Summer is one of our favorite times of the year.  Not only because it’s sunny and warm, but also because of all the outdoor projects we can get done.  And, while our backyards are a great place to work on projects they’re also a great place to relax.  That’s why we’re excited that the DIY Network has shared 8 easy-to-build outdoor fire pit...

Even though we may be in summer’s last gasp, it’s not too late to plant some beautiful fall and even early winter flowers to enjoy. And of course, building your own planter box makes the flowers that much more delightful. How To Build a Planter Box You can find tutorials on the major DIY sites. Think about where you want to show off your plants and draw a...

Pergolas as outdoor space architecture have become extremely popular. Thanks to great DIY tools and the popularity of HGTV and DIY Network on cable, this is a project that an experienced do-it-yourselfer can manage quite easily. Scouring the Internet, I found several terrific how-tos for this project: How to Build a Backyard Pergola: Simple Woodworking Project from...

The variety of home and do-it-yourself magazines available can be a little overwhelming. We scanned the shelves at our local bookstore and make these recommendations if you’re thinking about adding a new magazine to your library. Backyard Living Backyard Living Magazine is for hands-on people who love working and relaxing in their “outdoor living...

On DIY Life today Kelly Smith tells readers how to fix a leaky faucet valve. You’ll find valves anywhere water enters the home. If it’s leaking, not only can the water make a mess, but you it can also cause foundation damage. Kelly gives readers tips for fixing the valve yourself. After reading the post, I thought about the other places around the...

Sunlight and warm breezes signal the season for outdoor entertaining. For some, those words conjure up images of lounging on the beautiful backyard patio with friends and family. But, for many of us, outdoor entertaining sets off an internal alarm, reminding us of tears in the canvas cushions and umbrellas, cracks in mosaic tables, and chipped or broken patio pots,...