Pool & Patio: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
In-Ground or Above-Ground?
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Decking Connection
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Enclosed Above-Ground Pool
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Decked-Out Doughboy
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Doughboy Buried Pool
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Top-Level Doughboy Pool
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Long, Cool Pool
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
A Round Above
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
San Antonio Deck Surround
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Neighborhood Pool
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
I Can't Believe it's Not In-Ground
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Backyard Haven
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Somewhat Above-Ground
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Doughboy Round
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Retractable Pool Cover
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Kid's Paradise
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Side Motifs
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Opening a Swimming Pool
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. Enlist some help from your home’s cohabitants and tackle the dirty deed.
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. Enlist some help from your home’s cohabitants and tackle the dirty deed.
Above-Ground Pool in the Hills of San Antonio
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Fenced In
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Top Automatic Pool Cleaners
The next-best thing to having a weekly "pool guy" is buying an automatic pool cleaner for your in-ground
The next-best thing to having a weekly "pool guy" is buying an automatic pool cleaner for your in-ground
Playhouse Plans & Ideas
Updated November 2011 From basic sheds with a few embellishments to Colonial mini-mansions with all the
Updated November 2011 From basic sheds with a few embellishments to Colonial mini-mansions with all the
Patio Design Ideas
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
How to Use a Pool Test Kit
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 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.
Above-Ground Pool Deals
While late summer is traditionally the best time of the year to score a great deal on an above-ground swimming pool, the current economy changes all the rules. Whether you get an above-ground pool in the spring or fall, you still have the potential of saving hundreds of dollars, if you keep an eye on the prices. Above-ground pools can be as simple or elaborate as you need, desire or can afford. Take a look at the assortment of on-ground and above-ground swimming pools currently available.
While late summer is traditionally the best time of the year to score a great deal on an above-ground swimming pool, the current economy changes all the rules. Whether you get an above-ground pool in the spring or fall, you still have the potential of saving hundreds of dollars, if you keep an eye on the prices. Above-ground pools can be as simple or elaborate as you need, desire or can afford. Take a look at the assortment of on-ground and above-ground swimming pools currently available.
Above-Ground Swimming Pool Designs, Shapes and Styles
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Above the Deck
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
In the current economy, above-ground swimming pools are enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Why? Above-grounds always have cost less than in-ground pools, a point that is not lost on pool shoppers and buyers. Other selling points: above-ground pools are a breeze to install compared to building an in-ground pool, many can be disassembled at the end of swim season, and that portability makes them good choices for renters or those who would like to take their pool with them when they move.
Pool Party Fountains & Floats
The pool party is at your house! Since you're the lucky one with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or other outdoor water feature, you have the job of making sure the outside party is a splashing success! Nothing is more fun and festive at pool party than fountains, underwater light shows, inflatables, pool toys and other waterworks and accessories. Picture the setting as your guests arrive: shimmering lights in the pool, fountains spraying and a giant floating swan. Welcome to your oasis!
The pool party is at your house! Since you're the lucky one with a swimming pool, spa, hot tub or other outdoor water feature, you have the job of making sure the outside party is a splashing success! Nothing is more fun and festive at pool party than fountains, underwater light shows, inflatables, pool toys and other waterworks and accessories. Picture the setting as your guests arrive: shimmering lights in the pool, fountains spraying and a giant floating swan. Welcome to your oasis!
Bark Mulch & Pea Gravel
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Hot Tubs for Two
Hot Tubs don't always have to be expensive, especially if you choose a tub that's designed for 2-3 people, rather than a party-full. Not everyone loves the idea of wearing a swimsuit while sitting knee-to-knee in someone's hot tub. Assess what your needs are, and how often you'll use it. If the hot tub would mostly be used by you and your special person, it might be time to consider one of the many smaller models that provide the same amenities without the size or extra seats.
Hot Tubs don't always have to be expensive, especially if you choose a tub that's designed for 2-3 people, rather than a party-full. Not everyone loves the idea of wearing a swimsuit while sitting knee-to-knee in someone's hot tub. Assess what your needs are, and how often you'll use it. If the hot tub would mostly be used by you and your special person, it might be time to consider one of the many smaller models that provide the same amenities without the size or extra seats.
Paver Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Outdoor Privacy Screen Photos
Maybe you're seeking a private space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Check out this gallery of creative solutions to gain privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. These photos are meant to suggest and inspire; obviously, you can't run out to your local big-box store and pick up a wall mural or bamboo forest. Get ideas for privacy walls, fences, shrubs and more.
Maybe you're seeking a private space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. Check out this gallery of creative solutions to gain privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. These photos are meant to suggest and inspire; obviously, you can't run out to your local big-box store and pick up a wall mural or bamboo forest. Get ideas for privacy walls, fences, shrubs and more.
