Backyard cooking has come a long way since then, with today’s setups featuring elaborate pellet grills and smokers and glorious patio sets from the likes of Pottery Barn. Even the humble patio umbrella has changed. Today’s cantilever umbrellas are big enough to provide shade for half your yard.

After seeing so many of the latter around my neighborhood, I did some research and found the Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella. The included base and pre-strung canopy lights make it one of the finest out there. So late in the summer, I picked one up and tried it out.

What Is The Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella?

The Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella arrived at my local home center in two boxes, so I assembled it at home. It was easy. Four bolts created the base, and another two locked the umbrella assembly in place.

After snapping on the hand-sized solar panel, which powers the LED lights under the canopy, I filled the weighted base with water. That’s it. Assembly took less than 15 minutes.

How We Tested It

First, the umbrella actually measures about 8-1/2-ft., not 10 feet as the manufacturer claims. I positioned it to shade a small modular loveseat on the corner of the patio. The umbrella opened in seconds and easily adjusted to the position of the sun with just a couple of hand tight screws.

The wind was gusty that day, reaching 30 mph according to my phone’s weather app. Under these conditions, the umbrella tended to bounce and even spin on its base unless the hand screws were overly torqued. Not only was this annoying, I worried about over-tightening and breaking something, which thankfully did not occur.

By evening, the wind subsided. A quick flip of the teardrop-shaped switch hanging from one of canopy’s corners illuminated the 32 LED lights underneath. The pre-strung, solar-powered lights are a fantastic feature. They’re powerful enough to provide some ambiance without overwhelming your guests.

In general, the Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella is a great product. It’s easy to assemble, sets up and breaks down quickly, and provides enough light for you to enjoy your backyard throughout the night. It doesn’t handle windy conditions well, but I’ve never heard of a patio umbrella that does.

Pros

• Quick and easy assembly;
• Built to last;
• Pre-hung solar powered canopy lights;
• Included base.

Cons

• Not great in gusty conditions.

FAQs

Q: How heavy is the umbrella base once it’s filled with sand or water?

A: Around 90 lbs., give or take. There are four separate base sections, each weighing less than 25 lbs. when full.

Q: Can the umbrella be tilted?

A: Yes, up to 32 degrees.

Final Verdict

I’m impressed with the Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella. It’s well designed, comes with an abundance of great features, and is ready to use right out of the box. It’s easy to set up, and the LED lights create a pleasant atmosphere in the backyard, day or night.

Where to Buy

The Mondawe Solar Powered Market Patio Umbrella is available in various colors from Lowe’s.

Buy Now

Pergola kits come in many sizes and materials, costing from a few hundred to more than ten thousand dollars. So when I came across one on Amazon for about $500, I bought a Purple Leaf Pergola Kit and had it shipped my way.

What is the Purple Leaf Pergola Kit?

Purple Leaf Pergola Kits feature dark gray powder coated aluminum. They’re available in 10- x 10-ft., 10 -x 12-ft. and 10- x 13-ft. footprints, all eight feet tall. They also come with a retractable UV-protectant fabric sunshade in a choice of four colors.

For my sparse concrete patio, I chose the 10- x 12-ft. kit with a gray fabric sunshade. It shipped from China in a single 94-lb. box, plump-full of pieces. A single bag contained a plethora of hardware, including Allen wrenches.

How We Tested It

On a weekday afternoon with no rain or other obligations, I assembled the Purple Leaf Pergola Kit over my poured concrete patio.

Upon reading the instructions, it became evident the 3-mm Allen wrench wasn’t hefty enough drive the 150+ bolts. Instead, I outfitted a drill with a 3-mm bit and dialed back the torque control far enough to prevent stripping out the bolt holes.

Then I set up my work area. You’ll need a pair of sawhorses or something similar to support all these long aluminum components. I rolled out my mechanic’s stool and built the long pieces across the two halves of the kit’s large box, which worked fine.

While assembling the four corner posts on the ground, the thinness of the aluminum walls concerned me. I grabbed my caliper and found out it was 18-gauge, a hair thinner than a cookie sheet. The process reminded me of building an IKEA cabinet, complete with plastic fastener covers that match the exterior color.

Continuing on, I used plywood scraps and wood clamps to hold the corner posts in place until I could get the outside beams and rafters together and secured. The instructions say a helper makes this step easier, but I didn’t have one available.

As soon as the three center rafters were in place, I hung the polyester fabric sunshade on its rollers. I went around with a T-handle Allen wrench, hand-tightening all the screws and placing the plastic color-matching covers over their heads. Almost six hours later, the kit was complete!

Given the cost, I was surprised at how well the finished product turned out. Though the sunshade doesn’t roll super-smoothly and I’ll likely lose some of the plastic bolt head covers, it’s a good looking, visually appealing addition to our patio.

My biggest concern? It’s really lightweight, so it rattles when the wind blows, and I’ll hold my breath whenever someone leans on it. However, I’m confident it will withstand the elements just fine.

What I Like

• Value;
• Single, compact shipment;
• Zero maintenance aluminum finish;
• Easy to assemble;
• Looks great.

What I Dislike

• Thin gauge aluminum construction;
• Inadequate tools provided, unless you have all day.

FAQ

Q: Is it possible to hang curtains in this pergola?

A: Yes. A wide selection of aftermarket pergola curtains would work well.

Q: The retractable awning must be removed for winter. Is that a long process?

A: It took about 15 minutes to put it up. I would anticipate taking it down for winter would take about the same amount of time. Keep the metric Allen wrench and instruction manual handy in case you need to refer to them.

What Others Thought

Darlene, who purchased the kit on Wayfair with the khaki colored sunshade, writes: “It came in and was amazed at the packaging it was in great shape. Husband put it up by himself. For the money I think we have done very well. Seems to be good quality. We shall see in a year of Texas heat and wind how it fairs. So far so good.”

And in Paul Dinardi’s Amazon review, he writes: “My only complaint and why it’s not getting five stars, the [gauge] on the material is very very thin, pretty close to downspout gutter material, reinforced at seams by plates … Overall, we’re very happy, but it’s absolutely quantified by the price. I’d certainly like an option to pay a little more for better quality materials, but the design is great, easy to assemble.”

Final Verdict

Purple Leaf Pergola Kits are a terrific choice if you’re looking for something inexpensive and easy to assemble. No trips to the lumber yard or home center necessary. And while its construction is not robust as some may prefer, its sturdy nature and maintenance-free aluminum design will ensure it stays in great shape well into the future.

Where to Buy

Purple Leaf Pergola Kits are available on Wayfair.com and Amazon.com.

Buy Now

In northern Minnesota, where I spend many of my weekends, I can’t remember a year when the mosquitoes were this terrible. All summer long we’ve experimented with new and different insect repellents, fogging methods and anything else to limit my family’s itchy bites. Nothing worked.

So I started scouring the internet for mosquito extermination options and found the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap. I ordered one up and tested it to see if it could be the thing to save our summer.

What Is the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap?

The Skeeter Hawk Large Fly Trap lures, captures and kills mosquitoes, gnats, house flies, horseflies and many other flying insects. The dual-band, bright blue LED UV light attracts them, and the ultra-quiet fan draws them to the canister where they die from dehydration.

Roughly 16 inches tall, it plugs into a conventional 110-volt outlet. A fold-down hanging hook makes it easy to keep out of the way, indoors or outdoors. And a single power button and twist-lock insect dehydration canister make it extremely user-friendly. Skeeter Hawk Large Fly Traps protect large rooms, yards, pools, patios and decks without chemicals or continuous buzzing.

