Hot tubs are a fantastic way to increase both the utility and appeal of your outdoor space. They’re a great way to pass the time, no matter the season. But can your wooden deck support the weight of a fully-filled hot tub? The answer to that question depends on a few different factors. So buckle …

It might seem like a west facing patio dooms you to sweltering, squinting evenings outdoors. And to be honest, there’s some truth to that. When you have the sun beating down on your patio for the second (hottest) part of the day, it’s going to raise the temperature of your outdoor space measurably. Not only …

Let’s talk fire safety: are patio heaters dangerous? The answer is simple — not if used properly. However, like most things involving gas and flame, you’ll naturally want to take precautions when using a patio heater. You see, there are typically specific instructions and an owner’s manual that come with whichever patio heater you end …

Let’s face it — everyone loves the stellar ambiance that outdoor candles provide. In fact, candles are scientifically proven to have positive effects on our moods. The mesmerizing quality of flickering light provides a gentle and soothing environment. Additionally, many candles bless us with amazing scents. Since smell is so closely tied to memory, they …

Back in the spring, my wife and I decided we were finally going to outfit our outdoor space with a proper sound system. Like many folks, we weren’t sure exactly where to start. We definitely wanted the convenience and flexibility of wireless speakers, but had heard stories of decreased sound quality and dropped connections. So …

Being an avid gardener, my wife loves to water her flowers using the rain we collect in our patio’s rain barrel. However, we found out the hard way that if you don’t take proper precautions, your rain barrel can fall victim to all sorts of undesired conditions. One moment we were using the cloud’s bounty …

Gas fire pits are awesome for a number of reasons. In fact, I’d argue that there is no better fixture for your outdoor space. It’s uncanny how a propane fire pit can completely transform your setting. You may even start to feel like you’re out in the wilderness around a campfire. And much like someone …

Any excuse to eat outdoors is a good excuse. There’s a special kind of feeling one gets when they break bread with their loved ones in the great outdoors (even if the great outdoors is actually the backyard). I’m here to tell you that this feeling is amplified and deepened when you throw a glowing …

There’s no doubt about it — the Traeger brand is a force to be reckoned with. They’ve built a reputation as a quality, high-tech grill/smoker company. For good reason — you’ll find no shortage of pit-masters, hunters, and meat enthusiasts singing their praises. However, that quality and reputation comes at a premium price. If you’re …

You may remember my article from earlier this year when I explored how much weight lawn chairs could hold. Similar to then, I’ve recently been wondering how much weight a porch swing can hold. They’re much sturdier than their lawn chair cousins and (when installed properly) can offer a load of support. But if you’re …