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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 246)

Fireplaces & Chimneys

So, You Want to… Heat Your House With a Wood Stove

There's no denying the rustic appeal of cuddling up on the couch and basking in the heat of a wood stove. Before you commit to a new way to heat your home, though, learn more about what you are getting yourself into.

Outdoor Furniture

Tested: The Best Fire Starters for the Firepit, Fireplace, and Beyond

A fire starter can help ignite a fire quickly—find out which ones excelled in our hands-on testing.

Reviews

The Best Appliances—Large and Small—Tested in 2023

We tried dozens of new appliances in our kitchens, offices, and workshops. From cooking to cleaning, heating to cooling, and more, these products make life better.

Holidays & Celebrations

5 Things to Know Before Buying a Holiday Inflatable

Before you pick up a giant snowman, Santa Claus, pumpkin, or ghost for your front yard, take some time to think about layout, energy consumption, care, maintenance, and more.

Cleaning & Organizing

How to Remove Candle Wax From Just About Any Surface

Cozying up in cold weather usually means candles—and lots of wax to clean up. Whether the mess is on your wall or your sweater, this guide will help you get the wax out.

Reviews

Ember Mug Review: A Mug That Keeps Your Coffee Hot for Hours

Dial in your ideal drink temperature, and this smart mug will keep your drink warm to the last drop all morning long.

Repair & Maintenance

Why Is My Circuit Breaker Tripping? 4 Potential Problems and Solutions

Learn the proper way to figure out reasons for a circuit breaker tripping in a home—as well as when to let an electrician do the sleuthing.

Fireplaces & Chimneys

Gas Fireplace Insert Cost: Here’s What to Expect You’ll Pay

A gas fireplace insert can keep a home warm and cozy without the hassle and expense of burning wood. Gas fireplace insert costs range from $700 to $6,500 with a national average cost of $3,600.

DIY

11 Home Improvement Things That Have Changed Since Bob Vila’s First Episode of This Old House

New houses might look similar to old ones, but advances like biophilia, smart home technology, 60V power tools, and building science have changed the way DIYers and pros approach home improvement.  

Outdoor Furniture

11 Outdoor Living Products That We Tested and Loved in 2023

We've used more than 100 products outside this year, whether in our backyards or out in nature, and these are the 11 that really wowed us.

Reviews

The 12 Best Lawn & Garden Products of 2023, According to Our Tests

We mowed, trimmed, scrubbed, and watered using over 130 products before choosing just 12 for this end-of-year list.

Power Tools

The Best Power Tools & DIY Products Tested in 2023

After a full year spent testing hundreds of tools, we found 12 of the best for your next DIY project.

DIY

DIY Project Planner: The Best Home Tasks to Conquer Each Month

Do you have a long list of around-the-house to-dos you want to get through in 2024? Here are the tasks to prioritize—and when you should do them.

Insulation

The Signs, Causes, and Solutions for Mold on Insulation

Mold growth on insulation is a problem that's best eliminated quickly, since it can affect more than just your health.

Plumbing

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Septic Tank and Drain Field?

A septic tank and its accompanying drain field are essential parts of some home wastewater management systems. The average cost to replace a septic tank and drain field is $6,000, or anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000.

Architecture

Modular Home Prices Today: A Cost-Effective Way to Build a New House

Looking to save money on building a home? An economical option is to consider modular home prices, which range from $180,000 to $360,000, with the national average at $270,000.

Walls & Ceilings

4 Top Drop Ceiling Cost Factors: Here’s How Much You’ll Pay

Drop ceilings are popular in both commercial and residential buildings to hide existing ductwork and offer additional sound dampening. The national average drop ceiling cost is $2,127, though a typical range of $1,063 to $3,190 is common.

Reviews

The Best Electric Fireplace TV Stands to Keep You Cozy and Entertained

Add a touch of class to a den or living room with an electric fireplace TV stand.

Holiday Decorations

The Best Christmas Lights to Brighten the Holiday Season, Tested

Show your holiday spirit with sparkling string lights that are just right for your style and space—indoors or out.

Reviews

DuroMax XP12000EH Generator Review: Power at an Affordable Price

I tested the DuroMax XP12000EH generator to see if it’s all it’s touted to be at such an affordable price. You might be surprised to find out the answer.