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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 235)

Skills & Techniques

How to Stretch Carpet

If your wall-to-wall carpet begins to bunch or loosen, you can fix it in an afternoon. Move some furniture, rent a few key tools, and follow these steps to be back in business in no time.

Lighting & Electrical

How to Get an Electrician License in 7 Steps: Requirements by State

Understanding the steps involved in how to get an electrician license will help aspiring electricians make a realistic plan to achieve their dream career.

Laundry

You’re Probably Washing Your Microfiber Towels Wrong—Here’s How to Do It Properly

Learn the best way to wash and dry your microfiber cleaning cloths to maximize their effectiveness and increase their lifespan.

Heating

What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat in Winter?

Is there a “sweet spot” temperature that’s both comfortable in winter and won’t cost an arm and a leg? We asked an HVAC expert to weigh in.

Painting & Finishing

Thinking About Painting Your Tile Floors? Here’s What You Need to Know

Want the luxurious look of decorative tile flooring at a fraction of the cost? Painting the tile can transform a room in just a few days—no demolition or power tools required!

Cleaning Supplies

The Best Mouse Traps to Keep Your House Rodent-Free

Stop marauding mice from spreading germs throughout your home with one of these top mouse traps.

Water Heaters

This Is When a Handyman Can Install a Water Heater—And When You Need to Hire Someone Else

Does water heater installation fall within the skill set of an experienced handyman? The answer depends on the handyman, the complexity of the project, and the needs of the home.

Skills & Techniques

This Is the Best (and Cheapest) Way to Flatten a New Area Rug

Try these tips to keep a rug from curling up and creating a trip hazard.

Houseplants

13 Stunning Palm Plants That Are Easy to Grow Indoors

Long a symbol of victory, palms are easy-care plants that flourish in your indoor garden.

Interior

Solved! Why Is My Gas Bill So High?

Learn what could be causing higher than expected gas bills and, more importantly, what you can do to help get the costs under control.

Houseplants

This Cast Iron Plant Care Routine Is About as Easy as It Gets

If you have a bit of brown thumb, try the cast iron plant, a leafy beauty that tolerates low light and intermittent watering.

Furniture & Design

How to Paint Furniture Like a Pro

Flex your creativity, redecorate on a budget, and reduce bulky waste—you can achieve all three by learning the art of furniture painting with Bob Vila.

Pests

How to Get Rid of Gnats, Indoors and Out

Are gnats plaguing your houseplants and living areas? Try these DIY remedies for how to get rid of gnats fast—and naturally—to eradicate them for good.

Paints & Finishes

Antiquing vs. Distressing: 8 Tips on Creating the Look and Patina of a Genuine Antique

Celebrated DIY style maker, home blogger, milk paint purveyor, author, and photographer Marian Parsons—aka Miss Mustard Seed—gives advice on antiquing and distressing furniture.

Repair & Maintenance

11 Ticking Time Bombs in Your House—and What to Do About Them

If you ignore necessary but manageable maintenance issues today, you might end up with bigger—and more expensive—problems on your hands down the road.

Flooring

The 10 Best Painted Tile Floor DIYs We’ve Ever Seen

If your tile floors are dated but structurally sound, there's an alternative to replacing them outright: Paint them! It doesn’t cost much to prep, paint, and stencil them to match your style, and your guests will be none the wiser.

Lawn, Garden & Pool

The Best Indoor Gardens for Flowers and Herbs, Tested

Ready to perk up your home or office with herbs, fresh flowers, or even vegetables? We tested today’s most popular indoor gardens—find out how they fared in our hands-on trials.

Repair & Maintenance

15 Problems Around the House That You Can Solve With Caulk

Flexible and versatile, this inexpensive material can prevent more expensive home issues down the road.

Reviews

Is the Jolie Shower Head Worth the Investment? Check Out Our Review!

The Jolie shower head claims to improve your overall beauty and personal care routine, but does it live up to its claims? We tested it to find out!

Skills & Techniques

You’re Probably Burning Candles Wrong—Here’s How to Do it Safely

From lighting a candle with a match to putting it out with your breath, learn what to avoid and what to do instead.