Outdoor Living

If the mosquitoes have been keeping you away from your picnic table, you might consider a bug zapper. Find out if they really work in this article.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

Mosquito magnets can be extremely effective if they’re put in the right place, set up properly and tuned to attract the right species of mosquitoes. Learn whether mosquito magnets are effective in this article.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

Microorganisms in the soil convert organic waste to compost when they have the right amount of oxygen and water. Learn how organic waste converts to compost in this article.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

If you are going to have your own swimming pool you need to make sure it's kept clean. Learn more about the importance of pool filters in this article.

By HowStuffWorks.com Contributors

Are you looking for some unique branch decor ideas? Check out this article and learn more about some unique branch decor ideas.

By Home Made Simple

With careful planning and some hard work, you could make your back yard part of your whole home environment. Not only will you liven up your next shindig, you may also improve the resale value of your home.

By Jonathan Strickland

Keeping your pool sparkling clean doesn't have to be as cumbersome as you might think. The secret to pristine pool health is regular, routine care. These 10 maintenance tips will keep your pool in tip-top shape.

By Echo Surina

If you want to make your outdoor space more appealing, a little creativity and some planning is all you really need to get started. Fresh air and sunshine are already in place, so you just need to add finishing touches.

By Sara Elliott & Natalie Kilgore

These days, houses are getting bigger and bigger and yards are getting smaller and smaller. But there is a way to keep the integrity of your yard, while still utilizing the living space: a patio. So what should you build it with?

By Jessica Brown

Most people spend the bulk of their home renovation time working inside. But with a little know-how, you can easily extend your living space to the outdoors, too.

By John Fuller & Mark Boyer

Well-designed decks are becoming preferred places to relax after work, entertain friends, and regroup with the family. Learn how to design and accessorize your own deck with the pictures and ideas in this article. Get inspired!

By Christina Nelson

Building a patio can be difficult and expensive. Fortunately, a sensible alternative is to pour a concrete patio section by section. Follow these easy step-by-step directions to build the patio of your dreams.

By Editors of Consumer Guide

Building patio furniture is a great alternative to buying expensive ready-made furniture. Learn how to build a picnic table and benches, an umbrella table, and more using simple step-by-step instructions and helpful diagrams.

By Editors of Consumer Guide

Sun, wind, rain, snow, rot, and below-ground frost subject wood fences to a terrific beating. Wood is vulnerable to nature's punishments, especially rotting. Learn how to repair and build a wood fence.

By Fix-It Club

Vinegar is perfect for many outdoors projects and activities. It is a great alternative to toxic chemicals for controlling weeds, pests, and disease. Learn about the role vinegar can play in the backyard and beyond.

By Christine Halvorson

Think a swimming pool is just a big hole in the ground? Think again -- there's a whole lot of technology and chemistry that goes into building and maintaining a pool. Check it out.

By Tom Harris

Patented in 1934, this electrically-charged invention has made a big difference for modern day picnic-goers. But in recent years it's come under scrutiny, as scientists began to question its effectiveness.

By Craig Freudenrich, Ph.D.

Americans generate more than 200 million tons of trash each year. Want to put some of it to work? Try composting. It creates a natural fertilizer and can save valuable space in that landfill.

By Craig Freudenrich, Ph.D. & Kristen Hall-Geisler

If you've ever thought about lighting your yard or walkway, solar is the easiest way to go -- no wires! Learn how solar yard lights gather power during the day so they light up at night.

By Marshall Brain

Is vermicomposting an underground movement? Are people relying on little soil angels to provide the black gold they're searching for? Hey, if it doesn't work out, you can always use the worms for bait on your next fishing trip.

By Jennifer Pocock

Famous hotel pools can be impressive, they pale in comparison to some of the world's most expensive pools, which can cost millions or even billions of dollars to build.

By Bambi Turner

Chances are, even if you don't live in an area that's been going through a drought, you've probably heard about it on the news. But what can you do to help counteract the effects of a drought? Catch your own water, of course.

By Sara Elliott

Whether you're out camping or in the midst of a power outage, gas lanterns are handy devices. Did you know they're radioactive? Find out how these lanterns produce light.

By Marshall Brain

There are different ways to control mosquitoes, but what if you wanted to get rid of mosquitoes for good? You would need to devise the world's best mosquito trap. Learn about how the Mosquito Magnet' works.

By Marshall Brain

Deck fireplaces are "hot" outdoor accessories! We've five tips for installing one of these fireplaces on your personal patio.

By Alia Hoyt