Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 114)

11 Mistakes You Should Never Make With Your Fireplace
Interior

11 Mistakes You Should Never Make With Your Fireplace

When it’s cold outside, there is nothing more delightful than curling up in front of a roaring fireplace. First, make sure your hearth is inviting and safe.

Why Didn’t I Think of That? 18 Clever Tricks to Simplify Your Life
DIY

Why Didn’t I Think of That? 18 Clever Tricks to Simplify Your Life

We get it. Life can be hard. The to-do list never ends, no task is without complication, and of course, there is never enough money. But fortunately, some of the best things in life are free, and some of the most satisfying solutions to life’s pesky problems are right under your nose. This is why we’ve gathered together this selection of great tricks and easy life hacks that will make you say, “Why didn’t I think of that?”

25 Things That Make Any House Feel Old and Outdated
Design

25 Things That Make Any House Feel Old and Outdated

These design trends were once hip and modern, but now they're signs that your house needs an update.

20 Retro Home Trends It’s Time to Revisit
Design

20 Retro Home Trends It’s Time to Revisit

Trends and styles are forever changing and evolving. Home trends that were once the height of popularity eventually seem mundane and drab, only to experience a resurgence decades later. Here are 20 retro home trends that are worth revisiting and, perhaps, implementing in your own home.

The best quiet fans grouped together before testing.
Reviews

The Best Quiet Fans to Keep You Cool and Comfortable, Tested

Fans reduce energy costs; if they’re whisper quiet, they can also promote restful sleep. We tested top-rated low-decibel fans—their quiet operation blew us away.

15 Spring Cleaning Must-Haves Under $15
Interior

22 Spring-Cleaning Must-Haves—Starting at Just $5

Make your home sparkle this spring without breaking the bank.

Woman looking at dark painted wall with paint roller in hand.
DIY

Experts Answer This Age-Old Question About Paint

Learn whether dried paint looks darker than when it is first applied and what other factors can impact the finished appearance.

Woman uses a hammer and chisel to clean debris out of a crack in a concrete driveway.
Exterior

How to Fix Cracks in Concrete Driveways, Patios, and Sidewalks

Cracks in concrete surfaces around your home aren't just tripping hazards—they can also detract from your home’s curb appeal. Get tips on how to fix cracks in concrete, and how to know if the cracks pose a real problem.

A blueberry bush with ripe blueberries and a graphic overlay that says Plant Care 101.
Lawn & Garden

Dreaming of a Backyard Food Forest? Get Started by Learning How to Grow Blueberries

With the right soil and plenty of patience, blueberries are a rewarding crop to grow.

A young person holding flower plant next to garden box.
Lawn & Garden

12 Ways to Wake Up Your Yard in Spring

The weather is warming up, but is your outdoor space ready for the season? Check these spring yard cleanup and tool-maintenance tasks off your to-do list today.

A-terrier-dog-runs-with-a-plastic-water-bottle-in-his-mouth.
Design

12 Simple Ways to Improve Your Piece of Earth

Celebrate Earth Day every day by taking care of the little piece of land you call home.

Person holding in their hand a variety of sandpapers in various grits and colors.
DIY

How to Choose the Right Sandpaper Grit and Type for Your Project

If you're renovating your deck or trying your hand at woodworking, chances are that you'll have some sanding in your future. But what grit of sandpaper should you use? Here's what to know about grit numbers, and how to choose the right sandpaper.

A group of LED grow lights together before testing.
Reviews

The Best LED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants and Veggies, Tested  

Help your indoor plants and vegetables thrive with high-quality LED grow lights.

Pink mold in white tile grout.
DIY

Solved! What Is the Pink Mold in My Shower, and How Do I Get Rid of It? 

Have you noticed pink gunk in your shower or tub? Learn what it is, and how to send the nasty slime packing.

A close up of a worker on a ladder cleaning a home's gutter.
Exterior

Here’s How Much Gutter Cleaning Typically Costs

Budgeting for a regular maintenance fee to keep gutters flowing freely is cheaper than risking long-term water damage from clogged gutters. Most homeowners pay between $119 and $228, or an average of $163 in gutter cleaning costs.

A close up of a person using a tool to repair a deck.
Exterior

Deck Repair Costs: A Homeowner Budgeting Guide

For the homeowner wanting to get back to entertaining outdoors, the average deck repair cost is just $2,019, though the typical range is between $859 and $3,321.

A close up of driveway sealing.
Exterior

Driveway Sealing Cost: What to Know and How Much You’ll Pay

Applying sealant will extend the life of a driveway. Driveway sealing costs range from $275 to $820, with many homeowners spending around $545.

Woman stands in front of a table with a bucket, vinegar, dish soap and other supplies, cleaning a paint brush.
DIY

How to Clean Paint Brushes the Right Way

Whether you’ve used acrylic, latex, or oil-based paint, learn the best way to clean paint brushes so they’re ready to go for your next DIY project.

A man installs a brown door in a house.
Interior

How Much Does Door Installation Cost?

If a homeowner is thinking about a new door but is unsure of the price, they’ll want to know that door installation costs range from $496 to $1,872, with the national average at $1,160.

A TV hangs on a wood panel wall.
Interior

TV Mount Installation Cost: How Much to Expect You’ll Pay

Mounting a TV on the wall frees up space and can be a safer option than placing it on a stand. TV mount installation costs between $158 and $360, with a national average cost of $259.