OUTDOOR STRUCTURES

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9 Types of Pools to Consider for Your Outdoor Space Upgrade
Have you finally decided to take the plunge—pun intended—and add a pool to your property? If so, you have a few big d...
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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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How to Finance a Pool: 6 Ways to Pay for This Popular Home Upgrade
Pools provide a refreshing retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, so it’s easy to understand the appe...
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20 Easy Backyard Updates You Can Do in a Day
There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars and commit to several weekends of backbreaking work to improve the look ...
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Jacuzzi: A History of the Famous Hot Tub
Jacuzzis—also known as hot tubs, jetted tubs, spa tubs, and whirlpools—are a familiar sight in gyms, hotels, resorts,...
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How to Get Rid of a Hot Tub
Q: I finally bit the bullet and bought a new hot tub to replace the one I’ve had for nearly 20 years. It’s being deli...
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What Is a Pergola? The Pros and Cons of the Popular Outdoor Feature
Unlike an arch-topped arbor or a gazebo (a stand-alone structure with a solid roof), a pergola is an outdoor structur...
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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Septic Tank and Drain Field?
Highlights The average cost to replace a septic tank and drain field is $6,000, though homeowners could spend betwee...
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The Best Handheld Pool Vacuums for Sparkling-Clean Water
No matter how well they’re covered, pools and spas are bound to collect dirt and debris—and few tools are as useful a...
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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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The Best Electric Composters of 2023
Electric composters make composting simpler, faster, and more efficient. Composting is an excellent way to prevent fo...
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The Best Cheap Robotic Pool Cleaners of 2023
Keeping a full-size pool free of debris and grime can be a lot of work, which is why robotic pool cleaners have grown...
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The Best Pool Stabilizers of 2023
Chlorine is an essential disinfectant to keep swimming pool water clean and clear, but to get the most out of this ch...
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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 Pool Tile Cleaners of 2023
Pool maintenance can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be with a good pool tile cleaner. Even the cle...
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5 Reasons Why Backyard Fire Pits Are Overrated, According to a Home and Garden Editor
Backyard fire pits are having a heyday. For starters, just about every outdoor living trends report that crosses my d...
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What You Need to Know Before Buying a Shed Kit
A shed lets you declutter the house, move tools and equipment out of the garage or basement, and be more organized an...
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Chain-Link vs. Wood Fence Cost: 7 Considerations When Choosing a New Fence Material
When it comes to choosing between chain-link and wood fencing for a property, one of the most important factors for h...
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The Best Pool Timers of 2023
Pool timers are a convenient and efficient way to automate the operation of pool filters, pumps, and other appliances...
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The Best Birdhouses of 2023
Birdhouses can make a garden more inviting to both birds and humans. They look charming, and the right one will attra...
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Building a Shed Looks Easy—Here's What We Learned When Building a ShelterLogic Shed
Tired of all that clutter in your garage? Maybe it’s time to give your yard tools their own space. When it comes to s...
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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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How to Clean a Sand, DE, or Cartridge Pool Filter
True to its name, a pool filter catches and removes dirt, oils, and other debris out of the pool water. However, thes...
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Save $260 on Our Favorite Cordless Pool Cleaner This Labor Day
Pool time means playtime, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still work to be done. To keep a sunny disposition and de...
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Vinyl Fence Cost vs. Wood Fence Cost: Which Option Is Best for You?
When it comes to selecting the ideal fencing option, many homeowners will choose between vinyl fencing and wood fence...
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How Much Does a Covered Patio Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for a covered patio is $8,243 to $26,255, while the national average is about $17,...
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How Much Does a Gunite Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to install a gunite pool is from $65,000 to $180,000, while the national average c...
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13 Home Improvements You Might Make That Your Neighbors Will Probably Hate
Improving your home is exciting: Whether they’re minor or substantial, indoors or out, property upgrades can change t...
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How to Vacuum a Pool Like a Pro
A pool is a huge benefit when the weather is hot, but without proper care and maintenance, the water can become an un...
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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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16 Small Patio Ideas That Are Big on Charm
Just because your patio is petite doesn’t mean you can’t decorate it in a beautiful, welcoming way. Smart design solu...
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How Much Does a Cocktail Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to install a cocktail pool ranges from $5,500 to $50,000, with a national average of $22...
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Solved! Is It Better to Replace My Pool Pump Motor, or the Whole Pump?
Q: The last couple of times I’ve been in my pool, the water seems to be circulating poorly. Do I need to replace my p...
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Score $388 Off Our Favorite Robotic Pool Cleaner During the October Prime Day Event!
Nothing takes the fun out of taking a dip in your pool like stepping in tree debris or slimy algae. Cleaning a pool c...
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How Much Does a Backyard Putting Green Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to build a backyard putting green is between $400 and $9,000, with homeowners across the...
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I Tested a Popular Above-Ground Robotic Pool Cleaner: Is It Worth the Price?
Since 1983, Maytronics has been a leader in the pool industry, focusing on robotic pool cleaners and other accessorie...
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Nature’s Serenade: My Experience With the Smart Solar Bird Bath Fountain
For 3 weeks, I put seven of the best solar bird bath fountains to the test, and while there were many good ones, one ...
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4 Types of Water Bugs That Appear in Pools And What to Do About Them
Q: Every time I go outside to take a swim, I see tons of water bugs in my pool. What are they, and what attracts them...
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How Much Does a Saltwater Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for a saltwater pool is $500 to $67,000, with the national average cost coming in ...
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How Much Does a Lap Pool Cost?
Highlights Installing a lap pool typically costs between $4,000 and $100,000, with a national average cost of $44,00...
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How Much Does a Chicken Coop Cost to Build?
Highlights It typically costs from $300 to $2,000 to build a chicken coop, with homeowners paying a national average...
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How Much Does an Inground Hot Tub Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to install an inground hot tub is $500 to $25,000, with a national average cost of...
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The Best Pool Skimmers of 2023
Pool skimmers are one of those tools no pool owner can do without. Even if the pool is regularly serviced by a mainte...
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Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner: Does it Do the Dirty Work for You?
Very few homeowners have a perfectly situated inground pool that’s open to both air and sunshine yet protected from t...
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Fire Pit Safety: 13 Rules to Remember
In 2021, nearly 6,200 emergency room visits were related to injuries from fire pits or outdoor heaters. Young childre...
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The Best Pool Patches of 2023
Most modern pool patches are easy to use, effective, and very low cost when compared with professional repair. They n...
