Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 224)

A home warranty can be a great value, especially when expensive and complex systems like heating and air conditioning fail. Coverage depends on your policy and your maintenance history.

Critical to the function of your home, the HVAC system is costly to replace. It can fail at the worst possible moment, so anticipating the end of its lifespan can let you plan ahead and save on replacement costs.

They chug and spin and wring and tumble, but how long should a washer and dryer last?

Along with saving hot water, your dishwasher also saves your hands and your back from a daily chore--but how long can a good dishwasher hold up?

What are you waiting for? Get the lead out (and chlorine) with these top shower filters for your home.

A home warranty can help cover your roofing needs—but there’s a catch.

A home warranty can provide peace of mind to new and existing homeowners by helping to cover the cost of expensive home systems and appliances when they fail.

The decision on whether your next appliance will be gas or electric might not be much of a decision at all.

Security cameras can deter criminals and give residents peace of mind. Learn how to install security cameras and protect your home.

Outward-swinging doors are convenient in some applications, and required in new-build homes in some hurricane-prone areas, but they present some unique challenges for home security.

Strong deadbolts can make a home feel secure, but they have a surprising vulnerability.

Sliders let in glorious light and create an open, airy feeling—and can be an invitation to intruders if not properly secured.

Installing a doorbell is a quick and easy way to keep your residence safe, protect your packages, and scare off unwanted intruders.

Ants like easy access to food, water, and cozy living conditions, just like you do. Here’s how to keep them from moving into your home.

Safes are designed to keep important belongings and documents secure. Find out which type of safe best suits your specific needs.

Thwart thieves with these easy, low-cost defensive measures to make sliding doors more secure.

Read the fine print on your homeowners insurance policy to ensure that you’re covered for everything. If you're not careful, these 9 high-risk liabilities might not make the cut.

Don’t fault your mower, tractor, or other device for poor starting performance when a failing battery could be to blame. The best battery tester can clue you in and keep your vehicles in operation.

Finding maggots in or around your house can be shocking. Learn how to safely get rid of the larval pest, and how to prevent infestations in the future.

Try one of these humane approaches to keep animal pests from dining or digging in your garden.