Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 165)

A mound of dirt is on a green lawn.
Gardening

How to Hire a Topsoil Delivery Company

New plants for a garden require healthy topsoil to grow strong. If you do not have the time to make compost or need an extensive amount for landscaping, a topsoil delivery service near you brings what you need directly to your door.

A hand reaches out to grab a handle covered in foil.
Home Security

PSA: This Dangerous Hack Claims to Foil Burglars—But It Can Cost You

You may have seen a home security hack online that claims placing aluminum foil around door knobs can deter intruders—but evidence shows it’s a myth. Here are some proven methods that can help secure your home instead.

Workers are installing a new roof on a clear day.
Exterior

10 Smart Financing Options That Can Help You Pay for a New Roof

Wondering how to pay for a new roof? Homeowners embarking on this major home project may want to consider these roof financing options.

A close up of a flea bomb can being sprayed in a living room.
DIY

Do Flea Bombs Actually Work? What You Need to Know Before Buying

Flea bombs are a popular DIY treatment for flea infestations, but they may not be the cure-all that they’re made out to be—and they come with big risks you don't want to ignore. Here's what to do instead.

Man cleaning dryer vent in home.
Laundry

Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost: What to Know and How Much You’ll Pay

Dust and dirt often build up in dryer vents, so they warrant regular cleanings. A dryer vent cleaning cost averages $139, but it can be as low as $102 or as high as $179.

A garage under construction.
Garages

Garage Conversion Cost: The Key Factors and Considerations

An accurate estimate of a garage conversion cost depends on several factors, but this project typically falls within a range of $6,012 to $27,090 or an average of $16,199.

A roof in the process of being replaced.
Curb Appeal

Roof Replacement Budgeting Guide: Costs and Key Considerations

When it starts raining in the kitchen, it’s time to think about roof replacement. This vital project costs between $5,727 and $12,418, with a national average of $9,072.

Two people shake hands at an office desk where a laptop, a phone, and a document sit.
Reviews

The 6 Best Home Warranty Companies, Vetted

Many homeowners are not prepared to pay for repairing or replacing their major home systems. Coverage from one of the best home warranty companies can help.

A group of the best laminate floor cleaners grouped together before testing.
Cleaning Supplies

The Best Laminate Floor Cleaners for Dirt, Spills, and Stains, Tested

Make laminate floors shine with a product specially formulated to keep them looking their best for years to come.

The 10 best bathroom cleaners grouped together before testing.
Cleaning Supplies

The Best Bathroom Cleaners for Different Surfaces

Keep your bathrooms pristine with these traditional, natural, and germ-killing cleaners.

Two workers install an HVAC unit.
Cooling

How Much Does HVAC Unit Replacement Cost?

A worn-out HVAC unit can lead to inconsistent temperatures within a home. HVAC unit replacement costs range from $5,000 to $12,500, with the national average at $7,500.

A view of a concrete driveway leading to beige house.
Driveways & Walkways

Concrete Driveway Installation Cost: A Homeowner Budget Guide

Replacing a concrete driveway isn’t a recurring event, but it can be a necessary one. Concrete driveway cost ranges between $1,800 and $6,000, with a national average cost of $3,000.

A view of a wet and soggy yard and paved pathway.
Lawn Care

Drainage Problems in the Yard? This Is the Right Expert to Call

If you’re confused about who to call for drainage problems in your yard, this guide can help you figure out what the problem is and who can correct it.

A worker in white gloves installs wood flooring.
Reviews

Empire Today’s TV Jingle Is Nothing Short of Iconic—But Is It Actually Worth Buying Their Flooring?

A new floor can transform a home from drab to desirable. Empire Today’s transparent pricing and wide range of flooring options could make it the best choice for many homeowners; but does it live up to its reputation?

Rear view of man holding fly swatter.
Lawn & Garden

How to Get Rid of Flies Outside

Are swarms of flies keeping you from enjoying your outdoor space? Learn why they're congregating at your place, and how to get rid of them for good.

A person demonstrating three cleaning hacks for the home.
Cleaning & Organizing

I Tried 3 Spring Cleaning Tricks—and I’ll Be Using Them From Now On

You’ll want to keep these up your sleeve, too.

Assorted gladiolus flowers growing in a home garden bed.
Gardening

How to Grow Gladiolus in Your Home Landscape

Proper gladiolus care can result in gorgeous blooms for months on end and can increase flowers and fruits in any garden.

Person in blue shirt framing a wall.
Building & Installing

How to Frame a Wall Like a Professional Carpenter

The basics of wood wall framing will help you construct a wall, and they’ll also help you succeed with other home improvement projects.

The DeWalt 8000-Watt Electric Start Gas Generator on grass during testing.
Generators

The Best Portable Generators for Go-Anywhere Power, Tested

We tested today’s top-selling models to find out how they fared in real-life situations and whether they are worth lugging around.

How To Get Rid Of Pantry Moths
Pests

How to Get Rid of Pantry Moths

Pantry moths can quickly decimate your dry food supply, and may already be in food packages you bring home from the grocery store. Learn what these pests look like, and what you can do to keep them from overtaking your stored food.