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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 225)

Power Tools

We Tested the Cordless Makita Brush Cutter—Did It Make the Cut?

This popular battery-powered brush cutter quickly cleared out a swath of overgrown vegetation without wearing me down.

Gardening

7 Ways to Use Vicks VapoRub in the Garden

From repelling pests to healing cuts, this cough and cold staple offers some surprising uses.

Landscaping

Smart Yard: Cutting-Edge Tech for Your Home Landscape

Want to make your home landscape more enjoyable and less time-consuming? Infuse your yard with convenient and efficient technology.

Tools & Materials

Flooret Flooring Review: Direct-to-Consumer Floors That Are Worth the Hype

Insulation

Pros and Cons of Retrofit Insulation

Adding retrofit insulation to an older home requires a nuanced approach that depends on which areas of the house you want to insulate.

Tools & Materials

The Best Tile Leveling Systems for DIYers or Pros

The right tile leveling system helps create consistently flat and visually attractive walls and floors.

Major Systems

The Minka-Aire Ceiling Fan Is Impressive, but Is It Worth It? A Tested Review

Rustic décor is buzzing. Find out what happened when I installed and tested a popular farmhouse-inspired ceiling fan.

Flooring

Shady Flooring Installers Use These 6 Scams to Rip Off Customers

Dishonest installers use sly tactics to upcharge or even swindle you—but learning how to safeguard against scams is the first line of defense.

Landscaping

Rubber Mulch vs. Wood Mulch: Which Is Best for Your Landscape?

In an age when mulch comes in a wide array of colors and materials, the basic choice still boils down to organic or inorganic. Choosing between wood and rubber mulch depends on the application, intended usage, and geographic location.

Exterior

Vinyl Fence Cost vs. Wood Fence Cost: Which Option Is Best for You?

Knowing the differences between vinyl fence cost vs. wood fence cost can help homeowners choose the fencing material that’s right for their property.

Pests

9 Most Common Signs of a Termite Infestation (And What to Do if You Have One)

A termite infestation can make even the most easy-going homeowner worry about structural damage and expensive repairs. Homeowners can learn how to prevent termites—and how to pursue treatment if needed.

Lawn Care

How to Start a Lawn Care Business: A Step-by-Step Guide for Budding Entrepreneurs

Self-starters who want to learn how to start a lawn care business can follow these 11 steps to help create a lawn care business sure to grow.

Power Tools

California Air Tools 8010: How Quiet and Powerful Is It?

I recently tested a best-selling air compressor advertised as being ultraquiet. Find out if it lives up to the hype.

Gardening

What on Earth Is Humus—and Why Should Homeowners Care?

Chances are your property sits on one of the most important substances on the planet, and you probably aren’t doing enough to replenish it.

Power Tools

Power Your Project: Our In-Depth Makita Air Compressor Test and Review

A quality portable air compressor is a game-changer for DIY projects. Find out how a best-selling model fared in hands-on testing.

Paint Needs

A $12 Purdy Paint Brush Made My Paint Job Look Professional

Getting an ultrasmooth finish on painted surfaces can be tricky, but I found a popular paint brush that really helped.

Cleaning Supplies

A Review of the Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum: Ideal for Apartment Living

This Levoit vacuum cleaner is compact, lightweight, and includes the right attachments to keep floors, furniture, and hard-to-reach spaces spick-and-span clean.

Siding

These 6 Signs Tell You It’s Time to Replace Your House’s Siding ASAP

Siding replacement isn’t just about improving curb appeal. Find out when to replace siding and what can happen if you wait too long.

Wildlife

Birds in Your Dryer Vent? Here’s How to Remove Them Safely and Humanely

Birds in dryer vents are a more serious problem than you might think. Find out how to approach this problem with the best outcome for you and the birds.

Gardening

15 Companion Plants for Peppers—Plus 5 to Keep at a Distance—for the Healthiest Harvest

Whether you’re planting pepper seeds or transplanting seedlings, adding a few of the right garden buddies can prevent pests and diseases, provide nutrients, and promote better flavor.