Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 133)

Two new-construction two-story houses in a typical suburban neighborhood. One is blurred out and the other is not.
Exterior

Blurring out your home on Google Maps takes only a few minutes, and it can shield your household from the prying eyes of stalkers and would-be criminals.

A worker builds a green roof.
Roofing

An eye-catching roof that serves an eco-friendly purpose might be the right home upgrade. Green roof costs range from $12,000 to $40,000, or about $22,000 on average.

Wall and baseboard of house showing damage.
Pests

There’s no good choice between termite damage vs. water damage—and sometimes these problems go hand in hand. Knowing the signs of each can help you make a plan to restore your home.

A natural swimming pool in backyard with mountain view.
Exterior

Learn what natural pools are and how they stay clean without chlorine, so you can decide if one of these back-to-basics backyard oases are right for your landscape.

A person in a hazmat suit uses a tool to spray a pest control solution in a kitchen.
Pests

Pest control can be a challenging and rewarding career path. Before opening a business, aspiring pest control professionals will need to know how to get a pest control license.

A close up of a hand painting a wooden fence.
Fences

A faded, flaky fence is a sign that it’s time to dress it up with a face-lift. On average, homeowners spend about $1,700 on fence painting costs, though it’s possible to spend between $750 and $4,250.

A light wood kitchen with a black cylindrical oven range hood.
Kitchen Design

Range hoods are functional, but can also serve as focal points in your kitchen. Pro designers share some range hood trends that blow the others away.

Two workers replace a window inside a home.
Home Services

Renewal by Andersen offers a one-stop shop for replacing windows and doors and backs jobs with a full, transferable warranty—but is it the right choice for your home?

A shovel filled with mulch is sitting in a leveled pile of mulch in a backyard.
Landscaping

If you plan to insulate your soil with mulch before the seasons change, first learn which type of material best meets your needs.

How Much Do Smart Locks Cost
Exterior

Smart locks are the smart choice for secure remote access that’s convenient for everyone in the home. How much do smart locks cost? Homeowners spend between $250 and $400, or about $300 on average.

An open white porcelain toilet on teal tile being flushed.
Bathrooms

While it seems completely counterintuitive, some toilets can’t be flushed when the electricity goes out—but why?

A woman in a yellow jacket finishes siding.
Exterior

Installing cedar siding updates a home’s exterior with extra flair. Cedar siding cost ranges between $8,000 to $45,000, or about $13,000 on average.

A person closing a garage door attached to his house.
Exterior

Before you head out for vacation, make sure to secure your garage door properly.

Real estate agent welcomes couple to open house.
Buying

Checking out open houses on the weekend can be a fun way to spend a day whether or not you’re in the market for a home. Read this list to learn the expected etiquette before you head to your next open house.

A dad and daughter doing laundry at home.
Cleaning & Organizing

Learn how to effectively manage your laundry and keep your clothes looking their best with our comprehensive step-by-step guide.

Everything You Need to Open Your Pool for the Season
Reviews

Get ready to swim with our handy guide for prepping your pool.

Pouring a bag of salt into a blue, saltwater pool.
Pools & Water Features

Thinking about installing a saltwater pool? Think about cost, health, and maintenance factors, says our pool expert, before you dive into the project head first.

An orange tabby cat named Morris sits on a rack in a home improvement garden center.
People & Places

Some call them mousers. Some call them managers. One thing is for sure: home improvement store cats are a-meowzing!

A close up of permeable pavers with a car in the background.
Lawn & Garden

An eco-friendly choice, permeable pavers are another way to pave driveways, patios, and walkways. Permeable pavers cost will likely fall between $5,000 and $12,000, with a national average of $7,500.

A weed-free vegetable garden in a suburban backyard.
Curb Appeal

Learn how to stop weeds from growing with these organic gardening tips. No herbicides required!