I Did It Myself

PROJECT: Patio TIME: Two days COST: $225 HOW HE DID IT: Whenever there was a heavy rain, Brandon Rice was dismayed to see his grandparents' backyard turn into a flood zone. "They were not able to enjoy their yard after a rain until the water drained off," he said.

His grandparents asked him to design and install a patio where they could sit -- and stay dry -- behind their home in Chesterfield County's Greenfield subdivision.

The 18-year-old senior at James River High School measured the area and designed the layout, then purchased leveling sand and tiles. He began by sweeping the designated area free of debris, then made sure the ground was level. He laid out the tiles using the leveling sand as needed to be sure they weren't wobbly.

When the next rain came, the project proved to be a success. "The yard was flooded, but not the patio area," he said. "My grandparents were very pleased." -- Julie Young

TELL US HOW YOU DID IT: Share your home or garden project in 250 words or fewer with Julie Young, Home & Garden, I Did It Myself, P.O. Box 85333, Richmond, VA 23293, or e-mail . Include your name, address, phone number and, if possible, high-resolution photos of yourself and your project. The project must be one you did yourself.