How We Tested It

With the summer winding down, I packed up the family for a quiet August weekend at a small northern Minnesota cabin. Since my in-laws are also staying there, I brought the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap to help keep the mosquitoes away during outdoor meals and patio sessions with us and our new baby, their newest grandchild.

I was eager to determine how well the the fly trap worked, whether the sound or brightness were nuisances, and how easily I could dispose of the dead insects.

Operation

FAQs

Q: Can the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap run on batteries if there’s no outlet available?

A: No, it requires a wall outlet.

Q: Do the Fly Traps come in any other sizes or colors?

A: There are two sizes of Skeeter Hawk Fly Traps: small and large. They’re only available with a gray body and blue LED lights.

What Other Reviewers Had To Say

If you buy at the right time, you won’t just score a discount — you’ll also have plenty of options to choose from.

You’ve probably noticed certain categories of items are marked down at certain times of the year. That means the best time to buy patio furniture may be different from the best time to buy a TV, a hot tub or even indoor furniture. When eyeing the best outdoor furniture brands, consider these tips for bringing their coveted pieces home at budget-friendly prices.

When Are Best Months to Buy Patio Furniture?

This answer isn’t so cut and dried. If your top priority is getting the latest and greatest in backyard furnishings as opposed to scoring the best price, pay attention to when brands unveil their new lines. That’s when you’ll find items with current color trends and brand designs. But because they’re new, they’ll come with a heftier price tag.

The best time for this type of shopping is typically the end of March and early April. Since supply chain issues are still an issue, ordering early will ensure that your patio furniture arrives by the start of summer.

If finding the lowest price on quality products is the goal, those deals pop up much later.

“The end of season, in August, is when you’ll see a lot of outdoor items being discounted,” says Lex Bombino, a merchant account manager with Skimlinks, a monetization platform for online publishers. “If you want to get that lower price on something you know you’ll need or want for next year, end of summer is the time to look.”

Bombino says markdowns will start around 10% to 20% at the start of the month and increase toward the end. And definitely look for all the Labor Day sales.

Wondering about the real off-season in winter? Retailers are less likely to have patio-furniture inventory at this time, but it’s still worth taking a look, particularly online. Whatever is left is likely to be on clearance to make space for new, impending stock.

Worst Time to Buy Patio Furniture

Much like the best time to buy patio furniture, the worst time depends on what you’re looking for and how much off-season storage you have. Ultimately, if you’d prefer not to pay full price (who wouldn’t?), the worst time to buy is the start of warm-weather season.

While Memorial Day and the Fourth of July are obviously big holidays for sales, you aren’t likely to find the best deals then. If it is on sale, it will likely be marked down by only about 10% to 15%. You’ll also be hard-pressed to find markdowns when retailers receive their new shipment of inventory.

If you wait until the end of August for that big blowout clearance sale, inventory may be limited, so factor that into your shopping decision as well. Is it worth it to possibly miss out on a patio set because you’re waiting for even further reductions?

Tips for Buying Patio Furniture

Whether you’re furnishing an outdoor space for the first time or replacing an old set, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Consider the materials: If you want outdoor furniture to hold up over time, look for pieces made of teak. Strong and durable, it stands up well to various environmental elements. “Furniture made from plastics are probably going to be less costly, but they aren’t as durable,” Bombino says. “And high-end furniture that’s metal will need to be covered during the winter or stored somewhere indoors.”
• Be mindful of buying used patio furniture: Someone else’s trash may be your treasure, but only if it has been well maintained. If you’re checking yard sales or online groups, inspect the pieces for any major wear and tear, like cracks. If the structure is sound, you can spruce them up with fresh outdoor pillows.
• Look for one-off deals: If you’re searching an online retailer like Wayfair, check for open-box deals. That means that the product was likely returned because it didn’t suit the original buyer’s needs. Retailers will mark down these items. If you’re shopping in person, floor sample sales can be a great way to get a killer deal on a coveted item. For patio furniture, you’re likely to see floor samples on sale at the end of the season.
• Try negotiating: Unless you’re dealing with a secondhand seller on a site like Facebook Marketplace, your opportunity to negotiate will be strictly in person. Your best bet will be with pieces that appear to be estranged from a larger collection — an outdoor coffee table without its matching chairs, or lone pieces of a sectional sofa. Negotiate with a store manager to but these orphaned furniture pieces at a discount. Floor samples are also likely up for negotiation because they may endure some wear and tear in the store.

Where to Buy Patio Furniture

“Sometimes people forget that The Home Depot and Lowe’s sell outdoor furniture, as well as indoor furniture,” Bombino says. “These are really great places to shop, even if it is last minute. If you need to grab patio furniture quick, look online and see what’s available for in-store pickup.”

Be sure to check out:

• The Home Depot;
• Wayfair;
• Amazon;
• Castlery;
• Overstock;
• West Elm.

How Long Should Patio Furniture Last?

Well-made and well-cared-for patio furniture can last a decade or more, but there are variables. The life span of outdoor furniture depends on what it’s made from. Teak wood holds up best to the elements. Wrought iron is also durable.

How Much Should I Spend on New Patio Furniture?

A small patio conversation set typically retails for around $250, while full outdoor dining sets can hover around $2,500 (less if you only need seating for four). Patio sofas and sectionals can run anywhere from $500 to $3,000. Assess your budget and look for the best quality pieces you can afford.

Though it’s almost halfway through our short Minnesota summer, I figured it wasn’t too late to try one of these out for myself.  So I ordered the Blue Sky Outdoor Living Ridge Smokeless Fire Pit, picked up some S’mores fixings and got ready for the long Fourth of July Weekend.

What is the Blue Sky Ridge Fire Pit?

The Blue Sky Ridge is a 15-pound portable steel fire pit. It stands about 16 inches tall and 12-1/2-inches wide, and supports a decent fire in its 11-1/2-inch-wide burn chamber.

It’s a dual-fuel device, meaning it’s approved to burn standard firewood and wood pellets, or a mixture of both. When the party is winding down, the fire pit breaks down easily. Its pieces neatly nest together and slide into an included carrying bag for easy transport.

The low sheen, solid black design is modern and sleek, reminiscent of something from a 1980’s sci-fi movie. Blue Sky is also an official licensed partner of the NFL, NHL and U.S. Army. So if you’d like to support your favorite team or military branch, there are plenty of customized options for that, too.

The unit feels durable, sturdy and well-made. Plus, all Blue Sky Outdoor Living products come with a three-year limited warranty.

How We Tested it

With clear weather on the horizon and Fourth of July weekend approaching, I gathered our family and packed our vehicle a long weekend at the lake. I figured this would be the perfect setting to test the Blue Sky Ridge Fire Pit.

I was curious to see how well it packed and set up, and whether it was truly a smokeless fire pit.  I had wood pellets from our pellet grill already up there, so I planned to test the dual-fuel concept as well.

Performance Review

This fire pit is slick. It’s easy to set up, use, haul and even clean. The included storage bag is handy not only for transport, but for keeping ashes and soot from smudging the inside of your trunk.

The Blue Sky Ridge sets up and breaks down in seconds. The top burn chamber sits on top of the ash-catching base. With some firewood or pellets, you’ll have it raging in minutes.

The Blue Sky website says the Ridge can handle fires up to 1,900 F, and I believe it. This thing gets roaring, expelling flames out of the top and pumping out heat you can feel on your shins a couple of yards away. I sensed a faint smell of something industrial the first few times I used it, but that went away. It was probably just excess paint or the powder coat from the manufacturing process.

