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rh2010 / Adobe Stock Raised patios and decks are both fantastic options as a centerpiece of your outdoor space. They’re both great-looking and durable, with plenty of room to host outdoor seating, grills, and various leisure-based activities. These backyard showstoppers may offer the opportunity for outdoor family fun, but there are some fundamental differences in…

Reviewed by Bob Tschudi, Home Building and Remodeling Expert. Need a Deck Built? A new deck is a substantial investment and a very visible addition to your home and landscape. Planning the deck itself requires significant thought. That’s why you need to take time to find a builder with the experience and know-how to get…

Photo: Iriana Shiyan / Adobe Stock Decks and patios can transform an idle outdoor space into a useful and enjoyable platform for entertaining, playing, relaxing, dining, and much more. While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there are several fundamental and subtle differences between them that can help you decide which one is better…

Left/Bottom: bruceman / E+ / Getty Images Right/Top: Jose A. Bernat Bacete / Moment / Getty Images Reviewed by Andy Kilborn, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor.Written by HomeAdvisor. If you’re deciding between cedar and pressure-treated pine, both have their strengths. Cedar is a more durable and attractive choice but can get pricey for those…

Staining wood is not an easy as painting. It could be messy and time-consuming task that requires some experience to achieve good results. But with our helpful tips, this guide gives you the info you need to get the ideal roller or brush for your next DIY wood staining job. On This Page: Best Roller…

How & Where to Get the Best Prices on Decking New decking creates an appealing outdoor space and add value to a home. There are a variety of woods and other materials that are used in decking installation. While some materials can cost a fortune, decking materials can cost $2 to $20 per square foot….

Updated: November 30, 2020 Composite decking is rising in popularity for its durability, low maintenance needs and style. At $4 to $13 per square foot, this material has a more consistent pricing than wood, which can vary from $4 to $30 per square foot. On This Page: How to Choose the Best Deck Boards Composite…

Reviewed by Bob Tschudi, Home Building and Remodeling Expert. Deck Materials Comparison There’s something liberating about spending time outside on a deck. Whether you make it a private retreat shaded by vegetation or an energetic entertainment area complete with a built-in BBQ, this outdoor living space is often the most enjoyable area of a home….

Left image: Photo: slobo / E+ / Getty Images Right image: Photo: jnnault / E+ / Getty Images You may be evaluating materials for your new patio or want to renovate your driveway for maximum curb appeal. If that’s the case, pavers and concrete are both dependable options. Concrete is more cost-effective, while pavers get…

On This Page: What Is Composite Decking? Composite decking is a combination of sawdust and some kind of plastic. Manufacturers may use polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene or polypropylene. There are a few different types, including: Wood Composite: About 50/50 plastic and wood flour Capped Wood Composite: Has a hard outer shell PVC: Made entirely from PVC, sometimes called vinyl Capped…