Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 216)

Lawn Mower Keep Dying
Lawn & Garden

There are few things more frustrating than when you’re trying to mow the grass and the lawn mower keeps dying. Luckily, there are a few causes that you can troubleshoot without having to buy a brand-new mower.

Cost to Level a Yard
Lawn & Garden

At $1,006 to $3,237, or an average of $2,122, the cost to level a yard may seem steep, but it can be worth it to prevent myriad problems on a homeowner’s property.

contemporary-brown-and-white-house-facade-with-native-flora-landscaping
Exterior

From dark and moody paints to simple and unforced landscaping, these exterior updates will help your home stand out from the rest.

Shingle Roof Cost
Exterior

Shingle roofs are versatile, durable, and affordable compared to other roofing materials. A typical shingle roof cost falls within the range of $4,500 to $20,000, with an average cost of $9,000.

Blue-and-white mosaic tile kitchen backsplash behind a sink and dark-blue cabinets
Interior

Give your cooking space a makeover with an attractive new kitchen backsplash that will retain its appeal for years.

Mother and son gardening together
Lawn & Garden

Spatial limitations of planters or the need for additional watering and fertilizing make some plants better suited to growing in a garden.

Exhausted couple sit near cardboard boxes at relocation day
Interior

Do you feel stuck in a house you loathe? From the practical to the personal, here are strategies to help you embrace the home you have.

ants swarming a drinking glass on a counter inside a home
Interior

There is nothing worse than seeing a line of ants in your kitchen or bathroom. Learn how to identify different types of ants, and how to get rid of them as safely and quickly as possible.

Woman with mosquito bites on her legs
DIY

Don't you hate it when your al fresco festivities are ruined by mosquitoes' buzzing and biting? Don't let them drive you indoors—instead, apply these clever natural methods to help keep them away.

Wiping away rust from a metal saucepan over a kitchen sink
Cleaning & Organizing

What do lemons, vinegar, potatoes, ketchup, and cream of tartar have in common? All of these pantry items are effective homemade rust remover ingredients.

Shovel next to concrete debris
DIY

Getting rid of excess or broken concrete may not be many people’s idea of a good time, but it can be done responsibly.

Modern home decor
Design

These ordinary items could be bringing bad luck to your home. Why take the risk?

Popcorn ceiling in a house
Walls & Ceilings

Ready to banish your textured ceiling and bring your home into the 21st century? You have a couple of options: Remove your popcorn ceiling—or cover it.

Woman mowing the lawn, lawnmower with cable.
Lawn & Garden

Making the switch to cleaner lawn equipment may not cost as much as you think.

Couple having problems during home renovations
DIY

Don’t start that renovation project until you’re aware of these potential roadblocks and the delays they can cause.

Cost of Countertops
Interior

Freshen up one of the busiest areas of your home with new countertops. The cost of countertops ranges from $825 to $4,356, with the national average at $2,652.

Water Damage Restoration Cost
Interior

Water damage restoration is the process of removing water from a property and restoring it to a pre-loss condition. Water damage restoration cost ranges from $1,305 to $5,707, with a national average of $3,455.

Double-Pane Windows Cost
Exterior

Looking to reduce outdoor noise pollution and save on energy costs? Double-pane windows cost between $150 and $6,900, with many homeowners spending $1,050 on average.

Person smoking inside
Cleaning & Organizing

Whether it’s from cigarettes or wildfires, the smell of smoke is notoriously difficult to eliminate. Banish smoky odors on furniture, clothing, and vehicles with these tried-and-true techniques.

How Much Does a Steam Shower Cost
Interior

Steam showers produce steam in a sealed enclosure for a relaxing, soothing effect. Steam shower cost ranges from $2,650 to $6,050, or $4,325 on average.