When it was time to pack up and head home, the Blue Sky Ridge cleaned up in a snap. I just emptied the ashes from the collection stand, nested the pieces back together and was on my way. Just give yourself ample time to let it cool down before handling or putting it back into its travel bag, because it can take awhile.

The Great Fuel Debate

The dual fuel test was eye-opening, and a learning curve. The wood pellets burned thoroughly but quickly.

I dumped an 1-1/2- to 2-inch pile of grill pellets into the bottom of the burn chamber and set four tiny fires, ignited with torn off chunks of brown-paper bag. Minutes later, the fire was roaring and burned for 20 or 25 minutes.

Once the pellets burned up, the fire extinguished quickly. But that’s the best part — to keep the fire going a few minutes longer, just toss on a handful or two of pellets rather than an entire log.

Using firewood with the Blue Sky Ridge Smokeless Fire Pit is a little different. First, you’ll need to split the firewood into smaller uniform pieces that will fit snugly in the bottom of the fire pit, rather than sticking out of the top. Instead of building a fire that fills the entire burn chamber, work on creating a more intense one in the bottom half.

This reflects how a smokeless fire pit works. Outside air is pulled into the bottom ring of the burn chamber, then moves up the pit’s hollow walls. The heated air is then released into the top of the burn chamber, infusing the fire with an extra burst of oxygen. This vaporizes any wood or moisture particles, creating little or no smoke or embers at all.

If you build a fire with your firewood pieces in a typical teepee design out the top of the fire pit, like I did the first time, expect plenty of smoke and embers — the opposite of what you’re looking for.

After trying pellets alone, then firewood, then a mixture of both, I think wood pellets alone offer the best way to keep a low-profile fire blazing away while minimizing the smoke.

Value

Comparable sized portable smokeless fire pits from market leaders cost nearly double the price of the $160 Blue Sky Ridge, and with fewer features.

Of all its competitors, only the Blue Sky Ridge features an easy-to-clean, ash-catching base and a carrying and storage bag. It’s also the only brand customizable with your favorite sports team’s logo or military branch emblem.

Why You Should Buy This

If you were thinking about getting a smokeless fire pit but weren’t sure which one, give this affordable Blue Sky Ridge fire pit a try.  The dual fuel fire pit is easy to use, set up, haul and even clean. It’s compact enough to throw over your shoulder, yet pumps out enough heat to keep family and friends warm year-round.

Where to Buy

The Blue Sky Outdoor Products Ridge Fire Pit is available at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, Lowe’s and Camping World.

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When I built a new deck last summer, I wanted to create a backyard oasis. I used durable poly-deck boards, and filled the space with Trex patio furniture and plastic-based pieces supposedly tough enough to stand up to weather.

One year later, I found something I didn’t expect — mildew and grime on my outdoor furniture. So I was eager to try 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner, a popular product on social media. Spoiler alert: The deck and patio cleaner holds up, but you need to know how to make the most of it.

What Is 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner?

As the name suggests, 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner is a concentrated formula that cleans outdoor surfaces in 30 seconds or less. When applied, it clears up almost every type of algae, mold and mildew on your patio furniture. It’s easy to use and strong enough to skip pressure-washing.

Simply dilute the solution with tap water in an old spray bottle and apply it to stains and gunk. It’s safe around your best plants — just spray down affected garden areas and the cleaner will break up in the soil.

30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner offers a powerful clean on outdoor surfaces like wood decking, concrete sidewalks, asphalt driveways, bricks, canvas awnings, plastic furniture and vinyl siding.

How We Tested It

One corner of my deck receives limited direct sunlight, so anything in that corner collects mildew and pollen if it’s not wiped down every few days. I’d be lying if I said I had the time (or motivation) to wipe everything down every 72 hours, so it was time to put 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner to the test.

I mixed a 1:1 solution of cleaner and water in a spray bottle. Then I went after the mildew and pollen, concentrated in a few particular crevices. Much to my delight, the stubborn mildew broke up instantly. I was truly shocked. I grabbed a damp cloth, wiped down the affected spots, and the gunk vanished. No need for pressure washers or high-powered hoses.

Impressed, I moved on to a pair of colorful Adirondack chairs that had grown dim from rain and dust storms. No more than a teaspoon of 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner and my chairs were like new. To say I was thrilled is an understatement.

Product Features

This plant and garden-safe cleaner makes cleaning even the grimiest outdoor furniture a breeze. It breaks up tough mold, mildew and algae stains before your eyes.

It works on family heirloom swing sets, all the outdoor furniture you can buy online and even hardwood and poly-based decking. If you have a long list of yard maintenance tasks, a single gallon bottle should last you all summer long.

Pros

• Easy to use;
• Concentrated formula;
• Plant-safe;
• Good in a spray bottle or as a wipe-down product;
• Works on most types of algae, mildew and mold;
• Affordable price.

Cons

• Needs to be diluted before using;
• Contains bleach, which irritates skin. We recommend gloves for optimal protection.

FAQ

Can 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner be used on vinyl fences?

Yes! Vinyl fences are actually one of the best places to use it, though it’s best to spray the diluted solution on, then hose it off. It works particularly well in corners, cracks and crevices that other cleaners seem to miss.

Will it discolor my roof tiles?

Amazon reviewers in Florida and Texas report the cleaner didn’t damage or discolor their roofing. It’s their go-to, monthly tune-up for stucco and Spanish tile roofs.

Can it be used to clean RVs and fifth wheels?

Yes! 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner works on fiberglass exteriors and hulls, and it boasts a large fan base of RV enthusiasts and campground visitors.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

Christine, a verified Amazon purchaser writes, “I just sprayed, waited, brushed lightly and rinsed with my hose, and all the green stains were gone from my white shutters. I used this product on all my siding, then my neighbor used it to clean his. I love it. Works very well, and did not harm my plants. It does contain some bleach so beware what you wear.”

“So simple and so efficient at cleaning mold from the outside of my home,” writes Jably, another five-star Amazon reviewer. “It was a breeze, literally. Will be ordering more only because it’s a big house and we couldn’t cover all of it. Some spots were really bad and will need a second treatment, though. Very few.”

“So we were out camping with a friend, and I got jealous of his awning and how clean it was,” writes verified Amazon purchaser Brian. “He tells me to try 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner. So I order from Amazon … and, well, I’m glad I did. This was AMAZING. Best stuff I have used to clean the awning, and it was so simple.”

Final Verdict

If you take pride in your home’s curb appeal, keeping a bottle of 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner on hand is a game-changing move. It’s affordable, easy to use and removes grime off everything from Trex to stucco, concrete sidewalks and tile roofs. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

Where to Buy 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner

A one-gallon bottle of 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner retails on Amazon for about $19. It’s also available at Walmart, The Home Depot, Lowe’s and Ace Hardware for $12-13.

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My Italian husband and mother-in-law are the pizza-making experts. She used to own a pizzeria, and he worked there as a young man. He’s a stonemason and built custom-made pizza ovens for several clients. So between the three of us, we know a thing or two about pizza and pizza ovens.

I was offered a chance to try the Nano pizza oven from Alfa, an Italian manufacturer of professional and home pizza ovens. The Nano is the company’s entry-level oven, available in Europe and North America.

What Is the Alfa Nano Pizza Oven?

The Nano (which means dwarf in Italian) is a small pizza oven that’s marketed as portable. We tried the gas version of the Alfa Nano, which connects to a propane tank (purchased separately). It can also be connected to a natural gas line.

Our model was shipped with a separate wheeled cart that holds the propane tank. The Nano also is available as a wood-burning oven, in which case the cart serves as a place to store firewood. Both models can function without the cart, although they do need a sturdy flat surface to rest on.