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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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How Much Does a Pool House Cost to Build?
Highlights It will typically cost between $26,630 and $180,000 to build a pool house, with a national average cost o...
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How Much Does a Pool Filter Cost?
Highlights A pool filter has a typical cost range of $250 to $2,000 and a national average price of $1,125. Pool fi...
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How Much Does an Automatic Pool Cover Cost?
Highlights An automatic pool cover has a typical cost range of $7,000 to $25,000, with homeowners paying a national ...
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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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How Much Does an Endless Pool Cost?
Highlights The national average cost to install an endless pool is $22,500, with a typical price range of $7,000 to ...
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How Much Does a Treehouse Cost to Build?
Highlights The typical cost range to build a treehouse is from $6,075 to $16,200, with a national average cost of $1...
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The Best Kiddie Pools of 2023
A kid’s perfect summer day equals no homework, a melting popsicle in hand, and a kiddie pool full of water. Affordabl...
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Solved! Why Are Barns Painted Red?
Q: While on a weekend road trip through New England, New York, and Pennsylvania, I couldn’t help but notice how many ...
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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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The Best Home Warranties for Pool Coverage of 2023
It’s easy to understand the appeal of having a swimming pool. Especially for those in warm climates, having a pool ca...
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How to Insulate a Shed in 8 Easy Steps
A shed can often benefit from insulation. Whether it’s a simple storage space for lawn and garden equipment, a backya...
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How Much Does an Infinity Pool Cost?
Highlights An infinity pool typically costs between $55,000 and $130,000 to build, with homeowners across the countr...
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How Much Does a Pool Inspection Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for a swimming pool inspection is between $125 and $250. The main factors that af...
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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 a Container Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to have a container pool installed in a backyard is between $16,500 and $47,000. ...
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How Much Does Well Drilling Cost?
Highlights Well drilling costs a national average of $5,500 and typically ranges between $1,500 and $12,000. The pr...
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How Much Does a Screened-In Porch Cost?
Highlights A screened-in porch typically costs between $2,000 and $2,800 to install, with homeowners across the coun...
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How Much Does a Gazebo Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to build a gazebo is between $2,831 and $9,613, with homeowners across the country...
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12 Birdhouse Plans for Building Homes for Your Feathered Friends
Birdhouses provide shelter for certain types of cavity-nesting birds, offering up a safe space for them to rest. Whil...
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11 Zen Garden Ideas to Bring Peace and Relaxation to Your Outdoor Space
We owe a debt of gratitude to the centuries-old culture of Japan. Consider the complementary concepts of wabi-sabi an...
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How Much Does a Wood Fence Cost?
Highlights A wood fence typically costs between $1,763 and $4,416 to install, with homeowners paying a national aver...
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How Much Does It Cost to Fill In a Pool?
Highlights Filling in a swimming pool has a typical cost range of $2,700 to $19,000, with a national average cost of...
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How Much Does a Perc Test Cost?
Highlights A percolation (perc) test has a typical cost range of $750 to $1,850, with customers nationally paying an...
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How Much Does a Split Rail Fence Cost to Install?
Highlights On average, a split rail fence will cost between $1,050 and $6,480 to install. The main factors affectin...
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How Much Does a Flagstone Patio Cost to Install?
Highlights The typical cost range for flagstone patio installation is $750 to $8,400, with a national average cost o...
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How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to install a stamped concrete patio is $2,700 to $7,203, with homeowners paying an...
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20 Most Expensive Things Bob Vila Readers Bought in 2022
Bob Vila readers were busy in 2022, tackling DIY projects and finding ways to make their life simpler and their home ...
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How Much Does Shed Removal Cost?
Typical Range: $50 to $100 per hourThere are many reasons a homeowner would want to remove a shed, such as wanting ...
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How Much Does Hot Tub Removal Cost?
Typical Range: $150 to $650 National Average: $350There are several reasons to remove a hot tub from its current l...
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How Much Does a Pole Barn Cost to Build?
Typical Range: $7,000 to $120,000 National Average: $27,000A pole barn structure is a common type of post-frame co...
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How to Heat a Greenhouse
A greenhouse allows gardeners to grow vegetables year-round, keep tropical plants in bloom, or start seedlings early ...
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How Much Does Pool Removal Cost?
Typical Range: $2,700 to $19,000 National Average: $6,000There are many reasons a homeowner may want to remove a p...
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How Much Does a Fire Pit Cost to Build?
Typical Range: $200 to $3,000 National Average: $850A backyard fire pit can be a gathering place for family and fr...
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12 Pool Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Outdoor Space
Swimming pools may conjure images of fun in the sun, but they aren’t exclusively used during the daytime. Many pool o...
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Backyard Hot Tub Privacy Ideas: 17 Ways to Soak Without Being Seen
While unwinding after a long day with a soak in a hot tub, jets massaging away aches and a glass of wine in hand, the...
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Extend Your Outdoor Living Season With These Creative (and Cozy) Projects
For many of us, the first day of autumn—or even Labor Day—signals the end of  “hanging-out-outside” season. But it do...
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5 Last-Minute Outdoor Projects You Can Still Do This Season
Did you take advantage of the summer weather to knock some outdoor projects off your to-do list? As the temperature d...
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The House That Almost Wasn’t Because of the Shed That Is About to Be
This series ends with the renovation of a shed, but begins with the search for a home. Maybe that reads more like the...
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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 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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How to Test Pool Water
Keeping the water clean, clear, and ready for swimmers is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a swimming...
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The Best Pool Loans
Installing an inground or above-ground pool can be a great way to beat the heat during the dog days of summer, entert...
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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 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 10 Best Types of Chickens for Backyard Coops
There are as many types of chickens as there are reasons to keep chickens in your backyard. For homeowners interested...
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The Best Tabletop Fire Pits Tested in 2023
Tabletop fire pits, also called tabletop fireplaces, provide the cozy aesthetic and charm of a crackling fire but in ...
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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 Best Carports
Carports can do a great job of protecting your car, truck, boat, motorcycle, garden machinery, and more from winter w...
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The Best Portable Saunas
Portable saunas provide a spa-like sauna experience right in your living room or backyard. More affordable and easier...
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How Much Does a Pergola Cost to Build?
Highlights The typical cost to build a pergola is between $2,138 and $6,341, and the national average cost is $4,241...
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How Much Does a Pool Pump Cost?