Outdoor Privacy Screens
Need an outdoor privacy screen? Regardless of your property's size, there are some areas of your outdoor living space that require some sort of privacy fence. Whether it's to gain privacy for the area near your swimming pool, hot tub, spa, outdoor kitchen, patio, or just a spot where you can sit and enjoy some solitude, you're going to need to figure out how to create that screen, barrier, fence, etc. Follow these tips for finding the right screen or privacy fence.
Need an outdoor privacy screen? Regardless of your property's size, there are some areas of your outdoor living space that require some sort of privacy fence. Whether it's to gain privacy for the area near your swimming pool, hot tub, spa, outdoor kitchen, patio, or just a spot where you can sit and enjoy some solitude, you're going to need to figure out how to create that screen, barrier, fence, etc. Follow these tips for finding the right screen or privacy fence.
Best BBQ and Grill Recipes
It's your turn to host a backyard barbecue. Of course, your backyard can be a balcony, deck or patio - any space outdoors will do. The important thing is - what's on the menu? We've gathered some of the best and tastiest grill and bbq recipes we could find from About.com's many amazing chefs and food writers. Consider it kind of a Party Central for outdoor entertaining, with something for everyone, from all corners of the globe. We've got it all covered, with everything to make the bbq a blast!
It's your turn to host a backyard barbecue. Of course, your backyard can be a balcony, deck or patio - any space outdoors will do. The important thing is - what's on the menu? We've gathered some of the best and tastiest grill and bbq recipes we could find from About.com's many amazing chefs and food writers. Consider it kind of a Party Central for outdoor entertaining, with something for everyone, from all corners of the globe. We've got it all covered, with everything to make the bbq a blast!
Before You Poolscape
Those faced with the job of landscaping near a swimming pool in any region have the basic considerations pool owners in any region must confront. Before making an impulsive trip to the nursery for whatever strikes your fancy, do some research. Those fruit and flower-bearing trees and shrubs may be beauties, but they make a big mess when their leaves, needles, fruits or flowers fall in and around your pool. Fruit and flowers = extra work for the pool cleaner, you or the person you hire.
Those faced with the job of landscaping near a swimming pool in any region have the basic considerations pool owners in any region must confront. Before making an impulsive trip to the nursery for whatever strikes your fancy, do some research. Those fruit and flower-bearing trees and shrubs may be beauties, but they make a big mess when their leaves, needles, fruits or flowers fall in and around your pool. Fruit and flowers = extra work for the pool cleaner, you or the person you hire.
Front-Yard Flagstone Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Above Ground Swimming Pools
If an in-ground swimming pool isn't in your future for whatever reason, maybe an above ground pool is the solution. Above ground swimming pools range from affordable models to more luxurious (and expensive) styles. Many can be enjoyed year 'round, and some use saltwater systems popular with in-ground models. Above ground pools can also be equipped with solar heating systems and covers.
If an in-ground swimming pool isn't in your future for whatever reason, maybe an above ground pool is the solution. Above ground swimming pools range from affordable models to more luxurious (and expensive) styles. Many can be enjoyed year 'round, and some use saltwater systems popular with in-ground models. Above ground pools can also be equipped with solar heating systems and covers.
Pool Saltwater Calculators
How much salt should you put in your swimming pool? Provided you have a chlorine generator -- that thing that turns salt into chlorine -- you're going to need to calculate the correct amount of salt to add to your swimming pool. You can't just salt it liberally, like it's a big, juicy slab of steak on the barbecue. We've assembled a list of saltwater calculators -- some online, some that are cell phone apps -- to help you get it right.
How much salt should you put in your swimming pool? Provided you have a chlorine generator -- that thing that turns salt into chlorine -- you're going to need to calculate the correct amount of salt to add to your swimming pool. You can't just salt it liberally, like it's a big, juicy slab of steak on the barbecue. We've assembled a list of saltwater calculators -- some online, some that are cell phone apps -- to help you get it right.
Playhouse Kits to Buy
Playhouses and tree houses are an integral part of a child's outdoor play area. If you don't quite have the DIY thing down to the point that you think you can tackle small-scale home-building, consider one of the many playhouse kits available. You're still building it on your own, you've just got all the pieces cut and finished, ready for you to read the directions and assemble. Piece of cake, right? Find out what too look for and learn about some of the top-selling playhouse kits on the market.
Playhouses and tree houses are an integral part of a child's outdoor play area. If you don't quite have the DIY thing down to the point that you think you can tackle small-scale home-building, consider one of the many playhouse kits available. You're still building it on your own, you've just got all the pieces cut and finished, ready for you to read the directions and assemble. Piece of cake, right? Find out what too look for and learn about some of the top-selling playhouse kits on the market.