According to the manufacturer, the Nano is capable of quickly reaching high temperatures and turning out real Italian-style pizza, as well as bread, roasted meats and vegetables.

Our first impressions of the Nano as we unboxed and assembled it:

• It’s a solidly built oven: “Wow, this is a serious pizza oven,” my husband said when he saw the shipping pallet on our front patio. The oven is weighty (more on that below) and shows details of good craftsmanship, with smoothly welded joints and seams and quality parts.
• It’s easy to assemble: Assembly was as simple as unwrapping it and sliding the chimney into place. The cart was also easy to assemble, with simple-to-follow instructions. The hardware for attaching the propane tank was included.
• It’s attractive: The bronze-effect coating and streamlined design of the Nano make it an attractive addition to a patio or backyard.
• The cart makes it portable: At 110 pounds, the Nano on its own stretches the limits of portability. It took two of us to lift it out of the box and set it on the cart, which has heavy-duty casters. Without the cart, moving the oven from place to place would be a chore, and always a two-person job.

How We Tested It

On our first test run, we fired up the Nano, closed the oven door, and watched its thermometer climb to around 400 C (about 750 F) in roughly 15 minutes. And I’ll confess: The first thing we cooked in the Nano wasn’t a pizza, but a whole chicken with potatoes in a baking pan. It cooked up nice and crisp in about 45 minutes.

On the second try, we made pizza. The manufacturer’s instructions say to let the oven heat up for 45 minutes with the door closed. This allows the firebrick cooking surface to heat thoroughly and retain heat as the door is opened and closed to insert and remove pizzas, which cook one at a time.

Another confession: The first time we made pizza in the Nano, we only gave it 20 minutes to heat up. As a result, our pizzas were cooked more on top than the bottom. Moral of the story? Pay attention to the instructions!

Our next attempt at pizza was much more successful because we gave it the full 45 minutes to heat. Just as we’d done the first time, we rolled out thin-crust pizza dough, added the toppings and slid each one into the oven on the pizza peel Alfa provided. With the oven properly heated, the pizzas cooked more consistently, leaving us with crispy-crust pizza fully cooked through.

Because of its high temperatures, the Nano is self-cleaning. Any drippings left on the brick surface burn off the next time you fire up the oven.

Final Verdict

With a suggested retail price of $2,399, plus an additional $679 for the base, this pizza oven is an investment. If you’re just dipping your toes into the idea of a home pizza oven, you might want to start with a less costly model.

But, as my husband observed, the Nano is a serious pizza oven — hefty and high quality, delivering an uncompromising pizza-making and baking experience. On its wheeled cart or as a fixed addition to a backyard or patio, it’s a feature and focal point, as much as any built-in grill or outdoor kitchen.

I would recommend it to anyone who’s ready to invest in a real outdoor pizza oven, yet wants portability and a smaller footprint.

Where To Buy the Alfa Nano Pizza Oven

Alfa Nano and other Alfa products are sold through authorized dealers in the U.S., Canada and Mexico, including many Ace Hardware locations.

There are several online retailers that sell Alfa products, including BBQ Guys. Be aware the Nano is a new model and may not show up on some dealer web sites, so be sure to ask about it.

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While surfing the web, I came across a photo of a neat-looking, cast iron log-splitting contraption. I did some digging and discovered the Kindling Cracker!  Out came the credit card, and a few days later the king-sized version showed up at my door.

What is the Kindling Cracker?

The Kindling Cracker uses a stationary blade and a blunt object like a hammer or mallet to easily split logs into smaller manageable pieces or kindling. A New Zealand teenager looking to stay warm and safe in the winter developed it as a school project.

The Kindling Cracker comes in two sizes. The original can split logs up to 6-1/2-inches in diameter; the king can handle up to 9-in.-dia. wood chunks. Usable indoors or out, the Kindling Cracker features mounting options on the base so it can be permanently affixed near your fireplace hearth or an outdoor wood pile.

The Kindling Cracker isn’t portable. It’s heavy (a bit over 20 lbs.) and bulky. And it ships without a mallet or blunt-force instrument; you’ll need to provide your own.

How We Tested It

I chose 49 logs from my wood pile to run through the king size Kindling Cracker, a mixture of aspen, birch, oak and a boxelder tree. They ranged from three to nine inches wide and 12- to 19-inches long.

I planned on quartering these logs into four semi-uniform pieces, using several hammers and mallets to test and see how they compared. With a few friends heading over for a bonfire this weekend, it was time to get cracking!

All It’s Cracked Up to Be?

The Kindling Cracker is an impressive tool.  Splitting wood is still labor intensive, but I had all 49 logs quartered and re-stacked in a little over an hour.

As when splitting any wood, this tool works best on straight grained and adequately dried logs.  Even when I came across a chunk with a big knot in it or a weird grain pattern, the Kindling Cracker was up to the task with an extra hammer swing or two.

Speaking of hammers, my handheld four-pound club hammer was the clear winner with the Kindling Cracker.  My long-handled framing hammer wasn’t stout enough, and my 10-lb. full-size sledgehammer worked well on the greener logs but was overkill on most others.

I even tried using another log as the mallet, as shown on the packaging. This also worked, but swinging another log proved awkward. A three- or four-pound club hammer is the way to go.

The Kindling Cracker is a great conversation piece as well.  While quartering the pile of logs, two neighbors struck up a conversation about the tool’s ins-and-outs and the neat story behind its invention. The Kindling Cracker is unique and interesting. From now on, I’ll keep it right next to our woodpile for all to see.

Foolproof to Use

I really like how easy and safe the Kindling Cracker is. There’s no swinging of a sharp axe or hatchet blade, and no dangerous splitting machines. With just a blunt object, a little elbow grease and the Kindling Cracker, nearly anyone, young or old, can split firewood perfectly in no time.

Why You Should Buy This

If you’re looking for an effective, safe and interesting way to split firewood for your pit, fireplace, stove or oven, try the Kindling Cracker.  It’s well-made, easy to use and available in two sizes, though the king size is the way to go!

Where to Buy

Both sizes of the Kindling Cracker are available at Walmart and Northern Tool, and on Amazon.com.

Buy Now!

I see videos of people power washing all kinds of items, from clothing to patios, on every social media outlet there is. There’s even a power washing sub-Reddit with well over a million followers!  So when I saw Ryobi was coming out with an all new 2700 pounds per square inch (psi) pressure washer, I knew I had to get my hands on one and give it a try.

What is the Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer?

The Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer delivers up to 2700 psi and 1.1 gallons per minute (gpm) of water to spray away built-up dirt, grime, and other tough stains. It’s great for cleaning off driveways, fences, decks and patios, window screens, outdoor furniture and more.

The machine comes with two nozzles, one for high pressure, the other (“Quick Change”) with 15-, 25-, 40-degree, fan soap and jet soap settings. There’s also a 35 ft. non-marring high-pressure hose and an onboard detergent tank. The hose, nozzles, and sprayer conveniently store onboard the hand truck for easy transport.

The bright colored green-ish-yellow Ryobi pressure washer is hefty, weighing a 50-lbs. It comes in a few pieces; it takes a few minutes and a t30 Torx bit (not included) to assemble.

How We Tested It

I had plenty of things that needed a good washing. A dingy 20×20 concrete patio, a corner of my house spotted with moss and algae, and handful of window awnings that hadn’t been cleaned in 10 years. All seemed like good tests for the Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer.

Around the same time I picked up my pressure washer, Family Handyman deputy editor Glenn Hansen bought one as well. He planned to remove built-up grime and old stain from his wooden deck before refinishing it later this month. I wished him luck as we went our separate pressure-washing ways.

