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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 213)

Repair & Maintenance

Give Your Worn-Out Concrete a Brand-New Look

Concrete doesn't really need ongoing maintenance. But occasionally it needs repair, particularly after years of hard use or weather exposure. Fortunately, now the average handy homeowner can handle those fixes himself, saving the cost of a contractor, thanks to advanced concrete repair products. Here's how it all works.

Flooring

When in Doubt, Revive Your Grout! Top Tips for Regrouting Tile

If your floor, backsplash, or tub surround is looking a little tired and outdated, the solution may be as simple as cleaning, reviving, or replacing the grout.

Interior

So, You Want to… Install a Laundry Chute

Installing a laundry chute requires planning, never more than when retrofitting a chute into an existing house. So before getting your heart set on one, review these project pointers on siting, design, and safety.

Budgeting & Home Finance

Tackle this Task Right After the New Year to Protect Your Property

Create a home inventory now to protect your personal belongings and ensure you’ll receive proper reimbursement should your valuables be lost or stolen.

Exterior

The 5 Best Composite Decking Brands

Tired of that annual chore of painting or staining your wood deck to prepare for the summer season? Consider a long-lasting alternative with less maintenance—and no splinters!

Building & Installing

TopCon’s RL-H5A Laser Level: A Tested Review

Rotary laser levels are game changers for establishing a perfectly level plane over a 360-degree area. Find out what happened when I tested one of the best-selling models on the market.

Interior

Building a Sunroom: Costs and Key Considerations for Today

Building a sunroom is a complex project with awesome benefits like extra entertaining space and a healthier lifestyle. An average sunroom cost is $47,000, but it ranges between $20,800 and $72,600.

Interior

Here’s How Much TV Screen Repair Costs

TV screen repair costs between $200 and $1,000—but is it worth it? Find out how repairs are priced, and when replacement is a better option.

Tools

Is the Ryobi Auger a Must-Have for Digging Holes? Find Out in This Tested Review

Handheld power augers reduce the time and labor it takes to dig holes. Find out what happened when I tested a best-selling cordless model.

Tools

Precise, Fast, Adjustable: Oregon Chainsaw Sharpener Review

If you’re looking for a way to keep your saw chains in top condition, here’s why the Oregon 410-120 could be the best choice.

Painting & Finishing

How to Thin Latex Paint

Don’t throw away latex paint that has thickened in the can! Follow this 10-minute process to thin it out to the proper consistency, and save yourself the cost of buying new paint.

Lawn Care & Gardening

When to Plant Grass Seed to Get the Lushest, Greenest Lawn

Dreaming of a lush lawn? Successful sowing depends partly on proper soil preparation, an understanding of your climate, and having a good understanding of the best time to plant grass seed for your area.

Gardening

How to Grow Edamame in Your Home Garden

We’ll spill the beans on what it takes to grow this nutritious Japanese vegetable.

Tools

How to Magnetize a Screwdriver

Try this simple trick and you’ll never drop a screw again!

Houseplants

A Review of the Lettuce Grow Farmstand: Is It Worth the Price?

This innovative system grows 36 full-size plants in just 4 square feet with no app access required.

DIY

Dawn Powerwash Recipe: How to DIY the Ultimate Dish Soap

Love Dawn Powerwash? See how easy it is to make a DIY version of it at home for a fraction of the price.

Mold & Mildew

What Does Mold Actually Smell Like?

What does mold smell like? Mold can cause a nasty, musty smell. Here are what those smells are and how you can identify them.

Deals

Last-Minute Mother’s Day Deals: The Top Deals on Gifts Mom Will Use, Chosen By Bob Vila Moms

We've hand-picked the top Mother's Day deals on gifts your mom will actually use! From Yetis to beautiful plants, check out these deals now.

Bathrooms

Here’s Exactly Who Installs Bathroom Exhaust Fans

If you need to know who installs bathroom exhaust fans, the answer relies entirely on your specific needs and the home’s setup. Here’s who you can call to get the job done right.

Gutters

Who Repairs Soffit and Fascia? Everything You Need to Know

You might not pay attention to this area of your house, but damaged soffit or fascia can be a real eyesore—and a structural hazard. When you’re looking for a professional who repairs soffit and fascia, here’s who you should call.