First guide dropping soon!

I got quoted $3,200 to have a pergola built in my backyard. So I built it myself for under $400 in timber and hardware.

Here's what most people get wrong about DIY outdoor building:

They overthink the tools. You don't need a workshop full of power tools. A circular saw, a drill, a speed square, and a level will get you through 90% of outdoor projects.

They skip the planning. The build itself is the easy part. What separates a solid structure from a wobbly one is taking 30 minutes to draw it out, measure twice, and understand your local soil and weather conditions.

They underestimate themselves. If you can follow a recipe, you can follow a build guide. Outdoor structures are forgiving — they don't need to be furniture-grade. They need to be strong, level, and weatherproofed.

I've put together step-by-step guides for the most popular backyard builds — pergolas, sheds, decks, raised garden beds, and privacy fences. Each guide includes exact materials lists, tool requirements, and the mistakes I made so you don't have to.

If you've been putting off that backyard project, stop waiting. It's easier than you think.

Welcome in, builder.

Here's how to get the most out of your membership:

📋 Build Guides — Step-by-step walkthroughs for pergolas, sheds, decks, fences, and more. Each one includes a full materials list, tool requirements, and estimated build time.

💬 Builders Chat — Jump in and introduce yourself. Share your project, ask questions, and get advice from other DIY builders.

📸 Share Your Builds — Finished a project? Post it in chat. We love seeing what you're building.

Let's get building.