Performance Review

I started with the algae and moss on my home’s foundation, choosing the 40-degree fan pattern so I wouldn’t discolor the area and make it stand out. That setting worked marvelously at removing the surface grime and moss. In no time, I moved on to the patio.

I poured this patio a decade ago and the concrete needed a much deeper clean. I tried the 15- and 25-degree spray patterns before settling on 25-degrees for this 400-sq.-ft. job.

About halfway through the cleaning, the nozzle spit up and started spraying the water erratically. I had to finish the patio with the higher pressure 15-degree pattern, which took more time and left it looking two shades of clean.

Troubleshooting this problem later in the day, I found an illustration in the manual that showed how to unclog a spray nozzle with a straightened-out paper clip!  I couldn’t find a paper clip that fit, so I bent a safety pin and inserted into the 25-degree spray tip. Out rolled a tiny black plastic pebble.

With my nozzle clear of debris, I moved on to the aluminum awnings cleanup. I climbed the ladder and swiftly washed the first four awnings without hassle. When I moved to the last, I discovered the power cord wasn’t long enough, so I added a 15-foot extension cord and kept going.

The final awning was spotless in a few minutes, though you could hear and feel the pressure washer struggle to pull enough power. It draws A LOT of power and worked noticeably better when plugged directly into the exterior outlet. That’s not unique to this product; it’s a common problem with other pressure washers I’ve owned.

This week, I asked Glenn about his experience with his new Ryobi pressure washer. He told me it cleaned his deck so well that his neighbor noticed and borrowed it the next weekend to clean his. Both turned out like new.

What Other Reviews Had to Say

Several Home Depot reviewers weren’t happy with the assembly instructions.

RyobiWanKenobi writes, “I’m hoping the unit’s construction is better than the assembly instructions. Literally no guidance on installing the wheels or the assembly of the unit. The instructions also had a dead link to their website and there was no help on it when I eventually found the unit…” And Will94 writes: “Works well and easy to operate. Only complaint is the instructions are very limited on how to assemble.”

RonnieN apparently had no such problems, writing: “Easy to assemble! Easy to use! Enough pressure power for home use. Cleaned [my] concrete patio, walkway and driveway in no time! Love it!”

Final Verdict

All and all, the Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer worked out great. It tackled all the concrete, wood and aluminum projects we had. I had no problem assembling it, and just those two issues with the clogged nozzle and waning power with the extension cord.

I give it a big thumbs-up. The only thing left to do is upload some power-washing videos to the Internet!

Pros

• Powerful;
• Great nozzle assortment;
• Long 35-ft. hose;
• Onboard detergent tank;
• Easy hand truck mobility;
• Nozzle and hose storage.

 Cons

• Less efficient with an extension cord;
• Spray nozzle can clog;
• Unclear assembly instructions.

Where to Buy

You can buy the all new Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer at The Home Depot.

Buy Now!

As the only one in my immediate family with a weakness for grilled and smoked meats, I’ve been keeping my eye on the smaller, portable pellet grill category. When I read up on the Z-Grills Cruiser 200A, it seemed like the one. So I made the leap and got one sent my way.

What is the Z-Grills Cruiser 200A?

The Z-Grill Cruiser 200A is a portable wood pellet grill capable of smoking, baking, roasting, searing, braising, barbecuing or char-grilling whatever fare you desire.

The smaller tabletop grill features a foolproof digital temperature controller, automatic auger system and an 8-lb. pellet hopper. The Cruiser’s three handles, lockable chamber and durable powder coated finish make it perfect for lugging around to campgrounds, sporting events or a friend’s backyard get-together.

With the Z-Grills Cruiser, you can cook like a famous pitmaster wherever your busy life takes you.

How We Tested It

I wanted to test how the Z-Grills Cruiser functioned as a grill and a smoker. So over Memorial Day Weekend, I did both.

On Friday afternoon, I grilled some brats and kebobs at a local park with a few co-workers and friends. Then Saturday night, I smoked a pork loin with the family and some guests at our cabin.

Performance Review

Performance

One important note: The Z-Grills Cruiser needs a 110v outlet to operate. We brought a portable power station to our grill-out at the park, and you’ll need a similar plan when heading out into the backcountry.

After following the Cruiser’s christening instructions, I filled the hopper with cherry wood pellets and cranked the temperature control to 375 F. A subtle hum of the auger could be heard as it slowly began to drag the pellets to their fiery demise. Minutes later, the grill was at temperature and the meat spitting away on the grate.

Two hundred square inches sounds like more cooking space than it is. The six-pack of brats and three kabobs filled the bulk of the cooking space, and the Z-Grills had them ready in no time.  The digital temperature control and readout made cooking on the Z-Grills Cruiser even easier than on my old propane monstrosity.

After the cookout in the park, I cleaned and lugged the cruiser back to my vehicle. Though I like that the grill can be buttoned up and carried like a suitcase, it’s awkward and unbalanced. And at almost 50 pounds, it’s not something I’d recommend carrying over any distance.

Saturday saw the same positive results. I set the grill to 225 F and plopped the spice-rubbed pork loin on for a few hours to smoke. I checked the internal temperature every hour or so until it reached the desired temp and pulled it out to rest.

When opening the lid to check the meat, the grill temperature plummeted as expected.  What surprised me was how long it took to reheat back to 225 F.  This added some unexpected time to the smoking process, but the pork turned out juicy and delicious.

Value

The value in a portable pellet grill like the Cruiser comes from its premium features and portability. This grill is packed with features like the digital temperature controller, automatic auger system and sturdy steel construction.

The craftsmanship and appearance of the Z-Grills Cruiser is similar to its counterpart, the Traeger Ranger. The Z-Grills Cruiser is also cheaper and 20 pounds lighter.

Ease of Use

This is where the Cruiser shines. Just fill the pellet hopper and set the digital control to your desired temperature. The Cruiser will do the rest, automatically sustaining a steady temperature while churning out flavorsome smoke.

Reliability and Durability

The hopper and body are made of thick, powder coated steel; the handles and feet are the only parts that aren’t. The sturdy steel wire grate, coated in porcelain, and 14-gauge steel drip pan are built to withstand years of hauling to campsites and backyard barbecues.

Why You Should Buy This

Whether you’re single, have a small family, live in an apartment with limited outdoor space or simply want to bring your love of grilling with you anywhere, the Z-Grills Cruiser is the one for you. It’s ease of use, sturdy construction, high-end features and best-in-class price make this portable pellet grill the one to choose.

Where to Buy

The Z-Grills Cruiser is available at zgrills.com, Amazon and The Home Depot.

Buy Now!

Chunky Lantern

I used a cedar 6×6 for the most bollard-like of my path lights. A 6×6 post seemed just the right size between a too-lean 4×4 and a too-large 8×8. The key is to find a solar lantern with its solar grids angled and off to the side. Many solar lanterns have one square solar grid flat in the center, and the top of this post would block it.

Bevel the top

To make my lantern post mimic the solar lantern light, I beveled the top of the 6×6 on my miter saw. I found the center of the post on each side and drew matching angles from that center point. Mine was a 30-degree angle, cut four times. I sanded off imperfections with an orbital sander.

Because it uses recycled materials and gives builders an alternative to wood — a dwindling resource — composite decking was a great idea whose time had come. It didn’t take long for other companies to get in on the action. Today the best composite decking isn’t necessarily Trex, although it might be depending on what you’re looking for.

Composite decking design and manufacture remains a work in progress. Early versions had serious problems. In 2013, Trex settled a class action lawsuit over the quality of its early decking boards, which faded in the sun, absorbed moisture and became moldy. Significant improvements since then by Trex and other manufacturers addressed these issues.

