OUTDOOR STRUCTURES
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Highlights Installing a lap pool typically costs between $4,000 and $100,000, with a national average cost of $44,00...
Highlights It typically costs from $300 to $2,000 to build a chicken coop, with homeowners paying a national average...
Highlights The typical cost range to install an inground hot tub is $500 to $25,000, with a national average cost of...
Pool skimmers are one of those tools no pool owner can do without. Even if the pool is regularly serviced by a mainte...
Very few homeowners have a perfectly situated inground pool that’s open to both air and sunshine yet protected from t...
In 2021, nearly 6,200 emergency room visits were related to injuries from fire pits or outdoor heaters. Young childre...
Most modern pool patches are easy to use, effective, and very low cost when compared with professional repair. They n...
Outdoor towel racks keep those big luxurious beach towels fresh and fluffy before use and provide somewhere for them ...
Highlights It will typically cost between $26,630 and $180,000 to build a pool house, with a national average cost o...
Highlights A pool filter has a typical cost range of $250 to $2,000 and a national average price of $1,125. Pool fi...
Highlights An automatic pool cover has a typical cost range of $7,000 to $25,000, with homeowners paying a national ...
Highlights Composite decking has a typical cost range of $3,600 to $7,800 and a national average cost of $5,450. Th...
Highlights The national average cost to install an endless pool is $22,500, with a typical price range of $7,000 to ...
Highlights The typical cost range to build a treehouse is from $6,075 to $16,200, with a national average cost of $1...
A kid’s perfect summer day equals no homework, a melting popsicle in hand, and a kiddie pool full of water. Affordabl...
Q: While on a weekend road trip through New England, New York, and Pennsylvania, I couldn’t help but notice how many ...
Solo Stove started selling wood-burning camp stoves back in 2011, and it soon made the leap into smokeless fire pits....
It’s easy to understand the appeal of having a swimming pool. Especially for those in warm climates, having a pool ca...
A shed can often benefit from insulation. Whether it’s a simple storage space for lawn and garden equipment, a backya...
Highlights An infinity pool typically costs between $55,000 and $130,000 to build, with homeowners across the countr...
Highlights The typical cost range for a swimming pool inspection is between $125 and $250. The main factors that af...
Highlights A bluestone patio typically costs between $4,608 and $7,200 to install, with customers across the country...
Highlights The typical cost range to have a container pool installed in a backyard is between $16,500 and $47,000. ...
Highlights Well drilling costs a national average of $5,500 and typically ranges between $1,500 and $12,000. The pr...
Highlights A screened-in porch typically costs between $2,000 and $2,800 to install, with homeowners across the coun...
Highlights The typical cost range to build a gazebo is between $2,831 and $9,613, with homeowners across the country...
Birdhouses provide shelter for certain types of cavity-nesting birds, offering up a safe space for them to rest. Whil...
We owe a debt of gratitude to the centuries-old culture of Japan. Consider the complementary concepts of wabi-sabi an...
Highlights A wood fence typically costs between $1,763 and $4,416 to install, with homeowners paying a national aver...
Highlights Filling in a swimming pool has a typical cost range of $2,700 to $19,000, with a national average cost of...
Highlights A percolation (perc) test has a typical cost range of $750 to $1,850, with customers nationally paying an...
Highlights On average, a split rail fence will cost between $1,050 and $6,480 to install. The main factors affectin...
Highlights The typical cost range for flagstone patio installation is $750 to $8,400, with a national average cost o...
Highlights The typical cost range to install a stamped concrete patio is $2,700 to $7,203, with homeowners paying an...
Bob Vila readers were busy in 2022, tackling DIY projects and finding ways to make their life simpler and their home ...
Typical Range: $50 to $100 per hourThere are many reasons a homeowner would want to remove a shed, such as wanting ...
Typical Range: $150 to $650 National Average: $350There are several reasons to remove a hot tub from its current l...
Typical Range: $7,000 to $120,000 National Average: $27,000A pole barn structure is a common type of post-frame co...
A greenhouse allows gardeners to grow vegetables year-round, keep tropical plants in bloom, or start seedlings early ...
Last time on Angela bought a house with a ginormous barn, I had recently come to terms with the house I wanted, and t...
Typical Range: $2,700 to $19,000 National Average: $6,000There are many reasons a homeowner may want to remove a p...
Typical Range: $200 to $3,000 National Average: $850A backyard fire pit can be a gathering place for family and fr...
