Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 169)

split image showing blinds and shades as window treatments
Design

Blinds vs. Shades: What’s the Difference Between These Window Treatments?

Here’s how to navigate the choice between blinds and shades for your home. 

A large grouping of the best DeWalt tools pictured together
Reviews

Is DeWalt a Good Brand?

There's more than one reason DeWalt power tools are a favorite of the construction industry and DIYers alike. Discover the strengths of this venerable brand.

Mini-Split Leaking Water
DIY

Solved! 5 Reasons for a Mini-Split Leaking Water (and How to Address Them)

Mini-split systems are an excellent alternative for homes that do not have central air, but a few common problems can cause them to leak. Learn the reasons for a mini-split leaking water and what to do about them.

Dirty pool filter cartridge held over splashes coming from a swimming pool
DIY

How to Clean a Sand, DE, or Cartridge Pool Filter

Whether you have an above-ground or inground pool, cleaning the pool filter regularly should be a top maintenance priority. Here's how to clean every type of pool filter.

The best home intercom system option showing a toddler in a crib
Reviews

The Best Home Intercom Systems

Easily communicate with friends and family members inside or outside the home via an at-home intercom system.

The best recliner option partially extended in a living room next to a decorated side table
Reviews

The 11 Best Recliners for Looks, Comfort, and Affordability

Relax after a hard day at work, massage those sore muscles, or rock a baby (or yourself!) to sleep with the best recliner for your home.

The best shower door option installed in a spacious and bright white bathroom
Reviews

The Best Shower Doors

Shower doors add an essence of modern luxury to any bathroom for a modest price.

Concrete Leveling Cost
Exterior

How Much Does Mudjacking, or Concrete Leveling, Cost?

Concrete leveling can save a failing patio or driveway. The process costs between $630 and $1,723, with a national average concrete leveling cost of $1,174.

The Best Tile Brand Options
Reviews

The 8 Best Tile Brands for Floors and Backsplashes

Find the perfect tile for your bathroom floor, kitchen backsplash, or outdoor patio from one of these top manufacturers.

interior modern dining room with glass block windows
Interior

Are Glass Block Windows Making a Comeback? The Pros and Cons of This Debatable Design

The functional benefits of this popular ‘80s window style might just make it a viable design decision again, especially for use in retro homes. 

repair or replace dishwasher
Interior

Solved! 5 Factors for Deciding Whether to Repair or Replace a Dishwasher

The decision to repair or replace a dishwasher isn’t always clear-cut. These factors will help homeowners make an informed decision.

Roof Repair or Replacement
Exterior

Solved! How to Choose Between Roof Repair or Replacement

When it comes to roof repair or replacement, the choice depends on a number of factors, from the age of the roof to the extent of the damage and whether it’s still storm season.

neighborhood burning from wildfire
Exterior

Can a Metal Roof Save Your Home From a Wildfire?

How did one house survive the Lahaina wildfires, while others around it burned to the ground? Experts say its metal roof might have made all the difference.

who to call for home repairs
DIY

Solved! These Are the 7 Types of Professionals to Call for Home Repairs

Knowing who to call for home repairs is invaluable when budgeting for a home improvement project.

signs of mold in house
Interior

Solved! These Are the 8 Telltale Signs of Mold in the House

Whether or not mold is present in a home doesn’t have to stay a mystery. These visual cues, odors, and health symptoms could be signs of mold in the house.

a woman's hand holding a small bottle of essential oils and dropping a few drops into a wooden bowl of water
DIY

11 Ways Essential Oils Can Help Around the Home

Essential oils aren't just for yoga studios or acupuncturists. Learn how these natural products can freshen your interior spaces, keep bugs away, and keep your home clean.

a large white bottle pouring a stream of clear bleach with a blue background
Interior

13 Surprising Uses for Bleach Around the Home

Chlorine bleach isn’t just for whitening clothing. This laundry room staple has myriad uses, from making bouquets last longer to emergency water purification and disaster cleanup.

A person holding the best LED light bulb option with a lamp in the background
Reviews

The Best LED Light Bulbs

Looking to save money and conserve energy by switching to LED light bulbs? Check out our top picks and smart shopping tips to make the right purchases.

Spraying window with windex
DIY

14 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do With Windex

Windex is not just for cleaning windows: The iconic blue spray (and its other formulations) can be used in the kitchen, laundry room, and more.

A person using the best vacuum for thick carpets option on a carpeted floor
Reviews

The Best Vacuums for Thick Carpet

The best vacuums for thick carpets go deep to dislodge dirt and remove grime from plush fibers without doing damage to the carpet.