Outdoors
This is where you’ll find lots of information for hands-on success outside. Gardening, farming, vehicle maintenance and repair, outdoor structures and more.
Review the entire Archive of Outdoors Articles here, or do a more in-depth search to find what you’re looking for.
OUTDOOR GRILL REVIEW: See How a Napoleon Travel Grill Works After 6 Months Use
For the last eighteen months I’ve been using a portable travel grill for barbecues and I’m impressed with this model…
A 6-Item Checklist for Building Your Dream Greenhouse
Are you dreaming of fresh veggies year-round or a cozy spot for your plants to thrive? Well, building your own…
The Most Important Horse Structures You Need for a Safe Environment
Horses are magnificent animals that can make wonderful companions. Horse raising is a challenging feat, however. Not only do they…
Easy Landscaping Ideas for Cooler Climates to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Are you wandering around your neighborhood admiring everyone’s landscaping? You want to do something with your yard but the cooler…
Concrete Foundation Pour for Fabric Structure
The latest in my video series about a 42×80-foot Calhoun fabric shelter I’m putting up. This video covers one of…
CLOUDY HEADLIGHT FIX: A Few Minutes Work Brings Clarity Again
Has your vehicle developed cloudy headlight lenses? It happens with older vehicles, but the fix is simple. Click below to…
Concrete Foundation Form Video Tour
The latest in a series of videos on the construction of my Calhoun fabric structure I’m putting up, for farm…
“Is There a Simple Way to Finish Outdoor Wood?”
Question: How should I seal and protect a cedar planter I just built? I’d like the wood to stay light…
HOW-TO STACK FIREWOOD: Round Piles Offer Big Advantages
After more than 25 years of stacking firewood in straight piles, I discovered that stacking in round piles is not only…
ANCHORING TO MASONRY: Check Out These Options for Success
Concrete, brick, and stone play large roles in home building and renovations. Steve Maxwell gives a few key strategies on…
OUTDOOR WOOD BOILERS: My Experiences With Gasifier vs. Non-Gasifier Models
Trying to choose between these two main types of outdoor wood boilers? Learn about my 10+ years experiences with both…
“How Can I Insulate My Cottage For Year-Round Living?”
Question: What’s the best way to insulate a cottage? I’m converting our lakeside place into a four-season home, but I…
FARM INNOVATION IN ACTION: See Two Pieces of Efficiency-Boosting Equipment Doing Their Thing
A few years ago I was commissioned by a farming agency here in Ontario, Canada to make the video here…
How to Maximize Outdoor Space with Minimal Maintenance
Having a backyard is fun. This is especially true if you have kids, like spending your time in the outdoors,…
Practical Guide on Calculations for Gravel Applications
Are you ramping up for a project involving gravel? Accurate calculation of the amount needed may be a challenge that…
Outdoor Wood Boiler 7 Year Review
Outdoor wood boilers are an excellent heating option for people with access to a forest, a willingness to make firewood,…
HOME-GROWN MULCH: Make Your Own from Garden Waste & Grow Better
My wife, Mary, and I have been gardening together for almost 40 years, and one thing I’ve noticed is the…
How to Mix Mortar for Traditional Stonework
Watch my oldest son, Robert, mix mortar for a traditional stoneworking project he took on. I know from decades of…
Simple Starlink Tower Installation
Getting a Starlink internet dish installed on a forested site can be tricky. This video shows how my oldest son,…
“How Often Should I Get a Septic Tank Pump-Out?”
Q: How often should I have my septic tank pumped? I hear greatly varying recommendations and I don’t want to…
How to Manage and Maintain Your Fire Pit
A fire pit enhances your outdoor space, serving as an elegant and inviting centerpiece. Whether you buy one or make…
Search Outdoors Articles
This is where you’ll find lots of information for hands-on success outside. Gardening, farming, vehicle maintenance and repair, outdoor structures and more.