Swimming pools may conjure images of fun in the sun, but they aren’t exclusively used during the daytime. Many pool o...
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...
For many of us, the first day of autumn—or even Labor Day—signals the end of “hanging-out-outside” season. But it do...
Did you take advantage of the summer weather to knock some outdoor projects off your to-do list? As the temperature d...
This series ends with the renovation of a shed, but begins with the search for a home. Maybe that reads more like the...
Who doesn’t enjoy leisurely sipping a coffee outdoors on a sunny morning, or a good old-fashioned neighborhood cookou...
There are many reasons to add skirting around your deck. It can help keep beams and other structural elements beneath...
Keeping the water clean, clear, and ready for swimmers is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a swimming...
Installing an inground or above-ground pool can be a great way to beat the heat during the dog days of summer, entert...
Installing a hot tub on a deck can certainly kick your outdoor living space up a notch. Adding this oasis for relaxat...
Nothing beats cooking and entertaining outdoors until it comes time to clean up. An outdoor sink can make the task le...
There are as many types of chickens as there are reasons to keep chickens in your backyard. For homeowners interested...
Tabletop fire pits, also called tabletop fireplaces, provide the cozy aesthetic and charm of a crackling fire but in ...
Typical Range: $500 to $25,000 National Average: $3,100Awnings are a type of exterior architectural element that p...
The bar is fully stocked, the ice bucket is filled, and something delicious is sizzling on the grill. Get the alfresc...
Carports can do a great job of protecting your car, truck, boat, motorcycle, garden machinery, and more from winter w...
Portable saunas provide a spa-like sauna experience right in your living room or backyard. More affordable and easier...
Typical Range: $2,124 to $5,968 National Average: $3,970A pergola adds great style (and cool shade) to outdoor liv...
Typical Range: $700 to $1,500 National Average: $1,100A pool pump is the central element in a pool’s system. It di...
A covered outdoor kitchen allows you to take advantage of good weather by cooking and eating outside. The best covere...
Typical Range: $1,000 to $30,000 National Average: $6,500Pool ownership means learning how to maintain your pool, ...
Whether you already have an above-ground pool in your backyard or are looking to set one up soon, it’s important to k...
Wood is susceptible to mold, mildew, and rot if it is left exposed to rain, sleek, snow, and other moisture. Addition...
Typical Range: $10,000 to $50,000 National Average: $20,000Owning a pool is a dream for many, but what if there is...
July’s longer days and warmer weather mean there's plenty of good reason to be outside—and no shortage of tasks to ta...
A gabion wall offers numerous home landscaping possibilities: They can serve as a budget-friendly retaining wall, enh...
This is the fourth installment of Bob Vila’s Most Valuable Projects of 2022, a month-long series featuring high-ROI h...
Typical Range: $1,000 to $5,000 National Average: $2,327Pool liners are an important part of above-ground and ingr...
One of the key ingredients of an efficient, comfortable home sauna is the choice of heater. There are a number of dif...
The best outdoor bar stools are attractive, resilient, and comfortable to provide practical outdoor seating. Outdoor ...
A greenhouse heater makes it possible to create suitable plant and vegetable growing temperatures year-round. Greenho...
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...
When most people hear the word deck, they immediately visualize wooden planks and rails attached to the side of a str...
Using a rain barrel is an easy way to lessen a household’s impact on the environment, and it helps to save some money...
Owning a swimming pool can be awesome. It’s also an awesome responsibility, as open standing water of any kind is a p...
Typical Range: $5,259 to $15,560 National Average: $10,205Pool enclosures provide added security for both inground...
The right outdoor sectional can elevate a yard and turn it into a cozy retreat for relaxing and entertaining. As with...
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...
A pool cover is a pool's best defense against debris and dirt that can alter its chemistry, turning it into a bog dur...
Typical Range: $20,450 to $38,200 National Average: $29,178Installing a fiberglass pool is a big decision for a ho...
Home kits that include all the plans and materials needed to build your own home are an economical solution for many ...
Highlights The typical cost range for an above-ground pool is $1,037 to $5,893, with a national average of $3,322. ...
With a rise in consumer preference toward health and wellness, outdoor saunas are becoming increasingly popular. Beyo...
Solar bird bath fountains harness the power of the sun to create an inviting, bubbly watering hole for birds. These f...
May is a month worth celebrating. As the days become warmer and sunnier, seasonal to-dos both inside and outside the ...
