Decks & Patios

Expand your outdoor living space with a ground-level solid concrete patio. Patios not only function as living spaces but can both correct landscaping problems and increase the value of your home....

You don't have to be a professional contractor to incorporate an enclosed patio into your home's decor, but you should possess some basic knowledge of construction and landscaping techniques. An...

When looking to invest in a home-improvement project, many people choose to build a sunroom. A sunroom provides a great return on your investment; DoItYourself.com says that the return averages...

Painting your concrete patio can literally change the entire look and feel of your outdoor area. Painting the patio adds a layer of protection to the concrete, specifically preventing moisture...

Brick patios add an elegance to almost any landscape. Whether paired with a wooden deck or simply adorned by shrubbery, a brick patio offers aesthetic value and durability. A common landscape...

In order to successfully lay a flagstone patio, it will be necessary to mortar the foundation before the job is complete. Mortar is essential in that it serves as an adhesive to the concrete...

Above-ground pools are popular because of their price and ease of set-up. However, without a deck, the only access to the pool is a cumbersome ladder. Adding a deck will increase the value of...

Flag stone is a popular choice for outdoor patios as it is extremely durable and long-lasting and provides homeowners with a luxurious, elegant finish. While the process of installing flag stone...

Even the most veteran of weekend warriors may blanch at the thought of an oval deck, with all its mysterious mitered angles and odd-sized pieces. Well, fear no more. As with most things...

Arranging natural stone outdoors for a patio or walkway is not an easy job, but it is well worth the effort. The look of natural stone provides a sophisticated look without the extensive...

Add some character to your deck by angling the decking. Decks that have several layers can have each layer at a different angle. Use several angles on the same deck to eliminate the squared off...

You have a garden and landscaping to be proud of, and now you need a spectacular way to share it with friends and family. A wooden gazebo is not only a nice place to relax with loved ones, but...

If you are going to build a deck that is over 5 feet off the ground, hangs over a steep slope, or both, then using the batterboard method to mark the footing locations will probably be difficult...

Curves on an exterior deck will enhance the overall attractiveness and provide a natural visual quality to the project. Trex decking is a workable option in decking material for homeowners wanting...

Low-level decks are good for entertaining guests and relaxing at the end of a long day. Whether the deck is located in the back yard or front, low-level decks can add character to any house. It is...

A concrete screed is a long board, often cut from dimensional lumber, which is used by two or more workers to level the surface of wet concrete. After the concrete is dumped into flat-work forms...

As wet concrete churns in a concrete truck's agitator tank, tiny air bubbles form. When the wet concrete is poured into wall forms or flat forms and spread out, air voids can occur deep within the...

A deck is a perfect place to entertain or to sit and read a book while watching squirrels run in the trees. If your deck is located on the south side of the house it can rapidly become too hot to...

Outdoor rooms are the hottest trend in home decoration. These spaces, which are located outside your home, are comfortably furnished with weather-resistant patio furniture and durable decorations...

Thatching done well can be an attractive rooftop that protects the home, keeps pests out and is environmentally safe with little maintenance for decades. When done right, it is waterproof while...

Painting a deck baluster will help preserve the life of the sculpted, vertical pieces that adorn your new outdoor platform. Proper choice of paint is important as well as the necessity of taking...

To build a rock patio, you will need a supply of rocks that are flat so they will create an even surface. Either get a supply of rocks from your property or proceed to the nearest landscape supply...

The shoveling is over, the concrete truck is gone and you've leveled the wet concrete with a vibrating screed or a manual screed. Now it's time to finish the pour and admire your handiwork....

If you are going to build stairs for a wooden deck, be prepared to engage in some highly important calculations and measurements. Because the deck stairs can go wildly wrong if you don't measure...

Making a five-sided wooden deck is an interesting mathematical challenge and an adventure in carpentry skills. However, with some thoughtful planning, good general knowledge of wood and good ...

The newest word in living space is outdoor rooms. With new advances in landscaping, furniture and architecture, families have a new appreciation for their patio as a place to spend time. And as...

In this article you will learn how to build your own paver block patio to increase the value and enjoyment of your home. These step-by-step instructions will walk you through the process from...

A wooden deck can be a great addition to any backyard. If built correctly, a sturdy deck can offer years of enjoyment.

An outdoor fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home. However, building an outdoor fireplace from scratch is best left to professionals. Happily, prefabricated outdoor fireplace kits allow the...

When building outdoor stairs, the simplest way is the best way. This means that you can use two 2 X 10's or 2 X 12's as stringers and then attach the stair tread by means of a metal bracket. This...

When pouring concrete, it is essential that it is level. The key to having level concrete is preparing properly for the pour. When pouring a pad of concrete, you need to make sure to level your...

Having a deck is the perfect opportunity to entertain family and friends outside. This is also a great place to show some creativity. Instead of having a deck like everyone else in your...

Forget those boring gray slabs. Concrete etching offers revolutionary color and design options for new and existing concrete areas. Depending on the job, the cost of decorative concrete etching...

Decks can be built in many different shapes and sizes. This guide will cover the basics on building a square deck, this design could be expanded to almost any size.

Think about the relaxing fun you can have on a patio. First, though, you have to attach it to your mobile home. Check out these steps to go further with your plans to add a patio to your home.

Concrete patios are not only functional but also can last longer than those made of wood. Concrete patios are made by pouring concrete which can be a challenging project for do-it-yourselfers....

What is more inviting after a hard day at the office than a nice relaxing evening sitting on a deck you built yourself? Not that you would ever vie for the envy of your neighbors -- but it is a...

Many of us have concrete patios that have been gray since the day they were poured. We are tired of that gray and tired of looking at the patio. We admire the new stamped concrete at the...

There are a couple of ways to hang deck joists. The easiest and most accurate way is to use metal joist hangers that can be purchased at most hardware, lumber and home improvement stores. If you...

Most outdoor grills don't give you enough space to work with your food and store your utensils. You can solve this problem by building an island that can be used to prepare food and store all the...

An outdoor fire pit can be a great addition to your backyard. It will not only provide you with a new way to cook, but will also give you warmth on chilly nights. Read on to learn how to build a...

People have used smokers to cook food for thousands of years. A chimney cooker will smoke your food evenly and be an addition to your backyard or patio that is pleasing to the eye. Read on to...

Welding handrails for a deck allows for absolute customization and personal touches that you don't get from pre-fabricated handrails. The skill of welding is a learned art and required practice,...

Railing is mandatory on all decks over 2 feet high and recommended for all decks as a safety feature. After the deck boards and steps are installed you can finish your deck with the railing.

You don't have to necessarily rely on contractors or other "professionals" to build a trusty set of deck steps. By reading/following these rules, you'll find that the steps can be built either...

A deck helps you maximize your outdoor living space. The right design will allow you to make the most of your deck when entertaining, relaxing, enjoying the view or even gardening. Here we walk...

Having a deck built by a professional can save you time, energy and even money in the long run. It may also be necessary if your deck will span several levels, if it will be built over water or...

Are you thinking about building out a deck for your house? If you are handy with tools and like to build things yourself, this article will provide you with enough help to finish the project....