Outdoor Living

About 80 percent of homeowners who install decks use wood. But our latest tests show that synthetic planks can offer good looks with less upkeep. Composites, which blend ground-up wood and plastic, are chipping away the fastest at wood's popularity. Some contain recycled plastic.

A leaf blower, also called a power blower, can take some of the grunt work out of clearing fallen leaves and other yard debris. Besides blowing, many handheld models can vacuum and shred what they pick up. Some communities are cracking down on blower noise so take that into consideration.

A string trimmer can trim neatly around trees and posts, edge cleanly along walks and driveways, and even slice aggressively through tall weeds. Our latest tests also show that the best corded and cordless electric trimmers can do all three as well as some gas-powered models.

Most gas grills should perform at least adequately at your next alfresco feast. But as with indoor ranges, some models do so with more style. Our battery of tests shows that a bigger price tag doesn't guarantee better grilling. Many lower-priced models now have at least some stainless trim, along with side burners and other perks.

Some of the latest mowers and tractors cut time and effort as well as the grass without breaking the bank. Regular mowing is as vital to maintaining a healthy lawn as watering, fertilizing, and weeding. A bumper crop of easier-starting mowers and wider-cutting tractors helps to trim some of the work. And new federal regulations cut down on gas fumes.