Ideas for decks, patios, and porches; driveways and walkways; entryways; garages; and more
Exteriors Photo Gallery
The American front porch had its heyday in the late 19th century, when boxy houses gave way to free-form masterpieces. Check out these colorful, highly decorated examples of rocking-chair heaven.… more
More on Exteriors
by Deirdre Bush
Today's play structures allow kids to live out their playtime fantasies right in their own backyard…more
by Kathryn Keller
Put some spring in your steps and in your planting beds, patios, and pots, too…more
A deck can handle even the rowdiest gang of fraternity brothers as long as the beam that carries the floor joists is properly bolted to the side of the house. Unlike bolts, nails can pull out — and without warning.
New options mean your next deck may not even be real wood.
Plastic planks that don't crack, rot, or splinter
Bringing luster back to weather-beaten wood
Q: "Can I seal my leaking gutter seams?"
Q: "How do you measure for siding?"
Low-growing, tough-underfoot plants soften the edges of garden paths and patios
Q: "Our house has white vinyl siding. Some areas are covered with pinhead-size black dots. What should I do?"
Most Popular Exteriors Articles
In the Magazine
July/August 2009
Expand your knowledge about topics covered in the print edition of This Old House.
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