Deck and Patio

Get projects, tips and ideas for building and improving your deck and patio using stone, concrete, pavers and outdoor furniture.

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11 Cool DIY Deck Add-On Ideas

It’s time to turn your blah deck into your summer happy place. These easy add-ons (much cheaper than an entire...


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12 Ideas for Lighting Up Your Deck

When night falls, you'll need these deck lighting ideas to help create a great space to hang out and enjoy...


Making Deck Posts

Make square cuts, notches and grooves quickly and accurately


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7 Deck Building Tips from the Pros

Techniques for deck building, framing a deck, building stairs and railings and adding deck trim.



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12 Things You Should Never Do to Your Deck

A backyard deck is a wonderful place to relax or entertain. Make sure you take care of it the right...


How to Prep an Older Deck for Re-Staining

Preparing a deck to accept new stain isn’t difficult because the liquid strippers and cleaners do most of the work....


The Right (and Wrong) Way to Splice Beams

There’s no sense installing a beam that’s not supported by a post. But that’s what this deck builder did. Maybe...


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7 Things You Should Do When Building Your Deck

Want to avoid deck decay and enjoy your outdoor space for the rest of your days? If you use these...


Maintenance-Free Deck Railings

Keep your deck looking new for years without any maintenance


Joist Leveler

When you’re building a deck or other structure solo, it’s pretty hard to level long joists and beams, then hold...


What is Paver Base and Should You Use It

When you look out over your patio, what you see (hopefully) are nice solid patio stones or pavers laid in...


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Don’t Make These Mistakes When Planting a Tree

Reap rewards from your investment of time and money by planting a tree correctly. Avoid these costly mistakes—all of which...


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How to Build a Privacy Screen on Your Patio

This wooden privacy screen works as a fence-like barrier between your patio or deck and your neighbors.


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14 Awesome Plans for DIY Patio Furniture

Upgrade your patio with DIY furniture. It may seem daunting to try to build your own furniture but we'll show...


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10 Stone Patio Ideas

Patios are made for relaxing. Trying to find the perfect look for your patio shouldn't be stressful. Here are ten...

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15 Modern Deck Building Tips and Shortcuts

There are lots of new decking products on the market, and deck-building methods continue to evolve and improve. Here...


How to Replace Deck Boards

Don't build a new deck if all you have to do is replace a few boards.


Build a Circular Retaining Wall and Patio

Hilly, small or ho-hum yard? Modular pavers and blocks let you carve out a unique retreat darn near anywhere!


12 Best Curb Appeal Ideas for Any Budget

Whether you're putting your house on the market soon or simply want to make the exterior as beautiful and welcoming...


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Five Solutions for a shabby deck

To revive a shabby deck, there are five main directions you can go, and we'll guide you through them all.


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10 Tips on How To Protect Outdoor Furniture

Learn how to protect your outdoor furniture so you can enjoy it for multiple seasons. We talked to the experts...


6 Best Outdoor Shades for Cool Comfort and Privacy

Keep your outdoor living space comfortable with the best shades on the market!


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How To Plan and Build a Deck

Family Handyman editor Mike Berner walks you through the process of building a deck from concept to finishing touches.


Best Outdoor Weatherproof TV for Al Fresco Entertainment

Find the best outdoor TV for al fresco entertaining to watch sports, host movie nights or binge a favorite show