Gazebo Patio
Garden and patio gazebos are ways to create an instant covered patio. Just construct a ready-to-assemble gazebo on your designated patio site. Before the gazebo goes up, make sure the ground is level and has an appropriate patio flooring material. In this case, it's simple pea gravel, but the surface area needs to be at an even level. Once the gazebo is assembled, your patio area is ready to be furnished and decorated with containers, hanging plants, lighting, wind chimes and other accessories.
Garden and patio gazebos are ways to create an instant covered patio. Just construct a ready-to-assemble gazebo on your designated patio site. Before the gazebo goes up, make sure the ground is level and has an appropriate patio flooring material. In this case, it's simple pea gravel, but the surface area needs to be at an even level. Once the gazebo is assembled, your patio area is ready to be furnished and decorated with containers, hanging plants, lighting, wind chimes and other accessories.
Rustic Beauty
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Three Paving Materials
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Outdoor Deck Designs
You want to build a deck from wood or composite decking materials. Next comes a deck type or style, which will be determined by where the deck will be located in relation to your house. Consider locating a deck on forgotten spaces like a seldom-used driveway, over a garage or nestled against a hill or on a slope. Ready? Let's find a type of deck and the best place upon which to build it.
You want to build a deck from wood or composite decking materials. Next comes a deck type or style, which will be determined by where the deck will be located in relation to your house. Consider locating a deck on forgotten spaces like a seldom-used driveway, over a garage or nestled against a hill or on a slope. Ready? Let's find a type of deck and the best place upon which to build it.
Flagstone with River Rock Mosaic
Flagstone pavers on this patio floor get a framing effect with a mosaic border of Mexican river rock.
Flagstone pavers on this patio floor get a framing effect with a mosaic border of Mexican river rock.
Modern Decking & Gravel
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Poolside Plants That Look Like Paradise and Withstand the Elements
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Saltillo-Tile Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Readers' Choice Best Decking
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking.
The About.com Reader's Choice Awards 2011 Best Pool and Patio category honors the year's top pool and patio products, brands and manufacturers, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This is the first year that the Pool and Patio category has joined the Readers' Choice Awards. This year's Best Pool and Patio category seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking.
Small Garden Simplicity
Recipe for an instant small garden and patio: take two colorful folding metal chairs, a small outdoor rug, and a rolling cart / side table. If your deck or patio space is limited, don't try to force an oversized chair or table into the setting, even if you just love that deep-cushion wicker chair. It's only going to make your small space appear - and actually become - smaller.
Recipe for an instant small garden and patio: take two colorful folding metal chairs, a small outdoor rug, and a rolling cart / side table. If your deck or patio space is limited, don't try to force an oversized chair or table into the setting, even if you just love that deep-cushion wicker chair. It's only going to make your small space appear - and actually become - smaller.
Best Pool Cleaner 2012
If you own a swimming pool or spa, cleaning and maintenance is a big part of the package. If your pool isn't cleaned regularly, nobody will want to -- or should -- go swimming in a big green swamp of algae. Fortunately, several pool cleaners / vacuums are available and reasonably priced to make pool cleaning less of the back-breaking chore it once was. The most popular models are automatic or robotic pool cleaners, which comb the surfaces of your pool and climb the walls, hopefully sucking up debris and algae along the way. The five finalists represent top companies in the pool and spa industry.
If you own a swimming pool or spa, cleaning and maintenance is a big part of the package. If your pool isn't cleaned regularly, nobody will want to -- or should -- go swimming in a big green swamp of algae. Fortunately, several pool cleaners / vacuums are available and reasonably priced to make pool cleaning less of the back-breaking chore it once was. The most popular models are automatic or robotic pool cleaners, which comb the surfaces of your pool and climb the walls, hopefully sucking up debris and algae along the way. The five finalists represent top companies in the pool and spa industry.
Cottage Garden Patio Nook
This cottage garden has many nooks, crannies and surprises throughout. Here, a simple concrete slab with a curved row of bricks could be rather plain without landscaping, furniture, statuary, containers, lighting and other garden features. This is a great example of what happens when you combine design elements of a certain style or theme -- in this case, it's a whimsical cottage garden.
This cottage garden has many nooks, crannies and surprises throughout. Here, a simple concrete slab with a curved row of bricks could be rather plain without landscaping, furniture, statuary, containers, lighting and other garden features. This is a great example of what happens when you combine design elements of a certain style or theme -- in this case, it's a whimsical cottage garden.
Wheelchair Accessible Patio Garden
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
El Patio: Mexican Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Mediterranean Courtyard
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Faux Fossils
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Cheap Patio Furniture
Maybe it's time for some new outdoor furniture, but your budget won't bend. Like other potential purchases, you can work more closely toward your goal if you have an open mind and do some creative searching. Stores specializing in patio furniture year 'round often carry high-end, brands, but are less likely to hold unbeatable sales. Look beyond the obvious and traditional sources and you might be in for a pleasant surprise. In some cases, inexpensive translates into next-to-nothing or free.