Though the news is rife with reminders about skyrocketing egg prices (which were up almost 60 percent year-over-year ...
When the hot summer sun beats down, it’s tempting to rush into an air-conditioned area just to get a breath of cool, ...
Style on the SideSide yards often are narrow and more utilitarian in nature (think faucets and hoses, garbage or recy...
Typical Range: $1,500 to $10,000 National Average: $6,500If you’re enjoying leisurely afternoons at your backyard ...
Attract feathered friends to your yard with one of these fun and quirky avian homes.
Pergolas and gazebos are two common structures that can enhance an outdoor space. They both help bring shade to a yar...
Choosing a new color for your deck—whether you paint or stain the existing wood or change the color of the decking bo...
A porch swing is a great place to relax on a balmy evening while sipping something cool and refreshing—what’s not to ...
Backyard pools are a great place to exercise, relax, and have fun with family and friends. However, algae can get in ...
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...
A deck can be the perfect backdrop for enjoying the sunshine, hosting a summer barbecue, or hanging out with friends ...
Whether you are trying to get a fire started to cook at the campsite or just want some extra light and warmth as nigh...
Building a gazebo in your backyard can truly transform your space. Gazebos not only offer cooling shade from the hot ...
Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor meal or gathering like a swarm of mosquitoes—and they’re more than just a nuisanc...
If you are looking to create that perfect backyard environment for summer fun and family “stay-cations” this summer, ...
A pool is a luxury many enjoy for swimming laps or simply lounging with friends and family. But once everyone leaves ...
When it comes to the cost of pavers vs. concrete, there are several factors to think about before making a decision. ...
Highlights The typical range for pool heater costs is $1,771 to $4,065 with a national average of $2,914. Pool size...
Back in action after a 1-year hiatus, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) welcomed enthusiastic exhibito...
One of the best ways to amp up the fun in the backyard swimming pool is by adding an inground pool slide. Inground po...
Those dog days of summer can make it hard to get kids away from their screens and into the great outdoors. A backyard...
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...
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...
It’s probably no surprise to reveal that Bob Vila’s editors are all about home gear and care: Our product reviews sta...
Outdoor showers can provide a convenient, inexpensive way to rinse off after work or play, and there is no easier way...
A pool filter is absolutely vital to the function of any swimming pool. It’s responsible for removing contaminants fr...
Pool alarms detect and notify nearby adults of unwanted entry into a pool or pool area. A reliable and simple-to-use ...
While a backyard pool can be refreshing on a hot summer day, water that’s too cold can be downright shocking. Getting...
Whether planning to move a hot tub across the yard or pack it up to move across the country, the basic steps remain a...
Hot tubs are often a treasured luxury for when you just want to take some time to rest and relax aching muscles, but ...
Whether one is looking to clear out the garage, find a home for yard equipment and tools, or create a studio or a wor...
Incentivize yourself to spend more time enjoying your yard and garden. Fresh air, natural light, and the right backya...
High-quality solar deck lights can add a lovely glow to your deck space without adding a penny to your electric bill....
There are few better places to kick back on a lazy summer day, preferably with a glass of lemonade in hand, than a po...
Adirondack chairs feature high backs and wide arms with seats that slant towards the back. Their design makes them id...
While the base material is the same, pressure-treated wood is very different from typical wood products. From how it’...
Whether you are creating a new patio or dressing up an existing one, these great ideas are both attractive and practical.
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...
A backyard pool can be an invaluable asset, providing much-needed relief during those scorching months, but not if th...
Their eye-catching appearance and the soothing sound of trickling water make outdoor water fountains a welcome additi...
It’s time to make the deck shine with these inspiring deck railing ideas.
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...
Find some inspiration to transform your backyard pool area into an outdoor oasis with one of these artistic and aesthetically pleasing pool landscaping ideas.
Innovative treehouse ideas—porches, themes, and elaborate expansions—can transform a simple platform into a magical adventure. Let your creativity flow so your ki...
The lean-to shed is the classic backyard garden shed design. These sheds are less expensive than other shed styles, y...
Bird lovers are incredibly passionate about every aspect of the lives of birds. With thousands of species to learn ab...
One of the most refreshing warm-weather activities is going for a swim in a pool. Above-ground pools are a great alte...
If you don’t know how to move a shed, it might seem like an impossible task. But, with the right information and prep...
Outdoor string lights are both stylish and functional, illuminating your outdoor living space while providing an invi...
