Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 246)

Lighting

Types of Light Bulbs and Light Bulb Shapes Every Homeowner Should Know

Ever been confused by the new types of light bulbs in the lighting aisle? Here, we clear away the confusion with a helpful breakdown of the different varieties on the market and their best uses.

Landscaping

Add Interest to Your Home Landscape With This Guide to Growing Foxglove

Tall spikes packed with flowers that bloom all summer make foxglove a favorite. But the easy-care beauty packs a surprise by blooming only in its second year—and it comes with a safety warning.

Appliances & Cookware

The Best Cutting Board Oils for Maintaining Butcher Block

Use the right oil to ensure your butcher block or cutting board is protected from water damage, safe to use, and shining like it's brand new.

Home Safety

Home Security 101: A Comprehensive Guide to the Basics of Securing Your Home

When it comes to home security, options range from pricey, high-end systems to low-tech, common-sense approaches. These home security basics can help shoppers identify what they need to provide peace of mind for any budget.

Repair & Maintenance

Drafty Windows? Try These 12 Solutions for Every Budget

Stop those drafty windows from driving up your heating bill.

Furniture & Design

7 Easy Ways to Make a Sofa Bed More Comfortable

Don’t let an uncomfortable sofa bed get in the way of hosting guests at your home.

Holidays & Celebrations

How to Make a Fake Christmas Tree Look Good—For Less

Transform your artificial tree—and make it look just as stunning as a real one—with these simple tricks.

Interior

What Does Asbestos Look Like? Beware of This Danger Hiding in Plain Sight

Asbestos in a home can be a health hazard, but how does a homeowner know whether they have asbestos? Understanding how to visually identify asbestos in all its variations can help avoid exposure to this dangerous building material.

Skills & Techniques

Nails vs. Screws: Which Fasteners Are Right for My Project?

When is it better to use nails, and when are screws the better option? It depends on the materials you're working with, and how durable the connection needs to be.

Skills & Techniques

How to Mix Concrete Properly

Mixing concrete yourself might sound a little intimidating—what happens if your tools get stuck?—but the process is pretty simple. Here's what you need to do it right.

DIY

10 Pro Tips to Navigate Electrical Projects without the Shocking Results

Illuminate your home improvement game with these expert tips.

Skills & Techniques

5 Tricks to Fix a Broken Candle Wick

Don’t toss that candle quite yet—these clever methods can help you rescue a candle with a broken or buried wick.

Repurposing

11 Ways to Repurpose Christmas Decor at the Holidays and Beyond

Give your holiday decorations a new lease on life with these intriguing ideas.

Driveways & Walkways

How Much Does Concrete Resurfacing Cost?

When concrete is worn out, homeowners can repair cracks and patch damaged areas during a concrete resurfacing project. Concrete resurfacing cost ranges from $3 to $9 per square foot or an average of about $6 per square foot.

Attics

Not-So-Subtle Signs Raccoons Live In Your Attic—And What to Do About Them

A raccoon can cause significant damage to a home. Discover how to get rid of raccoons in the attic and how to prevent future infestations.

Basements

Breaking Down Basement Remodel Cost and Budgeting

Remodeling can bring a basement to its full potential. The national average basement remodel cost is approximately $22,138 with a typical range of $12,070 to $33,687.

Attics

Factors and Considerations That Go Into Asbestos Removal Cost

Asbestos removal costs are mainly dependent on the material being removed, the size of the contaminated area, and disposal fees. Homeowners can expect to pay $1,192 to $3,240, with a national average of $2,201.

Lighting & Electrical

Soft White vs. Daylight Bulbs: What’s the Difference?

Lighting sets the mood and tone of a room, influencing how it’s decorated and the way it’s ultimately used. Here’s when to use soft white bulbs over daylight bulbs, and vice versa.

Interior

What Does a Handyman Do? 8 Types of Tasks That Can Be Tackled by a Handyman

Someone offering handyman services can perform many different home improvement tasks as a generalist or specialize in a specific area, such as electrical or plumbing.

Landscaping

13 Types of Holly Plants All DIY Landscapers Should Know

Grow holly shrubs to deck the halls—or your exterior walls as foundation plants.