Typical Range: $700 to $1,500 National Average: $1,100A pool pump is the central element in a pool’s system. It di...
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22 Covered Outdoor Kitchen Ideas for Cooking and Dining Alfresco at Home
A covered outdoor kitchen allows you to take advantage of good weather by cooking and eating outside. The best covere...
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How Much Does Pool Resurfacing Cost?
Typical Range: $1,000 to $30,000 National Average: $6,500Pool ownership means learning how to maintain your pool, ...
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7 Important Things to Know About Above-Ground Pool Maintenance
Whether you already have an above-ground pool in your backyard or are looking to set one up soon, it’s important to k...
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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 a Plunge Pool Cost?
Typical Range: $10,000 to $50,000 National Average: $20,000Owning a pool is a dream for many, but what if there is...
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Bob Vila’s “Must Do” Projects for July
July’s longer days and warmer weather mean there's plenty of good reason to be outside, and no shortage of tasks to t...
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What is a Gabion Wall and How Do You Use It in Your Home Landscape?
A gabion wall offers numerous home landscaping possibilities: They can serve as a budget-friendly retaining wall, enh...
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These Outdoor Features Will Improve Your Yard—and Your Home’s Value
This is the fourth installment of Bob Vila’s Most Valuable Projects of 2022, a month-long series featuring high-ROI h...
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How Much Does Pool Liner Replacement Cost?
Highlights The typical range for pool liner replacement costs is $1,125 to $3,688 with a national average of $2,393....
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The Best Sauna Heaters for the Most Comfortable Home Spa Experience
A key component to an efficient, comfortable home sauna is the choice of heater. There are a number of different opti...
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The Best Outdoor Bar Stools
The best outdoor bar stools are attractive, resilient, and comfortable to provide practical outdoor seating. Outdoor ...
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The Best Greenhouse Heaters
A greenhouse heater makes it possible to create suitable plant and vegetable growing temperatures year-round. Greenho...
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3 Ways Baking Soda Can Help Maintain Your Swimming Pool
Q: I just moved into a new home with a pool in the backyard. I have never had my own pool and am new to all the neces...
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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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The Best Rain Barrels
Using a rain barrel is an easy way to lessen a household’s impact on the environment, and it helps to save some money...
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The 12 Most Dangerous Mistakes You Can Make With Your Pool
Owning a swimming pool can be awesome. It’s also an awesome responsibility, as open standing water of any kind is a p...
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How Much Does a Pool Screen Enclosure Cost to Build?
Highlights The typical range for pool enclosure costs is $5,708 to $16,608, with a national average of $10,675. Som...
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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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The Best Suction Pool Cleaners of 2023
Although it is possible to use a brush and manual vacuum to clean your pool, it's not a task many pool owners have th...
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The Best Pool Cover Pumps
A pool cover is a pool's best defense against debris and dirt that can alter its chemistry, turning it into a bog dur...
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How Much Does a Fiberglass Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical range for fiberglass pool installation cost is $20,781 to $39,996 with a national average of ...
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9 Cabin Plans for Building Your Dream Home Away From Home
Home kits that include all the plans and materials needed to build your own home are an economical solution for many ...
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How Much Does an Above-Ground Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for an above-ground pool is $1,037 to $5,893, with a national average of $3,322. ...
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The Best Outdoor Saunas of 2023
As people continue to prioritize health and wellness, outdoor saunas are becoming increasingly popular. Beyond enjoym...
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The Best Solar Bird Bath Fountains Tested in 2023
Solar bird bath fountains harness the power of the sun to create an inviting, bubbly watering hole for birds. These f...
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Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for May
May is a month worth celebrating. As the days become warmer and sunnier, seasonal to-dos both inside and outside the ...
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How to Keep Your Backyard Flock Safe from the Deadly Bird Flu
Though the news is rife with reminders about skyrocketing egg prices (which were up almost 60 percent year-over-year ...
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The Best Pool Installation Companies of 2023
When the hot summer sun beats down, it’s tempting to rush into an air-conditioned area just to get a breath of cool, ...
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Side Yard Upgrade: 14 Ideas for Transforming This Forgotten Outdoor Space
Style on the SideSide yards often are narrow and more utilitarian in nature (think faucets and hoses, garbage or recy...
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How Much Does a Pool Fence Cost?
Highlights The typical cost to build a pool fence ranges between $1,500 and $10,000, with a national average cost of...
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24 Cool and Unique Birdhouse Ideas for Your Yard
Attract feathered friends to your yard with one of these fun and quirky avian homes.
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12 Pergola Plans for Building the Ultimate Outdoor Living Space
Pergolas and gazebos are two common structures that can enhance an outdoor space. They both help bring shade to a yar...
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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 Pool Algaecides of 2023
Backyard pools are a great place to exercise, relax, and have fun with family and friends. However, algae can get in ...
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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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9 Under Deck Ideas for Maximizing Your Unused Outdoor Space
A deck can be the perfect backdrop for enjoying the sunshine, hosting a summer barbecue, or hanging out with friends ...
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How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit
Whether you are trying to get a fire started to cook at the campsite or just want some extra light and warmth as nigh...
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8 Gazebo Plans for Building a Shaded Hangout in Your Yard
Building a gazebo in your backyard can truly transform your space. Gazebos not only offer cooling shade from the hot ...
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Can Smart Home Technology Save Your Yard From Mosquitoes?
Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor meal or gathering like a swarm of mosquitoes—and they’re more than just a nuisanc...
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Will the Supply Chain Crisis Impact Outdoor Furniture Shopping This Year?
If you are looking to create that perfect backyard environment for summer fun and family “stay-cations” this summer, ...
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The Best Pool Cleaning Services
A pool is a luxury many enjoy for swimming laps or simply lounging with friends and family. But once everyone leaves ...
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Cost of Pavers vs. Concrete: Which Material Best Fits Your Budget?
When it comes to choosing between pavers vs. concrete, there are several factors for homeowners to think about before...
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How Much Does a Pool Heater Cost?
Highlights The typical range for pool heater costs is $1,771 to $4,065 with a national average of $2,914. Pool size...
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The 10 Coolest Things We Saw at the 2022 International Builders’ Show
Back in action after a 1-year hiatus, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) welcomed enthusiastic exhibito...
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The Best Inground Pool Slides of 2023
One of the best ways to amp up the fun in the backyard swimming pool is by adding an inground pool slide. Inground po...
