27 How-Tos From Grounds for Improvement

1. 1. How To Cover a Stone Wall

   

   3 Thumbs

   See how a railroad-tie retaining wall gets a new facing of stylish stonework.

   Time:

   Weekend

   Cost:

   $500 to $1000

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

2. 2. How To Build a Cedar Safety Fence

   

   1 Thumbs

   Learn how to install an attractive fence that will also keep curious kids safe.

   Cost:

   $0 to $0

3. 3. How to Build a Spanish-Style Arbor

   

   3 Thumbs

   These step-by-step instructions demonstrate how to create a Spanish-style arbor topped with distinctive tiles that lend a bit of sophis...

   Time:

   Under Half Day

   Cost:

   $250 to $500

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

4. 4. How to Build a Classic Picket Fence

   

   1 Thumbs

   Divide and conquer an unmanageable yard with a simple fence.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $1000 to $2500

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

5. 5. How to Build a Trellis Arbor and Gate

   

   3 Thumbs

   A kit-built teak arbor adds beauty, style and access for friendly neighbors.

   Time:

   Weekend

   Cost:

   $250 to $500

   Difficulty:

   Easy to Moderate

6. 6. How To Build a Sun-Fighting Trellis

   

   0 Thumbs

   A custom cedar trellis had many benefits. It can add texture and style to a plain yard, hide an unattractive cinderblock wall and most ...

   Time:

   Day

   Cost:

   $100 to $250

   Difficulty:

   Easy to Moderate

7. 7. How to Install a Gazebo with a Path

   

   16 Thumbs

   Use edging and flagstone to create a pretty path and install new weather-resistant composite deck boards for a beautiful outdoor space.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $1000 to $2500

   Difficulty:

   Moderate to Hard

8. 8. How to Install a Track Drain System

   

   0 Thumbs

   The goal is to dig the trench at a slight pitch, or angle, to allow gravity to pull the water along the pipes and out the clear out.

   Time:

   Day

   Cost:

   $100 to $250

   Difficulty:

   Easy

9. 9. How to Build a Gazebo

   

   7 Thumbs

   A backyard gazebo is the perfect spot for parties and other social gatherings.

   Time:

   Several Weekends

   Cost:

   $2500 to $5000

   Difficulty:

   Hard

10. 10. How To Add Finishing Touches to a Patio

    

    0 Thumbs

    Learn how to create a finished landscape around a travertine patio.

    Time:

    Weekend

    Cost:

    $250 to $500

    Difficulty:

    Easy to Moderate