Maybe it's time for some new outdoor furniture, but your budget won't bend. Like other potential purchases, you can work more closely toward your goal if you have an open mind and do some creative searching. Stores specializing in patio furniture year 'round often carry high-end, brands, but are less likely to hold unbeatable sales. Look beyond the obvious and traditional sources and you might be in for a pleasant surprise. In some cases, inexpensive translates into next-to-nothing or free.
Ipe Deck Steps
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Sun Bath Garden Hideaway
Large flagstones set in pebbles or pea gravel make up the floor of this backyard patio retreat. The tub is large enough for two, but no more, making it the perfect hideaway for a couple. Privacy can be obtained by way of close plantings or containers. A nearby water feature creates a different type of privacy by blocking any neighborhood noise with the soothing sound of running water. Patio citrus trees enhance the sensory experience of this patio hideaway.
Large flagstones set in pebbles or pea gravel make up the floor of this backyard patio retreat. The tub is large enough for two, but no more, making it the perfect hideaway for a couple. Privacy can be obtained by way of close plantings or containers. A nearby water feature creates a different type of privacy by blocking any neighborhood noise with the soothing sound of running water. Patio citrus trees enhance the sensory experience of this patio hideaway.
Square Pavers & Pebbles
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Tree-Stump Patio Seating
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Round Pavers in Gravel
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Gravel Framing and Edging
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Patriotic Decor for Outdoors
The 4th of July might be your biggest outdoor party of the year, and your guests will feel festive from the get-go if your porch, patio or other outdoor spaces display patriotic pride with red, white and blue decor. To ensure your celebration is a success, consider adding some of these sizzling outdoor decorations and accessories, which are classic patriotic Americana or just forthright Fourth of July fun.
The 4th of July might be your biggest outdoor party of the year, and your guests will feel festive from the get-go if your porch, patio or other outdoor spaces display patriotic pride with red, white and blue decor. To ensure your celebration is a success, consider adding some of these sizzling outdoor decorations and accessories, which are classic patriotic Americana or just forthright Fourth of July fun.
Circle of Adirondacks
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
The View From the Terrace
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Outdoor Living Room
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Low Wall for Privacy
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Living on the Outside
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Tuscan-Style Red Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Three Patio Floors
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. Most patios are set on a concrete slab or a sand and pebble base. Once you've found the site for your patio, there are other design considerations. This photo gallery suggests patio design ideas to help inspire you.
Secluded Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Footprint Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Patio and Fireplace
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Midcentury Modern Minimalism
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Elizabeth Taylor's Puerto Vallarta Patio
This second-floor courtyard patio is at Casa Kimberly near downtown Puerto Vallarta, Mexico . Long ago,
This second-floor courtyard patio is at Casa Kimberly near downtown Puerto Vallarta, Mexico . Long ago,
Girl From 'The Grudge'
Get your Halloween spirit on! Big or small, your outdoor space needs to be transformed into something festive for Halloween. Spooky, terrifying or family-friendly Halloween decorations adorn people's front and backyards, porches, entryways, doors, windows, patios, balconies and wherever else they can find to decorate. Halloween is second only to Christmas in consumer dollars spent on outdoor decorations. Find out how to unleash those creative spirits for the perfect Halloween display or party.
Get your Halloween spirit on! Big or small, your outdoor space needs to be transformed into something festive for Halloween. Spooky, terrifying or family-friendly Halloween decorations adorn people's front and backyards, porches, entryways, doors, windows, patios, balconies and wherever else they can find to decorate. Halloween is second only to Christmas in consumer dollars spent on outdoor decorations. Find out how to unleash those creative spirits for the perfect Halloween display or party.
Above Ground Pool Companies
An above ground swimming pool seems like a great idea, but where do you go to learn more about the different manufacturers? The following is a frequently updated list of above ground pool manufacturers. While above ground pools have seen a rise in popularity since the Great Recession, some manufacturers have had to close their doors because of the economy.
An above ground swimming pool seems like a great idea, but where do you go to learn more about the different manufacturers? The following is a frequently updated list of above ground pool manufacturers. While above ground pools have seen a rise in popularity since the Great Recession, some manufacturers have had to close their doors because of the economy.
Patio Passageway
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Deck Plans and Designs
The most difficult part of building a deck may be planning and designing it. Sure, you know you want one, and you may know you want to use real wood or synthetic decking. But deciding where the deck should go, how large it should be, whether it should connect to the house or be free-standing are all considerations before jumping into the project. The plans we've assembled will hopefully serve as a springboard, helping you to define what you want and where to go from there. Good luck, and let us know how your deck project is coming along.
