StepByStep Index

Diary of a Pool Project: Part 1 -- Busting Up the Backyard
Follow along throughout the many stages it takes to build a new inground swimming pool. From digging the big pit to the final result, you'll witness the various steps and stages involved in a complete backyard swimming pool project. Not a do-it-yourself project, this pool includes a landscape architect, licensed pool contractor, subcontractors and crew.

Pruning Ornamental Grasses: How to Groom Your Grasses
Ornamental grasses are fairly new on the landscape scene - they have increased in popularity in recent years. But there's not really a standard way to prune or groom them. And not every landscaper or gardening expert knows how to take care of everything in the garden, including these grasses that can grow quite big. Follow these steps to groom your grasses and get them to looking great. In some regions, that means your ornamental grasses will be show-offs year 'round.

How to Open a Pool: A DIY Guide to Opening a Swimming Pool for the Season
Opening your swimming pool for the season? Wondering just how to open a pool? The simplest way to open your pool for the season is to hire a pool service. But if you’re willing and able, you can do it yourself, and potentially save yourself hundreds of dollars, which you can turn around and spend on more DIY pool equipment.[br][br]Enlist some help from your home’s cohabitants and tackle the dirty deed.

How to Use a Pool Test Kit: The Right Way to Check a Pool's Water Quality
How do you use an at-home pool test kit? If you want to check your pool's water quality, you will need a kit that tests basics like pH levels and alkalinity. Follow these easy instructions to use your pool test kit like a pro.

How to Make Floating Ghosts for Your Outdoor Halloween Display
Anyone can throw a white sheet over a pole in their yard and call it a "ghost." But how about lightweight ghosts that appear to be flying? Follow this easy step-by-step using store-bought or DIY ghosts to learn the "magic" of making your spirits soar.

Diary of a Pool Project Pt. 2: The Rebar Chronicles
Follow along through the many stages it takes to build a new swimming pool. From digging the big pit to the final result, you'll witness the various steps and stages involved in a complete backyard swimming pool project. Not a do-it-yourself project, this pool includes a landscape architect, licensed pool contractor, subcontractors and crew.

How to Dig Post Holes & Install Posts
Follow these simple steps to dig post holes and install posts. While this is for a pre-fabricated arbor, you can use this tutorial for decks, fences, gazebos and other outdoor structures.