Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 239)

how to secure a door that opens outward
Exterior

How to Secure a Door That Opens Outward in 6 Steps

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.

Sliding glass doors installed in a living room with a couch inside and a view of a small outdoor area.
Exterior

How to Secure a Sliding Glass Door to Prevent Burglary and Home Invasion

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

Ants in the house on the baseboards and wall angle
Pests

Solved! What Attracts Ants to Your Home

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.

types of safes
Interior

6 Types of Safes All Security-Minded Homeowners Should Know

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

3 Ways to Improve Sliding Door Security
Home Security

3 Ways to Improve Sliding Door Security

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

georgia homeowner insurance price options
Home Insurance

9 Things You Won’t Believe Homeowners Insurance Doesn’t Cover

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.

The Best Battery Tester Options
Tech & Electronics

The Best Battery Testers

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.

How to get rid of maggots on outdoor trash can
Lawn & Garden

How to Get Rid of Maggots Naturally

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.

Homemade Wasp Trap - Wasp Nest
Pest Control

How to Make a DIY Wasp Trap from a Bottle and the Right Bait

Save yourself and your family from stings this season by crafting this homemade wasp trap from your kitchen recyclables.

The Best Guest Bed Options
Furniture & Decor

The Best Guest Beds

Finding a spot for overnight guests can be easy—even for those who live in a small space. Today's guest beds are portable, compact, and often double as other types of furniture.

iStock-1449538445 Keep Cut Flowers Fresh Longer woman cutting flowers.jpg
Gardening

6 Ways to Keep Cut Flowers Fresh Longer

Although there's no fountain of youth for fresh cut flowers, there are a few clever ways you can keep your bouquets blooming.

10 things every new gardener needs to know woman watering plants on deck
Lawn & Garden

10 Things Every New Gardener Needs to Know

Is starting a garden on your to-do list this year? Here's what you need to know before lifting a shovel or planting a seed.

iStock-1174841857 cut flower garden man cutting flowers from backyard garden.jpg
Lawn & Garden

How to Grow a Cut Flower Garden at Home

By growing a cut flower garden at home, you can avoid florist prices, enjoy unique heirloom flowers, and harvest the freshest blooms—all while adding color and beauty to your landscape.

new year new skill 2023 - woodturning - how to turn wood
DIY

How to Turn Wood Accessories for Your Home

Learn something new in the New Year: Bob Vila explains how to craft practical, custom items with woodturning.

Cost to Rewire a House
Lighting & Electrical

How Much Does It Cost to Rewire a House?

Modern electrical appliances run best in a home with adequate wiring. The cost to rewire a house ranges from about $561 to $2,308 with the national average at $1,432.

Zen-like bathroom with plants in shower
Lawn & Garden

12 Plants You Can Grow Successfully in the Shower

Turn your bathroom into a rainforest garden with these lush shower plants.

most expensive things readers bought in 2022
Reviews

20 Most Expensive Things Bob Vila Readers Bought in 2022

We’ve tried and tested tons of products, and in 2022 our readers leaned on our recommendations to make some expensive purchases that have really paid off.

types of welds - man grinding down weld
DIY

9 Types of Welds and When to Use Them

Using the right type of weld is vital for the strength and durability of the finished job.

how to grow salvia - salvia plant care 101
Lawn & Garden

How to Grow Salvia

Proper salvia care produces tall stocks of vibrant, long-lasting flowers in the garden from spring through fall. Pollinators love these fragrant beauties, and so will you.

anode rod replacement - new anode rod for water heater tank
DIY

This One Repair Can Extend the Life of Your Water Heater

Instead of replacing the entire water heater, learn how to replace the anode rod to prolong the life of the unit.