The most difficult part of building a deck may be planning and designing it. Sure, you know you want one, and you may know you want to use real wood or synthetic decking. But deciding where the deck should go, how large it should be, whether it should connect to the house or be free-standing are all considerations before jumping into the project. The plans we've assembled will hopefully serve as a springboard, helping you to define what you want and where to go from there. Good luck, and let us know how your deck project is coming along.
Beanbag Patio Area
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Color Your World
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Saltillo & Teak
Teak patio furniture gives this walled courtyard a warm, rich and inviting appeal. The patio is situated near the front door of a house in Santa Monica, California, and is a small, but well-designed outdoor room. The warm reddish hue of the saltillo tile flooring is picked up in the wood of the teak patio furniture and the outdoor cushions and pillows. Teak and other hardwoods, like ipe, have always been a popular choice for outdoor patio and garden furniture.
Teak patio furniture gives this walled courtyard a warm, rich and inviting appeal. The patio is situated near the front door of a house in Santa Monica, California, and is a small, but well-designed outdoor room. The warm reddish hue of the saltillo tile flooring is picked up in the wood of the teak patio furniture and the outdoor cushions and pillows. Teak and other hardwoods, like ipe, have always been a popular choice for outdoor patio and garden furniture.
Brick Pavers & Black Gravel
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Eye-Catching Hebe
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Front Yard Patio
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Where do patio design ideas come from? You might see patio designs in a magazine or get garden design ideas from a local garden tour. Outdoor patios can be attached to a house, or detached. They are often designed and oriented with the landscape in mind. Patios are versatile: they can take on any shape and be built with a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, stone, tile, brick, pebbles, rock or pea gravel. These patio design pictures are here to inspire you. Enjoy!
Pre-Fab Deck
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Swimming Pool Shapes
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Things that can dictate pool shapes: lot size and available space, lay of the land, budget, safety codes, your home's architectural style, and how you will use the pool.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Things that can dictate pool shapes: lot size and available space, lay of the land, budget, safety codes, your home's architectural style, and how you will use the pool.
Types of Decking
Wood or composite decking -- or something else? Like any major home purchase, decking materials vary in looks, durability and cost. Start your reseach here, becoming familiar with types of authentic and synthetic decking. Also, you might want to use certain types of lumber of decking for structural parts of your deck project, and other decking timber for surfaces and railings -- the parts that you will see and walk on. What follows are the most-used materials to construct a residential deck.
Wood or composite decking -- or something else? Like any major home purchase, decking materials vary in looks, durability and cost. Start your reseach here, becoming familiar with types of authentic and synthetic decking. Also, you might want to use certain types of lumber of decking for structural parts of your deck project, and other decking timber for surfaces and railings -- the parts that you will see and walk on. What follows are the most-used materials to construct a residential deck.
Oval Aboveground with Deck Surround
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Side-Yard Deck
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Patio or Deck?
Patio or deck? How do you know which one is right for you, your lifestyle and your outdoor living space? And how can you really tell the difference between a deck and a patio anyway?
Patio or deck? How do you know which one is right for you, your lifestyle and your outdoor living space? And how can you really tell the difference between a deck and a patio anyway?
Outdoor Entertaining and BBQs
You're hosting a backyard barbecue. Despite the casual nature of being outdoors, your party can range from last-minute informal to a well-choreographed backyard bbq for hundreds. Thus, there are basics and essentials you'll need to get the party started. Like: cleaning up outdoors; ensuring it's safe; providing patio furniture, a grill, menu, decorations, outdoor lighting, games, music and activities -- all ingredients for a good time. Here's your Party Central for Outdoor Entertaining.
You're hosting a backyard barbecue. Despite the casual nature of being outdoors, your party can range from last-minute informal to a well-choreographed backyard bbq for hundreds. Thus, there are basics and essentials you'll need to get the party started. Like: cleaning up outdoors; ensuring it's safe; providing patio furniture, a grill, menu, decorations, outdoor lighting, games, music and activities -- all ingredients for a good time. Here's your Party Central for Outdoor Entertaining.
Hot Tub Deck
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Attention, Please! Agave Attenuata
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Outdoor Privacy Screens: Ideas for Outdoor Screens and Backyard Retreats
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
With an outdoor privacy screen, you can add some much-needed privacy to your pool, hot tub or spa area. Maybe you're seeking a small space for a backyard retreat or a patio, deck or balcony. An outdoor privacy screen gives you personal space away from the view of neighbors or passers-by. These photo galleries provide inspiration and creative solutions for gaining privacy in your backyard or outdoor living space. Check back often -- new photos are added frequently.
Backyard Banana Tree
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Jade: A South African Succulent
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Grasses Gone Wild
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 they may be show-offs year 'round.
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 they may be show-offs year 'round.
