Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are more important today than ever. If you’re ready to show off your culinary skills in your new outdoor kitchen or put in a pool for the kids, we’ve got you covered. Learn estimated project costs, easy DIYs, and helpful tips for everything from pest control to covered patios. 

Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Family having a party in the backyard
Photo: Trinette Reed / Stocksy / Adobe Stock
Explore top articles
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Outdoor table and umbrella on a flagstone patio
Dan Simms
•
18. September 2023
18. September 2023
Looking to bring some elegance into your yard with a new patio? This flagstone patio cost guide will help you start your project with confidence and a budget.
modern wooden deck attached to house
Allie Ogletree
•
Nov 30, 2023
Nov 30, 2023
The average cost of pressure-treated decking is between $4,800 and $8,000, depending on the type, size, and labor. Here’s how much PT decking could cost you.
a light wood pool deck surrounding a square pool, with five deck chairs and grass
Alison Kasch
•
Jan 9, 2024
Jan 9, 2024
Take your pool to the next level by adding a deck. A pool deck costs, on average, around $5,000. This guide breaks down the cost to build a pool deck, which fluctuates based on the size, material used, and terrain you live on.
A wooden deck overlooking the backyard
Taylor Freitas
•
Jul 18, 2024
Jul 18, 2024
Thinking about adding a deck to your home? Explore this guide to learn about the average cost to build a deck based on factors like size, material, and labor.
A luxurious lanai patio with an indoor pool
Barbara Bellesi Zito
•
Jan 17, 2024
Jan 17, 2024
Love the outdoors? A lanai is a luxurious way to create an oasis in your home. Here's how to differentiate between a lanai and a patio or veranda.
A balcony with many plants
Deane Biermeier
•
Oct 31, 2023
Oct 31, 2023
Dreaming of a second-floor outdoor living space? Learn how to build a balcony yourself in this step-by-step how-to guide.
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Family enjoying a playful swim in the pool
Heather Ayer  •  Sep 5, 2024
What is the ROI on a Pool?
Adding a pool to your backyard can bring summertime fun, but what does it do for the resale value of your home? Learn about the ROI on a pool before installing.
Family sitting poolside watching the children play
Ginny Bartolone  •  Aug 26, 2024
How Much Does a Pool Remodel Cost? [2024 Data]
When you're long overdue for a pool upgrade, how much does a pool remodel cost? From a new finish to a whole new design, we'll break down your options here.
Home swimming pool in backyard with view of mountains in distance
Ginny Bartolone  •  Aug 26, 2024
How Much Do Swimming Pool Repairs Cost? [2024 Data]
From small leaks to broken pool pumps, how much do pool repairs cost? We'll break down what to expect from your pool repair bill no matter the size of the fix.
Woman with hat relaxing in a hot tub
Lauren Bongard  •  Aug 23, 2024
How Much Does a Hot Tub Cost? [2024 Data]
Hot tub costs vary, depending on the type of spa you choose. Learn how much hot tubs cost in 2024 and how to save on new hot tub prices.
Woman reading book in sunroom and smiling
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Aug 20, 2024
How Much Does It Cost to Rescreen a Porch or Sunroom Enclosure? [2024 Data]
How much does it cost to rescreen your porch or sunroom? Learn about screen materials, average labor costs, and other costs for rescreening your porch.
Woman dipping toes in backyard pool
Stephanie Mickelson  •  Aug 19, 2024
How Much Does Pool Maintenance Cost? [2024 Data]
Dive into the ins and outs of pool maintenance costs to keep your pool sparkling clean and ready for backyard fun and relaxation.
a cedar deck with two patio chairs and a small table overlooking a lush green yard
Heather Ayer  •  Aug 16, 2024
How Much Does a Cedar Deck Cost? [2024 Data]
Cedar is a popular decking material, best known for its natural wooden look and resistance to rot. So, how much does a cedar deck cost? Find out in this guide.
Outdoor sitting area with plunge pool
Heather Ayer  •  Aug 16, 2024
How Much Does a Plunge Pool Cost? [2024 Data]
Thinking of adding a plunge pool to your backyard? Find out how much plunge pools cost, from materials to labor to add-on features.
Girl petting dog on porch
Dan Simms  •  Aug 15, 2024
Sunroom vs. Screened Porch: Pros, Cons, and Costs
Not sure if you’d prefer a sunroom vs. a screened porch? Use this comprehensive guide to help you decide which you’d get more value from in the long run.
A family having fun in the swimming pool
Mariel Loveland  •  Aug 14, 2024
How Much Does an In-Ground Pool Cost? [2024 Data]
Considering a swimming pool for your backyard? Find out everything you need to know about in-ground pool costs, from materials to labor and more.
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Breyden Kellam  •  Aug 8, 2024
How to Winterize a Pool in 12 Steps
Want to protect the longevity of your pool while it’s not in use? This guide will show you how to winterize an above ground pool the right way.
Man cleans fall leaves from pool
Deane Biermeier  •  Aug 7, 2024
Pool Closing Checklist: Prepare Your Pool for Winter
Make a pool closing checklist for your above ground pool this season to protect it from winter damage and ease springtime opening.