Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 188)

woman taking a photo of a home with her smartphone
Real Estate

14 Telltale Signs That a House Will Be Going on the Market

In today’s bustling real estate market, a home can sell the same day it’s listed—and for more than the asking price. Use these clues to get an edge on the competition and secure the perfect home ASAP.

Man itching and scratching on hand from allergy skin rash cause by Mosquitoes bite
Lawn & Garden

13 Time-Tested Tricks for a Bug-Free Backyard

Insects can suck the fun right out of summer. Apply these time-tested tips to keep your yard bug-free all season long.

Woman cleaning windows
DIY

16 Tips for Your Cleanest Windows Ever

Do you put off washing your windows because the task is tedious and time-consuming? There are better, faster ways to get the job done.

miniature-white-sofa-and-coffee-table-with-mugs-sits-on-a-dried-leaf-under-a-brown-mushroom-in-the-grass
Design

Mushroomcore and More: 14 Decor Ideas for Nature Lovers

Turn your home into an indoor garden oasis with these “mushroomcore” design ideas.

Grandma, daughter and granddaughter working in greenhouse
Lawn & Garden

8 Mistakes You’re Making With Your Tomatoes—and How to Fix Them

Help your tomato plants thrive so they will yield healthy and delicious fruits for you and your loved ones to enjoy.

a-man-in-blue-work-pants-from-the-waist-down-with-red-gloves-and-a-weed-killer-in-a-sprayer-works-in-a-green-lawn
Lawn & Garden

How to Safely Use Commercial Weed Killers

If you must use weed killers that can be hazardous to the environment, people, and animals, learn how to mitigate their negative side effects.

light hallway interior with white wall with trim and stylish console table next to grey chair
DIY

Peel-and-Stick Trim 101: How to Achieve a High-End Look for Less

Unleash the potential of peel-and-stick trim—a quick, easy, and affordable way to upgrade your home decor.

Beautiful basement entertaining room with LED lighting in tray ceiling
Interior

The 10 Best Paint Colors for a Brighter Basement

When decorating a basement, is it better to choose light or deep colors? All of the above! Here are some of our favorite colors for basement walls that will keep your lower level from looking drab.

The Best Bird Bath Options
Reviews

The Best Bird Baths, Tested and Reviewed

From classic pedestals to colorful glass hangers, these bird baths are sure to bring a little more life to your backyard.

Storm Windows Cost
Exterior

How Much Do Storm Windows Cost?

Storm windows offer protection against strong winds and flying debris and may be a good choice in areas with extreme weather. The cost for storm windows ranges from $3,262 to $17,238, with a national average of $10,047.

shovel being pushed into hole in soil by one black boot in grass
Exterior

What Is a Perc Test?

Get a perc test to ensure the soil absorption rate is just right for adequate filtration and drainage.

Lowe's Halloween Decorations
Lawn & Garden

Lowe’s Just Launched Larger-Than-Life Halloween Decorations

Lowe's newest collection is coming for the 12-foot skeleton.

Metal Roofing Pros and Cons
Exterior

7 Things to Know Before Choosing a Metal Roof

If your current roof is the root of your headache (and maybe even a long list of costly home repairs), consider these metal roofing pros and cons before you patch it. You may find that these highly efficient, low-maintenance materials are just right for your home.

Woman cleaning floor after pet
DIY

10 House Hacks Every Pet Owner Needs to Know

These tips will keep your furry friends happy while keeping your home functional and clean.

Smart Solar bird bath fountain in cedar mulch plant bed
Reviews

Nature’s Serenade: My Experience With the Smart Solar Bird Bath Fountain

I tested the Smart Solar Acadia in my garden. I found it charming and captivating—but a couple of tiny tweaks could make it even better.

The Dos and Don'ts of Building a Retaining Wall
Exterior

The Dos and Don’ts of Building Retaining Walls 

Is your yard hilly? Learn about the landscaping trick that can resist soil erosion and help beautify your backyard all at once—and how easy it can be to DIY with the right materials.

A person touching a tear on a leather couch, likely considering using the best leather repair kit option
Reviews

The Best Leather Repair Kits

Give your leather furniture another lease on life with a simple DIY leather repair.

Brass items being cleaned on wooden table
DIY

How to Clean Brass

With a bit of know-how and some elbow grease, you can make your own DIY brass cleaner with products that are probably already in your kitchen.

A person steaming a mattress with the best steamer for bed bugs option
Reviews

The Best Steamers for Bed Bugs

Bed bugs wreaking havoc in your home? The best steamers for bed bugs reliably and effectively put this problem to bed for good.

Unclogged drain with running water
DIY

Safely Unclog Any Drain With These 9 Drano Alternatives

Your health and your home’s plumbing will thank you for it.