If you’re looking for the best composite decking boards, consider these factors:

• Cost: Low cost doesn’t necessarily mean low quality.
• Durability: Composite decking generally outlasts wood, but some products offer longer warranty periods than others. PVC decking technically isn’t a composite but is durable.
• Style: These vary. Some boards are molded with a wood grain. Others aren’t. Some have a non-slip surface, and some grooved edges for use with hidden fasteners.
• Color: What you see is what you get. You can’t stain it, and painting usually isn’t recommended. The introduction of color streaking in the early 2000s allowed manufacturers to produce increasingly authentic-looking decking.
• Eco-friendliness: The percentage of recycled materials varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but most products are LEED-certified green building materials.

When shopping for composite decking, you’re most likely to encounter these brands:

Cali Bamboo

While many manufacturers solved the water absorption problem by “capping” their products, San Diego-based Cali Bamboo addressed it by using recycled bamboo fibers instead of wood fibers. Bamboo is not only less absorbent but a more sustainable building product.

Founded in 2004, the company specializes in interior flooring and branched out to other building materials, including composite decking. Besides its BamDeck boards, manufactured with recycled bamboo fibers (60 percent) and recycled plastic (40 percent), the company offers a TruOrganics line, made from 100 percent wood fibers and capped on all four sides with durable PVC.

At about $15 per square foot, BamDeck composite decking lands on the low end of the price scale. But TruOrganics boards cost about five times that much, putting them on the high end. On its website, the company states it’s the only one that offers wide-plank decking.

CertainTeed

A leading manufacturer of outdoor building products since 1904, CertainTeed is based near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Better known for its roofing, siding and fencing products, the company also offers the EverNew line of vinyl and PVC decking. While not strictly composite, pure plastic decking is long-lasting and requires little to no maintenance.

At around $25 per square foot, EverNew decking isn’t the least expensive out there. But it’s stain-, scratch- and fade-resistant, and comes with a lifetime warranty. It’s available in three UV-resistant colors — almond, white and gray. Its lightweight construction and grooves for hidden fasteners make it suitable for several applications.

Barrette Outdoor Living

Barrette Outdoor Living, based in Ohio, offers two lines: the Hardwoods and Landscapes Collections. Both incorporate the company’s proprietary PolyPro blend of recycled hardwood fibers and plastic, as well as its ColorLock system to prevent fading. Most planks are manufactured in Maine, with the raw materials are sourced within 500 miles of the factory.

The company caps its boards with a clear polypropylene coating, and offers consumers a convenient online process for choosing color, profile and matching railing. Barrette decking costs between $18 and $35 per square foot and comes with a 25-year limited warranty against fading.

Envision

Envision Outdoor Living Products, also based in Pennsylvania, offers decking boards made from plastics with no wood fibers. So like CertainTeed decking boards, they technically aren’t composites.

The four product lines in order of increasing price are Evergrain, Distinction, Inspiration and Expression. All come with a 25-year limited warranty and cost from $15 to $35 per square foot.

Envision products aren’t as commonly available as some others, so you may have to hunt to find them. The premium products are more realistic-looking than the budget ones, and color choices are limited.

Fiberon

One of the early entries to the composite decking market, Fiberon began production in New London, North Carolina in 1997 and now has a facility in Meridian, Idaho. An early developer of capping technology, the company features seven lines of capped composites and one line each of uncapped composite and capped PVC.

The lines offer a various color choices. All provide a 25-year warranty except for the PVC line, which has a 50-year warranty. Prices range from $15 to $22 per square foot, a reasonable range.

Lumberock

Unique in the composite world, Chicago-based Lumberock manufactures its decking boards from recycled plastic and minerals. The lack of wood or other organic material eliminates the possibility of water absorption, mold and insect damage.

Lumberock decking boards feature textured, non-slip surfaces. They come in 12 colors, including black, various shades of brown, beige, red and white. Products come with a limited lifetime warranty that guarantees against cracking, splintering, peeling and rotting for at least 50 years.

TimberTech (AZEK)

AZEK, located in the Chicago area, has been making PVC products since the 1980s and began producing PVC decking in 1999. In 2012, it joined forces with TimberTech to make quality decking boards.

TimberTech decking boards are generally regarded as some of the best and most expensive available. The capped PVC boards in its AZEK line come with a 50-year warranty, while warranties for TimberTech Pro (four-sided capped composite), Edge (three-sided capped composite) and Specialty (uncapped composite) boards run 30 years.

Trex

The original composite decking manufacturer, based in Virginia, remains the one against which all others are measured.

Trex uses 95 percent recycled materials, including plastic from grocery bags and plastic film as well as wood waste. Trex produces some of the least expensive, as well as the most expensive, decking boards on the market.

The company offers a 25-year warranty against staining and fading on all its products. It also offers instructions on its website for homeowners who choose DIY installation, as well as a service called TrexPro to help homeowners find qualified contractors.

People may like the notion of unwinding on an outdoor bench, but Jacobson says it often ends up a decoration. “I’ve sat in mine maybe three times,” she says. “I plant around it and paint it to match the color of my nearby door, which I paint often.”

To help you make the right purchase, here are some outdoor benches and features to consider, plus a look at five favorites.

Types of Outdoor Benches

Metal

Powder-coated steel, wrought iron and aluminum benches are most popular, Jacobson says, because they’re low on maintenance and high on creative detailing and designs. But most aren’t comfortable, putting metal mostly in the decorative category.

“An ornate, wrought iron bench with a scroll back and mesh seat looks pretty,” she says, “but you are not going to spend much time sitting on it unless you add cushions.”

Wood

Teak, acacia, eucalyptus and hardwoods are beautiful but require periodic sanding and finishing. Wood won’t get too hot in the scorching sun nor too cold in low temperatures, so it’s good for sitting. Wood also absorbs moisture, so after a downpour you can’t wipe it dry as easily as a metal bench.

Plastics

Plastic resin is not the most environmentally friendly material, but it won’t rust or dent and never requires painting. Commercial-grade polyvinyl chloride is durable with low maintenance. Recycled plastics are also low maintenance and less harmful to the environment because they’re made from repurposed material. Note that some plastics can become brittle and fade with sun and cold exposure.

Stone/Concrete

These are the most expensive, but offer timeless beauty other bench types cannot. “I call them benches for a lifetime,” says Jacobson. “They’re usually smaller, three feet long and not five or six, and heavy. Once in place, they don’t move.” She sells stone/concrete benches by Campania International.

DIY

Making an outdoor bench from wood is often the least expensive and most satisfying way to go. Here are plans to build one garden bench without a backrest and another bench with a backrest.

A stacked-stone bench is easy to make. Garden centers and landscape-supply stores sell decorative rocks, or you can collect your own to make two stacks supporting a longer bench rock. Another DIY option is a stone-inlay concrete bench.

Outdoor Bench Features

Location

If you intend to sit on your outdoor bench, pick a level location with some shade and a view that gives you “comfort and joy,” as Jacobson says. Before you buy or build, make a mockup from scrap wood and place it in several locations to see if it looks too big or out of place.

Tipping

Some benches feature feet you can secure to prevent tipping in a storm. Nice, but you have to put down concrete or a similar sturdy base and screw the bench to it. Some bench designs have legs that sink deep into the ground.

Style

Oodles of bench styles will tempt you in a store or online. Make sure you can return it, because that buddy bench or kissing seat that’s so cute in the store may not meet your approval once it’s in your backyard.

