Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 120)

Close up of an ax with its blade pointed into the round of a log.
Skills & Techniques

How to Split Firewood

Splitting wood doesn’t have to be a backbreaking experience. Learn which tools you need, and the right technique to employ, finish the task safely.

Cutting a PVC pipe with a pipe cutter.
Workshop

The 3 Best Ways to Cut PVC Pipe

Use these tools to get the best results when cutting plastic PVC piping.

A woman is pruning a fruit tree in front of her home.
Landscaping

Prune These 10 Plants Before Summer Ends (Your Future Self Will Thank You)

The right tools, the right time, and the right procedure for late summer pruning can result in healthier, shapelier plants that produce more blooms and better growth.

A person at home using tablet with smart home control functions.
Home Technology

Smart Furniture Has Many Benefits—But It’s Not for Everyone

Experts weigh in on the pros and cons.

The Best Mop For Tile Floors Option
Cleaning Supplies

We Tested The Best Mops for Tile Floors, and The Winner is Clear

An ergonomic and effective mop can make cleaning floors feel like less of a chore. Bring a squeaky-clean shine back to your tile floors with these functional and affordable mops.

Linsy Sofa Review
Furniture & Decor

This Modular Sofa Is 50% Cheaper Than Lovesac With the Same Features

The Linsy Home Rubik III is a high-quality modular sofa that adds versatility and elegance to any home.

The Best Putty Knives
Reviews

Tested: The Best Putty Knives for Spackling, Scraping, and Mudding

A reliable putty knife is an essential tool for repairing nail holes, taping and mudding seams on newly installed drywall, and scraping off old paint or wallpaper.

Hand shaking toilet flusher.
Repair & Maintenance

Why Is My Toilet Hissing?

A water flow problem is likely causing the the toilet noise you're hearing. Learn which toilet parts need your attention.

Person inserts a soil test probe into a hole in a grassy yard.
Gardening

How to Test Soil pH

Give your plants the very best chance of survival by growing them in suitable soil.

A teal chair and two small white metal tables are placed in a concrete basement room.
Basements

14 Unfinished Basement Ideas You Can DIY in a Weekend

Can't afford a full basement renovation, but still want to be able to use the space comfortably? These DIY updates can make a big difference.

Overhead view of a man setting a wax ring around the toilet pipe opening on a tile floor.
Bathrooms

How to Replace the Wax Ring on a Toilet

Is water puddling around the base of your toilet? Here’s how to replace a failing wax ring.

A suburban blue home with a tree planted in front of the front windows to provide shade.
Landscaping

7 Landscaping Strategies That Can Lower Your Home’s Energy Costs Year-Round

There are plenty of things you can do indoors to reduce your bills, but these smart landscaping tips can help you save even more.

A yellow two-story home features manicured landscaping and a clean exterior.
Curb Appeal

13 Outdoor Upgrades That Make Your Home More Valuable

Thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen or backyard deck? These and other exterior home improvements can pay off big time.

The Best Screw Extractor Options
Tools & Materials

We Tested The Best Screw Extractors to Remove Stripped Fasteners, See Our Top Picks

Don’t let a stripped screw or bolt slow you down—remove that obstacle quickly and cleanly with one of these top screw extractors.

A white wall with bubbling paint.
Painting & Finishing

What Causes Paint Bubbling on a Wall—and How You Can Fix It 

Using the wrong painting tools, temperature issues, poor prep: All are possible causes of bubbling paint on the walls. Learn what you can do to prevent this problem before your next paint DIY.

A bee pollinating a purple ornamental flower.
Gardening

The Number One Thing You Can Do to Help Protect Native Bees Where You Live, According to New Research

As bee populations continue to decline in the United States, scientists recommend rethinking a common practice for many homeowners.

The best drain snake option sitting on a counter next to a plunger with a sink in the background
Cleaning Supplies

The Best Drain Snakes for Clogged Showers, Bathtubs, and Sinks

Banish blockages in sinks, tubs, showers, and more with the right drain snake for the task.

A water heater from the best water heater brands mounted on a laundry room wall
Reviews

The Best Water Heater Brands

If it’s time to replace a busted water heater or simply upgrade to something more efficient and energy conscious, this guide on the best water heater brands will help you figure out what to look for.

Two arm chairs by large window.
Architecture

20 Ways to Make Your New House Look Old

Do you live in a 1980s ranch, but wish it were a quirky Victorian? These DIY updates will make your cookie-cutter home look like it's been here for decades.

The Best Moth Repellents Options
Reviews

The Best Moth Repellents for Clothes, Furniture, and More

Banish destructive moths from the closet or pantry—and keep them from coming back—with the best moth repellents.