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The Best Inflatable Water Slides of 2023
Those dog days of summer can make it hard to get kids away from their screens and into the great outdoors. A backyard...
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The Best Pool Basketball Hoops
Whether for a friendly game of “H-O-R-S-E” or a splash-filled dunking contest, a basketball hoop for pool use amps up...
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The Best Above-Ground Pool Steps of 2023
Above-ground pools can rise 4 feet or more off the ground, so installing a good set of pool steps to safely get in an...
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Bob Vila Editors Reveal Our Favorite Home Purchases of 2021
It’s probably no surprise to reveal that Bob Vila’s editors are all about home gear and care: Our product reviews sta...
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The Best Outdoor Showers of 2023
Outdoor showers can provide a convenient, inexpensive way to rinse off after work or play, and there is no easier way...
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The Best Pool Filters of 2023
A pool filter is absolutely vital to the function of any swimming pool. It’s responsible for removing contaminants fr...
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The Best Pool Alarms of 2023
Swimming pool alarms detect and notify nearby adults of unwanted entry into a pool or pool area. A reliable and simpl...
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The Best Solar Pool Heaters of 2023
While a backyard pool can be refreshing on a hot summer day, water that’s too cold can be downright shocking. Getting...
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How to Move a Hot Tub
Whether planning to move a hot tub across the yard or pack it up to move across the country, the basic steps remain a...
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How to Drain a Hot Tub
Hot tubs are often a treasured luxury for when you just want to take some time to rest and relax aching muscles, but ...
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The Best Sheds of 2023
Whether one is looking to clear out the garage, find a home for yard equipment and tools, or create a studio or a wor...
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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 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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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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13 Adirondack Chair Plans You Can Download and DIY This Weekend
Adirondack chairs feature high backs, wide arms, and slanted seats. Their design makes them ideal for sitting and loo...
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7 Important Things to Know About Pressure-Treated Wood
While the base material is the same, pressure-treated wood is very different from typical wood products. From how it’...
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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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The Difference Between a Pergola and Gazebo, Explained
Many of us like to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Adding a pergola or gazebo to a yard or garden offers a s...
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The Best Pool Supplies
A backyard pool can be an invaluable asset, providing much-needed relief during those scorching months, but not if th...
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The Best Outdoor Water Fountains
Their eye-catching appearance and the soothing sound of trickling water make outdoor water fountains a welcome additi...
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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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The Best Hot Tub Brands for Bringing Home a Retreat
Stepping into a hot tub after a long day is a great way to relax and alleviate stress. When shopping for a hot tub fo...
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11 Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating the Ultimate Outdoor Oasis at Home
Find some inspiration to transform your backyard pool area into an outdoor oasis with one of these artistic and aesthetically pleasing pool landscaping ideas.
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12 Unique Treehouse Ideas for Your Backyard
Innovative treehouse ideas—porches, themes, and elaborate expansions—can transform a simple platform into a magical adventure. Let your creativity flow so your ki...
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6 Things to Know Before Installing a Lean-To Shed at Home
The lean-to shed is the classic backyard garden shed design. These sheds are less expensive than other shed styles, y...
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The 18 Best Gifts for Bird Lovers of 2023
Bird lovers are incredibly passionate about every aspect of the lives of birds. With thousands of species to learn ab...
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How to Level Ground for a Pool
One of the most refreshing warm-weather activities is going for a swim in a pool. Above-ground pools are a great alte...
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How To: Move a Shed
If you don’t know how to move a shed, it might seem like an impossible task. But, with the right information and prep...
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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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Solved! Why Is My Pool Green?
Q: I got home from work last night and couldn’t wait to get into my pool to soak away the day, but when I got to the ...
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So, You Want to… Build a Shed
A shed in a side yard or backyard can make a world of difference when it comes to organization. These stand-alone str...
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How Much Does a Concrete Patio Cost to Build?
Highlights The typical range for concrete patio costs is $1,760 to $4,812, with a national average of $3,274. Patio...
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How to Find a Leak in a Pool
Whether a pool was just put in by one of the best pool installation companies, or it is several years old, the though...
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How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool?
Highlights The typical range for the cost to build a pool is $700 to $125,000, with a national average of $36,000. ...
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Is a Swimming Pool Maintenance Service Really Worth the Money?
To get the most enjoyment out of your swimming pool, it’s important to keep it clean throughout the year. This requir...
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The Best Pool Builders Near Me: How to Hire the Best Pool Builders Near Me Based on Cost, Project, and More
Hiring the Best Pool Builders Near MeLounging by the pool with a cool beverage close at hand can be a wonderful way t...
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How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range to maintain a pool is $110 to $351, with a national average of $229. Maintenance ...
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Solved! What to Do When a Bird Hits Your Window
Q: My wife and I have windows and sliding glass doors off our deck and have had more than one instance in which birds...
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How to Maintain a Pool: Tips For Safe Enjoyment All Season
Enjoying a cool dip in the backyard swimming pool is the ultimate reward after a long day. The last thing anyone want...
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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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The Pros and Cons of Saltwater Pools
Many people have the impression that the water in a saltwater pool will be similar to ocean water, but that isn’t qui...
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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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10 Gazebo Kits You Can Buy and Build Yourself
Relax in the yard while enjoying privacy and protection from the sun with these cool, ready-to-assemble gazebo kits.
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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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How Much Does a Paver Patio Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for paver patio installation is $2,400 to $7,000, with a national average of $3,40...
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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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15 Outdoor Entertaining Tips for Stress-Free Summer Hosting
A little planning will make for a lot of relaxing.
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The Best Above Ground Pool Filters of 2023
An above-ground pool can offer summertime fun and a relief from the heat, but only if the water is free from harmful ...
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10 Types of Rope All DIYers Should Know
A good length of rope has plenty of uses, and experienced DIYers know you can never have too much of it. From tying u...
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The Best Stain for Cedar of 2023
Cedar is a beautiful building material. While it can last a long time, even without stain or sealer, it can eventuall...
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Solved! Why Is My Pool Cloudy?
Q: We went on vacation for a couple of weeks and came home to a cloudy pool. We serviced it in the spring, and we’ve ...
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The Best Solar Pool Covers Tested in 2023
Solar pool covers absorb the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water, warming either above-ground or inground pools t...
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The Best Pond Filters for Clean and Clear Water
Sitting by a pond is peaceful and pleasant when the water’s clean and clear. However, once green algae, organic debri...
