look at the outside electric grill.
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Constructing a Patio Lanai
Bob meets with Ana Bolanos to watch the lanai built. Ana reviews the construction process and Bob joins in to help raise the walls.
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Removing the Porch Columns
Bob helps remove the front porch columns, so they can be replicated and used on the home's new back porch.
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Framing the Back Porch
Bob reviews progress on the joist system being constructed for the new back porch. The concrete has been poured and framing has begun.
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Installing the Roof on the Back Porch
Bob confers with two carpenters, as they begin to install the Dutch gable roof system on the back porch. Once the ridge beam is secured, rafters are added.
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Installing Clapboard Siding on the Front Porch
Bob and carpenter Cortney Lofton install clapboard siding on the front porch of the bungalow. In addition, they reinforce the gable to correct an existing sag, th...
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Sheathing the Back Porch Roof
Bob confers with carpenter Cortney Lofton, who explains the framing technique used to replicate the front porch, before he sheaths the new back porch roof.
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Project Plans for the Porch and Pool Deck
Bob outlines the building plans for the new back porch and pool deck at the Studio City, CA project house.
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Installing Indian Slate Tiles on Back Porch and Pool Deck
Bob and contractor Cortney Lofton discuss the Indian slate tile being installed on the pool deck and back porch.
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Laying Redwood Decking
Bob confers with carpenter Cortney Lofton, as he lays the redwood decking for the back porch.
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Tour of the Home's Remodeled Exterior
Bob tours the home's exterior, noting that the crowned gates are complete and that a locking latch has been added to secure the pool. Bob also remarks on the land...
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Deck Demolition
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley begin demolition work on the deck. The supporting beams are cut and the deck parts are carried away, and Bob notes the flaws found in ...
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Building a Deck and Stairs
Bob meets with contractor Bill Wilcox to help build a landing and steps up to the French doors. Bob reviews the footings that support the deck, as well as the met...
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Rebuilding the Deck With Salvaged Lumber
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley rebuild the deck in the rear of the addition using salvaged lumber from the demolition.
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Framing the Deck and Laying the Deck Boards
Bob and carpenter Bob Ryley continue working on the backyard deck. Once they've finished theframing, they begin laying the deck boards.
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Front Porch Work
Bob reviews the progress being made on the front of the house and, with restoration contractor Richard Marks, discusses the original brick and masonry work.
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Demolition of the Front Porch
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley discuss the demolition of the existing farmer's porch, and, once the electricity has been turned off, they begin to remove the roof.
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Installing a Bluestone Floor
Bob discusses the bluestone floor being installed in the greenhouse.
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Installing the Decking and Joists
Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley install 4x10 douglas fir floor joists, and also put in 2 x 6 spruce tongue-and-groove decking on the second floor.
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Stone Patio, Landscaping, and Outdoor Lighting
Bob joins landscape designer Ruth Foster to discuss her plan for a stone patio and hot tub. Low-voltage outdoor lighting will also be installed.
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Laying the Decking for the First Floor
Having reviewed their work on preparing the site, Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin laying the first-floor decking by using glue and nails to attach the plywood ...
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Building a Covered Porch
Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley begin work on constructing the covered porch. Once the joists are in place, and the decking has been laid down, Bob and Bob turn to...
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Creating the Porch Railings and Balusters
After reviewing the final stages of the septic system installation, Bob helps contractor Bob Ryley install the decorative porch railings and balusters that Ryley ...
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Victorian House Landscaping
Landscape designer Ruth Foster visits the project site to explain her choice of plantings for the formal courtyard garden.
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Building the Farmer's Porch
Bob discusses the process of building the farmer's porch with contractor Larry Landers. The natural crowning of wood is discussed, as are methods for ensuring a l...
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Applying Rubber Roofing and Flashing
The crew is on the new roof deck applying a rubber roofing material. A thin layer of adhesive is applied and allowed to set before the the rubber is rolled into p...
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Framing the Porch Roof
Bob confers with contractor Larry Landers, as Landers and his crew assemble the front porch framework on the Wayland project house. Landers goes on to explain how...
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Building the Porch Rail
The carpenter shows Bob the new railing on the deck off the master bedroom, explaining that code requires that it be 36 inches tall. The carpenter then builds a p...
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Building the "Floating" Deck
The "floating" deck is built off the master bedroom, over the kitchen. Under the decking, rubber padding is placed.
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Pine Porch Ceiling
Contractor Larry Landers installs V-groove pine on the ceiling of the new front porch and demonstrates how to stagger and miter boards for an attractive, old-fash...
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Surveying the Deck Damage
Bob and the architect survey the problem areas of the home and eventually focus on the decaying deck.
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Framing the New Entryway
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley start building the frame for the new entryway.
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Installing the Deck
Once the deck has been installed, Bob heads to picturesque Nantucket to see a very large and impressive backyard deck.
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Repairing the Outdoor Barbecue
Bob demonstrates some masonry techniques for repairing a crumbling outdoor barbecue.
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Building a Trellis
A trellis-- the frame and lattice of which have been built in the workshop-- is installed in the front yard.
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Building a Free-Floating Deck
Due to flood plain regulations, the deck cannot be attached to the house-- it has to be free-floating. Bob helps the contractors set up the posts and joists, and ...
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Screen Porch and Ceiling Fan
Bob reviews the plans to create a new screen porch with a ceiling fan at the Naples project house.
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Final Tour of the Porch, Swimming Pool, and Interior
Bob tours the finished porch and pool area, and exchanges comments on the beautiful completed project with the architect.
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Raising the Girt Beam and Building the Deck
The girt beam is raised and the first floor deck is built.
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Expanded Outdoor Living
The expansive new outdoor deck brings indoor living outside. Meg Tarvin (from FrontGate) joins to describe the furnishings that create this outdoor living room, a...
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Installing Cedar Deck Railings
General contractor Tim Berky is building the cedar deck railings, first by notching the edge board to receive posts, then by fitting one post into each notch. Onc...
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Building a Western Red Cedar Deck
Bob reviews the structure for the new deck. Paul Mackie (of the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association) joins to discuss the benefits of building with western red c...
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Building the Deck Frame
General contractor Tim Berky and his crew remove existing cladding in order to fit the ledger board for the deck tight against the house, with an ice and water ba...
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Plans for the Multi-Level Backyard Deck
The extensive new deck will have multiple levels and various sections. General contractor Tim Berky digs holes for the footings before setting them in concrete.
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Excavation and Foundation Work
Bob joins general contractor Tim Berky to hear how the foundation and footing will be handled for the Victorian kitchen remodel and deck addition.
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