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 ...
A shed in a side yard or backyard can make a world of difference when it comes to organization. These stand-alone str...
Typical Range: $1,657 to $4,304 National Average: $2,942Outdoor living spaces are essential for enjoying pleasant ...
Whether a pool was just put in by one of the best pool installation companies, or it is several years old, the though...
Highlights The typical range for the cost to build a pool is $700 to $125,000, with a national average of $36,000. ...
To get the most enjoyment out of your swimming pool, it’s important to keep it clean throughout the year. This requir...
Hiring the Best Pool Builders Near MeLounging by the pool with a cool beverage close at hand can be a wonderful way t...
Highlights The typical range for pool maintenance costs is $110 to $351 with a national average of $229. Maintenanc...
Q: My wife and I have windows and sliding glass doors off our deck and have had more than one instance in which birds...
Enjoying a cool dip in the backyard swimming pool is the ultimate reward after a long day. The last thing anyone want...
Restoring a weathered deck is a great project to tackle solo or with a partner, and it returns a noticeable and satis...
Many people have the impression that the water in a saltwater pool will be similar to ocean water, but that isn’t qui...
A custom deck offers a comfortable outdoor space for sunny days, and designing your deck is the first step toward you...
Relax in the yard while enjoying privacy and protection from the sun with these cool, ready-to-assemble gazebo kits.
An outdoor gazebo can be a luxurious addition to a backyard, garden, or deck. Much like pergolas and shade sails, the...
Typical Range: $2,400 to $7,000 National Average: $3,400A patio is an easy way to dress up a backyard and increase...
On sunny days, an awning provides just the sun protection and shade you need on your porch, patio, or deck. An awning...
A little planning will make for a lot of relaxing.
An above-ground pool can offer summertime fun and a relief from the heat, but only if the water is free from harmful ...
A good length of rope has plenty of uses, and experienced DIYers know you can never have too much of it. From tying u...
Cedar is a beautiful building material. While it can last a long time, even without stain or sealer, it can eventuall...
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 ...
Solar pool covers absorb the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water, warming either above-ground or inground pools t...
Sitting by a pond is peaceful and pleasant when the water’s clean and clear. However, once green algae, organic debri...
String lights, pendants and other kinds of lighting can make your deck safer—and more stylish—when the sun goes down.
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...
Q: Every year we struggle to keep our pool water clear. The water becomes cloudy every few days, even when we run the...
Chlorine is commonly added to swimming pools and hot tubs to kill algae spores, bacteria, and small insects. Despite ...
Q: How Do I Meet Height and Spacing Code Requirements on My Deck Railing?A: Homeowners with a backyard may daydream a...
Whether you have an egg farm, hobby farm, or a couple of backyard chickens, your hens need a place to lay their eggs....
Abundant light is essential for healthy plant growth. While some greenhouse gardeners are fortunate enough to have gr...
Al fresco entertaining never looked so good.
Work in the Great OutdoorsIt’s becoming more and more common for now to have the option of working from home. The mov...
Typical Range: $4,160 to $11,257 National Average: $7,696A great backyard can become even more appealing with a be...
Highlights The typical cost range for an inground pool is $39,000 to $80,351, with a national average of $57,938. C...
Say goodbye to gnomes, flamingos, and mushroom statues once and for all—here’s how to add some upscale decor to your outdoor space.
Sand filters are commonly used for keeping your pool’s water clean, but over time the pool filter sand can become dir...
Wondering how to build a pool in your backyard but have no clue where to start? If you’ve never excavated or construc...
Entice buyers and increase your home’s value by following these landscaping tips.
When the cold weather comes, you close the pool by emptying most, if not all, of the water and covering it. Once warm...
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...
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...
When the weather is nice, it can be a shame to let pesky bugs, harsh sunlight, or even a passing rain shower drive yo...
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...
Regardless of the season, there are few things more refreshing and relaxing than enjoying the outdoor space of your b...
Get inspired and transform your outdoor space with one of these perfectly proportioned water features.
A pergola offers shade to residential and commercial outdoor spaces alike. Whether it abuts a building or stands off ...
If your deck is looking tired and worn down, a fresh coat of wood stain can improve its appearance and protect it fro...
Raising backyard chickens is becoming increasingly popular, and it's easy to see why when you eat your first homegrow...
While most homeowners spend the majority of their time maintaining the ground-level features of their homes, the roof...