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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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How To: Build a Yurt
The yurt is one of the oldest forms of nomadic shelter in history, spanning at least 3,000 years. And while it’s a ti...
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Solved! What to Do About Cloudy Pool Water
Q: Every year we struggle to keep our pool water clear. The water becomes cloudy every few days, even when we run the...
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The Best Chlorine Tablets
Chlorine is commonly added to swimming pools and hot tubs to kill algae spores, bacteria, and small insects. Despite ...
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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 Nest Boxes for Your Chicken Coop
Whether you have an egg farm, hobby farm, or a couple of backyard chickens, your hens need a place to lay their eggs....
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The Best Greenhouse Plastic of 2023
Abundant light is essential for healthy plant growth. While some greenhouse gardeners are fortunate enough to have gr...
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10 Tips for Creating an Outdoor Office at Home
Work in the Great OutdoorsIt’s becoming more and more common for now to have the option of working from home. The mov...
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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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How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost?
Highlights The typical cost range for an inground pool is $39,000 to $80,351, with a national average of $57,938. C...
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The Most Stylish Outdoor Decor, According to a Design Pro
Say goodbye to gnomes, flamingos, and mushroom statues once and for all—here’s how to add some upscale decor to your outdoor space.
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The Best Pool Filter Sands
Sand filters are commonly used for keeping your pool’s water clean, but over time the pool filter sand can become dir...
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How To: Build a Pool
Wondering how to build a pool in your backyard but have no clue where to start? If you’ve never excavated or construc...
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8 Landscaping Features That Buyers Love
Entice buyers and increase your home’s value by following these landscaping tips.
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The Best Pool Shock to Get Your Pool Swim-Ready
When the cold weather comes, you close the pool by emptying most, if not all, of the water and covering it. Once warm...
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10 Home Staging Tips for Your Outdoor Spaces
When preparing a home for sale, ensuring that the exterior is as tip-top as the interior can mean a big payoff for sellers. Here are a few easy ways to pep up pat...
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13 Stunning Gazebo Ideas for a Relaxing Backyard Retreat
Gazebos aren’t just for poolside shade or privacy from prying neighbors. Whether for a deck or an outdoor kitchen, here are some gazebos ideas to jazz up every ou...
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The Best Screen Tents of 2023
When the weather is nice, it can be a shame to let pesky bugs, harsh sunlight, or even a passing rain shower drive yo...
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The Best Cat Shelter to Keep Your Pet Protected and Safe
If you have a feral cat who's called your house home or an outdoor cat of your own—you might want to consider an outd...
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The Best Patio Chairs of 2023
Regardless of the season, there are few things more refreshing and relaxing than enjoying the outdoor space of your b...
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11 Ways to Make a Small Pool Work in Your Backyard
Get inspired and transform your outdoor space with one of these perfectly proportioned water features.
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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 Solid Deck Stains for Your Wood Structure
If your deck is looking tired and worn down, a fresh coat of wood stain can improve its appearance and protect it fro...
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The Best Chicken Feeds for the Homestead
Raising backyard chickens is becoming increasingly popular, and it's easy to see why when you eat your first homegrow...
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The Best Roof Cleaners
While most homeowners spend the majority of their time maintaining the ground-level features of their homes, the roof...
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The Best Bird Deterrents
At the park, on a walking trail, and even in your yard, birdwatching is a fascinating hobby. However, you may not wan...
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The Best Sandboxes for Kids
The best sandbox is, first and foremost, one that kids gravitate toward during playtime. A quality sandbox must be ab...
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The Best Gas Fire Pits, Tested and Reviewed
Whether it takes you back to camp, the beach, or other summertime memories, there’s something special about gathering...
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The Best Inflatable Pools Tested in 2023
When the weather heats up, a backyard swimming pool allows you to have fun, cool down, and relax. But not everyone ha...
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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 Chicken Coops of 2023
Those considering raising backyard chickens probably know that keeping a flock can have benefits beyond fresh eggs on...
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The Best Pool Pumps of 2023
A pool pump circulates chemicals through pool water and filters out impurities and cloudiness. With a quality pool pu...
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The Best Hot Tubs
A relaxing soak in a hot tub can work wonders on both body and mind. It can reduce stress, eliminate aches and pains,...
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The Best Beach Umbrellas
Crashing waves, ocean breezes, and the smell of sunscreen can relieve stress in minutes. You can enjoy them all in th...
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The Best Trampolines
Kids jump on a trampoline for backyard fun, while adults can use them as an exciting way to work out at home. When yo...
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The Best Patio Furniture
A well-planned outdoor setup can provide extended living space perfect for dining, lounging, and entertaining. There ...
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The Best Hot Tub Covers to Protect Against the Elements
A backyard hot tub is an excellent place to relax and decompress with your family and friends. But whether your hot t...
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The Best Outdoor Furniture Covers
Patio furniture is often considered a long-term investment that’s intended to last for years. Maintenance mostly invo...
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The Best Pool Heaters to Prolong Swim Season
Swimming pool heaters keep the water nice and comfortable for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Although they have be...
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The Best Above-Ground Pools of 2023
Above-ground pools let you lounge, laugh, and splash to your heart’s delight. They’re easier to install than inground...
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The Best Pop-Up Canopies Tested in 2023
Baseball games, days on the beach, and camping trips are just a few of the many times a pop-up canopy comes in handy....
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The Best Pool Vacuums of 2023
Pool ownership is a popular dream, but pools can be tough to maintain. Fortunately, aquatics aficionados can keep the...
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10 Water Features to Make Any Backyard Landscape Complete
From koi ponds to waterfalls, birdbaths to garden streams, we've gathered together our favorite backyard bubblers, gurglers, and soothers.
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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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The 8 Best Robotic Pool Cleaners for Easy Maintenance, Tested
Few people enjoy vacuuming their swimming pool, but it’s an important maintenance task that limits the growth of alga...
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The Best Dog Houses for Pets of All Sizes
The best dog house not only shields your pooch from snow and driving rain, but it also offers him a secure space he c...
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10 Rooms You Wouldn't Suspect Were Actually Sheds
Who among us doesn’t occasionally dream of getting away from it all? Of having our own private spot to relax, to dream, to focus, to let our hair down and just be...
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The Most Beautiful Chicken Coops We've Ever Seen
As backyard poultry farms gain in popularity, find the coop that works for you, whether you live in the country or in tighter, urban spaces.
