Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 194)

Can a battery-powered mower make the cut? I tested Makita’s eco-friendly 18-inch lawn mower and was impressed by the power of this whisper-quiet lawn tool.

If you love pearls, try the “green” living kind with a string of pearls plant.

Tax credits, rebates, and net metering are just a few of the reasons why it’s a good time to go solar.

Use your home security camera and this clever device to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

Stylish, comfy, and machine-washable rugs that are a total game-changer for your home.

If you’re tired of work pants that wear out after just a few weeks, it’s time to give Carhartt cargo pants a try.

Need a boost for overhead projects? We tested the best step ladders on the market today. Find out which ones offer sturdiness, quality, and ease of use.

Drilling through metal requires a drill bit that can take the heat. The best bit for your project will tackle the type of metal you’re working with and make a clean, precise hole.

From the perfect grill to stylish patio essentials, discover the must-have products to take your backyard cookout to the next level

Minimize joint aches and maximize your gardening time with these handy garden kneelers.

These eco-friendly power sources can run everything from cars to hospitals to data centers.

If buzzing, biting pests are killing your patio vibes, give them the boot with one of these top mosquito repellents.

After a couple of weeks and three cuts, I’m sold on DeWalt’s cordless, brushless, battery-powered lawn mower.

Clear the air in your kitchen with one of these high-quality range hoods. 

Painting your house’s exterior takes hours of hard work—even just to pick out the colors you love. And with exterior house paint costing $50 per gallon or more, you don’t want to make any mistakes. Start the process of choosing exterior house paint colors by looking at what’s already there. Take the color of your roof and your windows into account. You likely won’t change these when you paint. If you have brick or stonework, either in the architecture of your house or in pathways, consider those tones as well. Let these existing color palettes influence the beginning of your selection process. The paint scheme of your house’s exterior will involve three main colors: the field, the trim, and the accent. The field color is for the major areas like the walls and roof. The trim color covers the fascia boards, window trim, and rakes. The accent color is for doors, shutters, and other architectural features. Choose your field color first, and make sure it’s a paint color you will love for years. In general, trim paint should be a lighter shade than the field color, and your gutters, downspouts, and other service-type elements should be painted the same for a cohesive look. The accent color is where you can make a splash and show your personality. A bright pop of color on your front door can distinguish your house from all the others in the neighborhood. Choosing an exterior paint color can be challenging, but the results are well worth it. For help narrowing down your options, check out our list of fail-proof house colors that never go out of style.

Achieve a built-in effect without the hefty price tag by investing in one of these slide-in electric ranges.

With a standby generator for backup power, you’ll ensure that your home can keep the lights on when the rest of the neighborhood is left in the dark.

Upgrading light fixtures can help update the look and feel of a room or an entire home. Before you buy, take time to plan and create your ideal lighting aesthetic.

A bargain isn't a bargain if it means risking our health or safety. Give these dollar-store buys a hard pass the next time you're out shopping.

Reduce toxic emissions, stale odors, and stuffy air in your kitchen by implementing these techniques.