At the park, on a walking trail, and even in your yard, birdwatching is a fascinating hobby. However, you may not wan...
The best sandbox is, first and foremost, one that kids gravitate toward during playtime. A quality sandbox must be ab...
Whether it takes you back to camp, the beach, or other summertime memories, there’s something special about gathering...
When the weather heats up, a backyard swimming pool allows you to have fun, cool down, and relax. But not everyone ha...
Inflatable hot tubs can turn any backyard into a spa-like environment, providing relaxation and stress relief at a fr...
Those considering raising backyard chickens probably know that keeping a flock can have benefits beyond fresh eggs on...
A pool pump circulates chemicals through pool water and filters out impurities and cloudiness. With a quality pool pu...
Camping is a great way to get back in touch with nature and shed some of the stress caused by a busy professional lif...
A relaxing soak in a hot tub can work wonders on both body and mind. It can reduce stress, eliminate aches and pains,...
Crashing waves, ocean breezes, and the smell of sunscreen can relieve stress in minutes. You can enjoy them all in th...
Kids jump on a trampoline for backyard fun, while adults can use them as an exciting way to work out at home. When yo...
A well-planned outdoor setup can provide extended living space perfect for dining, lounging, and entertaining. There ...
A backyard hot tub is an excellent place to relax and decompress with your family and friends. But whether your hot t...
Patio furniture is often considered a long-term investment that’s intended to last for years. Maintenance mostly invo...
Swimming pool heaters keep the water nice and comfortable for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Although they have be...
Above-ground pools let you lounge, laugh, and splash to your heart’s delight. They’re easier to install than inground...
Baseball games, days on the beach, and camping trips are just a few of the many times a pop-up canopy comes in handy....
Pool ownership is a popular dream, but pools can be tough to maintain. Fortunately, aquatics aficionados can keep the...
For beach lovers, it’s tough to beat spending warm days on the sand by the lake or ocean. As great as it is to bask i...
From koi ponds to waterfalls, birdbaths to garden streams, we've gathered together our favorite backyard bubblers, gurglers, and soothers.
Get busy building beautiful, functional items to upgrade your front and backyard. <br> <br> <i>This content is paid advertising created in partnership with Ste...
Update your landscape and enhance your outdoor experience with these durable and long-lasting DIY concrete projects. <br> <br> <i>This content has been brough...
Long days and warm evenings lure families outside to enjoy the weather and spend time with friends. Make the most of your outdoor festivities with these practical...
Both decks and patios are great choices for outdoor living. These open-air spaces provide the perfect backdrop for en...
Few people enjoy vacuuming their swimming pool, but it’s an important maintenance task that limits the growth of alga...
The best dog house not only shields your pooch from snow and driving rain, but it also offers him a secure space he c...
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...
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.
Quiet, unobtrusive, and energy efficient, ceiling fans can be a wonderful addition to practically any room in the hom...
Especially outdoors, it's easy to be short on storage space. Rather than relegate pool toys, gardening tools, and ci...
Ready, set, compost! Turn your kitchen and garden scraps into black gold—homemade humus, that is—with compost bins in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials.
Whether you need a spot to store a push mower or an overflow place for bicycles, sports equipment, or an ever-growing...
Whether adding privacy to a yard, accenting the garden, or keeping pets contained, fences can be the finishing touch ...
A backyard deck can be the perfect platform for good times, but a wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it...
A shed can be a great place to store yard tools and equipment, or it can serve as a useful area for completing projec...
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...
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> ...
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 ...
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...
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or entertaining Christmas carolers around the chiminea, an outdoor bar provi...
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 ...
You’re probably familiar with tiny houses—homes ranging in size from 80 to 400 square feet—that offer small-scale liv...
Enjoy your yard without overheating when you implement any of these patio shade ideas.
Welcome feathered friends to your backyard with a DIY birdbath modeled after any of the following inspiring designs.
Fire pits are a hot commodity! These attractive backyard additions can dress up a drab yard with mesmerizing flames w...
For refreshing summer fun, nothing beats a backyard swimming pool. While the water is the main focus, it’s the deckin...
When the time comes to buy a backyard shed, size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Surprisingly, th...
In summertime, the backyard becomes a major destination. There’s gardening and barbecues, to be sure, but the possibi...
Setting up a shed in your backyard can feel like a tall order when you consider the variables involved. Here, we've d...
Homeowners typically use sheds to stash stuff—everything from off-season sporting equipment and unused furniture to a...