A Bouquet of Aeonium Rosettes
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Charlie Sheen Buys House
Somehow, amid all of Charlie Sheen's interviews, ramblings, rants, firings and profound catch phrases, the celebrity managed to buy a house. A big, Beverly Hills mansion with 7 bedrooms and 8.5 baths -- should he decide to ever take one -- all for $7.5 million. The Mulholland Estates home is just doors away from Sheen's own house -- dubbed Sober Valley Lodge. Various reports say that Sheen is buying the house for ex-wife Denise Richards, while others say it's for ex-wife Brooke Mueller.
Somehow, amid all of Charlie Sheen's interviews, ramblings, rants, firings and profound catch phrases, the celebrity managed to buy a house. A big, Beverly Hills mansion with 7 bedrooms and 8.5 baths -- should he decide to ever take one -- all for $7.5 million. The Mulholland Estates home is just doors away from Sheen's own house -- dubbed Sober Valley Lodge. Various reports say that Sheen is buying the house for ex-wife Denise Richards, while others say it's for ex-wife Brooke Mueller.
Giant Bird of Paradise
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Dining on the Deck
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Secret Garden
Enjoy these secret garden and outdoor room ideas, however small they may be. Believe it or not, hard work in your yard may go unnoticed if it's too far away for visitors to easily access. A few steps outside your door can instantly send you to a different world, where details can be enjoyed up close. When designing a small garden or outdoor room, focus on colors and textures that complement one another, forming a pleasing arrangement that can be viewed as a vignette or well-composed picture.
Enjoy these secret garden and outdoor room ideas, however small they may be. Believe it or not, hard work in your yard may go unnoticed if it's too far away for visitors to easily access. A few steps outside your door can instantly send you to a different world, where details can be enjoyed up close. When designing a small garden or outdoor room, focus on colors and textures that complement one another, forming a pleasing arrangement that can be viewed as a vignette or well-composed picture.
Top Patio Dining Sets
Think about it. An outdoor patio dining set is like the anchor or hub of an outdoor room. You've got your burgers, marinade and some sort of grill. You can't just hand someone a meat patty and expect them to wander aimlessly throughout your yard. Enter the outdoor dining set. It lures you and your guests outdoors and keeps you there. If it's comfortable, well-made, and attractive, it establishes an outdoor room. We've done the scouting: check out our top picks for patio dining sets.
Think about it. An outdoor patio dining set is like the anchor or hub of an outdoor room. You've got your burgers, marinade and some sort of grill. You can't just hand someone a meat patty and expect them to wander aimlessly throughout your yard. Enter the outdoor dining set. It lures you and your guests outdoors and keeps you there. If it's comfortable, well-made, and attractive, it establishes an outdoor room. We've done the scouting: check out our top picks for patio dining sets.
Showy Ornamental Grass: Porcupine Grass
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
White House Grounds Trivia
We've heard interesting facts and trivia about the presidents, their families, and the White House. But what about the White House grounds, or more specifically, the swimming pools, patios, porches, secret retreats, outdoor garden furniture and other features we may not know about. Enjoy these bits of information about the White House landscape, past and present.
We've heard interesting facts and trivia about the presidents, their families, and the White House. But what about the White House grounds, or more specifically, the swimming pools, patios, porches, secret retreats, outdoor garden furniture and other features we may not know about. Enjoy these bits of information about the White House landscape, past and present.
Succulent Garden Design Ideas
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Angel's Trumpet
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Ornamental Sweet Potato Vine
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Martha Washington Geraniums
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Egyptian Papyrus
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Who Let the Moose Near the Pool?
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Ipe Wood
What is ipe wood, and where does it come from? Is it a good choice for decking materials or outdoor garden furniture? Find out what ipe wood is and is not.
What is ipe wood, and where does it come from? Is it a good choice for decking materials or outdoor garden furniture? Find out what ipe wood is and is not.
Deck Building
You don't want a "slab" of concrete -- you'd like your outdoor space to rise up to the level of your
You don't want a "slab" of concrete -- you'd like your outdoor space to rise up to the level of your
Detecting a Pool or Spa Leak
Signs that a swimming pool or spa is leaking may or may not be obvious. If you suspect a leak, there are proven ways to inspect and detect. In the book, The Ultimate Guide to Pool Maintenance, author Terry Tamminen suggests several methods for detecting leaks in pools and spas. Some he considers easy do-it-yourself methods, others he suggests consulting a professional. Give your chosen test some time, care and patience. Oh - and prepared to get wet.
Signs that a swimming pool or spa is leaking may or may not be obvious. If you suspect a leak, there are proven ways to inspect and detect. In the book, The Ultimate Guide to Pool Maintenance, author Terry Tamminen suggests several methods for detecting leaks in pools and spas. Some he considers easy do-it-yourself methods, others he suggests consulting a professional. Give your chosen test some time, care and patience. Oh - and prepared to get wet.
