Backyard Structures

This classic garden arch has just six parts and can be built in less than a day. Create a gateway, frame a walkway in a hedge, or make it part of a trellis or pergola.

Follow these guidelines for building an outdoor dog kennel, including expert advice on kennel size, fencing materials, flooring, the dog house and other topics.

Learn the tools and techniques used for tuckpointing old masonry walls and chimneys. Discover how to restore cracked and worn mortar joints, how to cut out old mortar and how to pack new mortar in neatly and cleanly.

To replace a rail in a split rail fence you have to first dig out a post so you can slip in the new rail. We show you how.

This article will help you avoid major pitfalls and costly mistakes when you're planning and installing a privacy fence. We'll show you the tricks and techniques that pros use to get a beautiful fence that'll meet your needs and fit your...Read more»

Instead of using stone or timbers, make an attractive, long-lasting retaining wall from pressure-treated 2x4s, plywood and trim boards. Construction is fast and simple, and the materials are much lighter to work with.

Learn about and compare natural stone, wood timber and stacked concrete block retaining wall systems. The article shows installation methods and discusses advantages of each material.

Modular concrete blocks for retaining walls and garden projects are available in a huge range of styles and prices. This article surveys the choices and explains the options.

We'll show you how to build an attractive retaining wall that's firm, solid and will stand the test of time. This DIY retaining wall features a solid base, compacted base material and good drainage. The masonry wall looks...Read more»

Vinyl fences come either panelized or as board-and-rail systems. Like wood fences, they look great as long as you set the posts plumb and in a straight line. Here's how.