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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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The Best Storage Sheds
Whether you need a spot to store a push mower or an overflow place for bicycles, sports equipment, or an ever-growing...
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The Best Fence Stains, Tested and Reviewed
Whether adding privacy to a yard, accenting the garden, or keeping pets contained, fences can be the finishing touch ...
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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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5 Tips for Building a Strong Shed Foundation
A shed can be a great place to store yard tools and equipment, or it can serve as a useful area for completing projec...
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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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9 Backyard Additions for Better Outdoor Living
Make the most of your outdoor space with fun, functional structures and comfortable furnishings that are sure to turn your backyard into something special.</p> ...
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10 Surprising Things a Homeowner Can Be Fined For
As a homeowner, you have the responsibility to keep your home safe, clean, and in compliance with city ordinances. While you may already be aware that you’re not ...
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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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The Easiest Way to Make an Outdoor Bar for All Seasons
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or entertaining Christmas carolers around the chiminea, an outdoor bar provi...
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These 10 Sturdy Furniture DIYs All Share 1 Secret Ingredient
You can build seating, storage, accent pieces, and more with a little ingenuity and a bag of concrete. This content has been brought to you by Quikrete. Its ...
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All You Need to Know About Granny Pods
You’re probably familiar with tiny houses—homes ranging in size from 80 to 400 square feet—that offer small-scale liv...
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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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Wing It: 14 Approaches to a DIY Birdbath
Welcome feathered friends to your backyard with a DIY birdbath modeled after any of the following inspiring designs.
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Dos and Don'ts of Building a Fire Pit
Fire pits are a hot commodity! These attractive backyard additions can dress up a drab yard with mesmerizing flames w...
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All You Need to Know About Pool Decking
For refreshing summer fun, nothing beats a backyard swimming pool. While the water is the main focus, it’s the deckin...
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5 Keys to Choosing the Right Size Shed
When the time comes to buy a backyard shed, size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Surprisingly, th...
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8 Foolproof Places to Find Extra Storage Space at Home
No matter the size of your house or how many closets it has, at some point you're going to wonder in exasperation, “Where can I put this?” Fortunately, with a lit...
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What's the Difference? Vinyl vs. Engineered Wood Siding on Sheds
Sheds perform a number of functions, from storing tools and lawn equipment to serving as a child's playhouse. Whateve...
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9 Simple Ways to Make Your Shed Match Your House
Making the most of a new outdoor structure requires a shift in mentality. You need to think of it not merely as a backyard shed, but rather as a reflection of you...
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So, You Want to... Build an Outdoor Fireplace
It's the ultimate in backyard entertaining—an outdoor fireplace where friends and family gather to share good times a...
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All You Need to Know About Retaining Walls
Does your yard contain slopes, dips, and inclines? Then you likely have a retaining wall somewhere on your property. ...
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Power Sheds: How to Design and Build a Shed for Workshop Projects
Every weekend warrior dreams of a convenient backyard structure that's spacious enough not only for storing tools but...
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8 Backyard Projects That Start with a Bag of Concrete
Now that the mercury's rising—but not yet too high—it's the perfect time to amp up the landscaping and spruce up the patio in preparation for a summer filled with...
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The Dos and Don'ts of Building a Shed
A backyard shed frees up your home and garage by storing cumbersome essentials like your riding mower, hedge trimmers...
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How to Get Rid of Ticks In Your Yard
Ticks are a fact of outdoor life throughout the United States. These blood-feeding arachnids (joint-legged invertebra...
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10 Totally Unexpected Uses for a Backyard Shed
A sturdy shed is great for storing gear, but why stop there? People with all sorts of diverse interests—from growing their own food to hosting big barbecues—are d...
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Renew a Wood Fence in Just 3 Steps
Do you have a flaking eyesore of a fence that plagues the perimeter of your property? While there are no shortcuts to...
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How To: Stain a Fence
Whether your wooden fence is years old or newly installed, it can benefit from a single inexpensive addition: stain. ...
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DIY Lite: Build a Backyard Hammock Stand from Scratch
Wish that you had a relaxing moment in a camping hammock in your own backyard, but have nowhere to hang it? Rather th...
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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 Types of Fencing Materials All Homeowners Should Know
From the zigzag post-and-rail of the Colonial era to the elaborate molded vinyl styles of today, fences are homeowner...
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DIY Lite: Easy Tiki Torches for a Bug-Free Backyard
Nothing spoils an outdoor gathering like unwanted guests, namely the buzzy ones. Enjoy summer nights free from the mo...
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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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The Dos and Don'ts of Swimming Pool Maintenance
Nothing says summer like a refreshing swim in the backyard pool. But your swimming pool does need care—and doses of t...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Setting a Fence Post
It's a bona fide do-it-yourself classic: Every summer without fail, legions of homeowners grab their toolbox and head...
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Weekend Projects: 5 Creative Designs for a DIY Chicken Coops
Scientific studies certainly support the nutritional benefits of the incredible egg, but what they don't detail is wh...
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So, You Want to... Build a Carport
Need a place to park that fancy new speedboat? A carport may be just the ticket! While it’s not quite a garage, a car...
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Genius! The Backyard Movie Theater You Can Build in a Day
A night at the movies doesn’t come cheap. With the steep price of tickets, not to mention the popcorn and M&amp;Ms, t...
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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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Genius! The Easy Way to Add Privacy to a Chain-Link Fence
Chain-link fences have bordered American yards for more than a century, and with good reason—they're cheap, easy to i...
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Weekend Projects: 5 Ways to DIY a Fence Gate
Adding a fence to your property provides a simple solution for shutting out unwanted animals and nosy neighbors from ...
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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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DIY Kids: Build a Backyard Tire Swing
There’s something so incredibly appealing about a simple tire swing. Whether it’s the freeing feeling of soaring thro...
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11 Ways to Elevate Your Boring Balcony
You can run, but you can’t hide from the dog days of summer. You can, however, camp out on your balcony to enjoy slightly deflected rays of sunlight while keeping...
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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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Quick Tip: Keeping Ants Out of Your Sandbox
Ants are one of those annoying pests that seem to pop up everywhere they're unwanted during the summer—picnics, kitch...
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Pro Tips: A Tiny House Dweller Shares 7 Lessons Learned
The average American spends a third to half of his or her income just putting a roof overhead, so it’s no surprise th...
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How To: Build a Cinder Block Wall
Privacy, safety, security—these are only a few of the reasons that homeowners build solid, durable garden walls. Alth...