Are you familiar with the phrase, “If you build it, they will come”? It applies not only to baseball fields in Kevin ...
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...
Sheds perform a number of functions, from storing tools and lawn equipment to serving as a child's playhouse. Whateve...
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...
It's the ultimate in backyard entertaining—an outdoor fireplace where friends and family gather to share good times a...
Why settle for a basic backyard shed when you can trick it out to be so much more? With a little imagination, you can...
When you're investing money and time in—and, for do-it-yourselfers, the energy to build!—a backyard shed, you’ll want...
There's no shortage of wood fence options. Which is the right type for your property? In the end, it really comes dow...
Does your yard contain slopes, dips, and inclines? Then you likely have a retaining wall somewhere on your property. ...
Whether it's small or large, the yard plays host to a number of important activities: It's where you connect with loved ones, escape the busy-ness of the “real” w...
Every weekend warrior dreams of a convenient backyard structure that's spacious enough not only for storing tools but...
We’re all prone to occasional impulse purchases, but a shed should not be one of them. While more and more folks are ...
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...
A backyard shed frees up your home and garage by storing cumbersome essentials like your riding mower, hedge trimmers...
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...
‘Bet you’re good and ready for your first plunge in your beloved backyard pool. Before you start splashing, though, y...
Do you have a flaking eyesore of a fence that plagues the perimeter of your property? While there are no shortcuts to...
Whether your wooden fence is years old or newly installed, it can benefit from a single inexpensive addition: stain. ...
If you own a garage, you know the struggle of keeping power tools and lawn and garden supplies in place and out of the path of the car. But there comes a point, u...
Wish that you had a relaxing moment in a camping hammock in your own backyard, but have nowhere to hang it? Rather th...
Summer isn’t summer unless you’re soaking up the sun, grilling, and chilling in your own backyard. Yet a traditional ...
Are your neighbors so close that it feels like you practically share a backyard? There's no need to fence off your pr...
From the zigzag post-and-rail of the Colonial era to the elaborate molded vinyl styles of today, fences are homeowner...
Nothing spoils an outdoor gathering like unwanted guests, namely the buzzy ones. Enjoy summer nights free from the mo...
A porch swing symbolizes one thing: leisure. That’s why it became such a popular fixture in the mid-19th century and ...
Nothing says summer like a refreshing swim in the backyard pool. But your swimming pool does need care—and doses of t...
It's a bona fide do-it-yourself classic: Every summer without fail, legions of homeowners grab their toolbox and head...
Scientific studies certainly support the nutritional benefits of the incredible egg, but what they don't detail is wh...
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...
A night at the movies doesn’t come cheap. With the steep price of tickets, not to mention the popcorn and M&Ms, t...
A deck is a plein-air addition to your home. Like the space inside your residence, it needs regular cleaning and main...
Chain-link fences have bordered American yards for more than a century, and with good reason—they're cheap, easy to i...
Adding a fence to your property provides a simple solution for shutting out unwanted animals and nosy neighbors from ...
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 ...
Spring is just a few weeks away, so it’s time to get serious about fix-up plans for porches, patios, and yards. To help, here’s a round-up of what’s new and cutti...
There’s something so incredibly appealing about a simple tire swing. Whether it’s the freeing feeling of soaring thro...
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...
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...
For many, the ideal backyard consists of comfortable seating, picturesque landscaping, and the sights and sounds of c...
Ants are one of those annoying pests that seem to pop up everywhere they're unwanted during the summer—picnics, kitch...
Inspired by a DIY conference, Amy of Her Tool Belt decided to try her hand at custom outdoor seating. After shopping ...
The average American spends a third to half of his or her income just putting a roof overhead, so it’s no surprise th...
Privacy, safety, security—these are only a few of the reasons that homeowners build solid, durable garden walls. Alth...
The earliest swing sets, which date all the way back to the fifth century B. C. , were nothing more than slabs of woo...
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...
These days, it would be hard to ignore the need for water conservation. Due to drought conditions, California now enf...
This story starts out like many other tales of DIY savvy. While browsing the a trendy retailer store, Sarah of House ...
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...
Karen loves fires—summer bonfires, barbecues, and winter evenings spent 'round the living room hearth. Even so, she'd...
Over the past several years, the tiny house movement has only gained momentum, with increasing numbers of homeowners ...
If you enjoy cozying up to the fireplace in your home, why not consider adding a fire pit in your backyard? Fire pits...
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...