Additional seating

It’s nice use your bench for additional seating at large outdoor gatherings, so aim to approximate the look of your outdoor tables and chairs.

Backrest or bench?

For comfort and extended use, a backrest is essential. But for a decorative bench in a small space, a backrest may make the bench appear too dominant in the yard, when a low simple bench is just right.

Storage space

Leaving the bench outdoors all year will accelerate the weathering and require more maintenance. Purchase a cover or store the bench in a garage or shed.

Favorite Outdoor Benches

Choosing an outdoor bench is personal. Here are five of my favorites:

Curved metal tree of life bench

This curved backless metal bench will look great in that special place near your garden.

Shop Now

Birdhouse bench

Birds nested in the upright supports add a light touch to this heavy cast stone bench.

Shop Now

Reclaimed wood and iron bench

The reclaimed lumber combined with the powder-coated iron makes this charming three-foot bench an eco-friendly winner. Try it by your back door or in the garden.

Shop Now

Tree bench

Use this semi-circle bench on its own or with another piece to wrap around a tree. Cushions help you and your guests enjoy the shade and conversation.

Shop Now

The Hack

Good news: You don’t need a grill brush or any other special grilling tools to clean your charcoal grill. Simply ball up a sheet of sturdy aluminum foil and use it to scrub your grill grates. Once you clean the grates, sweep out any debris in the bottom of the grill. Empty the ash catcher if you have one. (Always check your ash catcher before you grill to make sure it’s not at capacity.) You can use a putty knife to dislodge any stubborn gunk.

What Is a Floating Deck?

Despite its name, a floating deck (AKA a ground-level or a freestanding deck) isn’t found on water. It’s actually a low deck platform that can be placed anywhere in the yard.

It doesn’t attach to a building or require handrails. It sits directly on the ground with simple deck footings, giving the illusion of floating. And because it doesn’t require deep frost-level footings, rails or stairs, it’s a straightforward DIY project that often can be done in a day!

Types of floating decks

In general, a floating deck doesn’t rise more than 30 inches off the ground. Any higher, and most local building codes require handrails and a building permit. Choose the type of footing from among deck blocks, concrete blocks, adjustable deck supports or deck foot anchors.

Just like traditional decks, there are lots of options for wood or composite decking material, color and style. Pressure-treated wood will give your deck a chunky, sturdy look. If you want rich color and natural grain texture, try cedar or redwood. Composite decking requires less maintenance than real wood but can be much more expensive.

Floating deck pros

• Easy to build.
• Usually doesn’t require a permit (check local building codes).
• No need to dig deep footings.
• Easier access for repairing and maintenance.
• More affordable than a traditional deck.
• Freedom to build almost anywhere in the yard.

Floating deck cons

• Susceptible to damage in heavy storms, which can knock ground-level footings loose.
• Might need to control weeds from growing between the deck boards.
• Can potentially sag or tilt if the ground settles.
• Doesn’t increase resale value as much as a traditional deck.

Spending time on your patio, deck or balcony is a great way to socialize and connect with friends and family. COVID-19 concerns make functional outdoor spaces even more important.

According to a recent study by the International Casual Furnishings Association, “Ninety percent of Americans with outdoor living space have been taking greater advantage of their decks, porches, and patios, and consider their outdoor living space is more valuable than ever before.”

Patio doors give us access to those outdoor spaces. Reese Freeman, president and construction manager of Steamboat Springs Construction Co., says homeowners are thinking more critically about how they look and function.

“There has been an increased focus on maximizing glass and integrating indoor and outdoor experiences, placing patio door selection at the top of important design decisions,” he says.

Patio doors create a natural transition from your home to your deck or patio. The generous width allows people to walk through and carry larger items, like extra chairs. It can even serve as way to bring new furniture and appliances into your home.

Keep these considerations in mind when selecting a patio door:

• Swing space: For hinged patio doors, measure the space your door will be swinging into so it doesn’t bang into furniture or planters.
• Visibility: If your want a beautiful, scenic view, consider a door with large, uninterrupted panes of glass.
• Style: Consider the décor in the rest of your home when selecting a patio door type. Otherwise you could end up with a mis-matched ultra-modern door in a traditional home.
• Cost: If you’re not going to install it yourself, factor in installation costs as well as the price of the door.

Sliding Patio Doors

This is the most common style of patio door, composed of two or more panes of glass mounted to a track. Typically, one pane remains stationary while the other slides behind the first. Some models allow both panes to slide independently.

They don’t swing inward like hinged doors, so there’s no concern about the door hitting anything. But Freeman says the space may not be wide enough for some homeowners.

This Anderson 200 Series White Perma-Shield Gliding Patio Door includes the door frame and all hardware for installation. The glass is covered by a 20-year limited warranty.

Pros

• Takes up almost zero space;
• Easy to operate;
• Affordable;
• Experienced DIYers should be able to install.

Cons

• Narrower opening;
• Tracks must be kept free of dirt and debris.

French Patio Doors

French patio doors attach to either side of the door frame with hinges. Unlike sliding doors, they don’t require a center support, so both sides can fully open.

This large opening allows guests to easily enter and exit, and comes in handy when moving large furniture in and out of your home. But Freeman says French patio doors are “not ideal for tighter spaces that cannot accommodate the three-foot swing direction.”

This Masonite Steel Patio Door features built-in mini-blinds, and the durable steel construction should last a long time.

Pros

• Can be customized with decorative elements, like grilles;
• Stylish aesthetic;
• Relatively simple for experienced DIYer to install;
• Most include a deadbolt and a door lock.

Cons

• Requires space to swing open.

Bifold Patio Doors

Bifold doors feature up to eight panels that fold to the side, like an accordion. This creates an extremely wide opening. But like French doors, you’ll need a door’s length of space for them to swing open.

Although they provide a wide, unobstructed view when open, the multiple frames break up the overall view when closed. They can also require more effort to open than sliding or French doors. The complicated design makes them a challenge for DIYers to install; best to leave this to a pro. They’re also extremely expensive.

If you do go this route, work with a pro to select the option for your home. Freeman recommends LaCantina Bifold doors.

Pros

• High-end look;
• Wide, unobstructed opening;
• Can span massive openings.

Cons

• Expensive.
• Hard for DIYers to install.
• Multiple panes break up the view when closed.

We built our bench to fit against an angled wall and between two gabion walls, but you can modify the plans to fit your own space. We designed the bench to have waterfall sides to hide the cut ends, but you could change this detail to simplify it further.

The bench can be built in just a couple of days, and the composite decking has the beautiful look of hardwood — without the hassles.

These benches are built against this angled block wall and in between two gabion structures. But they can be easily modified to fit your own space and to stand alone. Our surface was level, so all we needed to do was compact it with a tamper before we began.

Lay Out the Bench With 2x4s

To determine where to place your bench and its approximate size, lay out 2x4s to outline the base. This will give you a good visual for the bench’s placement and length.

• Pro tip: We left a two-inch space between the framing and the abutting walls to allow room for decking and to make installation easier.

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The boardwalk is a quick and easy build. The flexible composite decking will follow slight contours in your yard and can span roots and rocks that would otherwise require excavation. You may have to do a little digging to make the boardwalk flush with the ground and create a seamless walkway through your yard.

The walls surrounding this backyard were bland. To liven them up and match the rest of the new space, we used extra deck boards to outline the new seating area. These two projects take just a few days to build, but they can have a big impact.

Prep the Ground

To build the boardwalk at ground level, dig a trench along the path. We needed to fill our trench with drainage rock to keep the pressure-treated lumber dry. We dug out six inches of soil to fit a two-inch layer of rock topped with our 2×4 frames. Tamping the area before and after laying the rock gave us a solid foundation.