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Weekend Projects: 5 Fun DIY Swing Sets
The earliest swing sets, which date all the way back to the fifth century B. C. , were nothing more than slabs of woo...
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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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Weekend Projects: 5 Designs for a DIY Rain Barrel
These days, it would be hard to ignore the need for water conservation. Due to drought conditions, California now enf...
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Genius! Hack This Old Appliance for the Perfect Fire Pit
This story starts out like many other tales of DIY savvy. While browsing the a trendy retailer store, Sarah of House ...
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Before & After: Simple Upgrades Wake Up 5 Tired Sheds
Backyard sheds may be a storage boon, but nobody ever said they were loaded with style. They can be, though. Check out these amazing shed makeovers that will insp...
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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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Genius! DIY Trash Can Shed
Who hasn't admired a great product in-store before balking at the price tag? When daring DIYer Anne Davis saw a $300 ...
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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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How To Prevent Rust on Your Outdoor Furniture and Railings
Enter the yard of many homes in America and somewhere among the trees, shrubs, and grass, you’re bound to find metal....
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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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Weekend Projects: 5 Quirky Ways to Build a Bird Feeder
Whether you're washing dishes at the sink or sitting at the desk in your home office, it's pleasant to look out the w...
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12 Clever Ways to Make Your Own DIY Hammock
A DIY hammock is a game-changer for your outdoor space. What else says summer like a homemade hammock gently swaying ...
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Fence Styles: 10 Popular Designs to Consider
With so many fence styles available today, it can be hard for homeowners to choose the one that best fits their property and needs. Fences generally fall into thr...
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Great Entrances: 10 Welcoming Garden Gates
A thoughtfully designed gate can make an already welcoming garden even more so, and give a much-needed decorative boost come winter. Whether integrated into a fen...
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12 Garden Sheds You Could Actually Live (or Work) In
Whether you’re upgrading to a bigger building or find you no longer need your backyard shed to store lawn and garden tools, consider giving your old shed new life...
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9 Incredibly Cool Pool Houses
Waterfront property sells at a hefty premium. But don't be discouraged if you're landlocked. You can create your own home-by-the-sea environment with a pool house...
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Retaining Walls 101
Retaining walls offer aesthetic as well as practical benefits: In addition to beautifying the home, they inhibit soil...
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How To: Build a Trellis (The Quick and Easy Way)
Low-cost additions to any landscape, easy-to-make garden trellises can be used to introduce shade or privacy, or to s...
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Recycled Fences: 8 Clever Ways to Put Salvage to Good Use
Old doors, wine bottles, shipping pallets—and even bowling balls and surf boards—can be repurposed into alternative fence material. Here are 8 surprising ideas th...
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Planning Guide: Building a Backyard Greenhouse
Shorter days, colder temperatures, and frozen earth: For most, the advent of winter marks the year's end of planting,...
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Treehouse Envy: 12 Lofty Designs
Taking backyard play to new heights, these tree houses just might inspire you to create one to delight the kids—or your inner child.
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How To: Stain Outdoor Wood Furniture and Equipment
Outdoors, stain helps wood furniture or backyard equipment look at home in the landscape. Whether you're working on a...
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16 Amazing Homemade Sheds to Inspire Yours
Everyone needs a place for their stuff, and sometimes the garage just won’t accommodate it all. A backyard shed can help alleviate the space crunch. Pre-made shed...
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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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You've Got Mail: 11 Inventive DIY Mailboxes
Make your letter carrier do a double take with these 11 salvaged-material mailboxes that demonstrate real outside-the-box creativity.
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Fences 101
A fence introduces not only privacy and security to your property, but it can also enhance curb appeal and safely cor...
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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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Would You Live in a Tiny House Village?
When is a trailer park not a trailer park? When it’s being designed and developed by nationally recognized small-spac...
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5 Simple Ingredients for Successful Rainwater Harvesting
People have been harvesting rainwater for thousands of years. In the last decade, the practice has emerged as a popul...
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On the Fence: 7 Top Options in Fencing Materials
Browse some of today's most commonly used fencing materials, from timeless wood to utilitarian chain-link.
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Repairing a Retaining Wall
Walls, normally thought of as interior design elements, are useful in landscaping, too. A landscaping wall can be fre...
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The Gazebo: At Home Everywhere
Nothing says “summer” quite like a gazebo. Images of languid afternoons sipping ice-cold lemonade in the sheltering s...
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Pergolas: What’s Old Is New Again
[bobsays_inset]It is interesting how a chance comment can cause you to pay attention to a garden design feature you h...
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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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Shopping for a Swing Set
One thing we miss about living in New York is the awesome city playgrounds. You could walk to a different one every d...
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10 "Style Setting" Garden Sheds
Whether you are looking to house garden tools or create a workshop or studio, here are ten stylish sheds worthy of consideration.
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How To: Build a Dry Stone Retaining Wall
Depending on the size and weight of the stones used to construct the retaining wall, the tools and materials for the ...
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How To: Make a Tire Swing
Create some outdoor fun this summer—the old-fashioned way—with this "oh so easy" tire swing how-to.
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How to Build a Birdhouse
Building a homemade birdhouse can be a blast. Unlike real houses that require complex framing, these humble avian abo...
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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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12 Birdhouses We Love
House hunting for your fine feathered friends? Here are some fun designs to make or buy.
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Project Guide: Building a Sandbox
With little or no woodworking experience, you can easily build your own backyard sandbox—here's how.
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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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Arbors: A Garden's Best Friend
Looking for a way to add instant character to your landscape or garden? Consider one of these beautiful arbors.
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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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Building a Privacy Fence and Touring the Completed Kitchen
Bob reviews the progress of his western red cedar custom fence, designed to provide privacy and block the carport from the neighbors’ view.
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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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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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Creating a Lattice-Top Gate and Converting a Mudroom to a Pantry
The backyard is enhanced with a lattice-top gate, and a mudroom is converted into a kitchen pantry to provide storage space.
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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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Replacing the Gutters, Trimming a Tree, and Creating a Low-Maintenance Front Yard
Old gutters are replaced and external landscaping continues with the trimming of a tree, installing a front garden, and creating steps from recycled granite.
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Installing a Fence on a Sloped Site
Bob talks with a fencing expert about installing a white-cedar fence in sloped areas at the Melrose house.