Native Grasses & Succulents
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Eco Arbor Designs
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Hawaiian Hibiscus for Your Poolside Paradise
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Schefflera
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Soft & Fuzzy Echeveria Coccinea
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Poolside Proteas
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Let Creeping Jenny Climb, Spread and Spill
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Great Deck Design Ideas and Pictures
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Installing Posts for an Arbor
Follow these 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. The arbor's four posts don't provide extra space to sink posts into the ground with concrete. You'll need to dig holes about 1 foot deep, mix concrete, and pour it into the holes. This arbor can be used as a transitional structure linking outdoor spaces, as a privacy screen, or could be installed against a wall.
Follow these 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. The arbor's four posts don't provide extra space to sink posts into the ground with concrete. You'll need to dig holes about 1 foot deep, mix concrete, and pour it into the holes. This arbor can be used as a transitional structure linking outdoor spaces, as a privacy screen, or could be installed against a wall.
From the Ground Down
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.
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.
Donnell Free-Form Swimming Pool in Sonoma
Although not a true kidney-shaped pool, this free-form -style swimming pool was a sensation when it was designed for the Donnell family in 1948. Featured in home and design magazines and books, the pool was designed by noted landscape architect Thomas Church, along with landscape architect Lawrence Halprin.
Although not a true kidney-shaped pool, this free-form -style swimming pool was a sensation when it was designed for the Donnell family in 1948. Featured in home and design magazines and books, the pool was designed by noted landscape architect Thomas Church, along with landscape architect Lawrence Halprin.
Deck With a View
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
You've chosen a deck over a patio. Now what? Decks can be connected to a house or detached. Decking materials include softwoods, tropical hardwoods, synthetic woods and pressure-treated lumber. Then there's the type of deck you desire, along with shape, size and even the pattern of the wood. How are your do-it-yourself skills? If you aren't up for the task, you will need to find a contractor or subcontractor to do the job. Need deck ideas? Enjoy this gallery of deck design pictures.
Front Yard Hideaway
Enjoy these secret garden and outdoor room ideas, however small they may be. Believe it or not, hard work in your yard may go unnoticed if it's too far away for visitors to easily access. A few steps outside your door can instantly send you to a different world, where details can be enjoyed up close. When designing a small garden or outdoor room, focus on colors and textures that complement one another, forming a pleasing arrangement that can be viewed as a vignette or well-composed picture.
Enjoy these secret garden and outdoor room ideas, however small they may be. Believe it or not, hard work in your yard may go unnoticed if it's too far away for visitors to easily access. A few steps outside your door can instantly send you to a different world, where details can be enjoyed up close. When designing a small garden or outdoor room, focus on colors and textures that complement one another, forming a pleasing arrangement that can be viewed as a vignette or well-composed picture.
Vertical Succulent Planter
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Fence Me In
A wall or a fence are both obvious choices for gaining privacy, marking bounaries and creating barriers. Not all walls and fences have to be typical or boring. Once you start investigating, you'll find that there are many materials and styles you can use. But if you've always dreamed of a white picket fence and it goes with the architectural style of your house, then folow that dream! If not, stacked stone might be nice...
A wall or a fence are both obvious choices for gaining privacy, marking bounaries and creating barriers. Not all walls and fences have to be typical or boring. Once you start investigating, you'll find that there are many materials and styles you can use. But if you've always dreamed of a white picket fence and it goes with the architectural style of your house, then folow that dream! If not, stacked stone might be nice...
Rectangular Pool with Integrated Spa
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of rectangular-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of rectangular-shaped swimming pools.
Kangaroo Paw
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
The plants you choose to surround your pool should be carefully considered before any buying or digging takes place. Once your pool is in place, you may find that it creates a sort of microclimate. A heated pool can raise humidity levels, and intense sunlight can fry nearby landscaping. Plants can get splashed with chlorine and other pool and spa chemicals. The trick is to find strong plants that can withstand your pool's microclimate, be easy to maintain and still look great.
Brick Patterns
Certain brick patterns have been around for hundreds of years. But can you match a name with an actual brick pattern? What are the origins of brick pattern names? Are some easier to set than others? Are some patterns better suited to certain architectural styles? How about patterns for patios vs patterns for walkways? Here's your chance to get a brief education on brick patterns, which will help with your patio project, whether it's a DIY venture or something a contractor will tackle.
Certain brick patterns have been around for hundreds of years. But can you match a name with an actual brick pattern? What are the origins of brick pattern names? Are some easier to set than others? Are some patterns better suited to certain architectural styles? How about patterns for patios vs patterns for walkways? Here's your chance to get a brief education on brick patterns, which will help with your patio project, whether it's a DIY venture or something a contractor will tackle.
