Yard Tools & Materials

Discover a guide to the tools & materials involved with your yard.

Lee Gilliam using a string trimmer to clean up a walkway

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All About Attachment Capable String Trimmers

While it may look like an ordinary string trimmer, the unique shaft design allows DIYers to swap in different attachments, turning one machine into a lawn and garden maintenance multitool. Here’s what you need to know about the Swiss Army knife you should stock in your shed.
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6 Best Gas Grills (2024 Guide)

Find the best gas grill for your outdoor kitchen with our buying guide to today's top-rated propane and natural gas grills.
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6 Best Leaf Blowers (2024 Guide)

Even if you don’t live in an area where fallen leaves are common, a blower can help you keep your yard free of other debris. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the best leaf blowers to help you find the model best suited for your home. 
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5 Best Pole Saws (2024 Guide)

Pole saws make pruning trees, bushes, and other plants simple and accessible. Find the best pole saw for your yard with the help of our top recommendations.
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The 7 Best Log Splitters (2024 Review)

A log splitter is a useful tool for anyone with a fireplace. Our buying guide and pros and cons chart can help you pick the best log splitter for your home.
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The 6 Best String Trimmers (2024 Review)

We found the six best string trimmers available on the market today, including easy-to-use and budget options.
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The 4 Best Wood Pellets (2023 Review)

Wood pellets are made from hardwoods, such as maple and hickory, to enhance the flavor of lamb, brisket, or other meat. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the four best wood pellets on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you and your home. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
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5 Best Cordless Leaf Blowers (2024 Guide)

When the fall season rolls around and your lawn is covered with leaves, a powerful leaf blower is a must-have tool. In this guide, we look at the best cordless leaf blowers on today's market to help you find the ideal fit for your yard.
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The 5 Best Grills (2024 Review)

If you’re looking to grill meat, vegetables, and other food in your backyard, read our guide on the best grills to find the right model for you.
A house with a yard covered in Fall leaves.

The Best Tools You Can Use To Collect Autumn Leaves

From leaf blowers to vacuums, our guide covers all the different kinds of products and technology to tackle this annual chore.
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Everything You Need to Know to Choose the Right Mulch

Mulch is a an often overlooked but useful garden tool. Use our guide to navigate the options and find the best topdressing for your plant bed.
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Choose the Right Rake: Shopping Guide

The right rake can make the world of a difference in your fall yard. Read our handy guide to find the right rake for your yard’s needs.
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Testing Battery-Powered Yard Tools

Are you tired of outdated tools? Check out the wide range of battery-powered tools in our informative guide.
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How To Choose an Eco-Friendly Lawn Mower

This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook discusses options and features of non-gasoline-powered mowers.
A variety of potted spring plants.

How To Clean Up Your Yard and Prepare Your Plants for Spring

Tackle early spring maintenance to get your yard and patio ready for the growth spurt to come. Here's what you should do.
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Reinventing the Rake

Smart new designs and features help you make quick work of leaves, clods, and rocks
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The Stone Yard

Rocks big and small accent outdoor paths, beds, and water features