As temperatures drop in the fall, our outdoor activities start to dwindle, and the bustle of life moves indoors. But there are still beautiful days and evenings l...
Who hasn't admired a great product in-store before balking at the price tag? When daring DIYer Anne Davis saw a $300 ...
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...
You can buy a trellis, sure—but where's the fun in that? With no sacrifice in function, a unique DIY trellis separate...
Enter the yard of many homes in America and somewhere among the trees, shrubs, and grass, you’re bound to find metal....
Laying in a hammock is the epitome of summertime relaxation. Getting the hammock set up, on the other hand, can be a ...
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...
A DIY hammock is a game-changer for your outdoor space. What else says summer like a homemade hammock gently swaying ...
Thinking of building a fence? Looking to add a deck? Both projects will be subjected to the whims of Mother Nature, s...
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...
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...
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...
Growing plants in raised beds is a tradition that goes back at least hundreds of years. Here are five reasons why a r...
Here's how to dress up a fence post with a beveled cap. It's easy to do with a radial arm saw. Set the blade at a 45...
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...
Stop running—and bring warmth and ambience to the night with one of these artisan-crafted fire bowls.
Retaining walls offer aesthetic as well as practical benefits: In addition to beautifying the home, they inhibit soil...
It’s one of life’s true pleasures to watch birds as they nest in the spring. If you’d like to encourage birds to buil...
Low-cost additions to any landscape, easy-to-make garden trellises can be used to introduce shade or privacy, or to s...
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...
Shorter days, colder temperatures, and frozen earth: For most, the advent of winter marks the year's end of planting,...
Taking backyard play to new heights, these tree houses just might inspire you to create one to delight the kids—or your inner child.
Outdoors, stain helps wood furniture or backyard equipment look at home in the landscape. Whether you're working on a...
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...
Many homes have fireplaces or propane stoves inside, but there’s nothing quite like enjoying a fire pit under the sta...
Make your letter carrier do a double take with these 11 salvaged-material mailboxes that demonstrate real outside-the-box creativity.
Nothing feels better on a hot summer day after hitting it hard outdoors than showering outdoors. Outdoor shower kits are readily available at most big-box home im...
A fence introduces not only privacy and security to your property, but it can also enhance curb appeal and safely cor...
On the day that Mary Jane McCarty’s prefab shed was delivered, it was raining cats and dogs. But the Bucks County, PA...
When today’s parents and grandparents were growing up, many backyards boasted a simple, inexpensive swing set made of...
Outdoor showers accent pool areas or backyards, providing a convenient place to clean off and a yard feature that is ...
When is a trailer park not a trailer park? When it’s being designed and developed by nationally recognized small-spac...
People have been harvesting rainwater for thousands of years. In the last decade, the practice has emerged as a popul...
A wooden fence is a beautiful accent on any home, but it takes some maintenance to keep it looking neat and trim. Spr...
Browse some of today's most commonly used fencing materials, from timeless wood to utilitarian chain-link.
Winter’s a great time to feed the birds, but if that means feeding the squirrels too, they can quickly wear out their...
There's nothing better than a crackling fire on a chilly night, except maybe not having to go back outside for more f...
Walls, normally thought of as interior design elements, are useful in landscaping, too. A landscaping wall can be fre...
Nothing beats the natural look of a dry-laid stone wall, but building one requires a strong back, deep pockets, and a...
Don't settle for an ordinary pile of logs. Showing off your wood in a creative space will help add another dimension of warmth to your home.
In the summer of 1956, a 12-year-old boy wrote a letter to Frank Lloyd Wright to see if the architect would design a ...
A sloped yard is hard to use, and if it’s got erosion problems or it’s channeling water toward the foundation of your...
We dog owners are a strange breed. We obsess about the day-to-day comfort, happiness, and health of our pets. We own ...
A dog is happy when he knows where home base is. a pet crate, a designated corner, a closet with a pet door or even a...
Nothing says “summer” quite like a gazebo. Images of languid afternoons sipping ice-cold lemonade in the sheltering s...
[bobsays_inset]It is interesting how a chance comment can cause you to pay attention to a garden design feature you h...
Whether they are freestanding, store-bought, or built-in, today's outdoor showers are accessible luxuries for many. Here are some of our favorites.
One thing we miss about living in New York is the awesome city playgrounds. You could walk to a different one every d...
Whether you are looking to house garden tools or create a workshop or studio, here are ten stylish sheds worthy of consideration.