Succulent Garden Wall
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Succulent Color Bowl
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Brick-Lined Kidney Shape
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Octopus Garden
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
DIY Pool & Spa Maintenance
When trimming your budget, you look to the money you're forking over each month to have someone else do something that you could potentially do yourself. While many don't like the idea of venturing into unfamiliar waters, it certainly is possible to clean and maintain your swimming pool, spa or hot tub on your own. There's a big world out there with pool test kits, vacuums, plumbing, circulation and surge-tank float valves. Don't worry -- we'll explain things so you'll be cleaning like a pro!
When trimming your budget, you look to the money you're forking over each month to have someone else do something that you could potentially do yourself. While many don't like the idea of venturing into unfamiliar waters, it certainly is possible to clean and maintain your swimming pool, spa or hot tub on your own. There's a big world out there with pool test kits, vacuums, plumbing, circulation and surge-tank float valves. Don't worry -- we'll explain things so you'll be cleaning like a pro!
2012 Best Hot Tub / Spa
The 2012 About.com Reader's Choice Awards honors the year's top hot tubs and spas, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This year's Best Pool and Patio awards seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting ends March 21 and the winner in each category will be announced on March 30, 2012.
The 2012 About.com Reader's Choice Awards honors the year's top hot tubs and spas, as nominated and chosen by our readers. This year's Best Pool and Patio awards seeks to honor the Best Outdoor Patio Furniture, Best Pool Cleaner/Vacuum, Best Pool Test Kit, Best Hot Tub/Spa, and Best Decking. Voting ends March 21 and the winner in each category will be announced on March 30, 2012.
Hot Patio Furniture: Seating
Warmer temperatures may be luring you outside, but with no outdoor furniture except for a couple of rump-sprung
Warmer temperatures may be luring you outside, but with no outdoor furniture except for a couple of rump-sprung
Algae in Pools
If you can think back to your science class you may recall that algae are one-celled plants. And if you
If you can think back to your science class you may recall that algae are one-celled plants. And if you
Succulent Shed
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Patio Tables 2011
You're kicking back on the patio, enjoying the day, but something's missing. Chair? Check. Favorite beverage? Got it. Something upon which to put that favorite beverage? That's it. A side table, accent table, occasional table, garden table, patio table -- whatever you want to call it, it's a necessary part of the furniture arrangement when you move your life outside. We've explored far and wide to find the best patio tables for 2011. Take your pick!
You're kicking back on the patio, enjoying the day, but something's missing. Chair? Check. Favorite beverage? Got it. Something upon which to put that favorite beverage? That's it. A side table, accent table, occasional table, garden table, patio table -- whatever you want to call it, it's a necessary part of the furniture arrangement when you move your life outside. We've explored far and wide to find the best patio tables for 2011. Take your pick!
Kidney-Shaped Spa
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of kidney-shaped swimming pools.
Seascape Succulents
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Succulent Bed of 'Roses'
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Sedums & Candles
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Ready to see succulents like never before? If you live in an arid climate, chances are good that you can use your swimming pool, spa, patio or deck nearly year 'round. Along with the advantages of enjoying your outdoor space all year comes the challenge of selecting the right plants for landscaping. Succulents have gained in popularity over the past decade, and as we learn more about them and work with them in landscape design, they are no longer seen as just a cousin to the prickly cactus.
Autumn Craftsman
Besides fall foliage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Besides fall foliage, nothing announces the change of season more than your home's front door, entryway or porch. People are anxious to celebrate autumn by decorating the outside of their houses. Take a walk in your neighborhood to see what others are up to on their front porches. Or take a drive with a friend and cruise your favorite areas, looking for other people's interpretations of fall. It's one of the best ways to enjoy the season and get inspired. Kind of the perfect fall afternoon.
Pink Flagstone
When building a patio or walkway, one of the more fun but challenging decisions you'll have to make is determining what type of paving material to use. The material should blend in with the architecture and landscaping, be easy to walk on, easy to maintain and weather-resistant. This photo gallery provides a look at the wide variety of paving and surfacing materials available. Of couse, there are numerous types out there -- this gallery only begins to cover it.
When building a patio or walkway, one of the more fun but challenging decisions you'll have to make is determining what type of paving material to use. The material should blend in with the architecture and landscaping, be easy to walk on, easy to maintain and weather-resistant. This photo gallery provides a look at the wide variety of paving and surfacing materials available. Of couse, there are numerous types out there -- this gallery only begins to cover it.
Way-Above-Ground Oval Pool
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.
Swimming pools come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, styles and designs. Some are used for specific purposes, like lap pools for health and fitness, infinity pools to make a landscape architectural statement, novelty pools to express the owner's personality or interests, and naturalistic pools that blend in with the landscape. Enjoy this photo gallery of oval-shaped swimming pools.