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Gabion Baskets

Plot Gabion Locations

This step is important if you’re setting several baskets in a line. You’ll need stakes and masonry string to keep everything straight. We used single gabion baskets in this installation, so alignment wasn’t an issue.

Here are five ways to create a patio oasis, with the help of Sunbrella^® fabrics.

1. Add an Awning for a Retractable Ceiling

Rain clouds or sunshine, having the option to take cover is key. Try an awning; they’re not just for storefronts. Welcome the sun or starlit sky as you curl up with a book or entertain friends. Take cover when you need to beat the heat or hide from rain. It’s all possible with a retractable awning.

Retractable awnings featuring Sunbrella Shade Fabrics are high performers — and they also make a statement. In addition to being UV protective (and even endorsed by the Skin Cancer Foundation*), they are water repellant, mildew-, mold-, and stain-resistant, and low maintenance. Available in solids or stripes, and an array of colors and neutrals, you’ll easily find an option that brings your design vision to life.

In addition to an awning, break out the patio umbrellas. They’ll provide additional, targeted shading and, when you’re entertaining, will serve as unspoken invitations to gather in small groups.

Extra inspiration: Don’t know where to begin? Start with the new Sunbrella Shade Studio. Upload an image of your space, then follow the easy steps to visualize different awning styles on your home.

2. Pick Patterns that Pop

Don’t be shy. The patio is a great place to try something new and go bold. Mix and match stripes with solids. Choose colors that stand out. You don’t need to be matchy-matchy. Differences in patterns and textures creates dimension and visual interest.

Sunbrella’s Emerge Fabric Collection Upholstery Selection offers a myriad of fade-resistant options. Think: everything from Bliss Dew (a fresh muted solid) to Detail Persimmon (an eye-catching diamond pattern) to Highlight Splendor (contrasting thin stripes).

Extra inspiration: For outdoor furniture and pillows, imagine a mix of colors and patterns that can complement or perfectly match the awning, then fill it with your favorite people.

3. Up the Plushness

Think about what makes a sofa so amazing to sit on: the softness. Why not achieve that same level of comfort outside? Invest in quality cushions to make all your seating living-room-level cozy. Forget benches. Skip the Adirondack chairs. Instead, go for couches or daybeds. And don’t forget the throw pillows and coordinating ottoman that both maximizes relaxation and serves as extra seating in a pinch.

The old family rule — take your shoes off in the house — won’t apply outside. So look for durability in addition to softness. Especially if you have pets!

Extra inspiration: Look for water repellant and resistant fabrics like Sunbrella’s, which dry quickly after a rainfall, and resist mold and mildew. As soft as they are strong, they’re also fade- and stain-resistant, and easy to clean, even with bleach, as needed.

4. Make Space for Your Favorite Hobbies

Let’s talk pastimes. Do you love cranking music while cooking? Reading with your morning coffee? Catching the game on a big screen? Your favorite activities don’t need to be contained to four walls. Take them outside.

Consider your entire patio as a blueprint that you can break down into different mini interest areas. It could include the kitchen (aka: grilling zone), sitting area (home to an outdoor sofa and coffee table) and even a book nook (a deep, comfy chair in the corner). Incorporate shading and furniture that enable you to comfortably enjoy your space and hobbies any time of day or night.

Extra inspiration: Invest in an awning if you plan to have an outdoor TV. All the joys of watching — none of the glare from the sun.

5. Pull it All Together With a Rug

A rug is the hero of your living room. And it can work the same magic outside, anchoring your space and creating visual interest.

When you look for an outdoor rug, seek out one that’s specifically made to withstand the elements. Typically, that means synthetic materials like acrylic, nylon and polypropylene — all machine-washable and durable. The Colonial Mills Sunbrella Solid is one such option that’s easy on the eyes — and comfortable to tread on, too.

Extra inspiration: If you have a narrow walkway connecting two areas of your patio or deck, adding an outdoor rug brings warmth and interest.

When you set out to create your perfect patio, remember: It’s fun to mix it up, and by choosing Sunbrella fabrics, you can ensure your shading and furniture fabrics complement each other beautifully.

* The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends certain Sunbrella fabrics in shading products as part of a complete sun protection regimen, including regular use of sunscreen, to aid in preventing sun-induced skin damage.

If you never heard of Snow Joe or never used a battery operated snow blower, let us introduce you to the long lasting, easy to handle, whisper quiet and environmentally safe Snow Joe iON+ cordless snow blower.

What is the Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snow Blower?

Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snow Blower Product Features

The Snow Joe Cordless snowblower, with its powerful 1,200w brushless motor, easily plunged through fresh snow up to 10 inches deep! The two long-lasting 24v batteries allowed me to clear my 20-foot driveway and couple hundred feet of sidewalk with battery power to spare.

Because of its lightweight design, the unit wants to ride an inch or so off the concrete while in use. I had to apply a fair amount of pressure to assure the snowblower cleared the snow all the way down to the pavement. Additionally, the small, lightweight design of the Snow Joe make it ideal for older people to handle. And it’s easily transportable upstairs to clear your deck, or in the back of a car to help dig out a friend or family member.

Another wonderful feature of the Snow Joe: It’s really, really quiet. As an early-riser, I loved clearing my entire driveway and sidewalk without waking a neighbor!

How We Tested the Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snow Blower

We tested the Snow Joe in three mid-winter Upper Midwest snowstorms, ranging in depth from three to 10 inches. We cleared hundreds of square feet of sidewalks, driveways, patios and even elevated wood decks.

While testing, we also played with feed rate as we pushed the snowblower through the snow. We noticed if pushed too quickly, especially in heavier, wetter snow, the Snow Joe would cut off power. This took a lot to make it do that and didn’t happen often. To restart, we pulled the machine back, pushed the power button and went right back to work.

We tested this snowblower over many weeks and in all types of snow. As long as we monitored the feed rate, we never experienced a hiccup or problem. The burly batteries charge quickly and give continuous power, while its heavy-duty steel auger and stout brushless motor suggest long-lasting durability.

Pros

• Great value
• Includes several accessories
• High power performance
• Long-lasting durability
• Easy to use
• Lightweight and compact

Cons

• May not be suited for clearing large areas with continual, deep snowfall

How the Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snow Blower Compares to Other Snow Blower Brands

This is where Snow Joe really stands out next to its competitors. The $400 total package price gives you more power and more accessories. The batteries and charger are included, unlike many of its rivals. For the tool only, you’ll pay about $250.

Final Verdict

If you’re looking for something easy to use, mobile, quiet and maintenance free, the Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snowblower is a terrific addition to your winter tool collection. Granted, if you live where you regularly get snowfalls of a foot or more, I don’t know if the Snow Joe can handle ALL your snow clearing needs. But it definitely can handle most of them.

The ease of operation and the lack of maintenance (electric snow blowers have no fluids to be changed or small parts to be cleaned) make the Snow Joe Cordless snow blower a true user-friendly machine. Just cover it when not in use and store in a dry place.

Where to Buy the Snow Joe iON+ Cordless Snow Blower

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Atiap Ultralight Titanium Camping Stove

For the dedicated backpacker on your list, get the compact, light and inexpensive Atiap Camping Stove, which uses easy-to-find fuel like twigs and leaves.

“On more and more backpacking trips (when legal), I carry a tiny titanium twig stove rather than a stove that burns fossil fuel,” says Jon Turk, author and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year.

“A twig stove is lighter and less bulky than any stove and fuel, you’re not throwing away cartridges, and a tiny controlled fire of twigs and pine cones is a cheery addition to the morning coffee.”

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