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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 183)

Flooring

Carpet vs. Hardwood Flooring: Which Is the Better Option for Your Home?

Price, comfort, return on investment: There’s a lot to consider when deciding which of the two popular flooring options is right for your home.

Reviews

After Testing the Best PVC Pipe Cutters, This is Our Must-Have Choice For Larger Pipes

Make quick work of plumbing and irrigation projects with these top PVC pipe cutters.

Flooring

7 Ways You May Be Ruining Your Hardwood Floors

Want your wood flooring to last for decades? Avoid these cleansers, tools, and other items that can damage them.

Flooring

11 Reasons Hardwood Flooring Might Not Be Right for Your Home

Wood floors are trending, but are they right for your lifestyle? Think twice about hardwood if you're a musician, have pets, or if any of its downsides give you pause.

Skills & Techniques

How to Split Firewood

Splitting wood doesn’t have to be a backbreaking experience. Learn which tools you need, and the right technique to employ, to finish the task safely.

Workshop

The 3 Best Ways to Cut PVC Pipe

Use these tools to get the best results when cutting plastic PVC piping.

Landscaping

Prune These 10 Plants Before Summer Ends (Your Future Self Will Thank You)

The right tools, the right time, and the right procedure for late summer pruning can result in healthier, shapelier plants that produce more blooms and better growth.

Home Technology

Smart Furniture Has Many Benefits—But It’s Not for Everyone

Experts weigh in on the pros and cons.

Cleaning Supplies

We Tested The Best Mops for Tile Floors, and The Winner is Clear

An ergonomic and effective mop can make cleaning floors feel like less of a chore. Bring a squeaky-clean shine back to your tile floors with these functional and affordable mops.

Reviews

Tested: The Best Putty Knives for Spackling, Scraping, and Mudding

A reliable putty knife is an essential tool for repairing nail holes, taping and mudding seams on newly installed drywall, and scraping off old paint or wallpaper.

Repair & Maintenance

Why Is My Toilet Hissing?

A water flow problem is likely causing the the toilet noise you're hearing. Learn which toilet parts need your attention.

Basements

14 Unfinished Basement Ideas You Can DIY in a Weekend

Can't afford a full basement renovation, but still want to be able to use the space comfortably? These DIY updates can make a big difference.

Bathrooms

How to Replace the Wax Ring on a Toilet

Is water puddling around the base of your toilet? Here’s how to replace a failing wax ring.

Landscaping

7 Landscaping Strategies That Can Lower Your Home’s Energy Costs Year-Round

There are plenty of things you can do indoors to reduce your bills, but these smart landscaping tips can help you save even more.

Outdoor Living

13 Outdoor Upgrades That Make Your Home More Valuable

Thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen or backyard deck? These and other exterior home improvements can pay off big time.

Tools & Materials

We Tested The Best Screw Extractors to Remove Stripped Fasteners, See Our Top Picks

Don’t let a stripped screw or bolt slow you down—remove that obstacle quickly and cleanly with one of these top screw extractors.

Painting & Finishing

What Causes Paint Bubbling on a Wall—and How You Can Fix It 

Using the wrong painting tools, temperature issues, poor prep: All are possible causes of bubbling paint on the walls. Learn what you can do to prevent this problem before your next paint DIY.

Gardening

The Number One Thing You Can Do to Help Protect Native Bees Where You Live, According to New Research

As bee populations continue to decline in the United States, scientists recommend rethinking a common practice for many homeowners.

Reviews

The Best Water Heater Brands

If it’s time to replace a busted water heater or simply upgrade to something more efficient and energy conscious, this guide on the best water heater brands will help you figure out what to look for.

Interior

20 Ways to Make Your New House Look Old

Do you live in a 1980s ranch, but wish it were a quirky Victorian? These DIY updates will make your cookie-cutter home look like it's been here for decades.