Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 147)

A house with a red roof topped with solar panels against a blue sky with minimal clouds.
Solar

Here’s Exactly How Many Solar Panels to Buy to Power a House

Determining how many solar panels can power a house doesn’t have to be complicated. From watts to kilowatts and more, these tips will help you figure out how many solar panels are required in a solar system for home use.

A backyard pool filled with green water.
Pools & Water Features

6 Reasons Why Your Pool Is Green—and How to Fix It

The last thing you want to see as you head toward the pool for a refreshing dip is green pool water. If you’re wondering, “Why is my pool green?” learn about the causes and how to avoid them.

Wooden insulated shed topped with a snow-topped roof
Sheds & ADUs

How to Insulate a Shed

If you want to use your shed as an office, gym, or climate-controlled storage, you’ll have to insulate it first. Here's how to do it yourself.

The Single Hung Vs Double Hung Windows Option
Windows

Single-Hung vs. Double-Hung Windows: What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re building a home from scratch or giving your residence a facelift, there are a few factors to consider when deciding on the type of window you’ll use. Choosing between single-hung and double-hung windows comes down to cost, maintenance, and energy efficiency.

A large ornamental garden with bright flowers and stone walkway.
Gardening

11 Romantic Plants (Other Than Roses) to Add to Your Garden This Year 

Take a page from the past and create a romantic garden ambiance by planting some cottage garden classics from Victorian days.

Woman-wearing-a-pink-hat-looks-over-a-picket-fence-with-an-annoyed-facial-expression.
Deck, Patio & Porch

12 Landscaping Features That Might Annoy Your Neighbors

When the HOA is lax or nonexistent, some neighbors might add decorations or home features that leave much to be desired. Are you guilty of any of these not-so-neighborly landscaping features?

Tester pushing Toro lawn mower on grass
Reviews

Memorial Day Sales Are Your Last Chance for a Great Mower Deal Before the End of Summer

A freshly cut lawn awaits with these Memorial Day sales, starting at under $200.

The Weber Original Kettle Premium charcoal grill in use grilling meat in a yard
Reviews

The Absolute Best Deals of The Week: Solo Stove’s Memorial Day Sale, BOGO DeWalt Tools, Discounted Appliances, and More

Don't miss these incredible deals of the week.

A puddle of water is leaking from the bottom of a toilet onto the grey tiled floor.
Toilets

Solved! What to Do About a Leaking Toilet Tank

Faced with a leaky toilet? You'll first need to track that leak down to its source. Pinpoint the problem with these quick troubleshooting tips.

The Best Memorial Day Deals of 2024
Deals

Memorial Day Sales 2024: The Best Deals on Patio Furniture, Mattresses, and More

Enjoy incredible savings this holiday weekend.

A collage of the best solar flagpole lights illuminating the American flag.
Holiday Decorations

The Best Solar Flagpole Lights for 24/7 Flag Display, Tested

Lighted flag poles are an integral part of after-dusk patriotic displays. We tested several popular models—find out which ones we liked best.

A blue pool net skimming a swimming pool as part of routine maintenance.
Pools & Water Features

How to Maintain a Pool: Tips For Safe Enjoyment All Season

A filthy pool doesn't just look bad—it can cause health issues for you and your guests. Learn how to maintain a pool and keep your backyard oasis sparkling all season long.

A partially built house with lumber lying outside
Architecture

Building a Home Addition: Costs and Key Considerations, Explained

Your visions of extra living space, another bathroom, or a second-floor addition can come to life with a home addition project supervised by a general contractor. The cost of a home addition ranges from $21,000 to $100,000, with a national average price of $48,860.

The Best Band Saw Options
Power Tools

The Best Band Saws for Household and Professional Workshops

Complete your workshop with one of the top band saws for your woodworking and metal projects.

The Best Pool Filter Option
Reviews

The Best Pool Filters for Clean Pool Water

Keep your pool sparkling clean and clear all season long with one of these top pool filters.

Here's How to Get Free Tools at Lowe's
Deals

Lowe’s Is Giving Away Free Kobalt Tools Right Now—Here’s How to Get Yours

Score a top-rated tool at our favorite price: free.

The Best Memorial Day Furniture Sales 2024 at Wayfair, Target, and More
Reviews

The Best Memorial Day Furniture Sales 2024 at Wayfair, Target, and More

These fantastic deals have already begun ahead of the holiday weekend.

A person relaxing in the best soaking tub surrounded by windows.
Bathroom Remodeling

The Best Soaking Tubs to Transform a Bathroom Into a Spa

Create your own personal mini spa with a soaking tub. Find out what to consider when selecting a model to add luxury to your home.

Woman uses a bristle paintbrush to apply polyurethane to a piece of wood.
Furniture & Design

How to Apply Polyurethane Sealer

It's important to top off your home's wood flooring and furniture with a few coats of polyurethane for both protection and an appealing shine. Follow these five steps for a smooth—and simple—application.

A man lifts one end of a covered mattress in the process of moving it.
Bedrooms

How to Store a Mattress the Right Way

Protect your mattress from mold, compression, and other forms of damage so it stays ready for use year round.