Yard and Garden Structures

Learn how to build and maintain outdoor structures with these projects, tips and ideas for sheds, fences, pergolas, arbors, storm shelters and tree houses.

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    How to Build a DIY Butterfly House

    Build this simple DIY butterfly house for under $20.


    DIY Screen House Plans

    The perfect outdoor retreat


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    7 Greenhouses For Your Backyard

    A little retreat for the botanist, these greenhouse hideaways will make you and your plants happy.


    How to Choose the Right Retaining Wall Material

    Learn the pros and cons of stone, wood and concrete block retaining walls


    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

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    15 Shed Building Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

    The Family Handyman editors have decades of experience building sheds. Here, they share their top lessons learned, so you can...


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    16 Things You Should Not Do When Cutting Down a Tree

    When felling a tree, it is imperative that you take the necessary precautions (and avoid these 16 no-nos) to keep...


    Joist Leveler

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


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    How to Build a DIY Pavilion

    Does it seem like whenever you want to spend your day off outside, the weather foils your plans? Rain and...


    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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    37 Sensational Fire Pits that Will Let You Soak Up Sunsets

    Fire pits come in all shapes and sizes. Check out our 37 favorite fire pits, and be inspired to create...


    Finally Build Your Dream Shed

    Build your dream shed with easy access, storage galore and a private porch for lounging. Here's how to do it:


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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.

    How to Repair a Chain Link Fence

    Save money with this simple DIY repair


    Miter Saw Tuneup

    If your miter saw isn’t cutting square, the problem is easy to fix. Unplug the saw, loosen the fence bolts,...


    21 Shed Organization Ideas and Projects You Should Know

    Looking for ways to clean up your garden shed mess? We've got the best projects for organizing your shed and...


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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!


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    How To Build a Garden Arbor

    Create this stylish, arched DIY garden arbor in only a couple of days. It’s way easier than it looks.


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    How to Build a Fountain Pond in One Day

    Add life to your backyard with this affordable fountain


    How to Build Easy DIY Steps on a Slope

    This easy-to-build natural stone path will last a lifetime


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    How to Use a Table Saw: Cross Cutting

    An accurate miter gauge and fence and basic wood jigs are the key to perfect table saw cuts.