Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 226)

Gardening

How to Hire a Topsoil Delivery Company

New plants for a garden require healthy topsoil to grow strong. If you do not have the time to make compost or need an extensive amount for landscaping, a topsoil delivery service near you brings what you need directly to your door.

Home Security

PSA: This Dangerous Hack Claims to Foil Burglars—But It Can Cost You

You may have seen a home security hack online that claims placing aluminum foil around door knobs can deter intruders—but evidence shows it’s a myth. Here are some proven methods that can help secure your home instead.

Exterior

10 Smart Financing Options That Can Help You Pay for a New Roof

Wondering how to pay for a new roof? Homeowners embarking on this major home project may want to consider these roof financing options.

DIY

Do Flea Bombs Actually Work? What You Need to Know Before Buying

Flea bombs are a popular DIY treatment for flea infestations, but they may not be the cure-all that they’re made out to be—and they come with big risks you don't want to ignore. Here's what to do instead.

Laundry

Dryer Vent Cleaning Cost: What to Know and How Much You’ll Pay

Dust and dirt often build up in dryer vents, so they warrant regular cleanings. A dryer vent cleaning cost averages $139, but it can be as low as $102 or as high as $179.

Garages

Garage Conversion Cost: The Key Factors and Considerations

An accurate estimate of a garage conversion cost depends on several factors, but this project typically falls within a range of $6,012 to $27,090 or an average of $16,199.

Curb Appeal

Roof Replacement Budgeting Guide: Costs and Key Considerations

When it starts raining in the kitchen, it’s time to think about roof replacement. This vital project costs between $5,727 and $12,418, with a national average of $9,072.

Home Services

The 6 Best Home Warranty Companies, Vetted

Many homeowners are not prepared to pay for repairing or replacing their major home systems. Coverage from one of the best home warranty companies can help.

Cleaning Supplies

The Best Laminate Floor Cleaners for Dirt, Spills, and Stains, Tested

Make laminate floors shine with a product specially formulated to keep them looking their best for years to come.

Cleaning Supplies

The Best Bathroom Cleaners for Different Surfaces

Keep your bathrooms pristine with these traditional, natural, and germ-killing cleaners.

Cooling

How Much Does HVAC Unit Replacement Cost?

A worn-out HVAC unit can lead to inconsistent temperatures within a home. HVAC unit replacement costs range from $5,000 to $12,500, with the national average at $7,500.

Driveways & Walkways

Concrete Driveway Installation Cost: A Homeowner Budget Guide

Replacing a concrete driveway isn’t a recurring event, but it can be a necessary one. Concrete driveway cost ranges between $1,800 and $6,000, with a national average cost of $3,000.

Lawn Care

Drainage Problems in the Yard? This Is the Right Expert to Call

If you’re confused about who to call for drainage problems in your yard, this guide can help you figure out what the problem is and who can correct it.

Reviews

Empire Today’s TV Jingle Is Nothing Short of Iconic—But Is It Actually Worth Buying Their Flooring?

A new floor can transform a home from drab to desirable. Empire Today’s transparent pricing and wide range of flooring options could make it the best choice for many homeowners; but does it live up to its reputation?

Lawn & Garden

How to Get Rid of Flies Outside

Are swarms of flies keeping you from enjoying your outdoor space? Learn why they're congregating at your place, and how to get rid of them for good.

Cleaning & Organizing

I Tried 3 Spring Cleaning Tricks—and I’ll Be Using Them From Now On

You’ll want to keep these up your sleeve, too.

Gardening

How to Grow Gladiolus in Your Home Landscape

Proper gladiolus care can result in gorgeous blooms for months on end and can increase flowers and fruits in any garden.

Building & Installing

How to Frame a Wall Like a Professional Carpenter

The basics of wood wall framing will help you construct a wall, and they’ll also help you succeed with other home improvement projects.

Generators

The Best Portable Generators for Go-Anywhere Power, Tested

We tested today’s top-selling models to find out how they fared in real-life situations and whether they are worth lugging around.

Pests

How to Get Rid of Pantry Moths

Pantry moths can quickly decimate your dry food supply, and may already be in food packages you bring home from the grocery store. Learn what these pests look like, and what you can do to keep them from overtaking your stored food.