Deck joist spacing and span in plain numbers
Deck joist spacing dictates your framing plan, so learn how to read span tables, pick between common center measurements and calculate overhang limits.
6 min to read
Wild Style Magazine
9 fire pit patio ideas with safe spacing built in
Find practical fire pit patio ideas that create a safe gathering space in your yard. Discover nine layouts with proper spacing to keep your home protected.
8 min to read
Fresh from the yard
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Can you put an outdoor kitchen on a deck
6 min to read
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How to plan a DIY outdoor kitchen from grill to counter
7 min to read
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How deep deck footings go and what your inspector checks
6 min to read
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12 deck railing ideas and the code rules behind them
Find the right deck railing ideas for your yard and learn the local building rules that keep your family safe around open edges and stairs.
9 min to read
Wood or composite deck boards and how to choose
Find the right deck boards for your yard with our breakdown of wood and composite options. Compare upkeep, lifespan and fastening rules before you buy.
6 min to read
What gravel works best for a driveway
Find out the best gravel for driveway installations by learning how base layers, crushed stone, and proper drainage keep your surface solid and rut-free.
6 min to read
Driveway pavers that hold up under cars and winters
Find out which driveway pavers hold up under heavy cars and freezing winters so you can plan a durable paver driveway installation for your home.
6 min to read
Asphalt or concrete driveway and how to choose
Pick the right surface for your home with this asphalt vs concrete driveway comparison covering climate, upfront costs, lifespan and repair work.
6 min to read
4 flat roof materials and how they hold up
Compare EPDM, TPO, modified bitumen and elastomeric coatings to see how four common flat roof materials hold up on low slope roofs.
5 min to read
6 types of roof shingles and where each one fits
Compare the different roof shingle types before your next project to find the right match for your climate, budget and neighborhood rules.
5 min to read
What happens during a roof replacement from bid to cleanup
Learn exactly what happens during a residential roof replacement from spotting signs of wear to getting bids and signing off on the final cleanup.
7 min to read
Metal roof or asphalt shingles for your house
Compare a metal roof vs shingles for your house to see which fits your budget, and learn how they stack up on lifespan, cooling costs and local rules.
7 min to read
Patio covers compared for shade, rain and upkeep
Compare solid patio covers, aluminum panels and retractable awnings for shade and rain protection, so you can pick the right setup for your yard.
7 min to read
13 pergola ideas for shade over a patio or deck
These 13 pergola ideas show you how to add shade to your patio or deck with freestanding, attached, louvered and wood options for your yard.
8 min to read
What the neighbors are reading
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9 fire pit patio ideas with safe spacing built in
Outdoor Kitchens
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How to plan a DIY outdoor kitchen from grill to counter
Outdoor Kitchens
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Deck joist spacing and span in plain numbers
Deck Building
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12 deck railing ideas and the code rules behind them
Deck Building
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Driveway pavers that hold up under cars and winters
Driveways and Paving
Every project area
Garden Design
Raised beds, borders, edging and planting layouts that make a yard look planned and stay easy to keep up.
14 small backyard ideas that work on a tight lot
Find 14 small backyard ideas that turn a tight lot into a useful outdoor space with smart layout tricks, diagonal paving and space-saving plants.
Patios and Pergolas
Patio materials, layouts, covers and shade structures for turning a bare backyard into a place to sit.
Patio covers compared for shade, rain and upkeep
Compare solid patio covers, aluminum panels and retractable awnings for shade and rain protection, so you can pick the right setup for your yard.
Roofing
Shingle, metal and flat roof materials, repair or replace decisions and what a roofing job involves.
4 flat roof materials and how they hold up
Compare EPDM, TPO, modified bitumen and elastomeric coatings to see how four common flat roof materials hold up on low slope roofs.
Driveways and Paving
Pavers, concrete, asphalt and gravel for driveways, walkways and edges, with costs and care.
What gravel works best for a driveway
Find out the best gravel for driveway installations by learning how base layers, crushed stone, and proper drainage keep your surface solid and rut-free.
Deck Building
Deck boards, framing, railings and permits for anyone planning or rebuilding a deck.
How deep deck footings go and what your inspector checks
Deck footings go at least 12 inches deep or below the frost line. Learn how to dig footings, avoid utility lines and pass your deck inspection.
Outdoor Kitchens
Grill islands, countertops, fire features and seating for cooking and gathering outside.
9 fire pit patio ideas with safe spacing built in
Find practical fire pit patio ideas that create a safe gathering space in your yard. Discover nine layouts with proper spacing to keep your home protected.