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Building a Retaining Wall, Front Steps, and Backyard Patio With Stone
Stone workers install a granite retaining wall, replace a front walkway, and build a backyard patio.
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Custom Bamboo Garden
Kalo joins Bob to create a Zen bamboo garden.
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Removable Swimming Pool Safety Fencing
Bill Jasper joins Bob for the installation of a removable Baby Barrier pool fence.
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Elm Court's Library and Architectural Detailing
Bob meets with Sonya and Bob Berle in the library of Elm Court to discuss the interior design and preservation of this magnificent home.
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Picket Fence Installation
Jay Triandafilou and a crew from Architectural Fence are on location to install the exterior fence.
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Working to Develop Affordable Housing and Installing a Maintenance Free Vinyl Picket Fence
Bob is in Mashpee, Massachusetts, where the affordable housing project is well underway with five of the eleven homes currrently under construction.
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Retaining Wall Construction
Bob meets up with landscape mason Hector Santos, who is building a dried-laid stone retaining wall.
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Splitting Granite for the Retaining Wall
The mason on-site installing a retaining wall, Hector, shows Bob how to split a piece of granite that is too large and heavy to use as is.
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Trellis and Lattice Fencing & Workshop Tour
Fred Goode (from Brattle Works) joins Bob to view the trellis and lattice fencing, and Bob visits the Brattle Works workshop to see how the fencing is manufactured.
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Discussing the Plantings on the Property
Bob, alongside architect Kristian Fenderson and Tom Strangfeld (from Weston Nurseries), walks the property, focusing on the planting selected for this home.
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Discussing the Northern White Cedar Picket Fence
A Northern White Cedar picket fence is discussed and installed.
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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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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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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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Building a Pergola and Gate
Bob confers with contractor and carpenter Cortney Lofton, as he builds a pergola at the Studio City bungalow, which will serve as a gate to the backyard.
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Tour of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Bob begins the new state-of-the-art greenhouse project with a look at Boston's most famous solarium, part of the quirky and romantic Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
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Plans for the Greenhouse
Bob, the architect, and the homeowner discuss plans for the new greenhouse. The exact position of the greenhouse in relation to the existing house is chosen so as...
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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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Foundation Layout
The foundation has been hand-dug and the forms laid for the footings. Bob and contractor Bob Ryley discuss the layout of the greenhouse foundation and framing.
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Brooklyn Botanical Garden Tour
Bob takes a trip to New York City to tour the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, a spectacular, world-class museum greenhouse.
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Pouring the Concrete Foundation
Bob watches as the crew prepares the footings for the greenhouse foundation. Contractor John Pratt pours the concrete, using a conveyor instead of a traditional p...
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Burrage House Tour
Bob takes a walk down Boston's Commonwealth Avenue for a look at an upscale solariums from the last century, that of the Burrage House.
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Insulating the Foundation
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley insulate the foundation of an attached solar greenhouse.
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Cold Weather Brick Laying
With the bricklayers on hand, Bob discusses the techniques being used, and explains the "anti-freeze" that has been added to the concrete to retard the cold weath...
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Tour of Indiana University Greenhouses
Bob interviews Don Burton from Indiana University as they tour a 1955 greenhouse. Bob then tours a modern state-of-the-art greenhouse under construction at the Un...
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Installing the Rafters
The architect pays a visit to check on progress, while Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin installing the Paralam rafters. Ryley goes into depth discussing these m...
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Reviewing the Pergola Design
Bob checks on the progress of the greenhouse construction and examines the framing of the pergola roof.
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HVAC System for the Greenhouse
Bob meets with HVAC contractor Dave Talbot to discuss the heating and cooling of the greenhouse. A system of thermostats, blowers, vented windows, and boiler has ...
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Greenhouse Glass Installation
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley install sloped glazing on a greenhouse with the help of Mark Santos.
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Bench Construction
The wood has arrived for the perimeter benches, so Bob and contractor Bob Ryley begin constructing the architect-designed benches for the greenhouse. The wood is ...
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Installing the Greenhouse Windows
Contractor Bob Ryley shows off the greenhouse's motorized windows. At the touch of a button, or via a thermostat, the windows open and close. Bob helps Ryley asse...
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Stucco Walls
Bob meets with John Clancy who is applying "California" stucco inside the greenhouse. A tint is applied to the mix to match the interior, and a latex bonding mate...
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Installing a Bluestone Floor
Bob discusses the bluestone floor being installed in the greenhouse.
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Tour of the Completed Greenhouse
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley tour the spectacular finished greenhouse and, in addition to the greenhouse, a vestibule to the house has been created, solving the h...
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Plant Shopping With Martha Stewart
When shopping for plants at Haskell's Nursery, the homeowner gets some professional help from Martha Stewart, who transforms the greenhouse into an elegant settin...
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Tour of the Greenhouse With Martha Stewart
Bob, Martha, and the homeowner look at the plants in the new greenhouse. Martha explains why she selected certain plants and put thought into their placement.
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Discussing the Greenhouse
Bob, Martha and the homeowner, Diana, discuss the greenhouse and the decor before Bob reveals a special suprise.
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Building a Playground, Part 1
Bob visits Columbus, OH to help volunteers build a playground.
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Playground Construction, Part 2
In Columbus, OH, Bob and other volunteers are constructing a playground. Bob discusss the materials and techniques used in the project, including the octagonal ro...
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Playground Construction, Part 3
Bob makes his third visit to the playground in Columbus, OH to tour the nearly-complete project and comment on its various features.
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Reviewing the Landscape
Bob meets with a landscaper to discuss the existing plantings, some of which will be removed or cut back to maximize the amount of interior light. Trees, shrubs, ...
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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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Reviewing the Home Exterior
Bob and carpenter-contractor Bob Ryley review the exterior of the home, pointing out the new trellis and the new entryway. Next, they move inside to have a look ...
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Landscape Design With a New Fence
Bob has a discussion the landscape architect, Joanne Smallwood, and new wooden fence is installed.
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Working on the "Ell" and Shed Dormer
The old ell is joined to the new construction, with some demolition done to make room for a shed dormer and a slider door.
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Discussing the Landscaping
Bob discusses landscaping with specialist Susan Hofer. Topics include sod, a gravel driveway, brickwork, fences, and perennials.
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Facing the Retaining Walls with Cultured Stone
Retaining walls, foundation work, and curving stairways are faced with Cultured Stone from Owens Corning. These cast cement, pumice, and iron oxide products are m...
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