We have updated our Privacy Policy. Please review to learn more. By continuing to use our services, you agree to these updates.

Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 193)

Foundations

Concrete, Block, and Slab Foundations

Climate, including high water tables, frost lines, harsh winters, and vulnerability to storm surge and high winds, will determine whether a slab or below-grade foundation is chosen.

Power Tools

Home Depot Has a Secret Sale on Nail Guns Right Now: Save Big on DeWalt, Milwaukee, and More

Nail guns speed up all your building projects. Grab your favorite brand now—deeply discounted at The Home Depot.

Lawn, Garden & Pool

The Best Weed Eater Strings for Trimming, Edging, and Cutting, Tested

The right string trimmer line makes the job easier on you and your equipment.

Lawn, Garden & Pool

Hundreds of Bugs Crawl Out of My Basement Walls Every Year—Until I Tried This One Product

This company is known for their effective DIY lawn care plans, but how do their pest control products stack up?

Fences

This Unique Fence Style Has Been Around for Ages—But It’s Not Right for Everyone

Add rustic charm to your garden and attract wildlife by transforming old plant debris into a DIY dead hedge.

Toilets

How to Fix a Running Toilet

If your toilet won't stop running, it's time to troubleshoot parts such as the overflow tube, fill valve, and flush valve. Here's how to quiet your commode.

Reviews

The Best Solar-Powered Security Cameras

A solar-powered security camera can provide 24/7 protection, even during a power outage.

Building & Installing

How to Build a Chicken Coop: The Basics Every Backyard Keeper Should Know

Protect your chicks from predators and “fowl” weather by learning how to build them a chicken coop…perhaps a Cluckingham Palace.

DIY

How to Repair Laminate Flooring: 5 Problems, Solved

From scratches to buckling, follow these steps to fix common laminate flooring problems yourself.

Reviews

The 8 Best Wood Stoves for Warmth, Efficiency, and Ambiance

Create warmth and ambience with a rustic wood stove in your home, cabin, or tent.

Reviews

The Best Pellet Stoves

A quality pellet stove can supplement your home’s heating system to help keep you warm and cozy.

Safety & Security

The Best Smart Locks For Your Needs, Tested and Reviewed

We tested highly rated smart locks that feature connectivity, changeable codes, and fingerprint readers. Find out which ones scored the highest on our tests.

Tools & Materials

The Best Table Saw Blades

Whether you rip a stack of boards or make precision grooves for cabinetry, this list makes the cut for some of the best table saw blades.

Bath Fixtures & Fittings

Vetted: The Best Bathroom Fans for Moisture and Humidity Control

Control humidity and excess moisture in the bathroom with an exhaust fan. Learn what to look for in a quality model—and which models are top performers.

Outdoor Living

9 Easy DIY Fire Pit Ideas

Even a do-it-yourself novice can complete a DIY fire pit for less than a hundred bucks—and within a single weekend!

Countertops

How To: Make Concrete Countertops for Your Kitchen

Concrete is a striking and practical choice for countertops, and a handy DIYer can achieve quality results.

Landscaping

How to Winterize a Sprinkler System

Performing this crucial seasonal maintenance task will prevent frozen water lines from damaging your sprinkler system.

Easy DIY Projects

How to Etch Glass—and How to Fake the Look Using Spray Paint

Etching glass can turn a cabinet full of mismatched containers into a cohesive collection with coordinating stenciled designs. Achieve a semi-transparent effect on glass by using either of these easy methods.

Skills & Techniques

How to Stain Concrete

Applying stain to a concrete floor can add beauty and depth to this hard-wearing material, and make it even easier to maintain. If your concrete floor is already in good shape, you're just a few easy steps away from a durable, dramatic new finish.

Garden Pests

How to Get Rid of Ladybugs

These insects are cute as can be—until they take over your home! Follow these tips to rid your space of the pretty little pests and keep them from coming back.