If you’re looking for a way to give your home some character, to frame your garden, or to get a little privacy from t...
Giving your pet a place of his own to take shelter from wind, rain and sun is a noble pursuit. Doghouses now come in ...
Unlike the glass-enclosed garden rooms or conservatories in the UK—glazed interior spaces that provide visual access ...
We all know they don’t like to be fenced in, but after thousands of years of domestication, dogs need boundaries to b...
Rainwater collection has an ancient history with archeological evidence dating back at least 4,000 years. Urban deman...
Depending on the size and weight of the stones used to construct the retaining wall, the tools and materials for the ...
Create some outdoor fun this summer—the old-fashioned way—with this "oh so easy" tire swing how-to.
The homemade birdhouse is a DIY classic. And with good reason: It’s usually the first woodworking project for many; o...
Whether you’re cooling off, rinsing off, or actually bathing, an outdoor shower is a fun and relatively easy summer D...
House hunting for your fine feathered friends? Here are some fun designs to make or buy.
With little or no woodworking experience, you can easily build your own backyard sandbox—here's how.
Deck building is on the rise. According to a 2011 report by The Freedonia Group, leading business researchers, “U. S....
Looking for a way to add instant character to your landscape or garden? Consider one of these beautiful arbors.
This winter, keep the birds happy and fed with one of these fully functionally yet delightfully decorative feeders.
Bob helps carpenter Bob Ryley build a redwood deck. Carpenter Danny Ruffini installs a custom-made redwood-and-cedar fence on the perimeter.
Bob reviews the progress of his western red cedar custom fence, designed to provide privacy and block the carport from the neighbors’ view.
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 ...
The front of the Melrose house gets finishing touches, including a new, insect-resistant porch deck, new trellises, and a porch light.
The backyard is enhanced with a lattice-top gate, and a mudroom is converted into a kitchen pantry to provide storage space.
Backyard landscaping has progressed with the completion of stone work, new plantings, weed control, and the installation of artificial grass.
Old gutters are replaced and external landscaping continues with the trimming of a tree, installing a front garden, and creating steps from recycled granite.
Bob talks with a fencing expert about installing a white-cedar fence in sloped areas at the Melrose house.
Stone workers install a granite retaining wall, replace a front walkway, and build a backyard patio.
Bill Jasper joins Bob for the installation of a removable Baby Barrier pool fence.
Bob meets with Sonya and Bob Berle in the library of Elm Court to discuss the interior design and preservation of this magnificent home.
Jay Triandafilou and a crew from Architectural Fence are on location to install the exterior fence.
Bob is in Mashpee, Massachusetts, where the affordable housing project is well underway with five of the eleven homes currrently under construction.
Bob meets up with landscape mason Hector Santos, who is building a dried-laid stone 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.
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.
Bob, alongside architect Kristian Fenderson and Tom Strangfeld (from Weston Nurseries), walks the property, focusing on the planting selected for this home.
A Northern White Cedar picket fence is discussed and installed.
Bob drops by the third Elmwood project house to watch as the deck is covered with rubber and the hot tub is installed.
Carpenter Bob Ryley helps install a new porch railing and new screen doors. An underground sprinkler system is also installed.
Contractors put in the brick walkway. Forester Moulding and Lumber replicates the porch railings and balusters. Also, new security and sprinkler systems are insta...
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
Bob takes a trip to New York City to tour the Brooklyn Botanical Garden, a spectacular, world-class museum greenhouse.
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...
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.
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley insulate the foundation of an attached solar greenhouse.
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...
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...
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...
Bob checks on the progress of the greenhouse construction and examines the framing of the pergola roof.
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 ...
Bob and contractor Bob Ryley install sloped glazing on a greenhouse with the help of Mark Santos.
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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.
Bob, Martha and the homeowner, Diana, discuss the greenhouse and the decor before Bob reveals a special suprise.
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...
Bob makes his third visit to the playground in Columbus, OH to tour the nearly-complete project and comment on its various features.
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, ...
A trellis-- the frame and lattice of which have been built in the workshop-- is installed in the front yard.
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 ...
Bob has a discussion the landscape architect, Joanne Smallwood, and new wooden fence is installed.
The old ell is joined to the new construction, with some demolition done to make room for a shed dormer and a slider door.
Bob discusses landscaping with specialist Susan Hofer. Topics include sod, a gravel driveway, brickwork, fences, and perennials.
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...
