The Blog · Page 28 of 32
Guides, Reviews & Ideas
Honest outdoor living advice from someone who actually sits on this stuff. Fire pits, patios, grills, and everything in between.
How to Build an Outdoor Kitchen Under $1,000
Build a functional outdoor kitchen for under $1,000 using modular components. Starts with the Blackstone 22" Griddle at just $120.
Outdoor DecorBest Vertical Planters and Living Wall Kits
The best vertical planters for fences, pergola posts, and small patios. From the Greenstalk 5-Tier at $89 to felt pocket systems under $30.
LightingBest Tiki Torches for Backyard Ambiance
Top tiki torches for backyard and poolside ambiance in 2026, from classic bamboo to solar LED. Includes citronella picks starting at $17.
Grills & CookingBest Smoker Boxes for Gas Grills 2026
Add real wood smoke to your gas grill. We tested cast iron, stainless, and V-shaped smoker boxes starting at $17 to find what actually works.
MaintenanceBest Outdoor Sectional Covers for All Weather
Protect your sectional sofa year-round. From L-shaped to modular designs, these heavy-duty covers start around $60 and actually stay put in wind.
Pergolas & ShadeBest Outdoor Privacy Screens for Decks and Patios
Top privacy screens for decks and patios in 2026. Bamboo, metal, and fabric options from $42. Block neighbors without blocking your style.
DIY & IdeasBest Outdoor Floor Tiles for Patio Makeovers
Transform a plain concrete slab with snap-together outdoor tiles. Wood, stone, and composite picks from $55, no contractor needed.
LightingBest Landscape Uplights for Backyard Trees
Six real uplighting picks, from $22 solar stakes to $57 brass fixtures, to make your backyard trees look stunning after dark.
SeatingBest Hanging Egg Chairs for Porches and Patios
Our top 6 hanging egg chairs for outdoor use, from $130 rope styles to $420 double-wide picks. Includes ceiling vs stand-mount guidance.
Fire PitsBest Fire Glass and Lava Rocks for Gas Fire Pits
The best fire glass and lava rocks for gas fire pits in 2026. American Fireglass reflective cobalt starts at $45 for 10 lbs.
Grills & CookingKamado vs. Pellet Grill: Which Should You Buy?
Kamado or pellet grill? Compare flavor, fuel costs, and ease of use with picks like the Kamado Joe Classic III and Traeger Pro 575 to find your match.
MaintenanceHow to Stain and Seal a Cedar Pergola
Step-by-step spring guide to cleaning, staining, and sealing your cedar pergola. Protect against UV and graying with picks starting at $18.
DIY & IdeasHow to Landscape Around a Backyard Fire Pit
Build a safe, clean fire pit zone with gravel, pavers, and edging. Practical guide with products starting at $22, no contractor required.
MaintenanceHow to Deep Clean Your Grill Before Summer
A step-by-step deep clean guide for gas, charcoal, and pellet grills. Includes the $9 degreaser that cuts through a full season of baked-on grease.
MaintenanceHow to Clean & Restore Patio Furniture This Spring
Step-by-step spring guide to restoring teak, wicker, aluminum, and cushions. Top picks starting at $14, including Mothers Mag and 303 Protectant.
AccessoriesHow to Choose the Right Patio Umbrella Size
The right umbrella size depends on your table diameter and seating setup. We break it down with picks starting at $70, including a top-rated 11 ft option.
AccessoriesHow to Choose the Right Outdoor Rug Size
The wrong size outdoor rug wrecks a patio layout. Here's how to size for dining sets, sectionals, and small balconies, with picks starting at $38.
AccessoriesBest Outdoor Side Tables Under $75
Affordable outdoor side tables under $75, including the Keter Pacific cooler table and folding options for fire pits, sofas, and small patios.
SeatingBest Outdoor Folding Chairs for Backyard Parties
The 7 best folding and stackable outdoor chairs for entertaining. From a $130 Lifetime 6-pack to 800-lb-rated heavy-duty options for any backyard crowd.
AccessoriesBest Outdoor Drinkware Sets for Patio Entertaining
The best shatterproof outdoor drinkware sets for 2026, from $24 Zak tumblers to $100 YETI Rambler pints. No broken glass, no compromise.
SeatingBest Outdoor Dining Chairs Sold Separately
Mix-and-match outdoor dining chairs from $70 to $175. Our picks cover stackable steel, teak folding, and resin sling styles for any patio table.
SeatingBest Outdoor Daybed Loungers for the Patio
The best outdoor daybeds for pool decks and patios in 2026, including canopy options starting around $479.
MaintenanceHow to Clean and Seal Your Deck for Spring
Step-by-step guide to cleaning, brightening, and sealing your deck this spring. Top picks include Ready Seal starting at $48.
SeatingBest Replacement Cushions for Porch Swings
The best porch swing replacement cushions in 2026, from $36 budget picks to Sunbrella options that outlast everything else. Tie-on designs, oversized fits, real outdoor fabrics.