Outdoor Living & Landscaping Projects (Decks, Patios & Yards)
Advice and discussions on enhancing outdoor spaces, including decks, patios, landscaping, fencing, driveways, outdoor kitchens, pools, and sustainable outdoor living solutions.
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Discussions
83 discussionsneed outdoor lights that survive rain and snow
I'm tired of replacing my outdoor lights every time we get a heavy storm or snowfall. Anyone got suggestions for some sturdy, reliable options that actually last more…
wood picket vs wire mesh fence - can't decide which way to go
Been thinking about putting up a fence around my backyard, mostly to keep my dog from wandering off and to get a bit more privacy. I'm stuck between…
Mulch or living ground cover for a low-maintenance sloped bed?
I’m planning a garden bed on a gentle slope and trying to control weeds and erosion without turning it into a high-maintenance area. I’m considering wood mulch versus…
Price Underground Garage Electrical Service Separately or With the Build?
I’m comparing bids for a detached garage and want the electrical scope priced clearly. The garage will be about 60 feet from the house, with a subpanel, general…
Permeable pavers or concrete for a sloped driveway with runoff concerns?
I’m redoing a sloped driveway that ties into an existing paved area, and runoff during heavy rain is my main concern. I’m considering permeable interlocking pavers versus concrete,…
Is your backyard pool secretly draining the planet?
Saw this news piece yesterday about how backyard pools are actually a pretty big drain on local water supplies, especially in drought-prone areas. I mean, I knew pools…
Trying to decide between a pergola or a sail shade for the backyard
I’m torn between putting up a wooden pergola or just going with a big sail shade over my patio. Pergola looks super nice and feels more “permanent,” but…
Lighting up the backyard fence: solar, wired, or something else?
Trying to figure out a good way to light up my backyard fence without making it look like an airport runway. I’ve seen those little solar lights you…
Digging up the backyard: a suburban adventure gone wild
Picture this: you finally decide to put in that dream pool, and the next thing you know, your backyard looks like a scene from an archaeological dig. There’s…
Building a deck that doesn’t wreck the planet
Finally finished my backyard deck using reclaimed wood and some composite boards made from recycled plastic. Took way longer than I thought (and my back is still mad…
