Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 168)

A-person-in-rubber-boots-uses-a-spade-to-dig-up-a-plant-that-looks-dead.
House Plants

Is My Plant Dead or Dormant?

Is your brown or withered plant playing possum, resisting a spring revival until the sun’s warmth is just right? Or is it a goner with no hope of resurrection? There are ways to determine the difference.

A person holding a wool dryer ball in front of an open front-loading dryer while doing laundry.
Laundry

What Do Dryer Balls Do—and Do They Actually Work?

Learn how these simple tools can make laundry day more efficient and eco-friendly.

A person loading a dishwasher in their kitchen.
Appliances

How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use?

You probably don't need to worry about your dishwasher being an energy hog. However, there are ways to get more energy and water savings out of your appliance.

Woman sitting next to swimming pool.
Pools & Water Features

9 Types of Pools to Consider for Your Outdoor Space Upgrade

Learning more about the characteristics, pros, and cons of each pool type can help you decide which one is right for your home.

A person painting a wall with paint drips on the hardwood floors underneath.
Paints & Finishes

This Is the Best Way to Get Paint Off of Hardwood Floors

Learn how to remove water- or oil-based paint without damaging your wood floors.

A-young-woman-holds-a-large-tropical-plant-in-a-pot-as-she-decorates-her-living-room.
House Plants

7 Tips for Growing Big Plants Indoors

Huge houseplants have the same needs as their smaller green friends, just on a larger scale. That can complicate things, but the big reward is worth the effort.

Sherwin-Williams vs. Behr
Paints & Finishes

Sherwin-Williams vs. Behr: Finding the Right Paint for Every Type of Decorating Challenge

We compared two hugely popular paint brands on their value, thickness, color offerings, and more.

How Much Does a Whole-House Reverse Osmosis System Cost?
Appliances

How Much Does a Whole-House Reverse Osmosis System Cost to Install?

Even treated municipal tap water still contains harmful contaminants that pose health risks. A whole-house reverse osmosis system costs between $150 and $4,800, but many homeowners spend $2,200 on average.

The 13 Best Carpet Colors for the Home
Flooring

The 13 Best Carpet Colors for the Home

Revamp your floors with new carpet colors that are both timeless and on trend.

is there a doorbell camera that works without wifi
Home Security

Is There a Doorbell Camera That Works Without Wi-Fi?

Shoppers looking for a doorbell camera that works without Wi-Fi have plenty of options to choose from, each with unique advantages and drawbacks.

A modern kitchen with countertops at two different levels counter height and bar height.
Countertops

What’s the Difference Between Bar Height and Counter Height?

Make the right kitchen renovation and furniture choices by familiarizing yourself with the average counter and bar heights and what sets them apart.

Gas Line Installation Cost
Energy & Power

How Much Does Gas Line Installation Cost?

Homeowners can improve their home’s efficiency by installing gas appliances. Gas line installation cost ranges from $120 to $1,350, with many homeowners spending about $558.

Young plants in black seed tray.
House Plants

The 5 Best Spots in Your Home for Plant Starts

Will your seedlings be ready to be transplanted outside? Starting them in one of these indoor locations gives them a better chance.

Person using silver water can to water potted plant.
House Plants

Are You Using the Wrong Kind of Water on Your Houseplants?

Water molecules are made of just three atoms – two hydrogens to one oxygen – so why are there so many different kinds of water ... and which is the best kind for your plants?

The Best Roofing Shingles Brands
Roofing

9 of the Best Roofing Shingle Brands Today

Choose the manufacturer that offers the right shingle for your new roof.

Beige living room with dark grey lamp.
Paints & Finishes

These Best-Selling Paint Colors Are Also the Most Boring–How to Pair Them With Bold Accents

Do your neutral walls feel too bland? Though these muted tones are popular, adding a bold accent color can elevate your style and push your interior design to the next level.

Paved driveway flooded with water.
Driveways & Walkways

7 Driveway Drainage Solutions for Your Excess Water Woes

Does water pool in your driveway after it rains?

A cozy-looking living room with off-white walls, several plants, and true-white polyester couch.
Paints & Finishes

The 11 Best Warm White Paint Colors, According to Designers

Discover the warm white hues that designers love for transforming interior spaces.

How Much Does a Home Wind Turbine Cost?
Energy & Power

How Much Does a Home Wind Turbine Cost?

In areas with frequent wind, a wind turbine can generate clean energy to provide additional power for a home. The average home wind turbine cost varies widely from $300 to $75,000.

plants that attract hummingbirds
Lawn & Garden

30 Gorgeous Plants That Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden

Do your garden plans include planting flowers for hummingbirds? Discover which species the birds are drawn to—and the bloom colors and shapes that will keep hummingbirds coming back.